Interview by Carol Wright | Photos Courtesy of Saidi Musa
Musician Saidi Musa’s movement, For The Love (FTL), aims to connect with and inspire others to follow their passion, especially in music. His philosophy is simple: “If you’re not doing it for the love, what are you doing it for?” Musa talked to NYOTA about his single “Diva,” growing up in Tanzania, and his upcoming EP.
What led to your passion for music?
Growing up in a refugee camp in Tanzania, East Africa, I didn’t really have much, only soccer and music. The feeling I would get seeing and hearing my mom sing in church, and going to my neighbor’s house to listen to music, would bring me peace. It made all my problems go away and put me in my own little world.
Growing up in Tanzania you must have been surrounded by so much art and music. Do you often find inspiration from the community you grew up around?
Yes, absolutely. From being a little boy going to choir practice with my mom, to watching Michael Jackson at the small movie theater we had, it all inspired me. The beauty of Africa as a whole is always inspiring, and those flashbacks always give me more to write about and keep my love for music alive for the love.
Tell our readers about your single “Diva.” What was the writing process?
“Diva” is a song that came from a feeling of love. I don’t really like to express my emotions openly, based on my upbringing and past situations, so I wanted to tell this person how much I cared for them and I put it into a song. All the songs from my upcoming EP come from real stories, and I can’t wait to share them with the whole world.
You came out with a music video to accompany the track. How much creative input did you have when it came to the video?
100%. Thanks to the amazing team I had in Tanzania while shooting the video, I was able to bring my vision to life. I had the vision for this song and EP for a long time, and getting the chance to actually put it into action was a unique experience. Most of the time, when I’m writing a song, I already see the vision for the music video in my head.
You’re preparing to release an EP. What themes will you be exploring in the project?
My story, my love for music, and showcasing African art. Every song on this EP comes from experiences I had on my journey doing what I love, music. I can’t wait for people to hear what I’ve got, for the love.
What advice do you have for aspiring musicians?
For the love, if you love it, just do it. Being scared and waiting for the perfect time or for someone to hand you your dream will kill the artist in you. If you love something, do it for the love. I want to show the next generation that even if you are in a place where you weren’t born, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t chase your dreams. Don’t be scared to be yourself and show the world who you are, for the love.