In recognition of Black History Month, Atwood Magazine has invited artists to contribute a series of essays that explore themes of identity, music, culture, inclusion, and more.
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Today, French-Congolese producer/DJ KARABA showcases the essence of Afro House through a specially curated playlist that includes tracks by Kitty Amor, Drumetic Boyz, and others as part of Atwood Magazine's Black History Month series!
Born in France and raised in Canada, KARABA is reshaping the underground sound. A former professional dancer who toured with artists like Drake, Camila Cabello, Selena Gomez, and Chris Brown, her work is deeply influenced by her distinctive perspective on movement and culture. Seeking a career change, she effortlessly shifted her passion for rhythm and dance to the DJ booth, gaining a dedicated following along the way.
KARABA's music celebrates the genuine sound and spirit of Afro House while integrating global influences from her various moves. After earning her first Juno Award nomination in 2024 for 'Underground Dance Single of the Year' with her breakout hit 'Mad Mess,' she is poised to make significant changes in the Afro House scene.
She is currently on a worldwide tour, captivating crowds with her energetic beats and charismatic stage presence. Throughout her journey, she has opened for established acts like Aluna, Sara Landry, Coco & Breezy, and Rampa, reinforcing her status as an emerging star in electronic music.
Her latest single, “Dark Waters,” will be released on February 28th. “Dark Waters” serves as a rhythmic exploration of KARABA’s signature Afro House and darker electronic ambitions. Its three-and-a-half-minute composition features ethereal synths and harmonized vocal chants that intertwine with industrial basslines and gritty percussion, creating an instantly captivating and hypnotic experience for listeners. An official music video accompanies the release, showcasing KARABA’s stunning talent as a contemporary dancer and the dynamic nature of her music that invites movement.
“This song is one of my favorites,” KARABA says. “I love the whole vibe, especially how the kick hits so hard—it’s like a metaphor for this new era I’m entering, where I’m claiming my space and moving forward with purpose. I finally get to explore electronic sound deeply—how it resonates with me and how I interpret it. This song is essentially my love letter to Afro House and the musical emotions it evokes in me.”
Stream “Dark Waters” on your preferred music platform, and check out KARABA’s Black History Month playlist below!
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by KARABA
Unique Paballo
Unique Paballo is a producer from Tembisa, South Africa. I discovered his music this year and have been captivated ever since. His sound is powerful and dynamic; I incorporate many of his tracks into my sets, adding acapellas to elevate the energy—it always delivers. There’s something about his sound that continuously draws me in. My favorite track of his is “Amazon.”
Drumetic Boyz
These producers operate on another level when it comes to production. Every track they deliver is intricate and narrates a complete story—without needing any lyrics. Their music immerses the audience in their world, which I greatly admire. They have significantly inspired my own music as well. Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, their unique sound is truly exceptional. My favorite track by them is “Flow.”
Tabia
She possesses such a unique and ethereal voice that perfectly complements Afro House and Afro Tech. Whenever I hear her on a track, I must add it to my playlist. One track where I especially love her vocals is “Camagu.” Each time I play it in my set, it transports me somewhere special, along with the audience.
Kitty Amor
I discovered Kitty Amor during Pride Montreal in 2024, and her performance was astounding. I have immense respect for women DJs making their mark in the Afro House scene, and Kitty is certainly one of them. Her tracks are exceptionally produced—you can tell she truly values the music and its origins. I hold that in high regard.
DJ Satelite
DJ Satelite is a DJ and producer from Angola, and I am a HUGE fan of the music emerging from there. The sound is so robust, and the grooves in those tracks are always on another level—you can’t help but dance. One of his tracks, “U&M,” was my go-to this summer for my sunset DJ sets. It’s a beautiful song with incredible vocals.
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:: stream “Dark Waters” here ::
:: connect with KARABA here ::
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:: Stream KARABA ::
French-Congolese producer/DJ KARABA showcases the essence of Afro House with a curated playlist that includes artists like Kitty Amor, Drumetic Boyz, and others for Atwood Magazine’s Black History Month series.
