Niyonu’s “SIT DOWN” prompts each person to reflect on “the great unknown”

Not every piece of music has a deeper meaning. There are some songs that are just meant to be catchy or good to dance to, but sometimes music is created to challenge us to think a little bit deeper. Philadelphia singer-songwriter Niyonu‘s work strives to do just that, delving into themes of compassion, justice, activism, and spirituality. In her newest song, “SIT DOWN,” she explores such themes, empowering each person who listens to reflect and open their heart.

Niyonu began this song as a demo recorded on a toy microphone during a spiritual retreat. That demo featured only her ethereal vocals. Now, years later, the final product is revealed with lush layers built out around that original idea. The whole piece centers around the core mantra of, “Sit down with me a while / Tell me the stories of the great unknown.” At its core, “SIT DOWN” is not just a beautiful song, but a work meant to provoke a deeper exploration of each person’s own humanity. Its atmospheric video, shot by Dominic Miller in black and white, stands almost on its own as a similar exploration of the human spirit and the surrounding world.

“SIT DOWN” serves as the first project to come out of Niyonu’s new production company, NUYONI Productions. The company was described in a press release as a company “that concentrates on healing, activism, and produces artists on a multi-media level to ignite deep remembering and expand heart-knowing.”

You can see the video for “SIT DOWN” below and learn more about NUYONI Productions over at their website.