Asa

**Aṣa (Bukola Elemide) Biography** Aṣa, born Bukola Elemide on September 17, 1982, in Paris, France, is a Nigerian-French singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. Renowned for her dynamic, multi-genre music that blends pop, indie pop, and Afrobeat, Aṣa has established herself as a significant voice on the global music scene. Her distinct style often features soulful vocals, social commentary, and deeply personal lyrics. **Early Life and Education** Aṣa was born to Nigerian parents who were working and studying cinematography in Paris. At the age of two, her family returned to Lagos, Nigeria, where she spent her formative years. Her parents hail from Ogun State, Nigeria. Her musical influences were shaped by her father's extensive music collection, built for his cinematography work, which exposed her to genres like soul, Nigerian highlife, and classical music. At 18, Aṣa returned to Paris, where her career as a professional artist began to take shape. She is noted for her proficiency in several instruments, including the vocals, guitar, and piano. **Career Progression and Notable Works** Aṣa's career officially launched with the release of her critically acclaimed debut album, *Aṣa (Asha)*, in 2007. This album quickly brought her international recognition, driven by hit singles like "Jailer" and "Fire on the Mountain." The success of her debut led to her winning the prestigious Prix Constantin award in 2008. She followed this with the album *Beautiful Imperfection* (2010), which included the single "Be My Man" and continued her charting success in Europe. Her subsequent albums, *Bed of Stone* (2014) and *Lucid* (2019), solidified her reputation for lyrical introspection and consistent genre blending. Notable singles from her career include "Why Can't We," "Dead Again," and "Eyo." **Major Achievements and Status** Aṣa is recognized globally for her powerful live performances and musical integrity. Her achievements include chart placements across Europe, particularly in France, Belgium, and Switzerland. She was nominated for the French Music Awards Victoires de la Musique for "Female Artist of the Year" in 2012. Her albums have consistently charted internationally, demonstrating her global appeal. She continues to record and perform, pushing artistic boundaries and maintaining a strong legacy as a versatile and dynamic artist operating between Nigeria and France.