Communa Interviews: Tomilola's Path to Musical Discovery — "The Journey to Self”

IG: tomil0la

In this exclusive interview, Communa sits with Tomilola, a rising artist who is on a profound journey of self-discovery and creative exploration. With a unique blend of influences ranging from the soulful melodies of Amy Winehouse to the timeless harmonies of ABBA, she has carved out a sound that is ‘as personal as it is universal’.  As she prepares to release her first official project, Tomilola talks to Communa about the inspirations behind her music, the fluid and emotional process of songwriting, and how she stays true to her artistic vision amidst the ever-changing landscape of the music industry. 

Explore the mind and music of Tomilola whose work is a reflection of life’s complexities, vulnerabilities, and the pursuit of grace.

Tomilola

Can you share the story behind your latest project or album? What inspired you to create it?

My first official project is still in the works, but it is inspired by this weird phase most of us seem to be in where our paths/ identities are really just starting to take shape and fully materialize; basically the journey to self.

How has your personal background and experiences shaped your music and artistic identity?

Most of my music is inspired by the things happening either to me or around me. My background & experiences play a huge role in shaping my music in terms of the storyline behind them. I will say as well having grown up being a part of music in many ways including choirs, groups etc. My sound has definitely been influenced by all those phases of my life. 

What is your songwriting process like? Do you have any specific rituals or routines that help you get into the creative zone?

To be honest, I don't have a set process; it depends on how I am feeling in the moment— what is in my heart that needs release, or has subconsciously been there and is waiting to be brought forward. I've had times when the beat has inspired my writing and times when I've had the entire song come to me including the beat, and then I have to try to bring it all to life. That's been the most challenging. laughs. In all, I can say it's not really a process I have much control over, I just let myself be taken on whatever ride the song takes me on and try to do it as much justice as I possibly can. It also really helps when I work with extremely talented producers that I can be truly vulnerable with and co-create the music & lyrics compositions.

Tomilola at Legendary SOB's.

Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they impacted your sound?

Over the years definitely ABBA, Adele, Amy Winehouse, Asa, Etta James, Bruno Mars, Beyoncé, Nina Simone, Kirk Franklin and many others in different eras of my life. I've found that I subconsciously pull from those influences at different times in my songwriting process; many times I don't even realize until the songs are done lol. They've really helped me explore different facets of my voice / songwriting style and performance that I otherwise may not have thought too, and I respect them all so much for what their music has been able to evoke and the impact they've had on the world.

In an ever-evolving music industry, how do you stay true to your artistic vision while also adapting to changes in the market?

I don't think I really focus on the industry when I am creating. I am definitely aware of the changes but what I try to do is focus on what the beat/song is asking of me first and then see how I can position the song after the fact; and even that is something I work with other people to determine because left to me, I would just put out everything I wrote. laughs. It's important to be aware of these things as it is a business too at the end of the day, but it cannot be your main focus, especially as the artiste or it might taint your creativity and ability to think outside the box which is really important.

You just dropped a new song called ’Lemme Know’. What was the inspiration behind the song and what message or emotions do you hope listeners take away from your music?

Yes I did! Ah mahn, it was inspired by a heavy feeling of guilt for some actions I took that shocked even me. Writing 'Lemme Know' helped me release the burden I'd been carrying subconsciously. It was a reminder that I'm human, we're all human, and we make mistakes sometimes. I want listeners to remember to give themselves grace and not judge others too harshly because you never know, it just might be you in that position at some point. 

Tomilola

It is clear that Tomilola is an artist who not only pours her heart and soul into her music but also remains deeply connected to the human experience. With a bright future ahead and a unique voice that resonates with many, Tomilola is set to make a lasting impact on the world of music. We can't wait to see where this journey takes her next.

Listen to Lemme Know by Tomilola.