This album serves as a heartfelt dedication to our dear brother, Michael Funmi Ononaiye (1968- 2023). It's a rare privilege to encounter a human being with such an unmistakable forcefield of optimism and hope radiating around them. Funmi lived his life connecting and inspiring people—artists, musicians, thinkers, healers, community leaders, and anyone else who would listen. Always omnipresent, Funmi would attend clubs, festivals, and recording sessions worldwide, urging musicians to dig deeper and summon those unforgettable, magical moments we seem to keep with us forever. He possessed the remarkable ability to reset any vibe with a wise reflection and a deep laugh. Together, we navigated through the challenges of the pandemic, and Funmi was instrumental in forming our online show, Live From Emmet’s Place, attending over 100 episodes and contributing indispensable ideas for guest artists and themes. During the initial stages, he often found himself as the sole listener in the room—an audience of one, yet his presence resonated as powerfully as a full club! His timeless counsel to us remains: keep the music natural, groovy, diverse, and infused with love.

Affectionately dubbed by many as the “Vibe Provider,” Funmi infused unmatched vibrancy and exuberance into every situation. Not only did he embody these qualities himself, but he also instilled in each of us the notion that we are all “vibe providers,” wielding the power to uplift and brighten the world around us!