Leeds musician and graduate Tamaraebi who traded law books for music releases new EP

Tamaraebi’s six-track record, Spectrum, includes the critically acclaimed singles, Brown Angel, Telephone and her new single Waistline.

The soul and R&B star has received accolades from The Times, Evening Standard, Notion, Clash and more.

He released an acoustic version of his single Serious, along with a live performance video, which is now available to stream.

“Serious has a pop / R & B vibe with a futuristic vibe,” said Tamaraebi, real name Daniel Tamaraebi Itombra.

“It’s about how sex can sometimes complicate friendships, so while sometimes it’s great to be in the moment, it’s also good to know that actions have consequences.

“A lot of people really liked this song so I ended up with my boy [guitarist] Aaron Forbes to record an acoustic version.

“I just wanted a bare and relaxed atmosphere, because for me the emphasis was on vocals and guitar.”

Tamaraebi was born in Lagos before moving to Calabar in southern Nigeria, Nairobi, Sudan and Tanzania as a child.

He moved to Leeds at the age of 16, where he heard hip hop for the first time and “truly fell in love with music”.

While studying law at the University of Leeds, he performed at local clubs and recorded old-fashioned soul-pop songs as part of a trio.

After graduating and moving to London, he left a coveted two-year law internship in just two weeks to focus on music.

“When I sing, that’s when I feel most connected to everyone,” Tamaraebi added.

“They’re right in the moment and we’re sharing this… thing. It’s like a big band hug and I love that. I was born to sing.”

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