“Enough”, the lead single off of Aisha Badru’s forthcoming EP ‘Road to Self’, consists of crying synths, motivational lyricism, and an acknowledging of life’s natural ups and downs.
Stream: “Enough” – Aisha Badru
[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/576324993?secret_token=s-g0uej” params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=true&visual=true&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”300″ iframe=”true” /]Aisha Badru’s music, which was established through the debut album Pendulum released last year, is distinctively emotional. It’s emotional in the way its written, coming from the purest parts of the heart, and it’s emotional in its delivery. One likely doesn’t listen in order to be lifted into a joyous mood or pumped up with hyperactivity. Instead to listen is to drift away in a state of reflection (“Mind on Fire” and “Waiting Around”) and be exposed to misery but in a reassuring and peaceful way (“Bridges”). The combination of ambient electronics, delicate strings and twinkling piano is a pillow to lay your head upon, Badru’s breathy vocals whispering words of wisdom.In those moments where life may shake you and leave you questioning the meaning of your existence, let this song be a reminder that you are valuable, you are needed, you are loved, and you are enough.
Pain is like the rain that falls down
Blue skies turn to gray, you fall from a cloud
But if it didn’t rain would the trees rise from the ground?
And if it didn’t hurt would you be this strong now?
Atwood Magazine is proud to be premiering “Enough,” the latest release by singer/songwriter Aisha Badru (released April 5). The song is in keeping with Badru’s previous material but there’s an added intensity that makes the sound feel less sparse. “In those moments where life may shake you and leave you questioning the meaning of your existence, let this song be a reminder that you are valuable, you are needed, you are loved, and you are enough,” Badru tells Atwood Magazine of the song’s purpose.
Pain is addressed from the offset in the form of quivering synths and references to nature. ‘Pain is like the rain that falls down’ she sings with customary tenderness before pondering ‘if it didn’t rain would the trees rise from the ground? And if it didn’t hurt would you be this strong now?’ It’s merely a part of the cycle of life and we shouldn’t feel dismayed in troubling times but remember we’re not alone. A thin fast beat is repeated throughout, as though drumming restlessly on a table and clicking fingers anxiously. In the chorus, her voice takes on a greater desperation as she sings as much for us as she does for herself.
Sometimes it feels like the world is crashing down
Nobody can hear the pain but it hurts so loud
But maybe loneliness brings us closer to ourselves
And pushes us to learn from inside out
So don’t be afraid to fall
We’re made to rise above
And don’t be afraid to love
I promise that you’re enough
“Enough” is the first single to be released from the forthcoming Road to Self EP, due out June 7, and therefore introduces a new stage in Aisha Badru’s musical journey. While Pendulum had a focus on heartbreak, Road to Self is about self-love and Badru’s personal experience of evolving and recognising her own worth. There’s always been a charm surrounding the music she makes. Her songs are born from a desire to voice thoughts and feelings, closing what can otherwise be a daunting gap between introversion and outspokenness. For people who may lack confidence, Aisha Badru exemplifies the wonderful power that music has in creating a platform (or, in some cases, a mask by hiding behind a musical persona) for inventiveness and recognition. Insecurities can be transferred into songs, allowing the individual to grow as the songs grow.
“Enough” is notably more textured, a greater emphasis placed on electronics. It’s a boldness that’s perhaps intended to grab our attention so that the words have more impact. ‘We’re made to rise above’ and ‘I promise that you’re enough’: these are statements of empowerment, reassurance, motivational speech type stuff that, rather than being forced outright upon us, are presented within the flow of a song.
People often question why you’d choose to listen to sad songs when feeling down because it only makes you more sad. “Enough” is melancholic but the message is about getting through that. We all need balance and Aisha Badru continues to supply a gentle warmth and helping hand for those inevitable periods of feeling alone.
Stream “Enough” exclusively on Atwood Magazine!
Stream: “Enough” – Aisha Badru
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