Interview: Tolu A. Talks about Dreams, Talents, and Thinking Outside the Box
By: Randall Radic
Tags: Tolu A, My Talents, Interview, Music, Gospel Of Matthew

Tolu A.

Pianist-songwriter Tolu A. recently unveiled the music video for “My Talents.” Directed by Tyler Scheerschmidt, the visuals depict Tolu A. playing the piano, along with a contemporary version of the Parable of the Talents.

Blending flavors of pop, gospel, R&B, and hints of jazz, Tolu A. delivers a soundscape at once vibrant and contagious, chock-full of bright brass inflections and sparkling piano hues.

While the music unfolds, the video displays the story of three brothers, who, upon receiving large sums of money from their father, demonstrate the correct and incorrect ways to invest one’s finances. The allegory is easily applicable to personal gifts: failure to use the abilities bestowed by God is tantamount not only irresponsible but boorish.

Tolu A. is anything but boorish. He’s utilizing his God-given talents to inspire listeners to employ their own abilities to full effect — in the end, changing the world in a miraculous way.

Pop Off caught up with Tolu A. to chat about how his sister indirectly introduced him to the piano, his influences, and his Daniel-like songwriting process.

How did you get started in music? What’s the backstory there?

I grew up listening to classical music and I was truly intrigued by the dynamics of the music. My sister used to play classical piano, and hearing her play piqued my interest in the piano. I learnt how to play the piano by ear and when I was proficient enough I started playing for a local church in Temple Hills, Maryland (RCCG Christ Chapel) in 2004. I played in a church off and on for about 6 more years until I got the desire to make my own music.

Fast forward to 2010, I released my first cover “He is Exalted” on iTunes; and I got good reviews from friends and family. By 2013, I had released 5 covers and gotten radio air time for my music, but this wasn’t enough for me. I was tired of doing covers and wanted to start writing my own music. In 2018, I released my first video “Magnificent” which did rather well. Now we are here in 2020 and I just released my 4th composition, “My Talents,” which I am very proud of.

What’s your favorite song to belt out in the car or the shower?

This is a good question. I am a seasonal person; what this means is I have songs that I play for a time frame until I move on to the next. For now, my favorite song is “Jesus” by Eddie James. One of the best pieces of music I’ve ever heard.

What singers/musicians influenced you the most?

Since I do instrumental music, I was inspired by instrumentalists. The very first person that influenced me was Adlan Cruz who was invited to a big conference in my home country Nigeria. He is a famous pianist with lots of compositions and he is simply fantastic.

My second biggest influence was Yanni. He showed me that what I am trying to accomplish is possible. Yanni in my opinion makes Heavenly music!

What is your songwriting process?

The funny thing is I truly believe I am inspired by the Almighty himself. For the most part I hear the tunes in my sleep/dreams first. As soon as I wake up, I hum what I remember on my phone recorder. After which I start the expansion process from there to make it into a full song.

What was the inspiration for your new single/music video “My Talents?”

The inspiration came to me while I was still filming my last video “The Wait.” I always wanted to do a bible story but wasn’t sure which one to do. It just dropped in my spirit, ‘The Parable of the Talents’ and I got to work. To be honest, I wasn’t sure how it would all be accomplished but with a lot of creative and critical thinking, we were able to pull it off. We did a modernized version of the bible story which I am very proud of and would love the world to see.

Tolu A.

What do you want people to take away from the video?

I hear that the graveyard is truly the richest place on earth because you have all these talents and abilities that were never actualized or made use of. I want people to find their God-given purpose and bring it to reality or use their talents or skills to their fullest potential. This video is supposed to inspire people to think outside the box to attain greatness.

Where was the video filmed and who directed it?

The performance scene of the video was filmed in Hancock, Maryland. The House flip was filmed in Hyattsville, Maryland. The car sales were filmed at a dealership in Stafford, Virginia and the other scenes were filmed in Woodbridge, Virginia. The video was directed by Tyler Scheerschmidt and produced by High End Pro.

Why do you make music?

I make music because I believe it is my God-given purpose and destiny to inspire, bless, and motivate people. I am very passionate about music and I truly love what I am able to create. I want people to watch my videos and learn a lesson, or be encouraged. I want to spread the gospel with my music and videos.

How are you handling the coronavirus situation?

This pandemic has been rough on everyone. It has been rough on individuals, businesses, and all institutions globally. It is just in our best interest for us all to limit our movements as much as possible, socially distance oneself in large crowds, wear protective gear like face masks, and wash your hands frequently. I have adjusted as much as possible and I pray we all see the end of this very soon.

Looking ahead, what’s next for Tolu A.?

I’m most certainly going to continue making music. I am going to continue writing originals and shooting videos. All my videos would be inspirational and have some form of message people can take and use to enrich their lives.

Thank you for your time, I appreciate you reaching out to me.

Follow Tolu A. Instagram | Facebook | Spotify