Brand new single from ESINAM & Sibusile Xaba

The union of Belgian-Ghanaian multi-instrumentalist ESINAM and South African guitarist Sibusile Xaba is built on a convergence of ancestral rhythms, modern textures and an almost cosmic intuition. Together, they blend Afro-roots-electro with a nod to spiritual jazz with their music serving as much a vessel for storytelling as it is for healing.

ESINAM has long been known for her ability to craft compositions that draw from African percussion, electronic influences and improvisational flute melodies. Her music is profoundly personal yet relatable, a constantly shifting tapestry shaped by her travels and collaborations across the globe. Meanwhile, Sibusile Xaba, with his magnetic vocal and guitar work, bends genres to his will, merging maskandi, malombo, desert blues and jazz into something entirely his own. His voice carries the weight of history, filtered through an avant-garde lens, making each performance an act of divination as much as musical expression.

Their creative partnership began in 2018 when ESINAM, dazzled by Sibusile’s artistic vision, invited him to collaborate on “Flowing River,” a track from her debut album Shapes in Twilights of Infinity. The connection was immediate. When she was later asked at WOMAD Festival South Africa if she’d like to work with a local artist, there was no hesitation; Sibusile was the clear choice.

Over two and a half years of collaboration, the duo has developed an almost telepathic musical connection. Their synergy was on full display during a European tour that saw them perform at Druga Godba Festival in Slovenia, Munich Africa Day, PrivatClub Berlin, and Music Meeting Festival in The Netherlands. The release of their debut single, “Africa Wola,” in March 2024, was a defining moment, met with critical acclaim and a remix by renowned South African DJ DaCapo.

Now, with their highly anticipated debut album Healing Voices set for release on April 25, 2025, ESINAM and Sibusile Xaba prepare to share a fully realised vision with the world. Their latest single, “Ready To Love,” distils their sound perfectly; a bright, percussive piece driven by a hypnotic bass line, inspired by Ghanaian highlife and the rhythmic movements of ESINAM’s unborn child.

Flowing with the mellow patter of soft drums, intricate guitar grooves and expressive vocals, “Ready To Love” sees the two artists combine on a charming jam that’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Released appropriately on Valentine’s Day, it’s a superb showcase of their collaborative flair, unique sound and performance talent, resulting in a playful outing that continues to build the excitement for their highly anticipated full-length record.

Commenting on the forthcoming album, ESINAM shares, “We make music as art, we make music as medicine. These songs are created with a strong connection to our soul and the music of our ancestors.” Sibusile echoes the sentiment, describing the album as an exploration of “freedom and unconditional love as the two primary elements of healing.” With Healing Voices on the horizon, fans will have much to look forward to from the magical musical partnership of ESINAM and Sibusile Xaba.

Listen to Ready To Love below

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