Talented singer-songwriter Viola Karuri recently expressed her heartfelt appreciation to fellow artiste Barnaba for their collaboration on her 2018 record, ‘Leo.’
The project not only brought them together creatively but also opened doors for Viola within the Tanzanian music industry, providing her with valuable insider access and newfound acceptance from DJs, producers, and video directors.
Viola had previously visited Tanzania for a media tour, where she had the opportunity to showcase her talent.
Some of her music had already made its way onto Tanzanian radio stations, sparking interest among local listeners. However, it was her collaboration with Barnaba that truly solidified her position within the industry and introduced her to key players who would contribute to her artistic journey.
Reflecting on the experience, Viola shared, “Working on ‘Leo’ gave me an invaluable glimpse into their industry. Although I had already dipped my toes in the Tanzanian music scene, this collaboration formally acquainted me with the inner workings of their vibrant industry and, most importantly, provided me with the acceptance I had been striving for.”
The collaboration with Barnaba acted as a catalyst for Viola’s career, propelling her to record several additional singles within the Tanzanian music landscape. The supportive environment and newfound connections nurtured her artistic growth and enabled her to explore different creative avenues.
One significant milestone that emerged from this collaboration was the creation of Viola’s music video for ‘I Like It.’
The captivating visuals were brought to life in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, under the direction of renowned Tanzanian filmmaker Joowzey.
The decision to film the video in Tanzania further solidified Viola’s connection to the local industry and allowed her to engage with talented individuals who added their unique touch to her artistic vision.
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Viola’s journey exemplifies the power of collaboration and the transformative impact it can have on an artiste’s career.
By working hand in hand with Barnaba, she not only gained invaluable insights into the Tanzanian music industry but also fostered relationships with DJs, producers, and video directors who recognized and embraced her talent.
As Viola Karuri’s musical repertoire continues to expand, her collaboration with Barnaba remains a pivotal moment in her artistic evolution. It serves as a testament to the positive outcomes that can arise when artistes come together to create something truly remarkable, bridging gaps and forging connections that transcend borders.
With her growing presence in both Kenya and Tanzania, Viola Karuri’s music is poised to reach even greater heights, captivating audiences on both sides of the border and beyond.
Her gratitude towards Barnaba for the opportunity to collaborate speaks volumes about the lasting impact their joint effort has had on her musical journey, and fans eagerly anticipate what lies ahead for this talented artiste.
For all time’s sake, stream ‘Leo’ as written and performed by Viola Karuri and Barnaba Classic below;
