New Yorker Kate Odulukwe released an Afropop banger, celebrating life and her Igbo background. Live and Let Me Live marks a significant step in the musical journey of Nigerian-American singer songwriter and actress Kate, typically known for combining her love of traditional Nigerian music with R&B and Pop influences. This new release cultivates a new and refined sound, as Kate smoothly fuses pop music with Afrobeat music. Which is why we wanted to chat to the artist a little bit more to get to know her. Check-out the interview below.

You sound is infectious, please tell us how you came to create this magic?
I wanted to write another song that included both Igbo and English lyrics. I’ve touched on including Igbo lyrics in the past, but I wanted to get even more creative and combine my love for Afrobeats and my history with Pop music. Also, I wanted to make something fun and mood-lifting, so I kept that in mind when I was recording my vocals too. The song emphasizes letting things go and letting things be, and I wanted to incorporate that mentality both sonically and through the lyrics of the song.

Your latest release evokes the feeling of joy and escapism, what inspired you to capture it into a song?
I always want my music to take my listeners to another place, a better place. My favorite music does that for me, so that really inspires me to create that for my listeners.

How important is it for you to bring your culture into your music?
It’s very important for me to bring my culture into my music because even outside of music, I embody my culture in all that I do. During the creative process, I took time to make sure that the lyrics would be a good reflection of who I am as an artist. I get my inspiration from the journey of life and the cultures that have made me who I am today. I am an Igbo-American singer/songwriter, and I'm determined to make music that I love that embraces both Nigerian and American culture.

What have you got planned next?
Next, I plan to go further with adding Afropop and Afrobeats to my discography. I’ll be releasing more music and performing. Moreover, I want to refine my sound and strengthen my presence as an artist, and the process of getting to that point inspires me too. I think the best way to do that is just to hit the ground running, and work more and more on the craft. I’m so excited to go forward--onward and upward.

What stimulates your soul?
Music simulates my soul. It's what makes my life colorful. It’s something that I can always look forward to, and be grateful for in hindsight. Music is all around us, and when I embrace fully, it touches my soul.

What's the best life advice someone has ever given you?
“If it's meant for you, it won't pass you by.” It’s a reminder that everybody has their own journey, and you'll end up where you need to be. I take that advice with me wherever I go.

Getting To Know Kate Odulukwe