Formula Indie Sessions _ Interview with OD’LA
What is your earliest memory connected to music ?
I was lucky enough to grow up in a musical environment, surrounded by rehearsals and concerts of many different styles. But my first truly powerful memory is the first time I heard Marley on TV: I was 4 years old, and his music pierced my soul.
How did your passion for creating music begin ?
Originally, I am a painter, and I have always created while listening to music. Music was present at every moment of my creative process. Over time, I felt an increasingly strong call to start creating it myself.
What’s the story behind your current music project ?
My musical project aims to share something fresh, original, and sincere. It’s also a way to share the culture of my island. And it carries a strong message: going beyond our differences by blending different musical styles.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before ?
In two words: Son mélé. It’s a fusion of diverse influences, mixing warmth, groove, and meaningful messages. It invites both travel and reflection.
What is one thing you’ve learned that completely changed the way you make music ?
I learned that you shouldn’t try to please at all costs. What matters most is staying authentic, no matter what.
What tools, instruments, or software are essential in your creative process ?
I always start with a few guitar chords. When the riff speaks to me, the vocal melody comes naturally, then the bassline and the other elements follow. You just have to pull the thread.
Which indie artist or song are you loving right now ?
Right now, I’m listening to Patrice and Finley Quaye.
How have your personal experiences influenced your music and artistic vision ?
They are at the heart of my inspiration. I speak about what I’ve lived, my emotions, and what surrounds me. To me, an artist is a witness of their time. Anything can become a source of inspiration, but what motivates me most is the desire to foster unity among human beings.
What emotions or messages do you hope listeners take from your work ?
I hope people take away the idea that beyond our differences, something deep connects us all.
What’s the most important lesson music has taught you so far ?
Always remain authentic.
What is a dream venue or festival you would love to perform at ?
My dream would be to perform at the Nuits d’Afrique festival in Canada. I’d love to follow that with other festivals in Europe and Africa, and see how far this journey can take me.
If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why ?
Without hesitation, Bob Marley. He is an artist who deeply inspired me. I would also love to collaborate with Patrice, whose music is very accessible and full of meaning.
Where can our listeners follow and support your music? (Website, Spotify, IG, links)
On YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and on most music platforms under the handle @odla971.
Looking toward the future, what’s your dream for the next chapter of your musical journey ?
To release my album and make it known through live performances. I’d like to present it at the Nuits d’Afrique festival in Canada, play several concerts there, then continue touring in Africa and Europe.
What do you hope listeners will discover about you along the way ?
The importance of authenticity and the ability to see beyond our differences. This is the guiding thread of my artistic approach, both in my lyrics and in my music.
Link : OD’LA – Nirvana
