Did I hear you say Legendary?
This enigma doesn’t need much introduction.
With decades long vibrant musical and dance career, the USA native has played some of the best venues in the world. A titled cultural leader in Egboroland, Nigeria (Yeye Asa), she is recognized for her contributions to preserving and promoting cultural heritage in her community.
Additionally, she is the wife of Orlando Julius Ekemode, a celebrated Nigerian musician and cultural icon.
We are thrilled to have her with us in this year’s Agogo Arts and Nature Festival and asked her 5 Questions.
AANF- 1. What do the themes of Nature and Culture mean to you?
LATOYA- Nature and Culture go hand in hand. Culture is a way of life to sustain generations to come, and without Nature to feed us, heal us, shelter us… Teach us. We are lost. Our Culture teaches us also how to live off the land. We couldn’t Breathe without HER Nature.
AANF- What would it be if you could change one thing in the world right now? Why?
LATOYA- If I could change one thing in the world , it would be to END CORRUPTION. It’s the root of poverty, imbalance of resources, and devastating results from corruption, like War. Trafficking of Humans. Religion has even joined the party. Corruption makes people leave their homeland seeking greener pastures, and separate family structures. Just the epitome of evil,
AANF-Your dream collaborations?
LATOYA- I thank God Almighty that I was able to collaborate with a Legend, Orlando Julius, composing and arranging, also recording, but a dream collaboration, Grace Jones.
AANF- How can we change the world?
LATOYA-In my own weird opinion I don’t think we can change the world. We can only do our best to give love support understanding to our loved ones and community. Be counted and stand for justice. But if one wants to make a difference and leave a footprint on the Earth….Plant a Tree. Maybe more than one.
AANF-What should festival attendees expect from you at Agogo Arts and Nature Festival on Friday the 27th September?
LATOYA-As with all the Wonderful Artists Performing, I will bring what I can to make Festival Goers happy. They will groove to the vibe of a few Orlando Julius Songs and also a few of my own. We must do the DANCE!!! Ifokanbale Band and my humble self are ready.
Catch the phenomenal woman and her band on Friday 27 September at Novel Lounge, Marina Badagry.