Kenyan singer cum songwriter, Xenia Manasseh, has released “Anticipate” – a new single featuring Karun - Kenyan RnB singer who is making waves in the growing alternative scene.
“Anticipate” is the second lead single off Xenia’s upcoming anticipated debut album ‘Love/Hate PT. 1’ scheduled for release 1st September 2023.
From the heavy drum, bass and percussion combination in the beginning to the laid back but impactful, orchestral second half, the new song showcases Xenia's vulnerability in a simple yet profound storyline complimenting Karun’s haunting vocals. “Anticipate” lyrics take on the uncertainty of a relationship that no longer blooms or feels the same.
“Anticipate” follows the success of her first single off the project - “Temporary Love” where she openly admits to being afraid of love or being in love again and the choices that she made as a result.
Ahead of the release, Xenia Manasseh admits that the making of “Anticipate” was fueled by two friends being honest to each other. She says, “It came from a place where Karun and I were afraid to tap into an emotion we have both experienced and we admit it,” adding, “Anticipate is a song that revolves around time and wanting to move forward from a current state of uncertainty by chasing the feeling of what it used to be.” In this moment of vulnerability she admits to finally wanting to be done with love that is temporary or fleeting.
She is renowned for bringing a refreshing new sound to the music scene following the success of her 2019 debut EP Fallin' Apart.
She has captivated a varied audience with the clarity and the purity of her tone and successful collaborations like 'Maybe' 2022 EP with Kenyan producer/artist Ukweli.
Xenia’s other key collaborations and features include with Mr Eazi on “Cherry”, Tay Iwar on “Stones”, Sauti Sol on “Rhumba Japani”; as well as doing background vocals for Sauti Sol’s album ‘Midnight Train’ and on “Time Flies” Sauti Sol collaboration with Burna Boy - off the Grammy-winning album ‘Twice As Tall’. Among notable stages, Xenia has performed at Blankets and Wine Festival Kenya (2023) and at the virtual Essence Festival (2020).
