Michael O. released enchanting new song ‘Japa’
Michael O. (Michael Odokara-Okigbo), a singer, songwriter, and producer who was born in the United States but has Nigerian roots, recently released his newest single, ‘Japa’, which is slang for “to flee” in the Yoruba language of Nigeria and alludes to the numerous Africans who are compelled to migrate to the west in search of a better life. The song acts as a unifying anthem, inspiring individuals from all walks of life to go back and connect with their ancestors.
‘JAPA’ is a story about survival as well as the founding and development of America, and it was co-produced by Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Academy. The lead track from Michael O.’s next EP, ‘Japa’, is scheduled for release in 2023.
Michael O. and his colleagues just developed and are the founders of the first African language learning app, NKENNE, with the same goal of solidarity in mind. NKENNE was established to give the Global African Diaspora a way to connect linguistically to their ancestors.
The MusiCares organization of the Recording Academy made ‘Japa’ and NKENNE feasible. Michael O. was able to harness his love of using music and technology to connect people to launch this app and his upcoming EP thanks to a grant he received from MusiCares in 2020 as part of their COVID-19 alleviation initiative.
Check out his new song here!
