
About
Goapele (born Goapele Mohlabane on 11th July 1977 in Oakland, California) is a U.S. soul and R&B singer-songwriter. Her name means "to go forward" in the South African language Sesotho. She was born to a Jewish mother, Noa, and an African father, Douglas Mohlabane, who was a South African political exile. They married in Nairobi, Kenya. Goapele attended the Berkeley Arts Magnet School in Berkeley, California. During these years, she joined several groups that fought racism and sexism. Read more on Last.fm
Genres
- neo soul
Frequently Asked Questions
- What kind of music is Goapele?
- Goapele is known for her soulful and introspective R&B music. Her sound masterfully blends contemporary R&B with elements of neo-soul, jazz, and hip-hop, creating a unique and atmospheric vibe. Goapele's music often features smooth melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and rich, emotive vocals that resonate deeply with listeners. Her breakthrough hit, "Closer," remains a staple on R&B playlists, celebrated for its uplifting message and soothing production. She frequently incorporates themes of love, empowerment, and social consciousness into her songwriting, making her music both thought-provoking and relatable. Fans of artists like Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, and Alicia Keys will find Goapele's style both familiar and refreshingly original. Whether you're looking for soulful ballads or groovy mid-tempo tracks, Goapele's discography offers a rich exploration of modern R&B's most captivating elements, making her a standout artist in the genre.
- What nationality is Goapele?
- Goapele is an American singer-songwriter with a diverse and multicultural background. Born and raised in Oakland, California, she is the daughter of a South African father and a Jewish American mother. This unique heritage has significantly influenced her music and perspective, infusing her work with global consciousness and diverse cultural references. While Goapele holds American nationality, she is deeply connected to her South African roots, which is reflected not only in her music but also in her activism and public persona. Her multicultural upbringing has allowed her to create a distinct artistic identity, resonating with fans worldwide who appreciate her rich blend of influences and heartfelt storytelling. As an American artist with international appeal, Goapele continues to bridge cultural gaps through her soul-stirring R&B music.
- What does the name Goapele mean?
- The name "Goapele" (pronounced gwa-puh-LAY) is of Setswana origin, a language spoken in Southern Africa, primarily Botswana and parts of South Africa. In Setswana, "Goapele" means "to move forward" or "to proceed." This powerful and meaningful name reflects the artist's commitment to progress, growth, and positive change, both personally and within her community. It also symbolizes her journey as a musician and activist, striving to inspire others to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams. Goapele's name is a testament to her South African heritage and serves as a constant reminder of her family's history and the values they uphold. The inspirational meaning behind her name beautifully aligns with the uplifting and motivational themes often found in her music, making her artistic identity truly authentic.
- Where can I stream Goapele's music?
- You can stream Goapele's music on all major digital platforms, making it easy to enjoy her soulful R&B tracks wherever you are. Popular services like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Tidal, and YouTube Music offer her complete discography, including acclaimed albums such as "Closer," "Break of Dawn," "Change It All," and "Dreamseeker." You can also find her singles, collaborations, and live performances available for streaming. For fans who prefer curated playlists, platforms like Pandora and Deezer also feature Goapele's music in their R&B and soul collections. To stay updated on her latest releases and exclusive content, you can follow Goapele's official artist profiles on these streaming services. Whether you're discovering her sound for the first time or revisiting your favorite tracks, streaming Goapele's music is convenient and accessible across all devices.
- Where does Goapele live?
- Goapele currently resides in the San Francisco Bay Area, specifically Oakland, California. Oakland is not only her hometown but also a significant source of inspiration for her music and activism. The city's rich cultural diversity and vibrant arts scene have deeply influenced Goapele's artistic development and social consciousness. She frequently references her Oakland roots in interviews and public appearances, expressing pride in her community and its resilience. Living in the Bay Area allows Goapele to stay connected to her family, collaborate with local musicians, and participate in initiatives that uplift her community. While she occasionally travels for performances and projects, Oakland remains her primary residence and creative base, underscoring her enduring commitment to the city that helped shape her unique musical voice.