As a Nigerian, the subject of Africa and its history provides a cultural backdrop and influence to much of Ola Onabule’s work. It is often thought that the victims of slavery were those who were taken away. However, it is clear that there was also a profound effect on those who remained.

Ola’s gutsy soul music addresses the effect that post-colonialism has had in the last hundred years upon the psyche of Africans: the cerebral colonisation of Africa through imported religions and western value systems, western technologies and western business; and in turn the impact upon the way that Africa perceives itself.

“His songwriting ability shines whilst his voice is strong and potent” Aspire.

“He writes thought provoking songs and is quite a performer” Gargamel.

Ola is also touring to Colchester, Milton Keynes, Richmond, Huddersfield, Great Bardfield, Banbury, Stockton-on-Tees, Altrincham, Derby, Exeter, Fareham, Bishop’s Stortford, Coventry, Bedford, Sheffield and Whitehaven. See olasmusic.com or myspace.com/olaonabule for details.

Presented by The Pigalle Club. Part of the London Jazz Festival in association with BBC Radio 3.