Goapele is more than an artist; she is a luminous presence in the world of music, a profound voice, and a  tireless force of creativity whose artistry has shaped the landscape of modern R&B. Renowned for her  captivating sound—a beautiful blend of soul, jazz, pop, and moody basslines—Goapele’s music  transcends genres and resonates with universal truths. Her voice, ethereal yet commanding, continues to  echo the complexities of life, love, and the human experience in ways that are both deeply personal and  universally relatable. 

The Oakland native, born to a South African father who escaped apartheid and a German-Jewish mother  from New York, embodies a rich, diverse heritage that has influenced not only her music but also her  worldview. Her upbringing—a fusion of cultures and perspectives—served as the perfect backdrop for  her musical evolution. Goapele’s formative years at the esteemed Berklee College of Music in Boston  honed her extraordinary talent and shaped her voice into one that defies conventional boundaries. 

Since her 2001 debut with the timeless anthem Closer, Goapele, whose name means “to move forward” in  Setswana, has consistently delivered music that resonates with authenticity and emotional depth. Her  catalog, including albums like Even Closer, Break of Dawn, and her latest, COLOURS, reflects her  evolution as an artist and a woman. Described as her most introspective work, COLOURS explores  themes of healing, self-worth, and transformation, featuring collaborations with top musicians such as  Errol Cooney, Bedrock, and Chris Dave. 

For Goapele, music is not just a means of self-expression—it is a form of therapy and a vehicle for  connection. Her songs serve as a mirror for her own experiences, while inviting listeners to find their own  truths within her words. In her own words, "Moments of uncertainty can feel scary, but I try my best and  push forward, and trust that things will eventually land where they're supposed to." 

Beyond music, Goapele has long been a passionate humanitarian and advocate for social change. Through  her platform, she has championed causes ranging from racial justice to women’s rights, using her voice to  speak up for those whose stories are often left unheard. Her lifestyle brand, Dreamseeker, further reflects her commitment to living authentically, curating a line of scented candles and apparel inspired by her  synesthesia, the condition that allows her to experience color through sound. This unique ability shapes  her vision of the world and enriches her creative output, leading to immersive experiences that blend  music, color, scent, and fashion. 

Goapele's influence extends beyond the music charts; her songs have become a soundtrack to countless  films, television series, and documentaries. From So You Think You Can Dance (Fox) to Hitch (Sony  Pictures) and Power (Starz), her music has been the emotional backbone of some of the most impactful  visual narratives of our time. She has also made notable appearances in Sparkle (Sony Pictures), Ava  DuVernay’s The Door for Miu Miu, and the art-noir short film #WhereIsBeauty, which she also executive  produced. Goapele has also performed on global stages alongside legends like Prince, Stevie Wonder, and  Common, captivating audiences with her unique blend of artistry and activism. 

“I strive to create timeless music that inspires and ignites change,” Goapele says. With her enduring  legacy of compassion and creativity, Goapele continues to inspire generations through her music,  advocacy, and authentic storytelling.