Tony Njoku

“A gift for combining an array of musical perspectives into a unified whole” - The Guardian
“More than just being deeply emotive, his original compositions stand for the insertion of lesser-heard voices into the avant-garde space, opening the door to a decolonisation of the genre more widely.” - DAZED

“It’s hard to think of anyone who is fusing the same elements in the same way as Njoku” - The Quietus
“Continuing to turn high art into sonic form." - Mixmag

Today (14 May), Tony Njoku has shared a new single “CATATONIA (feat James Massiah)”. The track is the latest cut to be lifted from Njoku’s upcoming album All Our Knives Are Always Sharp, releasing 11 July via Studio Njoku. Alongside the single, Njoku has shared the news of his Studio Njoku showcase at SWSX London, full details below.

“CATATONIA (feat James Massiah)” is a track which encapsulates Njoku as a producer and artist. A heady hip-hop beat is decorated with tumbling piano keys and underpinned by a growling bass. Occasional blasts of maximalist synth work sit side by side with sombre strings. James Massiah’s wordplay on the track is as razor sharp as his delivery, as his locked-in flow punctuates the second half of the song.

Offering insight on the track, Njoku says:

"The song reflects a deep yearning to break free from the constraints and norms that demand conformity. It speaks to the struggle of existing in an environment that imposes extreme limitations on nearly every aspect of life, one that conditions us to live in a constant state of anxiety and fear. It’s a call to resist external pressures, to hold onto personal agency, and to stay true to one’s spirit, even when faced with overwhelming fear of societal expectations that discourage deviation from the norm. Ultimately, the message champions inner strength, love, and courage in the face of forces that seek to homogenise and suppress individuality, or autonomy more accurately.

The track also features James Massiah, whose presence adds another layer of depth and introspection to the song. I loved the process of work with James as his verse spurred very quickly out of a conversation we had not just about the song but our lives and various formative experiences we’ve had. His writing always seems to draw together this densely layered poeticism with very earnest/matter of fact imagery around debauchery, city life and other earthly experiences. His metaphors and overall wordplay are a highlight in the song.”

In April, Tony Njoku announced his upcoming album All Our Knives Are Always Sharp, a sonically expansive and emotionally charged second album that brings together a remarkable cast of Black British voices. Featuring powerful collaborations with Tricky, GAIKA, Ghostpoet, Coby Sey, James Massiah and Space Afrika, the record serves as a landmark moment for Njoku, a culmination of both the singular musical style and nuanced, socially-engaged storytelling he’s been crafting throughout his career.

Rooted in themes of spiritual preparedness, cultural resistance and emotional clarity, the album unfolds through Njoku’s signature blend of electronic abstraction, falsetto-led songwriting and cinematic composition. It’s a work that cuts deep. Philosophical, political and personal, each guest brings a vital new layer to the conversation.

Previous tracks already released from Njoku’s upcoming album include “Eternity” which was accompanied by a beautifully poignant music video, as well as title track “All Our Knives Are Always Sharp (feat Coby Sey)” a track showing how vulnerability is a powerful trait. Watch the videos to both below.

Njoku has also shared the details of his Studio Njoku showcase at the upcoming SXSW London. Taking place at Shoreditch Church on 4 June, featuring Njoku performing the album with special guests Gaika, James Massiah, Space Afrika and Ghostpoet. As well as performances from Isiah Hull, Damsel Elysium and Sola.

Studio Njoku at SXSW London

Studio Njoku is a creative hub founded by Tony Njoku, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of music, art, and culture. Based in London, Studio Njoku serves as a platform to showcase the works of Tony Njoku and his collaborators who defy conventional genres and explore new possibilities across mediums. Our mission is to cultivate a space where artistic expression thrives, fostering collaborations that bring unique projects to life.