Sola Akingbola & The Eegun Rhapsodies’ How Should I marks a stunning new chapter in the journey of one of music’s best-kept secrets. As a percussionist for the Grammy-winning Jamiroquai and a composer for Bob Hearts Abishola, Sola Akingbola has been a key figure in countless hits that have shaped the musical landscape. But with this album, he steps into the spotlight as an artist in his own right, offering a beautiful fusion of cultural influences, personal reflection, and musical mastery.
How Should I is an album that bridges worlds—drawing from Sola’s deep Yoruba heritage and his British upbringing. With influences ranging from the poetry of the Yorubas to the timeless resonance of Greek classics, Akingbola crafts a sonic landscape that transcends boundaries. The title track, How Should I, sets the tone, originally written for the Royal Shakespeare Company’s 2016 production of Hamlet, where Akingbola is joined by the mesmerizing vocals of Olivier-winning actress Sheila Atim. The piece is hauntingly cinematic, blending jazz-lounge vibes with a laid-back groove that immediately captivates.
The album’s diversity is evident across its eleven tracks. Touch My Soul is a powerful, genre-defying track that showcases Sola’s skill in blending intricate rhythms with expansive melodies. Meanwhile, Olukumi, with its upbeat, percussion-driven energy, is a joyful celebration of rhythm and movement, enhanced by a vibrant music video filmed at Abbey Road Studios. On the other hand, My Brother’s Keeper is a contemplative reflection on personal connections and cultural identity, further solidifying Akingbola’s ability to infuse emotion into every note.
At its core, How Should I is deeply personal. Sola’s journey from Portobello Road to performing alongside icons like Stevie Wonder and David Bowie has shaped his understanding of both his Nigerian roots and the eclectic influences of the UK. In his own words, the album is “a bridge between my Nigerian heritage and my British upbringing,” and it’s a celebration of how music can serve as a universal language.
With How Should I, Sola Akingbola steps into the role of a true cultural ambassador, demonstrating his prowess not only as a musician but as a storyteller with a gift for blending tradition and modernity. This album is a bold, ambitious exploration of identity, culture, and music’s power to unite us all. If Sola’s past achievements were any indication, How Should I is just the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable solo career
