Siji: (shee-gee)
1. protection , origin> Yoruba

Magnetic. Vibrant. Freedom. Creative. Cultural. These words only begin to describe the music and talents of Siji. Singer/songwriter/producer, Siji has steadily and carefully crafted an original body of work he terms a "spiritually tinged blend of soul and traditional African music."

Born in London to Nigerian parents, Siji spent his early childhood in Lagos, immersed in the sounds and rhythms of one of the most frenetic cities on earth and influenced by the insurgent, politicized Afrobeat music of Fela Kuti and others. The music is in his blood.

In 1995, after completing his Masters in Engineering Design, the self taught piano and acoustic bass player formed a label, IVY Records and released an EP, "Facets" followed by the single "My Lover's Embrace" in
1997. Both releases garnered much respect on the influential London scene. Their impact led to a publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music.

Since relocating to New York in 2001, Siji has performed in venues such as Bam Café and Joe's Pub and worked with a number of producers most notably Osunlade who had himself produced music for the likes of Musiq, Eric Benet and Patti Labelle.

Upon listening, it's clear who his influences are: Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, Al Green, early
Stevie Wonder. But Siji manages to cut a line through all of these with the lightness of his voice and the intricacy of his rhythms. The subtle use of traditional, Nigerian instruments add a distinct organic flavor to his music and can be heard on the tracks "Watching You, Watching Me" and "God-given". Other standouts include the Moog drenched "Sanctuary," and "My Lover's Embrace".

As well as songwriting, Siji still has his producing jones. He has just completed working with Salif Keita, Vinia Mojica and Wunmi as part of an up and coming project he's also featured on.