CHICAGO | A DJ setup sits upon an empty stage, all basked in red and blue lighting. Attendees trickled in as the night approached 10:30 p.m. After some waiting, the audience is finally introduced to the man of the hour: Asha Imuno.
The California native hosted a listening party earlier in the day for his debut album, “PIN AND NEEDLES,” at Classick Records. Imuno’s performance served as a secondary listening party as he performed various songs from his debut album and some of his hits.
Throughout the night, Imuno continuously spoke to the crowd in between songs — at one point, even walking through the crowd at one point.
Before stepping onto the stage at Sleeping Village, he stopped by iLLANOiZE Radio to speak about his new album and upcoming performance. During the interview, he describes how he can balance his artistic expression and personal experiences.
“I think a big part of it is not giving it too much thought, and trying to really capture the feeling,” Imuno said. “What’s organic tends to reflect the most reality.”
That sentiment rang true throughout his performance as he once introduced a song by asking the crowd if they had ever f—ked up before. He also poked fun at how cold the city was, quipping that he was performing in a coat.
Imuno doesn’t shy away from the intimate setting and uses it to connect with the crowd; as the anticipation for the official release of his debut album can keep one on the edge of their seat, especially after his performance at Sleeping Village. Hopefully, it shines bright like the red and blue stage lighting.
All photos taken by Chinyere Ibeh.