wordsofAzia Talks Debut EP, Her Voice And More

wordsofAzia is a French-born artist of Ivorian heritage whose music bridges continents, cultures, and generations. Rooted in the traditional Bhété rhythms of her mother’s village in Ivory Coast and enriched by jazz, soul, and spiritual reflection, her debut EP MODERN WIHEGOU is a bold and deeply personal statement on heritage, identity, and feminine divinity. She kindly chatted to us: 

 

What is your earliest musical memory?

Probably singing on the karaoke machine. My parents used to make my brothers and sisters sit down and cheer me on while I performed. It was a whole thing!

 

When did you begin songwriting?

I’ve always been creative like that—making up little songs and jingles from a young age. But I really started writing music more intentionally in 2021, experimenting with different sounds and languages.

 

Your new EP Modern Wihegou is out now. How did you approach the process of making it?

At first, I just wanted to make music that felt instinctive and honest. As I kept creating, it naturally started to come together as a project.
Even though my process is very intuitive, there’s intention behind what I do. I wanted listeners to feel like they were experiencing something complete—a real body of work.

 

Where did you record the EP, and who produced it?

Everything was recorded with my portable studio, wherever I happened to be—some tracks in London, others in Dakar or Abidjan. I produced all of it myself.

I also worked with musicians like Keïna Etenor and Steven Amoikon. Usually, I’ll reach out with a clear idea in mind, and when they send their stems, I shape them into the songs.

 

Who were the musicians that performed on the EP with you?

Keïna Etenor is a double bass player I connected with on Instagram about a year ago. We have a great musical chemistry—it feels so natural working with her, and she’s incredibly talented.

Steven Amoikon was on Glory, the first track I released as wordsofAzia. He has a very intuitive way of approaching music, and he’s so versatile rhythmically.

Richard, who plays percussion on Oyè Wossô, is amazing—he even makes his own percussion instruments. We met a few years ago through a friend.

And then there’s my mom, Yao Rose. I call her The Source. She’s the beginning of everything for me. She brings a traditional sound that I love blending with my own.

 

Did you use any particular instruments, mics, or recording gear to achieve a specific sound?

Yes, I recorded everything with my Shure SM7B—it’s a mic I really love. It captures a very natural, warm tone that fits my sound perfectly.

 

Which tracks on the EP capture you at your a) happiest, b) angriest, and c) most reflective?

I LOVE Sehkeyoulou and Liwouho—I play them all the time. Liwouho gives me strength, and I’m really proud of how it turned out.
Than All doesn’t make me angry exactly, but it gives me this empowered feeling.
Overall, I want my music to uplift people so none of the songs are rooted in sadness or negativity.

 

Does the EP’s title have a specific meaning?

Wihegou is a traditional vocal style from the Bhété community. I called the EP MODERN WIHEGOU as a way of reimagining it while still honoring its roots.

 

Was it a difficult EP to write?

Not difficult—but it did take time. I really tried to stay in tune with my instincts throughout the process.

 

Who designed the EP artwork?

It’s actually a family photo I found—with my aunt, grandfather, and uncles in it.

 

How do you look after your voice?

Honestly, I don’t really… but I should!

 

Do you have any live dates planned in the UK or Europe for 2025/2026?

There’s definitely something coming up in December, and maybe even a few dates before then. Stay tuned.

 

What two things do you usually need after coming off stage?

Rest and reflection.

 

You’re asked to write a film score for a novel you love. Which one do you choose, and why?

Ooh, great question! Either Le Destin de Wangrin by Amadou Hampâté Bâ or Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

 

Who are some of your musical influences? Any recommendations?

I’d recommend the playlist Deeper Than My Roots on Spotify. It’s a mix of everything I love and listen to regularly.

 

Any music releases planned for 2025/2026?

Nothing to announce just yet…

 

What makes wordsofAzia happy—and what doesn’t?

Creating, traveling, connecting with people, being in nature, spending time with loved ones, and of course—singing.
What drains me is staying in one place too long, especially in cities.

Feature Image Photo Credit: Tendaji

wordsofAzia’s debut EP ‘Modern Wihegou’ is out now.

Listen Here: https://unitedmasters.com/m/modern-wihegou-1

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