Back in October Canada's chosen wordsmith Shad delivered his latest standout, Flying Colours– a toast to heritage that was produced on the heels of a trip to Rwanda to perform at the Kigali UP! Music Festival. After proudly rocking the immigrant badge on celebratory high-point "Fam Jam (Fe Sum Immigrins)," Shad looks inwardly on his follow-up single– the self-reflecting "Remember To Remember." In the lead-up to the release, Shad shared some thoughts on what he remembers. Read on and watch a teaser for the upcoming video, which is due to drop later this month.
OKA: Where do you come from?
Shad: I was born in Kenya and grew up in London, On. My family is originally from Rwanda and my parents and little brother live there now. I currently live in Vancouver. My team is based in Toronto and I do a lot of work there.
OKA: What do you remember listening to growing up?
Shad: Pop music, rap music, rock music, Simon and Garfunkel, almost everything else...
OKA: 3 things you try to remind yourself:
1) "do not conform to the pattern of the world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind"
2) try every day to be truthful and compassionate
3) "think of yourself with sober judgement" ... try to make a contribution and make it with energy and enthusiasm.
OKA: 3 things your parents would tell you to remember:
1) Dont waste your money
2) Don't forget to call your mom
3) Seek first the kingdom of God
OKA: 3 things you'd want to remind Canada:
1) The dignity and well-being of our first nations communities should be a top priority.
2) This land is a gift we should seek to understand better and care for.
3) Celine Dion isn't wack.
OKA: Any talk/plans of performing on the continent?
Shad: Kigali is on my radar, hopefully more shows in east Africa too in the new year!
