Jon Gold Celebrates Global Connection and Gratitude with “ASHIA”

Jon Gold continues to expand his musical world with “ASHIA,” an original single that brings together jazz influences and rhythms from several continents. Released on August 1, the track represents a fresh direction for Gold while building naturally on his long relationship with jazz, Brazilian and Latin music.

Inspired by Gold’s friendship with someone from Cameroon and the time he spent with his family, “ASHIA” takes its name from a uniquely Cameroonian word with many meanings. It can communicate gratitude, apology, kindness and empathy. That human quality sits at the heart of the project, with Gold using the song to honor the people of Cameroon and their ongoing struggle for peace.

The international character of “ASHIA” is reflected in both its influences and its musicians. Two-time Grammy nominee Mauricio Zottarelli appears on drums alongside Brazilian bassist Jackson Lourenço, while Buenos Aires vocalist Juan Lucangioli brings warmth to the performance. American musician Will Allen contributes the horns, and Nigerian musician Ofat delivers the closing tenor solo.

Recorded across North America, South America and Africa, “ASHIA” manages to bring these distant contributions together as one cohesive collaboration. Its musical inspiration stretches just as widely, incorporating jazz alongside Cape Verdean calypso, Brazilian samba and echoes of Richard Bono.

For Gold, gratitude is central to the meaning of “ASHIA,” and the single transforms that idea into something joyful and internationally minded. It also offers an early glimpse of his next full album, planned for early 2027, which will feature original compositions shaped by traditions and musicians from around the world.