The Ghanaian singer’s voice has scored infectious hooks over the last years, giving us tender and soulful records that speak in a way its author never felt comfortable sharing with the press, and a classic with Addison’s 2017 hit “Guy Man”. Asi Renie’s discography is full of details that contain whole worlds unto themselves, songs that travel seamlessly through storied traditions of Afrobeats and soul music. For soul lovers, her absence was felt, but she is back after a 2 year hiatus with a new single titled “Talk is cheap”. She picks up where she left off, being the unflinchingly honest singer/songwriter listeners are used to, crooning through the productions of Kwame Yeboah.
For the iMullar, she discusses balancing motherhood and music, getting personal on records and changes through her hiatus.
We miss Asi Renie. Where has she been for the last two years? What made you take a break and which parts of yourself do you feel you kept and let go of to evolve?
I became a mother last year, hence the absence and it’s been one of the most transformative experiences ever. I tapped into a side of myself I never knew existed. I found strength I didn’t even know I had. It’s been an honour being blessed with my sunshine! It has allowed me to learn and unlearn so many things with my biggest motivation being a good role model for my son.
Your latest single, “Talk Is Cheap” marks your return to the industry. It sounds more personal compared to your previous work. Can you tell us how the record came about? And why is it your first statement after returning?
This song has been in the making for two years. One of my favourite songs so far, just because of what it stands for and the phase I am at in my life right now. I wrote Talk is Cheap to remind myself, most importantly and everyone listening, that It’s not just about what we say, but what we do that truly matters. This song is about putting yourself first and sieving the company we keep. It’s about standing on business, and holding yourself accountable for your growth. Being a mum made me realise how much I was affected by what people thought of me; I learned to focus on myself and prioritise who and what is important to me. I hope this song inspires people to be more genuine in their relationships and interactions, the way it did for me.
Being a mother is one of life’s greatest experiences and responsibilities. How has the journey been so far? And how has it altered your approach to making music? Is there more of a sense of vulnerability now?
This journey has been beautiful and uplifting. There are days that have been hard and you shed a tear or two, but it gets easier especially when you accept that there is a time and season for everything, and focus on the gift you’ve been given, being present and enjoying every little moment. My music making approach hasn’t altered as much and yes i am way more vulnerable than I used to be. I’m super emotional right now and I hear it in the songs I’ve been writing.
Do you feel like you lost a creative part of you after the pregnancy or the path has been clearer than ever now?
After I gave birth, I lost my voice and it took me over a year to get it back to what it was. I think that was the most difficult part of my motherhood journey especially for me creatively. Not being able to sing the way I knew I could, it affected my confidence immensely as an artist and creative, but we serve a living God, and with the right vocal training and a good support system of family and friends, we are back on track and looking forward to the journey ahead. I can’t wait to get back on stage and share my gift! I know God has great things in store for me and I honestly can’t wait. So yes! the path is clearer than ever.
You are in your lane in terms of the types of production on your songs, but tell me about the production detail on “Talk Is Cheap”, What type of sounds you were looking for? What kind of colours? What kind of timbre? And why Kwame Yeboah.
The production is an ode to why I fell in love with music in the first place. It just had to be a fusion of jazz and soul; two genres I draw a lot of musical inspiration from. We wanted the production to taste like an old bottle of good wine. I couldn’t have brought this production to life without Kwame. Immediately I sent him the voice note he knew exactly what it needed and I’m super honoured to be working with a living legend.
You are one of the most genuine soul singers I know. What are some of your tips for remaining true to yourself, keeping your peace and not getting triggered by past experiences?
I’m very mindful of my environment and the company I keep, I put a lot of effort in surrounding myself with people that uplift me, and are aligned with my values. I do my best to reciprocate that energy with the people around me as well. I think that has made all the difference.
