My Top Five Tracks - KARABO
If you've been looking for your next R&B addition, put Karabo's 'Only 4 U' at the top of the list.
The South African singer-songwriter, known for bridging contemporary R&B and Neo-Soul with African storytelling, delivers a track built entirely around vulnerability and commitment, the kind of honesty that's easy to miss and impossible to ignore once you hear it.
It started in the studio with Tinashe, who played Karabo and Tineke a run of beats. They fell for the one that became 'Only 4 U', Tineke began writing, Karabo filled in the gaps, and the theme surfaced the more they listened. A New Age TrapSoul R&B mood, built from digital drums, keys, strings and bass, did the rest.
Karabo won Idols South Africa Season 11, has shared a stage with Anthony Hamilton, collaborated with Bebe Winans, and was the first African artist to create a theme song for Disney Africa's The Lion Guard. He is now independent, with further releases planned over the coming months.
Out now, 'Only 4 U' sits comfortably alongside Giveon, Lucky Daye and Leon Thomas, and deserves a place on your playlist this week. We had the opportunity to chat with Karabo about his top music picks to accompany the playlist recommendations!..
Cover Art by Sfundo Majozi A.K.A @ok_majozi
Maxwell - Bad Habits
It one of those songs that are just genius, we get to experience Maxwell’s dynamic voice, and the unpredictable changes in the song that are so tasteful. One of the best records ever created.
Jonathan Butler - Many Faces
The fuse of Jazz sounds and African processions just work. He found a way to say something without saying anything at all, simply amazing. Gotta love this song.
Victoria Monét - F.U.C.K
One of the coolest songs I’ve ever listened to, th beat is impeccable how it switches up from verse to chorus and the how the BV’s are perfectly stacked. Almost takes you to another planet 🪐.
H.E.R - Comfortable
I love a song that can make one relax and chill and fall in love. Her has the ability to make you listen to her even if all you want is utter silence. The sweetest voice God lender the to world.
Musiq Soul Child - Don’t Change
This man is just a genius, I mean this song the message it carries absolutely amazing. He’s an amazing artist one of kind, there’ll never be another like him.
