Sola Akingbola may not be a name you instantly recognize, but his music has already left an indelible mark on the world. A long-term percussionist with the Grammy-winning band Jamiroquai and the award-winning composer behind CBS’s hit sitcom Bob Hearts Abishola, Sola’s artistry has reached millions, even if his name hasn’t always been front and center. That’s all about to change with the release of How Should I…Part 1, the first installment of his deeply personal and genre-defying album.
Released on October 25, 2024, under Sola Akingbola & The Eegun Rhapsodies, How Should I is a soulful and bold exploration of cultural identity, musical heritage, and human connection. Featuring six tracks on its EP (Sides A/B on vinyl), the album sets the stage for a larger project, with Part 2 slated for Spring 2025.
A Celebration of Fusion and Evolution
Drawing from his Yoruba heritage and British upbringing, Sola’s album represents a dynamic intersection of cultures. Influenced by Yoruba poetry and Greek classics, How Should I celebrates the renaissance of Yoruba culture from a UK perspective, fusing Afrobeat, funk, jazz, and cinematic influences.
“This album is a bridge between my Nigerian heritage and my British upbringing,” Sola shares. “It’s a celebration of cultural fusion and the power of music to transcend boundaries.”
The single “Touch My Soul,” released on October 4, 2024, perfectly embodies this ethos. A tour de force, the track features infectious rhythms and heartfelt lyrics that explore themes of unity and connection. It’s a standout among the first six tracks, which include:
SIDE A:
IGI NLA
EVERYDAY
TOUCH MY SOUL
SIDE B:
JUDAS KISS
HOW SHOULD I
MY BROTHER’S KEEPER
Each track carries its own emotional and cultural narrative. For example, the title track “How Should I” was originally composed for the Royal Shakespeare Company’s 2016 production of Hamlet. The song features Olivier-winning actor Sheila Atim (The Woman King, The Underground Railroad), whose tender vocals lend depth to this jazz-lounge-inspired piece. Meanwhile, “My Brother’s Keeper” takes a more introspective approach, blending soulful melodies with thoughtful commentary on identity and kinship.
A Multifaceted Artist
Sola’s career is as diverse as the album he’s created. As Jamiroquai’s percussionist, he’s shared stages with legends like Stevie Wonder, The Rolling Stones, and David Bowie, performing at some of the world’s largest festivals. Beyond his band work, Sola has composed for TV and theatre, earning acclaim for his scoring of Bob Hearts Abishola, which recently attracted over 5 million viewers in its fifth season.
His theatre compositions include collaborations with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre, such as the score for their 2023 production of Othello. These projects highlight Sola’s ability to translate his cultural and musical influences into universally resonant works.
A Personal Renaissance
Born in Yorubaland in southwestern Nigeria, Sola spent much of his life moving between cultures. Growing up in London’s eclectic Portobello Road neighborhood, he immersed himself in both the traditions of his Nigerian heritage and the rich musical landscape of the UK. This duality informs every note of How Should I.
The album’s vibrancy is also reflected visually. The music video for “Olukumi,” filmed at the iconic Abbey Road Studios, is a celebration of rhythm and energy, capturing the infectious joy that defines much of Sola’s work.
Looking Ahead
While Part 1 of How Should I serves as an introduction to this expansive project, Part 2, arriving in Spring 2025, promises to delve even deeper into Sola’s artistic journey. Together, the two parts will form a double-album vinyl release, showcasing a full spectrum of musical expression.
Why How Should I Matters?
In a world where music often seeks to simplify or categorize, Sola Akingbola stands as a reminder of the power of fusion and complexity. How Should I doesn’t just invite listeners to enjoy its rich melodies and rhythms—it asks them to consider the fluidity of identity and the shared humanity that exists across cultures.
Sola Akingbola may have spent decades in the background, but with How Should I…Part 1, he firmly takes center stage. It’s an album that celebrates heritage, explores identity, and, most importantly, connects with the soul.
Listen to How Should I on all platforms now, and stay tuned for Part 2 in Spring 2025.
Follow Sola Akingbola on Instagram @solaakingbola and explore his music on Spotify and Apple Music.
