South of the River with Ego Ella May
Much of Ego Ella May’s creative life unfolds in South London. The British-Nigerian singer-songwriter, whose music blends jazz, R&B and poetic songwriting, approaches both art and place with the same sense of care and intention. In between the studio and stage, she seeks out spaces that invite listening, reflection and connection. From her award-winning debut Honey For Wounds to her forthcoming sophomore album Good Intentions, Ego’s music explores vulnerability, identity and social consciousness with a quiet confidence that has cemented her as one of the most distinctive and emotionally resonant voices in contemporary British music. For this guide, Ego shares the South London go to spots.
Where do you go to hear great music or catch listening parties?
Jumbi is one of my favourite spots. It’s run by Bradley Zero (Rhythm Section) and his business partner Nathanael Williams (The Colours That Rise). They’re an incredible duo. There’s live music in the shed next door, DJ sets, listening parties – it’s just a really cool space. Another place I really like in Peckham is Shai Space. A lot of people are starting to host listening parties there. You can set up decks, play whatever you want, and everyone just sits on cushions or lies down, properly listening to some really good music.
Are there any green spaces you go to for reflection or inspiration?
I spent a lot of time in Blythe Hill while writing Good Intentions. It’s really mellow and chill, and has beautiful views overlooking the city. I’d go there to write, journal and think about song ideas. It became a really lovely sanctuary for me. It’s also part of the Three Peaks Walk, a route that takes you through Telegraph Hill, Blythe Hill, and Hilly Fields.
Any food spots you love?
Absolutely nothing beats my mum’s cooking, but there’s a really good takeaway spot called Big Mama. She’s wonderful, I just have to shout her out. There’s a fabulous Italian café called Marchetti, run by the loveliest people. They do the best pancakes I’ve ever had in my life — light, fluffy, with blueberries inside, whipped butter and maple syrup. That’s all you need. I’ll always get the pancakes, an oat latte, and maybe a juice.
Where do you go for dinner or drinks?
Hausu has such a great vibe. It’s a small plates, lo-fi spot in Peckham station where Coal Rooms used to be. They even kept the old station toilets, which somehow look so cool. One time I was there, a woman was playing vinyl all night by herself, drinking wine and playing really good music. It just felt like a really nice atmosphere. Drink-wise, I’m probably getting a Picante. Or an orange wine if they have it. Or a Vinho Verde.
Any bookshops or reading spots you love?
I love Morocco Bound. During the day it’s a bookshop and café, and at night it turns into a performance space for poetry and music. They turn the café into a bar and you perform surrounded by books — it’s heaven. On a random weeknight, you can go catch a gig there, flip through some books and buy them. It’s amazing. A book I read recently and really loved was Diary of a Tuscan Bookshop by Alba Donati. She’s an ex-publicist who opened a bookshop in a tiny Italian village. It’s written like a diary during the first few months of opening during lockdown, and it’s about keeping reading alive; especially for young people. It’s really heartwarming.I also always recommend Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom. It’s incredibly moving, but also very life-affirming.
Is there anyone or anywhere you’d like to spotlight?
Marvellous Greens & Beans Greens & Beans is a greengrocer near me that I really like. It was set up by a guy called Mattia and his friends. They’re on a quest to make organic food more accessible and affordable in London. He’s genuinely trying to do good in the world. If I had to spotlight one place, it would be them.
Ego Ella May releases her sophomore album Good Intentions on 20th March, followed by a UK live band tour, kicking off in Manchester before heading to Bristol and London. She’ll also play a series of intimate Rough Trade in-store performances across the UK. Her current single “What You Waiting For” is out now, with Good Intentions available to pre-save and pre-order.
Writer & Interviewer: Molly Jappy