Tunde Baiyewu, the soulful voice behind the multi-platinum-selling Lighthouse Family, returns with a new, intimate project, Tunde & The Troubadours EP 1, releasing today, Friday November 1st. The Four-track EP is the first in a special series that delves into Tunde’s love for singer-songwriter music, particularly inspired by the 1970s troubadour era. Reuniting with renowned Lighthouse Family producer Mike Peden, Tunde brings together a heartfelt collection of covers and collaborations with some of South Africa’s most revered musical talents.
South African Roots and Global Inspirations
Reflecting on his decision to launch the project in collaboration with South African artists, Tunde explains, “South Africa actually chose me! I grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, and listened to iconic artists like Sunny Ade, Fela Kuti, Hugh Masekela, Miriam Makeba. When a friend in Cape Town asked if I fancied doing a duet with a South African artist, a light bulb went off in my head.” The EP celebrates this musical heritage while embracing the international troubadour tradition that has long fascinated Tunde.
A Closer Look at the Songs and Collaborators on EP 1
1. “Lean On Me” with Zonke
This iconic Bill Withers track, a tribute to the community spirit of his childhood in West Virginia, holds special significance for Tunde.
“Bill Withers’ material is something I’ve always embraced and admired. When narrowing down the songs for the Troubadours project, Lean on Me was a no-brainer. I often wish I had written it myself,” says Tunde.
South African songstress Zonke adds her soulful, powerful voice to this rendition. “Zonke was the very first artist to agree to collaborate with me. She is an amazing singer who takes her art seriously!” Tunde recalls fondly.
2. “I Saw The Light” with Vusi Mahlasela
Originally written by Todd Rundgren in just 15 minutes, I Saw The Light captures the uncertainty of love through the eyes of youth. “We all start as doubting Thomases when it comes to love,” Tunde reflects.
Vusi Mahlasela, with his legendary voice and deep connection to South Africa’s musical legacy, lends his unique touch to this track. “Vusi’s voice is out of this world! He reminds me of the South African greats I grew up listening to,” Tunde adds.
3. “I Need You” with PJ Powers & Drakensberg Boys Choir
A timeless hit by the band America, I Need You speaks to the heartache of lost love—something deeply personal to Tunde. “The song perfectly captures how I feel about the dissipation of an old relationship. I’m sure many can relate to that.”
PJ Powers, a South African musical icon, brings raw emotion and passion to this track. Mandela once praised her impact on the nation, and Tunde echoes this sentiment: “PJ Powers embodies the spirit of a troubadour. She’s faced challenges but continues to inspire.”
The single also features the angelic voices of the Drakensberg Boys Choir, whose contribution brings a haunting, almost transcendent quality to the song, underscoring the depth of emotion in “I Need You.”
Stream “Tunde & The Troubadours EP 1” here
A Continuing Legacy
Tunde Baiyewu’s musical journey began as part of the celebrated Lighthouse Family, whose timeless hits like Lifted and Ocean Drive still resonate with audiences around the world. Over the years, the duo’s albums have reached multi-platinum status, selling over 15 million records globally. Even today, current Gen Z artists such as Nigerian rapper Asake recently reimagined the Lighthouse Family song ‘Ocean Drive’ with his 2023 song ‘Sunshine’, currently at over 8.1 million views on YouTube.
Now, with Tunde & The Troubadours EP 1, Tunde embarks on a new path—one that blends his Nigerian roots, British upbringing, and a deep admiration for South Africa’s rich musical landscape.
With more volumes to follow, this project promises to be a touching tribute to the global troubadour spirit and a testament to Tunde’s enduring artistry.
Follow Tunde Baiyewu on socials:
www.tundeb.com
www.instagram.com/tundebaiyewuofficial
www.facebook.com/TundeBaiyewu
www.twitter.com/Tunde_Baiyewu
www.youtube.com/user/TundeBaiyewu
