NIGERIAN AMERICAN ARTISTE JIDENNA THEODORE MOBISSON IS KNOWN FOR HIS UNIQUE SOUND AND HIS IMPECCABLE SENSE OF STYLE. WE CAUGHT UP WITH THE 32 YEAR OLD WHO IS THE EMBODIMENT OF A CLASSIC MAN.
By understanding that art is a reflection of society, Jidenna has infused his music with powerful imagery and emotion derived from his life. When asked about his sense of style, the dandy of Nigerian Igbo descent muses “I represent a movement of men all over the world interested in refining the way they dress because they have refined their minds.” At the very least, he leads us to believe he is indeed a Classic Man.
WHERE DO YOU DRAW YOUR INSPIRATION TO MAKE MUSIC?
My vulnerabilities and there are several that I am yet to explore through my music. I think these are the secrets and strengths to any artiste. You look at your family and all the stories you can tell about them, in fact, I have only told stories about my father.
CAN YOU SPEAK ABOUT THESE VULNERABILITIES IN MORE DETAIL?
If I tell you, I will have to kill you (Laughs). Some that I have already showcased include those with women, Bambi is an example. I have never written a record like that – showing a longing for a love I feel I lost. Bambi is a real girl but she doesn’t go by that name. When I talk about drinking alone in my hotel and crying, searching through Instagram looking at a love I lost, I know a lot of artistes try to hide that. Through my music, I like to show moments when the man is not in control.
ONE OF YOUR SIGNATURE LOOKS IS YOUR BEARD. WOULD YOU FOR ANY REASON SHAVE IT OFF?
This story is from the October/November 2017 edition of DRUM Magazine East Africa.
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This story is from the October/November 2017 edition of DRUM Magazine East Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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