Alternative R&B from Bonita Mae

Originally from Melbourne and now based in the Gold Coast of Australia, Bonita Mae is a singer-songwriter who’s been developing as an artist since she was just four years old. Growing up she would emulate her idols Prince, Amy Winehouse, Aretha Franklin, Destiny’s Child and Alicia Keys, going on to take part in Australian Girls’ Choir, playing talent shows at school and learning to play the piano and flute.

With influences rooted in classic blues music, her own sonic output holds that at the core while delivering an upbeat sound of soulful R&B. Sharing the first taste of her alluring vocals, she linked with Thai electro funk producer Jaypan on the track “Get Down” in 2020, now she returns with her latest work with her new single titled “Ocean Waves”.

This time Bonita Mae collaborates with fellow Australian producer and multi-instrumentalist Nathan Divito, who’s a master of making music inspired by hip hop, house and disco funk from the 70s and 80s under the alias DIVI. Together they spin an utterly delightful sound of alternative R&B with a grooving rhythm and capped by Bonita’s smooth vocal leads.

Initially started with a basic melody over a guitar riff and piano chords, over two years the pair built out the track to add beautiful harmonic ideas, the beat and a blend of colourful instrumentation to complete the sound. Commenting on the production process, Bonita shares, “The writing process was tested by lockdowns but, Nath and I adapted and continued writing via zoom sessions to get this song completed. We agreed it was almost finished early 2022 but it needed more wooden percussion, smooth soulful harmonies and breathtaking guitar solos to enhance the song where it is now.”

Appropriately titled “Ocean Waves”, the track kicks a laid back vibe that transports you to a beach where Bonita’s shimmering vocals lap like gentle waves on the shore and DIVI’s intricate groove-focused instrumental work showers the sound with rays of sunshine.

Listen to Ocean Waves below