Mosadi Music-The True Definition of Soul
By Christopher WellsThe south has been known for soul music since the genres inception but in recent years, most of the best soul talent has made its way to the masses via other parts of the country, that is, until now. Raleigh hip hop neo-soulsters Mosadi Music (Shirlette Ammons - Vocals, co-Bass, Nic Slaton - Bass, Matt MacCaughan - Drums and Chris Boerner - Guitar) will put NC on the map for sure. The bands' music is dripping with sexy energy, warmth, funk and all of those other things that make a band rise above the rest. Mosadi Music will appeal to anyone with a taste for thoughtful arrangements, wall shaking bass and a groove that will keep your booty occupied from the disc’s duration.
I first caught the group a couple of years back at Raleigh's Artsplosure and they were by far the best act of the day. They were tight, the vibe was positive and the audience grooved to them like they really had no choice in the matter. That is the beauty of Mosadi’s music. It takes you places within your self like a soul connection of sorts. In this world of Generican Midols and other modern music business atrocities, this band is the epitome of fresh air (though the air may be a bit funky!).
On their debut release, The Window, They begin to carve out their sonic imprint. Mosadi even has Little Brother emcee Phonte spitting mad fire on the first track. The affect is a potent one. With the ability to bring the heat when it matters, I guess it is only a matter of time before the band gets their due on a larger scale. Front woman Shirlette Ammons gave me the low down on the vibe that is Mosadi Music.
What inspires you to create?
I'm inspired by all things. I appreciate the details and am happy when I slow down to pay attention to them. I consider myself an observer as well as a participator in my own life so I guess I'm most inspired by the things I observe, the conversations I have with folks and myself....My niece is a great inspiration right now. Watching her grow reminds me to stay inquisitive and creative.
Is your family musical?
My pops bought my twin and me our first guitar. He's always been a lover of music. We grew up in the church choir and my aunt Annette always had soul music churning out the 8 track in her 74 Gran Torino. I've always loved and have been immersed in music. The rhythm of growing up country and working in the fields, looping tobacco, working on the packing line at the pickle plant, was quite musical as well. My family always has a gospel jam session during our 4th of July get togethers.
What is your opinion on the modern state of soul music?
It's like Mos Def said regarding the state of hip hop music, "If we want to know where hip hop music is going, I have to ask myself, where am I going, where am I headed".
We (Mosadi) just played in DC with some really dope musicians. I see a cast of young soul artists making good music and I'm honored to be making music at this time. I'm optimistic because I've learned not to rely on commercial radio to supply the music that feeds me.
Who are your biggest influences?
My family--my sister, my momma, who supports me although she doesn’t always "get" me. My partner who is just brilliant, a lifelong learner and nuisance to injustice-- always questioning and interrogating the world in artistic ways and encourages me to do the same. I'm really inspired by folks (particularly poets) who own words and create 'new languages' with their manipulation of words--June Jordan, Nikky Finney, Meshell N’degeocello; Gwendolyn Brookes...The list is endless. Truly.
What has been one of your favorite gigs thus far?
I try not to qualify things as "favorites" because I know I'll probably think of something that I thought was "more favorite" but opening for Meshell Ndegeocello was a dream come true. I really dug opening for Angelique Kidjo as well. The CD release party was a blast because my momma was there and my family. Oh, I also enjoyed playing in New Orleans at Sojourner Truth Community Center before Katrina Lafeete Housing Project with a cast of dope female artists.
Who are you listening to nowadays?
Hmmmm.....it varies day to day. I've been all about some Morris Day lately and I heard this beautiful portrait of Nina Simone on NCCU's radio station that made me pull out my Nina Anthology.
Your flow has a spiritual vibe to it, are you a spiritual person?
I consider myself a spiritual person in that I make music from my heart and I try to speak on things that affect me at my core. I'm a religious person in that I do certain things religiously (like cuss and make love). Both definitely present themselves in my music in that I feel a certain sense of responsibility and accountability for what I write. It has to be in line with the person I say I am.
What is one thing our readers may not know about you?
I love music. I love being able to share this music with people. It's an honor and I don't take it for granted. Also, I'm a consummate dreamer. I've already played on every stage in the world (in my imagination) and I truly believe if I can imagine it, it can happen.
Check them out at:
www.mosadimusic.com
www.myspace.com/mosadilive
