Bronx native based in Fort Worth, Texas, Sanni is bringing a soulful R&B sound to the contemporary music scene. The Cristian artist has been establishing his craft from the ground up for years and incorporates his faith and real life circumstances into his music. With musical influences from The Notorious B.I.G., Lauryn Hill, J. Cole, KB, and countless others he’s created relatable music that depicts his honest relationship with Jesus. His latest release “Far Away” has reached thousands of streams on major platforms and is only growing.
“Far Away” is a soulful love ballad boasting smooth motown elements fused with contemporary R&B beats. Sanni has outdone himself with his insane vocal register. The power and emotion behind the delivery of every word is vulnerable and raw. “Far Away” gives us a look inside a fading relationship. The love is there but the chemistry is off, Sanni recites poetry about his inner struggles with this relationship. “Far Away” features Kristin Baker’s angelic tones fused flawlessly with Sanni’s powerhouse lyricism. This track is a love ballad for listener dealing with complicated times to relate to. Whether it be with a personal relationship or a relationship with Jesus, Sanni consistently creates music that connects him to his listeners on a deep and meaningful level. “Far Away” is a timeless and spectacular motif and we can’t wait to see what Sanni does next!
Check out “Far Away” here and read more below in our exclusive interview.
Hey Sanni! Can you start by introducing yourself to our readers? How did you get started in the music industry?
SANNI is a Texas based artist with a soulful R&B touch. The Brooklyn native has been creating music for a number of years, and has spent time exploring how his faith and everyday circumstances influence his artistry. Having released his latest album “SANNI.” that has reached thousands of streams on iTunes and radio play in London, can only mean God is continuously planting seeds through his music. With musical influences from Notorious B.I.G., Lauryn Hill, J. Cole, KB, and countless others, SANNI has created relatable music that depicts his honest relationship with Jesus. SANNI began his musical journey into the industry straight out of High School at the age 18. He was signed to a record label known as I REP JC RECORDS, and within the last year became an independent artist.
Tell us about how your Christianity and connection with Jesus influences your music?
Being a Christian is a lifestyle. Because my lifestyle represents having a relationship with Christ, it transcends through my music as well. My goal is to utilize my gifts to impact the youth, this generation, and non-believers; with edification, light, and hope through music. Creating music has always been my passion, but now my music has substance.
What’s the meaning behind “Far Away”? How do you want it to be interpreted by your listeners?
“Far Away” describes a feeling we all can relate too. In this case, I felt like I wasn’t close to God, because of my own selfish desires. I remember staying up all night waiting for God to give me this song. I knew it was God because I didn’t write a single lyric, the words were already in my heart. “Far Away” began transforming my life because of my transparency about my flesh, and my heart to live for God. The second verse says “my mind tells me yes, my heart tells me no”. I want everyone to know, what’s in our hearts outflows through our mind and our actions. The Bible reminds us “search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts, see if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting”, psalms 139:23-24. We have to intentionally choose to pursue the things of God. We may feel “Far Away” but he’s always near waiting for us.
Can we expect to see more collaborations with Kristin Baker? Your voices match so well together!
Thank you! Kristin Baker has such a unique voice. The first time I heard her voice I was completely blown away. I love working with talented local artist in Fort Worth so we will see what the future holds.
What are some challenges you’ve faced as an artist? How do you overcome those challenges?
As an independent artist, it feels like all forces are against me because my team and I are doing everything ourselves. I understand why many artist end up signing to a label. Figuring out how to gain exposure, promote, funds, market, and social media has all been a challenge. We overcome all obstacles because God is our strength. I want to encourage those who are facing a hard time to never quit and pray through the process.
Stay connect with Sanni through his socials!
Instagram: www.instagram.com/foreversanni & www.instagram.com/onlybygrace
Facebook: www.facebook.com/tj.sanni