SA: Bonj releases A Journal EP

The EP signals Bonj’s continued exploration of blending genres and developing her own signature. ‘Fly Away’ is the singer’s follow-up single to ‘Like a Movie’, a track she dropped in 2020. Other songs featured on the seven-track EP include ‘Ain’t it True’, ‘Against the Grain’, ‘Like A Movie’, ‘Hangover’ and ‘Shivers’.

A Journal showcases Bonj’s powerful vocals layered with genres like R&B, jazz, techno and electronica. “With ‘Fly Away’, Bonj aims to highlight the tug of war in a relationship, which despite the difficulties, being in love is the silver lining that keeps one feeling like love conquers all,” Bonj’s team said. “With a background in jazz studies from the University of Cape Town, Bonj’s presentation of her album ... is a relentless pursuit of innovation and individuality.”

Bonj’s lyrics reflect her emphasis on unity as exhibited in the EP. ‘Fly Away’ is a fusion of electro, pop and soul elements, resulting in a unique, catchy sound. ‘Like a Movie’ is a no-holds-barred declaration of love while on ‘Ain’t it True’ Bonj calls for tenderness and care in the way people relate with each other. The song sees Bonj contemplating on the premise that people need each other more than ever.

Bonj was born in Soweto and has been in music for more than a decade. She graduated from the National School of the Arts in 2007. She has worked with artists like Mafikizolo, Tresor and Sharon Dee. Her latest EP features DJ Zinhle and Da Capo as guests.