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Halima Returns Reclaimed On New Single ‘onyx’
Brooklyn-based UK/Nigerian artist Halima has released a new single, 'onyx', out via drink sum wtr, marking a self-produced return following her debut album 'SWEET TOOTH' last year. The track deals with the aftermath of heartbreak, tracing a path from pain towards catharsis and emotional distance, and represents her first fully self-produced work since before her second EP 'EXU'.
Musically, 'onyx' pairs steady, staccato R&B production with pitched vocals before building to a guitar solo and a Sinogrime-influenced flourish reminiscent of Timbaland. Halima explained she sped up the entire track and pitched her voice accordingly, before returning to the original tempo at the end as a symbolic farewell. The release follows her tour with Sudan Archives, and she is also developing Club Cocoa, a New York-based event series centred on queer, POC and diasporic communities.
In short
- Halima releases new self-produced single 'onyx' via drink sum wtr
- Track explores heartbreak, moving towards catharsis and distance
- She's also launching Club Cocoa, a new NY event series
Explained simply
Halima is a Brooklyn-based artist of UK and Nigerian heritage who works in contemporary R&B and electronic music. Over the past few years, she has released an album and several EPs, building a following for her distinctive production approach.
The release of 'onyx' marks her first self-produced track in an extended period, representing a significant moment in her artistic development. This follows her debut album 'SWEET TOOTH' from last year and reflects her continued evolution as both songwriter and producer.
Beyond her music releases, Halima is known for community organising work, including touring with fellow artist Sudan Archives and developing Club Cocoa, a New York event series centred on queer, POC and diasporic communities. This broader engagement with music culture helps contextualise her role in contemporary R&B and electronic music scenes.
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