The music scene is ever-evolving, with new artists emerging, each bringing a unique voice and perspective. One such artist is Edem-Ita Richard Henshaw popularly known as Blazehenshaw, a talented singer-songwriter hailing from Calabar, Cross River State. His sound, which he dubs “Afro Folklore,” is a refreshing blend of traditional storytelling with contemporary influences. As his music continues to gain momentum, Edem-Ita’s journey into the industry and the experiences that have shaped him are as captivating as his music. In this interview, he opens up about his path, his inspirations, and what the future holds for his artistry.
TCA: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your journey into the music industry?
BLAZE: Thank you, my name is Edem-ita Richard Henshaw. I’m originally from Calabar in Cross River state, A civil Engineer from the prestigious university of uyo.
TCA: What inspired you to pursue music as a career, and when did you know it was your passion?
BLAZE: I’ve always had music in me from my childhood days, my family enjoyed me taking morning devotions. So I grew up having passion for it, at every stage I kept getting better at it and knew it was what I needed to do.
TCA: When did you professionally start making music?
BLAZE: I started making music professionally in 2019
TCA: Interesting, so how would you describe your sound or style to someone who hasn’t heard your music before?
BLAZE: I call my pattern of music “Afro Folklore” it’s basically a traditional story telling sound
TCA: Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound?
BLAZE: I’ve always looked up to people like Kizz Daniel, Burna Boy, Tuface, Oxlade, having a blend of their sounds inspire my creative process.
TCA: Tell us about your upcoming EP “SYLOM”. What’s the story behind it?
BLAZE: SYLOM is my first body of work and it’s also a product of my strength, victory, pain and will power to do more. The meaning of SYLOM is “Shine Your Light On Me”. It is a strong message to the universe to pause and give me its ears. Every song tells a different struggle.
TCA: What message or emotions do you hope listeners take away from your music?
BLAZE: I want my listeners to feel empowered when they listen to this project, it is a call to keep pressing on and pushing forward
TCA: How has the reception been so far since your break into the industry? Any memorable moments or experiences?
BLAZE: The reception has been really positive so far, it’s amazing seeing how people are responding to my work and I have been blown away by the support. Connecting with other artists and creatives has been inspiring. It’s exciting to know that this is just the beginning, and I’m looking forward to what’s next!
TCA: Who are some artists you would love to collaborate with in the future?
BLAZE: I will love to work with Burna !oy, Tems, Joeboy, Kizz Daniel, Ed Sheeran
TCA: What’s the best advice you’ve received from someone in the music industry
BLAZE: The best advice I’ve received so far was from Moonlight Afrique, he said to me “Don’t play with your Music”
TCA: Where do you see yourself in the next few years as an artist? What’s next on your horizon?
BLAZE: I see myself having a larger audience, killing shows/concerts all around the globe, connecting deeper my talent. I am also working towards my album and live in concert
TCA: Amazing. We wish you the best Blaze, thank you for sitting with us.
BLAZE: Thank you for having me
Blaze Henshaw’s brand new EP comes out tomorrow, 27th of September 2024. Make sure you stream it on all platforms.