Chioma Ogbonna is a soulful Nigerian singer, songwriter, and guitarist whose music beautifully blends artistry with advocacy.
As the rhythm of 2025’s African music scene unfolds gradually, trends will come and go like the wind, and there are a few precious gems that will remain steadfast in their authenticity.
One of such talents is Chioma Ogbonna , also known as Cill, a soulful Nigerian singer, songwriter, and guitarist whose music effortlessly bridges the gap between art and advocacy.
With each note, she crafts a sound that speaks to the heart of Africa and echoes across the globe, inviting us all to join her on a journey of both melody and meaningful change.
Her latest release, Échí (meaning “tomorrow” in Igbo language), featuring the children of Destiny Trust Foundation, is a soulful anthem for a greener future. With powerful lyrics and melodies, it calls on listeners to reflect on today’s choices and their impact on tomorrow. Raised in Edo State, her music blends Afro-soul, alternative, and folk, influenced by her family’s diverse musical tastes.
In our latest interview feature, we explore Cill´s journey and passion for using music as a catalyst for social change. She is one of the artistes to watch out for and the below excerpts shed more light on her artistry.
New Beginnings
MC: Hi Cill, thanks for joining us! How’s the year been so far, especially with the release of your new single, Échí?
Cill: Since moving to the UK late last year, it’s been an exciting and inspiring journey. Adjusting to a new environment while staying focused on my music has been a unique experience. The unexpected support I’ve found here has been thrilling, and I feel like new opportunities are unfolding at every step.
My moving isn’t just about relocation—it’s presented itself to me as a chance to expand my reach across the UK and Europe, with more freedom to travel and explore what’s next. I’m excited for what’s ahead.
MC: You’ve had quite a journey, from Abia State to becoming a celebrated artist. Can you share a memory from your early life that sparked your love for music?
Cill: Two key memories that shaped my journey stand out. The first was in Kindergarten when I stumbled upon a music class and heard my teacher playing a Christian song on the piano. I was captivated, and that moment marked my first real connection to music. The second memory is waking up to music every morning, listening to everything from country to the sounds of Majek Fashek and Sunny Okosun.
These influences shaped how I incorporate the Igbo language into my songs. And of course, my eldest brother gifting me my first Lighthouse Family album—playing it on repeat, singing every word—was a moment that defined my love for music.
MC: Your music blends Afro-soul, alternative, folk, and Afro-fusion distinctly. How do you define your musical identity, and how has it evolved over the years?
Cill: I see my sound like a fingerprint—it’s not something I consciously designed, but something that naturally developed over time through all the music I’ve been exposed to. I don’t try to create a “style,” it just flows from me. Whether it’s a cover or an original, I always approach music the same way, staying true to myself. I’m drawn to the soul of a beat, the warmth and sweetness it holds. My sound blends Afro-soul, alternative, and folk, with African elements at its core. I like to call it CILL SOUL—because it’s truly an extension of who I am.
MC: With your single Kachifo, you began telling deeply personal stories. What role does storytelling play in your music, and how do you approach writing from the heart?
Cill: Storytelling is central to my music—it’s a powerful way to connect and convey a message. People might not always take advice directly, but when it’s wrapped in a story, it becomes more relatable. My dad’s storytelling influenced me deeply, and it’s something I bring into my songwriting, often drawing from real experiences—mine or others.
For example, in “Permit Me,” I crafted a story about addiction and rehab, allowing listeners to step into someone else’s shoes. Storytelling helps me share emotions and experiences in a way that’s personal yet universal.
Cill ‘s Musical Style & Influences
MC: Your songs have pushed the Igbo language and culture. What does it mean for you to represent your heritage, and how does it influence your music?
Cill: I’ll be honest—I’m not as fluent in Igbo as I’d like to be, and it’s something that does upset me. Growing up, my parents didn’t teach me the language, and I’ve noticed it’s not always passed down in Igbo families, unlike some other cultures. But my sister-in-law, who is teaching my nieces in the UK, inspired me to embrace the language more and share that journey with my audience.
I’ve had people ask about the meaning behind songs like Òbodo, which was produced by the Mystic, and it has shown me how powerful language can be. I remember an experience in Spain where a lady told me she didn’t understand the words, but my singing in Igbo still connected with her deeply. That feedback boosted my confidence, and it reinforced my desire to keep singing in Igbo and other African languages, using music as a way to share our culture.
MC: Tell us about the new single Échí. What inspired this song, and what message do you hope listeners take away from it?
Cill: Échí is a deeply personal passion project that I started in April last year. After losing all my recorded tracks for another project, I’ve just returned from the 2023 Global Cultural Relations Platform in Spain and found myself reflecting on how I could channel that inspiration into a song. I wanted to highlight Africa’s environmental challenges, like waste management and oil spills, which have sadly become normalized.
The idea for the song came together quickly when a producer in Jos sent me the perfect beat after I shared my vision. It gave me the boldness to collaborate with the Destiny Trust Foundation, featuring children from disadvantaged backgrounds to spread the message. With help from an NGO, we got the funding to bring the project to life, even traveling to Ogoni in the Niger Delta to see the region’s struggles firsthand.
Échí has been a fulfilling journey, and if it’s the only thing I accomplish in 2024, I’ll still feel proud of its impact.
Advocacy & Community Building
MC: Your collaborations with organizations like the Destiny Trust Foundation have a strong social impact. How do you merge activism and music?
Cill: Activism is a natural extension of who I am, shaped by my background in law. After graduating, I volunteered with YAIGA, an organization focused on civic participation, which opened my eyes to electoral malpractice and deepened my commitment to advocacy.
Though music became my primary focus, I couldn’t separate it from my passion for social causes. My first song, Sound the Alarm, was a wake-up call that showed me music could be a powerful platform for change. Now, I aim for all my music to have meaning, even if it’s not tied to a specific cause, and I want my songs to be something children can enjoy without fear or restriction.
MC: You’re not just a singer and songwriter, but also a founder of the Songwriters Community. What inspired you to create a platform for fellow songwriters?
Cill: In 2018-2019, I joined an online songwriting community called 3in3, but quickly realized my African style wasn’t quite resonating with the group. The founder suggested creating our own space for songwriting, which inspired me to build my community. I started with a WhatsApp group and Instagram invite, where we challenged ourselves to write three songs in three days each month. This has not only helped me grow but also led to the creation of my first EP, and it’s been an incredible journey of creativity and mutual support.
MC: As the founder of the Songwriters Community, you’ve created a space for collaboration and growth. What challenges did you face in building this platform, and how have you seen it evolve?
Cill: Right now, my biggest challenge is maintaining consistency within the community, especially as I get busier. I’m working on creating a system that runs smoothly without my constant involvement, but it’s a work in progress. It’s tough because, for a community to thrive, everyone has to be equally passionate and committed. We’ve had issues with people not fully understanding the concept of community, and some leave when their goals don’t align. Despite these challenges, I’m proud of the network we’ve built, with members spread across different states and even fields like law and music production.
MC: What do you think is the biggest challenge facing songwriters today, particularly in Africa, and how does your community address this?
Cill: The main challenge for songwriters in the African music scene is a lack of structure. Unlike other parts of the world, there’s no clear system for how songwriters collaborate or get their work pitched. Songwriting camps are often poorly planned, leaving many songwriters uncertain about the end goals, which can be discouraging. While a few songwriters have managed to stand out in more structured environments, I’m hopeful that the industry will eventually establish a solid framework—a central hub where songwriters can find clarity and opportunity.
Global Recognition & Achievements
MC: Your work goes beyond music, with involvement in the Music for Democracy Network and the 2019 Accountability Music Award. How do you use your platform to advocate for social change?
Cill: I’ve always used my platform for advocacy, whether it was during the 2023 elections, educating people about the importance of voting, or my collaboration with the Destiny Trust Foundation. Working with disadvantaged children from the foundation was truly impactful—not just making music, but helping boost their confidence and give them a fresh perspective. Some of these children are doing amazing things, and I’m honored to be a part of their journey. My advocacy work has also taken me beyond Africa, including an unforgettable experience at a UN conference in Qatar, marking my first time leaving the continent.
MC: As an artist who’s also contributing to important causes, what advice do you have for young musicians looking to use their art for activism?
Cill: My advice is to stay creative and find the balance between delivering a message and keeping the music captivating. Advocacy music doesn’t have to be dry—it can be both educational and engaging. Also, keep an eye out for opportunities; sometimes, doors open when you least expect them. For me, being recommended for the 2019 Voice to Rep project led to incredible opportunities, including attending a UN conference in 2023. You never know where one opportunity might take you.
MC: From Kachifo to Obodo and now Échí, each of your releases carries a different message. What do you feel is the most defining moment in your music career so far?
Cill: A defining moment for me came after a conversation with my mentor following a conference trip. He told me, “Cill, I know you don’t want to be labeled an activist, but can you see that this is your calling?” At first, I resisted, but over time, it clicked. That conversation gave me the confidence to embrace my advocacy through music, putting more effort and intention into songs like Échí. I’m now working on an EP, with several tracks focused on advocacy, and I’m fully committed to using my music to make a difference while still sharing stories of love and life.
Future Plans
MC: Your work has also been featured in films like Lara and the Beat and Breath of Life. What has that experience been like, and how does it differ from creating music for standalone projects?
Cill: For me, there’s no difference—it’s all part of the same creative journey. My first film experience was in 2017, when I wrote four songs for the movie Lara and the Beat in just one day, with three making it into the film. That experience sparked my desire to have my music in movies. Although my publishing deal didn’t work out, I’ve since built strong relationships in the film industry. Whether for advocacy or film, it’s all about using my music to tell stories and connect with people.
MC: Looking ahead, what’s next for Cill Soul that fans can look forward to in 2025?
Cill: I’m currently based in the UK, and that’s where I’ll be operating for the foreseeable future. I’ll be in Nigeria as soon as I can, though—I’ll always have love for my home country. For me, it’s all about live performances. There’s something about being on stage and feeling that direct connection with the audience—it’s an experience I cherish. So, I’m aiming to do more shows across the UK, Europe, and anywhere I can share my music. I’m also applying to perform at festivals, so you can expect to see me out there more than ever before.
As for music, you can look forward to more from me this year. I’ve got a 4-track EP in the works, including an EDM remix of Échí, which should be dropping around March or April. And of course, expect more beautiful music and exciting travels along the way.
And there you have it, Music Custodians! As Cill continues to blend her soulful sound with a passion for advocacy, it’s clear that she’s just getting started. If you haven’t already, take a moment to immerse yourself in her music—each track is a beautiful journey filled with heartfelt stories and messages that will stay with you long after the music fades.
Be sure to connect with Cill on her social media for all the exciting updates on upcoming releases, performances, and travels. Trust us, this is one artist you’ll want to keep an eye on.
Follow Cill on Instagram
