Asa – Jailer
| Stage Name: | Asa |
| Real Name: | Asa Bukola Elemide |
| Occupation: | Musician |
| Date Of Birth/Age: | 17th September, 1982 (42 years old) |
| State of Origin: | Ogun State |
| Gender: | Female |
| Nationality: | Nigerian |
| Marital Status: | Not Married |
| Education: | Lagos State University |
| Known for: | Jailer |
Early Life
Aṣa, a prominent Nigerian-French singer and songwriter, was born in Paris to Nigerian parents deeply immersed in the world of cinematography. Her family, with roots in Itoku, Abeokuta South local government area, Ogun State, Nigeria, returned to their homeland when Aṣa was merely two years old. Growing up in the vibrant city of Lagos in the south-western part of Nigeria, Aṣa’s childhood was enriched by the presence of her three older brothers.
Musical Roots
The seeds of Aṣa’s musical journey were planted in the diverse collection of records curated by her father, a cinematographer. The playlist included soul classics from American, Nigerian, and African artists, such as Marvin Gaye, Fela Kuti, Bob Marley, Aretha Franklin, King Sunny Adé, Diana Ross, Nina Simone, and Miriam Makeba. Aṣa found inspiration in this eclectic mix, laying the foundation for her future career in music.
Career Beginnings
In 2004, Aṣa’s path to musical stardom took a significant turn when she met her manager and friend, Janet Nwose. Janet introduced her to Cobhams Asuquo, who would become the producer of Aṣa’s first studio album, titled “Asa” (also known as “Asha”). At the age of 20, Aṣa ventured back to France to study at the IMFP school of jazz music. However, her teachers recognized her exceptional talent and advised her to pursue a career as a recording artist without the need for further formal schooling.
Back in Nigeria, Aṣa’s debut single, “Eyé Adaba,” started gaining airplay, setting the stage for her collaboration with Naïve Records. Working alongside Asuquo, as well as Christophe Dupouy and Benjamin Constant, she released her first platinum-selling self-titled album, “Aṣa.” The album not only dominated airwaves in Europe, Asia, and Africa but also earned her the prestigious French Constantin Award in 2008. Aṣa was recognized as the best fresh talent among 10 singers or groups by a jury of 19 music-industry specialists in Paris.
Continued Success
Following her debut, Aṣa continued to carve a niche for herself in the music industry. Her second album, “Beautiful Imperfection,” a collaboration with French composer Nicolas Mollard, was released on 25 October 2010, achieving platinum status in 2011. The lead single, “Be My Man,” released in late September 2010, contributed to the album’s success. By 2014, Aṣa had sold an impressive 400,000 albums worldwide.
Her third studio album, “Bed of Stone,” unveiled in August 2014, featured notable singles like “Dead Again,” “Eyo,” “Satan Be Gone,” “The One That Never Comes,” and “Moving On.” Aṣa’s popularity soared, leading her to embark on a world tour from 2015 to 2017.
In 2019, Aṣa made a triumphant return with the singles “The Beginning” and “Good Thing.” She also announced the release of her new album, “Lucid,” which was met with anticipation and enthusiasm. Her musical journey continued in 2022 with the release of another album titled “V,” featuring collaborations with artists like Wizkid, the Nigerian highlife duo The Cavemen, and Ghanaian artist Amaarae.
Discography and Achievements
Aṣa’s discography showcases her evolution as an artist, with each album contributing to her growing success. Her studio albums include:
- “Aṣa (Asha)” (2007)
- “Beautiful Imperfection” (2010)
- “Bed of Stone” (2014)
- “Lucid” (2019)
- “V” (2022)
Additionally, Aṣa has released live albums titled “Live in Paris” (2009) and “Live in Lagos” (2017). Her notable singles include “Fire on the Mountain,” “Jailer,” “Be My Man,” “Eyo,” “The Beginning,” and “Good Thing.”
Aṣa’s contributions to the world of music have not gone unnoticed. She received the Prix Constantin in 2008 and earned a nomination for “Female Artist of the Year” at the French Music Awards Victoires de la Musique in 2012.
Relationships and Choices
Asa, the talented vocalist, hasn’t tied the knot yet. She openly shared a personal detail, mentioning that she experienced an important life moment when she lost her virginity at the age of 28. Asa’s journey in relationships and personal choices adds a human touch to her public image, allowing fans to connect with her on a more personal level. She is single at the moment.
Financial Success and Net Worth
Beyond her music, Asa has also achieved financial success. The estimated net worth of this incredible vocalist stands at an impressive $1 million dollars. You can find her on Instagram.