PJ Morton, a five-time Grammy winner, has launched his latest album titled ‘Cairo to Lagos’ in collaboration with a lineup of Nigerian music stars. This innovative project was entirely conceived during a 30-day journey across Africa, where Morton immersed himself in diverse cultures and communities. Here’s a summary of what the album entails and the experiences that shaped it:
**Album Concept and Creation:**
– **Purpose and Approach:** PJ Morton embarked on his African journey with a bold vision: to create an album entirely from scratch, without any preconceived music or lyrics. His goal was to capture the raw emotions and experiences he encountered throughout his travels across cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, Lagos, Accra, and Cairo.
– **Recording Process:** Morton adhered strictly to his experimental approach by recording all vocals during his stay in Africa, ensuring that the album’s essence remained unfiltered and spontaneous. This decision aimed to authentically reflect the influence of African culture and his personal connections to the continent.
– **Musical Diversity:** ‘Cairo to Lagos’ embodies a rich tapestry of genres, blending R&B, soul, gospel, pop, and jazz. Each track resonates with the distinct musical inspirations drawn from various African locales, highlighting the album’s diverse sonic landscape.
**Collaborations and Influences:**
– **Featured Artists:** The album features collaborations with prominent African artists such as Fireboy DML, Asa, Mádé Kuti, Ndabo Zulu, and the Soweto Spiritual Singers. These partnerships underscore Morton’s commitment to integrating local talent and perspectives into his musical narrative.
– **Production:** Working alongside producers like P.Priime and The Cavemen, Morton fused his New Orleans roots with African musical traditions, creating a diasporic musical experience that celebrates cultural exchange and unity.
**Highlights of the Album:**
– **Cultural Reverence:** Tracks like ‘Smoke & Mirrors’ and ‘Simunye (We Are One)’ featuring the Soweto Spiritual Singers pay homage to African heritage and communal pride. Morton’s collaborations with Mádé Kuti on ‘Who You Are’ and Fireboy DML on ‘Count On Me’ resonate with themes of unity and friendship, resonating globally.
– **Reflective Themes:** Morton’s introspective tracks like ‘All The Dreamers’ featuring Asa and Ndado Zulu, and ‘Thank You’ convey gratitude and awareness of ancestral connections, emphasizing personal and collective histories.
**Conclusion:**
PJ Morton’s ‘Cairo to Lagos’ album stands as a testament to his artistic evolution and commitment to cross-cultural musical exploration. By blending African influences with his own musical roots, Morton has crafted a compelling narrative that bridges continents and celebrates the universal language of music. The album promises to captivate listeners with its diverse soundscape and poignant reflections, setting a vibrant tone for musical innovation and collaboration in the global music scene.