In our recent interview with Micle, the rising Afrobeats star behind the breakout hit "Ave Maria," he described the surreal feeling of debuting at #50 on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs Chart. Micle opened up about the unexpected inspiration for the track, born from a neighbor's ringtone, and how he crafted its unique blend of soulful melodies and infectious Afrobeats rhythms.
With his Nigerian heritage deeply woven into his music, Micle emphasizes the importance of creating authentic sounds that resonate globally while showcasing African culture and creativity. Micle sees himself as part of the larger narrative of Afrobeats, a genre celebrating African heritage on the world stage. He aims to inspire and unite through music that uplifts and bridges cultural divides.
Deeds: Congratulations on Ave Maria debuting at #50 on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs Chart! How does it feel to have your first entry on such a prestigious chart?
Micle: Honestly, this moment feels surreal. A few months ago, something like this felt like a distant dream. I've always poured my heart and passion into my music, but seeing it reach this kind of recognition is overwhelming.
Deeds: Ave Maria is such a captivating song. Can you walk us through the creative process behind it?
Micle: Recording and producing the track involves making decisions about how to best capture the performance, which can greatly influence the final feel of the piece.
Basically it was on a Sunday evening my guy and I Were Working on a beat but Short in lyrics while thinking, our neighbor next door handset rang and all we could hear was the old general Ave Maria catholic song and without wasting time we clicked in the idea and boom the captivating song was created..
Deeds: The blend of soulful melodies and rhythmic Afrobeats in the song feels unique. How did you approach balancing those elements?
Micle: Thank you! Balancing soulful melodies with rhythmic Afrobeats was all about finding a harmonious intersection where both genres could shine. I focused on retaining the emotional depth of the melodies while integrating the infectious groove of Afrobeats.
Deeds: Afrobeats continues to dominate the global music scene. What does it mean to you to be part of this movement, especially as a rising star?
Micle: Being part of the Afrobeats movement is incredibly inspiring and empowering as a rising star. It represents a rich tapestry of culture, creativity, and global connection that resonates with audiences everywhere. Contributing to this genre allows me to showcase my roots, share stories that matter, and connect with fans from diverse backgrounds. It's not just about music; it's about being part of a larger narrative that celebrates African heritage and innovation on a global scale.
Deeds: How important is it for you to stay connected to your Nigerian roots while making music that appeals to a global audience?
Micle: Staying connected to my Nigerian roots is incredibly important to me; it enriches my music and gives it authenticity while allowing me to share my culture with a global audience. By blending traditional influences with contemporary sounds, I can create a unique fusion that resonates across diverse listeners, celebrating my heritage while inviting others to experience and appreciate it.
Deeds: Ave Maria marks a major milestone in your career. Looking back, what were some of the challenges you faced on your journey to this moment?
Micle: Reflecting on my journey to this milestone with Ave Maria, I faced several challenges, including navigating the competitive landscape of the industry, balancing creative vision with practical constraints, and overcoming self-doubt during critical moments. Each obstacle taught me resilience and adaptability, ultimately shaping my artistic voice and commitment to my work. These experiences not only strengthened my craft but also deepened my appreciation for the collaborative efforts that brought this project to life.
Deeds: What do you hope to achieve as an artist in the Afrobeats space, and how do you want your music to impact people?
Micle: As an artist in the Afrobeats space, I hope to achieve a fusion of vibrant sounds that not only celebrates our rich cultural heritage but also resonates globally, bridging gaps between communities. I aim for my music to uplift, inspire, and evoke joy, creating a sense of unity and connection among listeners. Ultimately, I want my songs to be a source of empowerment, encouraging people to embrace their identity and find strength in their stories.
Deeds: If you weren’t doing music, what do you think you’d be doing right now?
Micle: If I weren't doing music, I imagine I'd probably be exploring my passion into Architectural developments, studied Architecture in school though,
perhaps working in writing or film, using my creativity to connect with people in a different way.
Deeds: Describe Ave Maria in three words.
Micle: Heavenly, serene, timeless.
