Cairo - Godspeed (Official Video)
Picture Credit: Genesis Tennison
Emerging artist Cairo shares his latest single Godspeed taken from upcoming inaugural EP Double Love out September 27 via Los Angeles-based independent label Cascine.
Cairo is a north London bred-and-based musician who combines his love of r&b, soul and jazz to create a timeless take on pop music. Evident in ‘Godspeed,’ the latest release from the emerging artist, the song intricately tells the story of an ex living a double life while grappling with the accompanying traumas. Cairo's newest track is a smooth, synth-driven piece with captivating vocals and velvety lyrics, solidifying the artist's status as a true rising talent.
The Double Love EP marks Cairo's debut, offering a distillation of the Black queer experience through a UK-focused lens. On this project, the title track, Double Love, shines as a modern r&b anthem. Cairo's velvety vocals effortlessly glide over intricate lyrics and a richly textured melody that blends lush strings with a dynamic percussive groove. This track goes beyond just being a song—it's a narrative that explores the complexities of love and identity, especially within the Black and Brown queer community. The concept of Double Love draws inspiration from the idea of the 'Down Low' or 'DL,' a term referring to men who have not publicly embraced their sexuality. Reflecting on this theme, Cairo notes, "Being Black and gay remains somewhat of a cultural taboo, often leading effeminate gay men to form relationships with those who are still closeted."
Cairo's musical journey is deeply rooted in his upbringing. Raised in a Caribbean household filled with the soulful sounds of Stevie Wonder, he began teaching himself to play the keyboard and write songs at just 12 years old. By 16, he was refining his skills at East London Arts & Music (ELAM), a school known for nurturing talents like Flo, Tendai, and Sekou. His exceptional abilities were further honed at the London Institute of Contemporary Music Performance (ICMP), where he was mentored by Gabriel Stebbing, who has collaborated with artists like Metronomy and Christine and the Queens.
As Cairo continues to carve out his place in contemporary music, he brings a fresh perspective to themes of love, identity, and self-discovery. To celebrate the release of his EP, he will be hosting a launch party at The Forge @ The Lower Third on October 10th, solidifying his emergence as a vital new voice in the music scene.