Track 6: Yemaya Ase’sun Lullaby for Sōl

Yemaya is the Lukumi name of the Oriṣa known as Yemoja in Yorubaland. Her name carries profound meaning: Yeye (mother) | ọmọ (children) | eja (fish)—the mother whose children are as many as the fish. Yemaya embodies nurturing, discipline, protection, and so much more, especially in relation to motherhood.

This song is my arrangement of an Afro-Cuban Oricha song for Yemaya. I preserved all aspects of the lyrics as I learned and recalled them, while taking creative liberties with harmonies to suit the musical composition. I incorporated non-traditional instrumentation to deepen the soundscape. Given Yemaya’s maternal energy—and inspired by a specific personal encounter shared in Yemaya Ase’sun Sōl Inspiration—I envisioned this arrangement as a soothing lullaby.

I included the energy of Okun (the ocean) throughout the song to honor the Cuban perspective of Yemaya, who is associated with the ocean, in contrast to the Nigerian tradition where Yemoja is a river deity. It is fascinating to reflect on how and why these associations with specific bodies of water evolved—a consensus points to the influence of the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade. As someone of Yoruba descent actively reconnecting with my roots, understanding these origins is deeply important to me. Additionally, as a person connected to various branches of the African Diaspora, I strive to weave together these diverse threads so we can collectively heal.

I pray your soul is gently immersed in the energy of this song, finding the soothing it needs.


Track Credits

ONYI LOVE: Vocals, Rhodes Piano, Shaker

Bobby Easton: Electric Bass, Guitar


Did this track speak to your spirit?
Let’s keep the dialogue going—through music, ritual, healing, or collaboration. Your journey is welcome here.

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Track 5: Yemaya Ase’sun Sōl Inspiration

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Track 7: The Road with Eṣu