Black for Africa

My name is Bohemian-Cosmos Thanni; born in London, England and ancestrally hailing from Nigeria, where I spent most my teenage years. I emigrated from London to Wellington New Zealand in 2006 as a Service Management Consultant, but also continued to explore my interest in music, movement and mindfulness.

Today, I am a singer spoken word artist, songwriter, DJ, dancer and wellness facilitator in the ancient Hawaiian art of Ka Huna and Lomi Lomi HeartWork bodywork.

As an spoken word independent recording artist, I released my first album called “Magnificent Dyslexic” in 2011. This album was given international recognition in 2014 by winning the Afro Australia Movie and Music awards (AAMMA), for best Afro-Jazz fusion album in Sydney. I am currently working on my second musical installment called ‘Nomadic Soul’, which is due to be completed in 2017. The first single from the Nomadic Soul instalment is called Black.

“Black” as a poem was written in 2004, it reflects my journey integrating back into a western culture, being from an African heritage, but more about multiculturalism and stereotypes that may exist in intercultural societies and cultures. It tries to be insightful, analyzing what we perceive as Black on a conscious and a subconscious level. It delves into personal relationships between the mind and the soul and finding a meaningful path of self love through the soul. It concludes by humbly asking for the soul to purify the skin as we are more than our skin colour.

Musically, “Black” is produced by Myele Manzanza (formerly of Electric Wire Hustle). It is a fusion of symphonic piano movements with elements of hunting rock and electronic synth undertone. This, combined with the spoken word and Lisa Tomlin’s soothing vocals, produces a piece of art that is thought provoking; a voice of empathy and hope. It is a piece that I feel is worth bringing to life visually to create a stronger message of mindfulness. Something I believe we need more of in todays multicultural society.

After 15 years hiatus from my ancestral home Nigeria, I will return in August 2016 with the hope of shooting the Black video with your support. I am looking to raise $12,000 to cover remuneration of the director, film crew, transport to and from filming locations, food on location and post editing and mastering of the music video.

This milestone would be difficult be achieve without you, my friends and fans, who continue to support my music and creative vision as an independent artist. I would like to thank you all in advance for your continued support and believe in my music. Thank you.