Last updated: 1 day ago
Her first release of 2021, Koku Gonza brings
warm, magical vibes to her mesmerizing new
song, ‘Kryptonite’ — bringing listeners around the
world much-needed summertime love, culture and
soul music in the wake of a rough year.
Tackling themes of self-discovery, relationships
and raw honesty, her new single speaks to those
who have been heart-broken and are weary of the
revolving door of unintentional, misunderstood
love described as ‘Kryptonite’ in her chorus.
With feathery light vocals and acoustic guitar riffs,
Koku Gonza highlights her Tanzanian roots by featuring Swahili lyrics in the chorus: “Don’t say
Usiku Mewmwa, Ninakupenda Sana”. The West African kora string instrument also features in
the song, complimenting magnetic and uplifting Afro-Caribbean, R&B and hip-hop rhythms.
‘Kryptonite’ was co-produced by Koku Gonza, Brooklyn music producer Vicky Cassis and
bassist Sean Lewis, featuring rapper Mike Larry Draw on the second verse.
The overall production on the album blends electronic reggae-dancehall drum loops with live
traditional Kora played by the legendary Yacouba Sissoko, creating a sound that feels raw and
organic — just like Koku Gonza herself.
warm, magical vibes to her mesmerizing new
song, ‘Kryptonite’ — bringing listeners around the
world much-needed summertime love, culture and
soul music in the wake of a rough year.
Tackling themes of self-discovery, relationships
and raw honesty, her new single speaks to those
who have been heart-broken and are weary of the
revolving door of unintentional, misunderstood
love described as ‘Kryptonite’ in her chorus.
With feathery light vocals and acoustic guitar riffs,
Koku Gonza highlights her Tanzanian roots by featuring Swahili lyrics in the chorus: “Don’t say
Usiku Mewmwa, Ninakupenda Sana”. The West African kora string instrument also features in
the song, complimenting magnetic and uplifting Afro-Caribbean, R&B and hip-hop rhythms.
‘Kryptonite’ was co-produced by Koku Gonza, Brooklyn music producer Vicky Cassis and
bassist Sean Lewis, featuring rapper Mike Larry Draw on the second verse.
The overall production on the album blends electronic reggae-dancehall drum loops with live
traditional Kora played by the legendary Yacouba Sissoko, creating a sound that feels raw and
organic — just like Koku Gonza herself.