I’m Cef, an Abuja born and bred, singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist! My genre of music fuses different sounds to create what I would call ‘spirit music’. By this I mean that I draw inspiration from Jazz, to African, to Latin, to hip hop- everything! In terms of personalities that inspired me, I would say my top three are the legendary Fela Kuti, Bob Marley, and Miles Davis. I feel like the impact that these artists had went beyond music. They transcended different generations and made music that is relevant even in this society. To me, I say that they were more than musicians-they were prophets. This is the same sentiment I hope to recreate in my music; ultimately I want to share hope, light and truth; to raise consciousness through my music. The first instrument I learnt how to play was the guitar after i had heard Asa. But I actually started performing when I was at university. I would say that my music like myself has grown and matured since then. Ultimately, I know that I am still learning, and in terms of the music I want to grow creatively, spiritually as well as mentally. I realise that music is a very powerful tool, and that there is a deeper essence to music. Music can touch peoples’ souls (their inner beings) and as such can be used in a number of positive and negative ways; like most artists out there, I hope that my music will channel positivity. I was once asked what I do not like about music, to this I answered “I like everything about music”. I enjoy what I do and the euphoria it makes me feel. I do not like to use the word escapism but it is very similar. When I am performing I feel like I am in a different realm, a place where my worries about the world don’t matter. I am a vessel of Ahayah- At times it is no longer me performing-it is usually a beautiful experience for me and the listeners. I am doing what I was called to do-to me these are the perfect moments. I believe that my ability to create music is a gift from The Most High. Although there are things I am wary of when creating good music (such as ego), I try to manage this by remaining humble and surrounding myself with the right sort of people. I am best at communicating through music. If there is anything you want to listen to the music and find out. David Stones is Uno in couple of planned projects. It represents simplicity and capacity for me. Start with what you have, with what you know and start where you are.