Nita Katushabe delivered the epitome of a self-empowering sermon through her hymnally resolving ballad, Forgive Yourself. In recognition of how much we collectively punish ourselves for taking the wrong path, making mistakes, or simply being human, the Ugandan singer-songwriter saw the opportunity to extend resolution through compassionate soul pop.
Each new verse finds a new way to strip the weight off your conscience and guide you to the light within. With such a powerful message at the core of this healing release, the aural atmosphere could have been wholly inconsequential, but Katushabe pairs her presence as the ultimate confidant with the lush, classical framing of 00s RnB pop.
Her foundation in classical voice training gives the performance warmth, control and a devotional steadiness, while her songwriting carries the same emotional candour that made artists such as Leona Lewis and Alexandra Burke take over the cultural zeitgeist. You can also hear how her creative compass has been shaped by Emeli Sandé, John Legend and Alicia Keys, through the way Forgive Yourself sparks with sincerity.
After her debut EP, Love Hustle, explored the tension between ambition and intimacy, this single feels like a necessary act of release. It is tender without becoming fragile, graceful without losing its force, and generous enough to meet listeners exactly where their guilt still lives.
Forgive Yourself is now available to stream on all major platforms, including Spotify.
Review by Amelia Vandergast