The singer/songwriter is back to her roots on the loving track that speaks to self-love, social consciousness and the essence of community. It’s topics that remain in the back of the mind and tracklist of many creatives, but the Oakland native has no qualms sharing her spiritual journey with listeners. “Power” opens up with tribal feels thanks to drums and gentle cymbals. We’re later taken to a higher level as Goapele reminds us to find the power and love that truly makes us golden.
The Oakland native continued to ensure good vibes at her performance at Howard Theater last week and most recently, New York’s Highline Ballroom. The track will be featured on her upcoming EP, Dreamseeker, a follow up to her 2014 album, Strong As Glass. While her LPs have received acclaim, many are privy to the independent artist for her re-release of the 2004 single, “Closer.” The track has be interpolated by the likes of Drake and YG and considered an modern R&B classic.
In a statement to VIBE, Goapele shared how her musical journey allows her to be free, despite being labeled a “neo-soul” act.
“I’m a woman, but I’m also a whole person who won’t be confined to any one box,” she said. “Nobody is just one thing. Within any race, within any genre, and within any neighborhood, there’s so much diversity. As artists and especially as women of color, we have to be proud of that. I’m coming from an honest place and expressing the different parts of myself that make me whole.”
Born to political activists, Goapele has also exercised her voice in the realm by working with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, among other organizations. She also showed off her acting chops in the 2016 short film titled, Where Is Beauty which questions Western beauty standards in the age of social media.
“I can relate to what the main character, Nina, is going through,” Goapele told Reel Urban News at the time of the film’s release. “I know what it’s like exposing yourself. And asking, what you are letting go of and what are you letting into your life. I’ve had to go through that so many times. It’s scary and yet empowering.”
