BAAS Entertainment Podcast

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Episode 114. Join host Troy Saunders as he chats with writer, singer, producer, multi instrumentalist, but known internationally for his jazz saxophone playing, Shola Iyiola.

Shola Iyiola is a name that is synonymous with excellence in the world of music. An international award-winning saxophonist, Shola is on a mission to play and create music that captures and awakens the soul of its listeners. With his unique style sound, Shola has become a breath of creative fresh air in the contemporary music scene.

Born to Nigerian parents in Houston, Shola began playing drums at the age of 3. He started playing music professionally at the age of 18 and has since then been privileged to work with some of the biggest names in the contemporary jazz, Afro-beat and gospel scenes.

What sets Shola apart from other musicians is his self-taught skills in multiple instruments, production, and songwriting. He is a multi-talented artist who has mastered the art of creating music that speaks to the soul. His music is a fusion of different genres, including jazz, afro-beat, gospel, and soul. It is this fusion that makes his sound unique.

Shola's passion for music is evident in every note he plays. He is a true artist who is dedicated to his craft and is always looking for ways to improve and evolve. His music is not just about entertaining his audience, but it is also about inspiring and uplifting them.

In a world where music has become more about commercial success than artistic expression, Shola Iyiola is a breath of fresh air. He is a true artist who is not afraid to take risks and push boundaries. His music is a testament to his talent, passion, and dedication to his craft.

Troy starts off the episode by taking the audience back to Shola's 2015 debut album, "Divine Intimacy". The track he choose to play was a jazzy inspirational tune called "Open the Eyes of My Heart". This number was the perfect way to get the conversation started. It embodied all that is Shola: uplifting, passionate, spiritual, and refined. They converse about growing up in the church and if there were any differences between the Nigerian Church he grown up in and the African American church. Shola shares that he feels that the Nigerian Church has been influenced by the African American Church. Troy then plays a song off of his second album, "Out Of The Wilderness," called "Favor," featuring both Shola and Michael Stuckey on vocals. This song will have shouting and praise dancing by its end.

Troy and Shola discuss the meaning of his name. What a beautiful and blessed meaning. Wait until you hear it. Shola also talks about his frequent visits to his homeland and attending high school there. Troy shared that his DNA test came back with the greatest portion being Nigerian. Shola then told Troy he's going to give him a Yoruba name.

Shola's realization that creating music should come from the heart and soul and not just to become world famous and have hits, creating a legacy, was a turning point in his life. Both men converse about their love for Frank McComb and Kirk Whalum. This led the conversation to his latest album and why he named it "Unstoppable". Troy, of course, followed up by playing the title track and first single off the album.

Shola was pressed for time so they ended the episode with his new single, "Don't Stop". Both "Unstoppable" and "Don't Stop" have a delightful mixture of Afro-beat and jazz. You will feel like you are dancing on the beach in the Caribbean.

Don't miss this episode of wonderful music and positive conversation!

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