bashiri asad interview for afropunk

The city of Indianapolis, Indiana has given birth to some of the greatest musicians in history. Babyface, JJ Johnson, and Wess Montgomery all have their roots grounded in the city mostly known for the Indianapolis 500 Speedway and IU basketball. One new artist who has emerged as “The Everyday Soul Singer” is Bashiri Asad. His message of peace, love, and music for the people has made him one of the most recognized artists in Indianapolis. Bashiri has even created a buzz on the east coast from small tours that he’s done over the past two years.

By Brandon Jackson, AFROPUNK contributor 

So in terms of Bashiri Asad, how have you evolved as an artist from when you first started to now? 

When I started out I was singing with a few cover bands and I remember coming off the stage after a show and someone telling me that I would get more respect if I sang my own songs. You know I went home and it put me at a crossroad because I didn’t know if I really wanted to do this. I think from that experience it showed me that I could write my own songs. I became comfortable with who I was as an artist. I wanted to make music similar to what we grew up on and things that we could feel good about.

Do you think the inspiration is gone from the music that’s out today? 

I wouldn’t say that the inspiration is gone. I think it depends on what people want to hear. I’ve been told that there are many artists out there that are great song writers, but you would never know. I think it’s less about the art and more about what other people want to hear.

Who inspires you as an artist?

I’m feeling the UK artist Omar, Anthony Hamilton, Bilal, and a number of artists who aren’t afraid to step out on faith and make it work.

Can you think of a time in music where it touched your spirit?

I draw my inspiration from the old music. I think internet really gives an opportunity to listen to things that we don’t hear any more. I also get inspiration from other people. I do a lot of people-watching and I think other people inspire me for when I write certain lyrics.

What plans do you have for your career in the next 5 years?

You know every year I sit down and reflect on my goals from the previous year. I also sit down and set my goals for the next year. I look at what I’ve accomplished and how my new goals relate to that. My goal is to continue to tour, open up for more artists, and I would also like get out to Los Angeles. I’m just trying to get in front of people that want to hear me. I’m just trying to build on the things that I did in 2012.

To find out more about Bashiri Asad, visit http://www.BashiriAsad.net .