Esinnah, formally known as Hannise, is a 21 year old Nigerian musician and producer, based in Canada. Hannise’s sound falls under the recent diversification and boom in Nigerian music, with his melodies switching through different genres and moods. One cannot fully encompass this variety in sound under one term, however he did coin the term “Afrolectric,” signalling a fusion of EDM and Afro. However, he also creates trap, afro, jazz, Neo-soul, RnB, AfroHouse, and Alternative RnB. The only deciding factor being who he is creating for, himself or someone else.
Being a multidisciplinary creative is not easy. Yes he coined that term of address himself as well. Asides from being some sort of English guru, Hannise does a lot of things. He is a song writer, producer, sound engineer, photographer and a graphic designer. Basically, he could put your song together from start to finish while also designing your album cover. However, when he’s not being a musical prodigy, you can find him running or throwing the shot as he is a varsity track and field athlete.
Hannise was a performing arts kid growing up, therefore music has always been a huge part of his life. Starting to play the piano at age 4, progressing to perform at operas by age 8, then adding the trombone to his repertoire at age 13. Finally, he begun dj-ing at 14, which is around the same time he started making beats on FL. From this alone, his level of talent at his craft is very obvious.
Furthermore, music is a getaway for Hannise. A safe zone and medium through which he can express himself fully, no interruptions and no rules. His understanding of music is reflected through his range and fusion of genres that one wouldn’t typically think of and his freedom in his creative process. He states not having a set process when creating. Sometimes the writing a song before even conceiving the beat and vice versa. Space, being the one thing he values when creating.
Hannise is inspired a range of people; including Louis Armstrong, Paul Anka, Sinatra, Duro Ikunjenyo, Ella Fitzgerald to the likes of FKJ, Masego, Porter Robinson, Madeon, Kaytranada, Yinka Bernie, Goldkeyz, Ta-Ku, IAMDDB, Nessa, Full crate, Naomi Sharon, Emeli Sande, Fka Mash, Galimatias and Jarreau Vandal. Speaking of inspiring, in terms of his own music, he hopes to inspire people to do what they want and live authentically.
If you’re looking to get into Hannise, he has two upcoming projects, a producer EP and an RnB EP before the end of 2021. Links to his music are below as well! We at the 49th are looking forward to hearing more fro Hannise and we hope you are too!