Hip-Hop artist, Author and Meditation teacher Born I (Ofosu Jones-Quartey) releases his anticipated second album "AMIDA" - an introspective blend of Buddhist philosophy, Lofi elements, and Eastern modalities, exploring vulnerability, self-compassion, and the spiritual path.

Artist Name

Born I

Name of the Album/Mixtape/Project

AMIDA

What inspired the title?

"AMIDA" means "infinite" in Sanskrit, the "I" in "Born I" stands for "Infinite". Additionally, in Japanese Buddhism "AMIDA" is the name of Amitabha Buddha, The Buddha of Infinite Light. For me, "AMIDA" is about recognizing the infinite light within yourself and claiming it. Calling it by name, whatever name that is for you.

Where did you record this album?

I recorded AMIDA in my home studio in Rockville, Maryland.

What is your favorite track? Why?

My favorite track is "Avalo" It features the voices of my wife and daughter. "Avalo" is a beautiful song, production wise and I'm proud of my lyrical approach to it. It's a minimal lyrical approach for me, which leaves spaciousness for emotional depth to express itself. I love the message of self love and self compassion. Avalo evokes the name of the Bodhisattva of Compassion, Avalokiteshvara, who is very important to me and my family. "Avalo" is about being inspired by those who exemplify wisdom and compassion (for me, my wife, children and teachers) to develop those qualities within yourself.

What is your favorite line from the album?

I sit on the floor/
look at my feelings and more/
but while I'm healing I can't help but feeling I'm still being torn/
maybe I'm being reborn/
maybe I'm still being formed/
maybe the "I" I call myself
is really the eye of the storm

- From "Avalo"

Who helped make this album what it is? Writers, Producers, Muses, Support System, Etc

I wrote all of the lyrics on the album except the guest verse from miiiSELF on "The Hundreds" and the poetry on "Frozen Lake" which was written by Thich Nhat Hanh. Production-wise, 99% of the album was produced by Daniel Andres Rodriguez Corretjer aka D.a.R.C. Music. Art West II produced "The Hundreds" with also features vocals from miiSELF and ADY. My family was both a huge support system and a part of the creative process. My wife and all 4 of my kids make appearances on the album. My family, my Buddhist practice and my own life experiences were muses.

If you could remix any song and feature any artist, what song would it be and who would you feature on it?

I would love to feature Nas and Raekwon on "Heartbeat (84,000 Bars)"

What's your dream?

My dream is to live in such a way that my life, art and spiritual practice are of the highest benefit to my family and to the world. I want to encourage people to be kind to themselves and to remember that You Are Enough.

What is some advice you would give to someone with a dream?

Be kind and patient with yourself.