South African singer-songwriter Karabo returns with ‘Only 4 U’, a new R&B offering that explores vulnerability, loyalty and the kind of love that leaves nothing hidden. The single marks another step in his journey towards international audiences following his third studio album, Songs About You.
Created alongside Tinashe and Tineke, ‘Only 4 U’ began when Tinashe introduced a selection of his own productions in the studio. Karabo and Tineke connected with one particular instrumental, with Tineke leading the songwriting before Karabo helped shape the track’s central message. Tineke also recorded a guide vocal that Karabo described as “phenomenal”.
Built around electronic drums, keys, strings and bass, the track occupies a New Age TrapSoul R&B space, drawing stylistic parallels with artists such as Giveon, Lucky Daye, Leon Thomas, Alex Isley and Manana.
At its heart, ‘Only 4 U’ is about allowing someone to see every part of you. As Karabo explains: “Only 4 U speaks about being vulnerable with your significant other, basically not withholding any part of you and allowing your partner in completely.”
That emotional openness continues the themes explored throughout Songs About You, a project rooted in love, memory, commitment and human connection. The album features ‘Ngak’thandazela’, inspired by the prayer Karabo made for the woman who would become his wife, alongside ‘Safe’ featuring Tineke, as well as collaborations with KLY and Touchline.
Karabo first gained national recognition after winning Idols South Africa Season 11. Since then, he has shared stages with Grammy-nominated artist Anthony Hamilton, collaborated with Grammy-winning gospel and soul icon Bebe Winans, and become the first African artist to create a theme song for Disney Africa’s The Lion Guard.
Now working independently, Karabo is building on a successful radio tour in his home province of Mpumalanga, with ‘Only 4 U’ introducing his soulful sound to an increasingly international audience.
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Press shot by Sfundo Majozi A.K.A @ok_majozi
