When Chicago’s music scene buzzes about an artist, it’s worth paying attention. That’s exactly what’s happening with Kenyan-born musician Chai Tulani, who just dropped the visuals for his latest track “Angel Wings,” featuring the talented Trapula Ase’. The music video, which hit YouTube on November 20th, 2024, comes as a collaborative effort between directors Rikkie Khrist and Thoughtpoet of UnsocialAES, delivering a visual feast that’s already turning heads in the industry.
There’s something magnetic about watching an artist who knows exactly who they are, and Tulani embodies this perfectly. Having made the journey from Nakuru, Kenya, to the windy city of Chicago at just four years old, he’s crafted a sound that refuses to be boxed in. His story reads like a testament to dedication – starting with piano and guitar lessons at 10, building a makeshift home studio as a teenager, and taking that leap of faith at 19 to pursue music full-time.
The new release “Angel Wings” feels like a natural evolution of Tulani’s artistry. The track showcases his knack for hard-hitting lyricism, while the collaboration with Trapula Ase’ brings an electric dynamic to the mix. Their verses weave together seamlessly, each bringing their own flavor while somehow making the instrumental feel like it was tailor-made for their unique cadences.
In a recent conversation about his style, Tulani kept it simple: ‘I’m a musician who loves making music that’s good for the soul.’ This genuine approach shows in everything he touches, whether he’s diving into rap, hip-hop, Afrobeat, or soul. And when it comes to his influences, you can hear the echoes of legends in his work – from Bob Marley’s message of peace and love that moved millions, to the electric energy of James Brown’s unforgettable performances.
Anyone familiar with Tulani’s catalog, which includes standout tracks like “Chat Chat,” “Kill the Slave Master,” “Yum,” and “Breathing Underwater,” knows his versatility. His signature raspy-yet-soulful vocals have become instantly recognizable, whether he’s diving into reggae, soul, Afrobeat, or hip-hop territories.
The horizon looks bright for Tulani, who’s currently crafting his upcoming album “GOLD RUSH.” The project promises to further explore his Afro fusion sound, potentially pushing the boundaries of what fans have come to expect from the versatile artist.
You can catch the “Angel Wings” video on YouTube now, and follow Chai Tulani via Instagram, Facebook, X, TikTok, and stream his music on Spotify or Apple Music.
The local Chicago scene has been buzzing about this release, with one fan aptly noting, “This man Tulani DO NOT SLEEP so I refuse to sleep on him.” Given the quality of “Angel Wings” and the momentum building around his upcoming projects, that might be sound advice for music lovers everywhere.
