By: Petra Chase, Arts & Culture Editor
As a trained singer and dancer, Täbï Yösha has long been a go-getter in Quebec’s music scene, collaborating with artists and dipping her toes in many genres. From jazz and classical to hip-hop to electro, her versatility has led to a blossoming career as a solo artist with a hazy neo-soul sound. Her passionate stage presence and memorable vocal flair caught the attention of beatmaker Suiker last fall, who tailored instrumentals for her next big project.
“Pause” and “Vampire,” two fresh singles with colourful music videos, build anticipation for an exciting EP in the works. It’s no wonder COMPLEX named her one of “20 Canadian artists to watch in 2023.”
Released on February 2, the upbeat dance single, “Pause,” explores being afraid to fall in love. The song’s disco groove paired with Yösha’s jazzy vocals makes for a smooth and silky sound. The lyrics carry vulnerability with self-assurance: Lyrics like, “You wanted quantity, I wanted quality” demonstrate Yösha’s ability to know her worth. The music video places Yösha where she belongs: on a colour-coated dancefloor.
The release of “Vampire” on March 9 somehow manages to one-up Yösha’s vocal performance in “Pause,” which is a major feat. The francophone track deals with a one-way connection with a fluid and airy delivery that moves slow and heavy like honey. The music video fittingly features Yösha in a dimly-lit red glow. If you love Kali Uchis or Amy Winehouse, you’ll fall in love with the seductive, smoky atmosphere of “Vampire.”
The beauty and genuineness of Yösha’s creative process is demonstrated by the fact that “Pause” was spontaneously written in the studio, and “Vampire” was “written at 6:00 a.m. after a heated discussion.” It shows Yösha wastes no time confronting her thoughts and sentiments in the moment, which is reflected in every note and line.
Follow Yösha on Instagram at @tabi_yosha and keep an eye out for the announcement of her upcoming EP. For more of the best up-and-coming Canadian talent, listen to The Peak’s regularly-updated “Peak Discovery” playlist on our Spotify profile, peaksfu.