Tomi Thomas is the textbook definition of ‘staying power’; having maintained relevance from his days as a member of the collective, LOS, to his breakout as a solo act contributing to the formative years of Nigeria’s most influential music sub-culture. But in 2021, after the release of the critically acclaimed Hopeless Romantic, and follow-up, Hopeless Romantic Riddim, he vanished.
Now, he’s back, and with a deeper sense of purpose. In this interview with Eriomala John, Tomi talks about his journey of discovery, the direction of his artistry and how a conversation with Femi Kuti reinforced his aim to attain the ‘music of the spheres’, his favourite features and collaborations, and the current state of Afrobeats.
He also expands on the inspiration behind his comeback single, Seeing is Believing, and the role of Alternative acts in the current music scene. Read on!
What have you been up to post-Hopeless Romantic Riddim?
I have been on a journey of discovery learning about myself, the planet, and things that are metaphysical in nature; really tracing my roots back to the source and to the great I am.
How has your return to the scene been?
Truth is I never left. I just needed time to put things into perspective and re-align with my highest truths and purpose.
What inspired Seeing is Believing? And why Amapiano?
I had a camp and in that camp, I found that song. A big shout out to Black Culture for the assist and Winny for such extraordinary vocals on the record. The process of creating the song was beautiful.
Your thoughts on the current state of Afrobeats
The current state of Afrobeats is expanding and I feel honoured to play my part in the process of its world domination.
What role do you think artists like yourself from the Alternative/Altè scene play in Afrobeats, currently?
I feel we are all artists and everyone is a piece that fits into the overall picture that is a grand puzzle of music. Everyone is important in the role they play. It’s all a fusion now.
As a revered ‘feature-killer’, how do you determine what features to take?
Every song I jump on is a blessing and a gift. It’s an opportunity for me to dig deep and find something new. Regardless if it comes out or not, I make sure I give my best musical representation on the song and once the business is taken care of, we’re good.
Favourite feature so far?
In terms of collaborations across the board, my personal favourite is one of my records with Buju Banton. For features I did that have gone out, I would say Vipers with Show Dem Camp and Jesse Jagz. I’ve also got a new record out with YKB, Duke and LONDON called Love; great song. Also, Work with Lady Donli is a prolific take on Root Afrobeat music.
It’s been years since L.O.S. How does it feel when folks approach you based on your time as part of the collective? And how is your relationship with the rest of the group?
It’s always humbling how having fun impacted so many lives. And we are still family, always.
What would you say is the direction of your sound? More experimentation, perhaps?
Just trying to attain the music of the spheres. I had a profound conversation with Femi Kuti about the music of the spheres and we deciphered that, that’s the goal. Every musician should attain that level of consciousness in music even if it’s for a moment.
Should fans expect a new project soon?
Fans should expect a flood of music from all angles.
What does Tomi Thomas do when he’s not making music?
When I’m not making music, I’m making love.
What do you think the future of the alternative scene looks like? Whom and where do you think people should pay more attention to?
I feel the future is bright for all artists as long as they’re true to their craft and love of music.
