Zenesoul Combines Passion with Purpose in Her Music to Empower Listeners

From Nigeria to Canada, Zenesoul has created her own sound by telling her story to the world; aiming to empower and impress those listening. Her passion for songwriting started when she was 11 years old. Zenesoul’s music incorporates R&B, Neo-Soul and Afro-beats.  

What first got you into music?

I actually don't know. I've always loved singing around the house from when I was a young child. I started writing at 11 years old and my friends and people around me just consistently encouraged me to take a step in. And I'm the type of person that will do all that I can if I step into something. I don't back down until I feel I have exhausted all my resources. So this journey is far from over.

Who are your musical inspirations?

There are so many artists to choose from, but I would say I’m mainly inspired by Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, India Arie, Jill Scott and Brandy.

What do you hope to achieve in the next 5 years?

One big thing I hope to achieve is to get a song placement on Insecure by Issa Rae. I'd be the happiest girl ever! I would also love a writing placement and for my music to be recognized on a global level.

What’s your ultimate goal in the music industry?

I want to be an artist that people go to when they need a reminder that they aren't alone. I want to be able to touch people without being in their presence. How that looks like I don't really know but I care more about my message than anything else.

If you were to start over your music career, what would you do differently?

I would invest in my music earlier than I did. I jumped right into it without focusing so much on the quality of the sound. But then again I also didn't really understand how a mastered vs unmastered song sounded like until a bit later. So to me, it was quality but I quickly learned to identify when something is properly mastered or not.

Are there any social issues that you are passionate about? If so, would you like to share them?

Yes! I'm very passionate about people who have been abused. Whether it be mentally, physically, or emotionally. I want people to know that I see them, I hear them and I understand them. Abuse is usually just seen as physical but people need to be educated. Abusers most of the time don't even understand and know the depth of their actions so it's all about learning and providing awareness.

Have you ever dealt with performance anxiety? If so, how do you deal with it?

All the time! Performing is so scary. I'm always thinking what if my voice cracks? What if I need to burp? What if I fall? What if, What if. I don't think I really deal with it. I kind of just trying to ignore it and just hope for the best. I try to remind myself that I’m human and if a mistake happens it's not the end of the world.

Do you have any hobbies outside of music?

Ummm no not really. If I’m not doing something music-related I’m probably providing rehab therapy to patients or I’m watching a tv show. But I do love exploring and plan to try new things once the whole pandemic situation dies down.

What is your favourite and least favourite part about being an artist?

My Favourite part is creating a song I love and getting to play it over and over again in my car. My least favourite part is the fear of not knowing how people will take my music.

Which unique competitive qualities do you think you possess as an artist?

I create new songs regularly which gives me the opportunity to filter through songs and allows me to build a catalogue quickly.

Is there any instrument you would like to learn and why?

I would love to learn how to play the guitar. I've always loved the guitar. It gives me a vibe of intimacy and storytelling.

What is the story behind your artist’s name?

My First name is Nene so I decided to turn the first N into a Z. When I searched up Zene I found out it means music in Hungarian so I loved it even more. I chose to pronounce it 'Zen' because I love the idea of zen and peace and I feel my music is soothing. I then realized Zene was already taken so I added the soul at the end because I put soul in everything I do. And voila Zenesoul was born.

How do you feel the internet has impacted the music industry?

Music is so easily attainable now and there's just so much music out there. Anyone can put music out. It comes with its highs and lows to be honest. Without the internet, this pandemic would have been much harder than it already was. Music heals and it really saved us and that is all thanks to the internet.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?
"If you want something, you have to go and get it. You will not put 100,000 hours into something and not gain something out of it". It might not be exactly what you want, but you gain something out of it. And I seriously believe that. So many times, I think of an idea and I don't go through with it. Then I see someone else has done it. The difference between that person and I is that they put in their hours and did it, and I just thought about it. With music, I didn't want to just think about it. I rather know that I tried than lived wondering what if.                

If you were not an artist, what career would you choose?

I'm currently in the other career I would choose, which is rehab therapy. I still have to keep climbing up the ladder but I'm in there. If not rehab therapy I’m pretty fine with anything in the healthcare field that's rewarding and gives a sense of impact on a person's life.