South African singer Msaki, alongside COLORS alumni NNAVY and Karun, has released a new EP titled 'CLOSER'. The EP was developed during the Tantalizers Sessions writing camp, a collaboration between Spotify and COLORS aimed at highlighting African R&B talent through Spotify Africa's leading R&B playlist.
The creative process behind 'CLOSER' was as engaging as the music itself. In a recent interview, the artists opened up about their writing camp experience in Nairobi, which fostered a unique collaborative environment. Karun shared, "We were in our own little soulful bubble, which was really nice," emphasizing the chemistry that formed among the group.
NNAVY, making her debut on the African continent, noted that this journey brought her closer to her home country, Burundi. She described the experience as transformative, allowing her to connect deeply with her musical companions. Producer Hendrick Sam contributed significantly, describing the vocal dynamics of the artists as various color gradients that he meticulously mixed together.
The EP comprises three songs, with the lead track, 'RAISE YOUR GLASS,' standing out due to its upbeat vibe. Sam stated, "I wanted to make something that just felt good," which resonated with the collaborative spirit of the project. The themes of love and celebration feature prominently across the tracks, making them relatable and universally appealing.
The artists revealed that the collaborative experience was both challenging and rewarding, particularly as they navigated their individual creative processes. "Sometimes you just don't know what to write," confessed NNAVY, highlighting the pressure during the songwriting sessions.
All members of the group have expressed their desire to perform live together, though logistical issues may arise due to their different home countries. Virtual performances are a possibility, given the current state of events related to COVID-19. The genre-blending artistry showcased in 'CLOSER' reflects the strength of collaboration through the people involved in the project.
'Closer' is now available on all streaming platforms. Fans can also revisit Karun and NNAVY's performances on COLORS through their YouTube here and here.
For more information on the partnership between COLORS and Spotify, click here.