Meet Aisha Jemila Daniels | Singer/Songwriter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aisha Jemila Daniels and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aisha Jemila, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
The pull towards an artistic career wasn’t a conscious decision, but more like an undeniable gravitational force. I found myself constantly drawn to creating, whether it was sketching in the margins of notebooks, crafting stories in my head, or experimenting with colors and textures. It wasn’t just a hobby; it was a fundamental way of understanding and interacting with the world around me. The desire to express myself, to communicate emotions and ideas that words often failed to capture, became an unshakeable need. Ultimately, I realized that pursuing an artistic path wasn’t just about creating beautiful things, but about living a life fueled by passion, driven by curiosity, and dedicated to sharing my unique perspective with the world.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
With a soulful voice that I pour my heart into, I have always strived to create a unique space for myself within the vast landscape of jazz music. Growing up in Miami, Florida, my passion ignited at the tender age of four, fueled by the sounds of legends like Carmen McRae, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn, and the Afrobeat rhythms of Fela Kuti and Oumou Sangare. This early fascination led me to vocal lessons, musical theater, and jazz band, ultimately shaping the artist I am today. My journey took me from performing in small venues around Washington D.C. while pursuing my BFA in Photography at Howard University, to open mic nights in Doha, Qatar, during my MFA studies in Interdisciplinary Design. It was in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, after obtaining my Master’s, that I truly embraced music, performing jazz standards with my quartet at popular venues and festivals. Now, settled in Nairobi, Kenya, I’m thrilled to share my debut EP, ‘Introducing Aisha Jemila,’ released on April 4th, 2024, with the world. My music, a blend of jazz, blues, and Afro sounds, hopes to evoke introspection and emotional depth. With features on Neo2Soul radio in London, Citizens TV in Nairobi, and sharing the stage with Bobby Valentino, I’m humbled by the reception my work has received.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Nairobi for a week, I’d craft an itinerary that blends the city’s vibrant energy with its stunning natural surroundings. We’d kick things off with a deep dive into Kenyan culture at the Bomas of Kenya, followed by a delicious, authentic Kenyan meal at Carnivore Restaurant. Days would be spent exploring the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, playing with baby elephants, and getting up close with giraffes at the Giraffe Centre. For a dose of artistic flair, we’d wander through the colorful Maasai Market, haggling for unique souvenirs. Evenings would be reserved for rooftop drinks at the Nest, offering panoramic city views, or experiencing Nairobi’s buzzing nightlife in Westlands. A day trip to the breathtaking Hell’s Gate National Park is a must, where we could hike, bike, and even rock climb amidst stunning scenery, finishing with a relaxing soak in the geothermal spa. To top it off, a final farewell dinner at a high-end restaurant like Talisman, known for its amazing food and ambiance, allows for us to reminisce and enjoy the experience. Throughout the week, I’d introduce my friend to the friendly locals, the infectious rhythms of Kenyan music, and the unforgettable spirit that makes Nairobi so special.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My journey to success has been a collaborative effort, a tapestry woven with the unwavering support and profound influence of my mother, father, ancestors, and, ultimately, God. My parents provided the foundation, instilling in me values of hard work, perseverance, and compassion, while also fostering an environment where my passions could flourish. The wisdom and sacrifices of my ancestors, passed down through generations, have shaped my perspective and provided a deep sense of responsibility to honor their legacy. And above all, I believe that the guidance and grace of God has been a constant presence, opening doors and illuminating paths that I could never have imagined on my own. Any recognition I receive is, therefore, a shared honor, a testament to their collective contributions to the person I have become and the success I have achieved.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aishajemila

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aishajemila

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@aishajemila

Image Credits
Aisha Jemila Daniels (Red print background), Emmanuel Jambo (Bantu knots)