Grammy-winning American artist Paul Morton, PJ Morton, has released his latest album, “Cape Town to Cairo,” a project born from a 30-day tour of Africa.
Cape Town to Cairo was released on Friday under Morton Records/EMPIRE. The album captures the essence of Morton’s travels through major African cities such as Cape Town, Johannesburg, Lagos, Accra and Cairo.
In a statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES on Friday, PJ Morton said he embarked on this creative journey with a unique approach.
The making of this album was a personal journey for PJ Morton. She shared: “I wanted to capture the emotions I felt while I was on the mainland. I promised myself that I would not write anything before I arrived in Africa and that I would not write anything after I left. I also ended up recording all my vocals before I left. It was an experiment in which I trusted my instincts.”
The album is a testament to PJ Morton’s musical versatility. It is a fusion of genres, combining R&B, soul, gospel, pop and jazz with African influences, creating a unique and captivating sound.
Cape Town to Cairo
The Cape Town to Cairo album is a testament to PJ Morton’s global appeal. She collaborated with several African music stars including Fireboy DML, Mádé Kuti, Asa, Ndabo Zulu and Soweto Spiritual Singers.
Morton’s band and local musicians also contributed to tracks on the album.
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Tracks like “Smoke & Mirrors,” recorded a day after Fela Kuti’s birthday celebrations in Lagos, and “Simunye (We Are One),” featuring the Soweto Spiritual Singers, highlight the album’s deep connection to music. and African culture.
PJ Morton reflects on the fusion of contemporary sounds and a unique Afrobeat in songs like “Who You Are” featuring Mádé Kuti, which addresses themes of ancestry and identity.
Meanwhile, “Count On Me” featuring Fireboy DML offers an uplifting message about friendship and unity.
Beyond the album
In addition to his album, PJ Morton is celebrating other milestones.
This month marks the debut of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disney World, featuring the original soundtrack and PJMorton’s theme song, “Special Spice.”
PJ Morton, the first black composer to write music for a Disney attraction, announced that his memoir, “Saturday Night, Sunday Morning,” will be published on November 12.
The book will chronicle his journey from a preacher’s son to one of the busiest names in music, including collaborations with legends like Stevie Wonder and Erykah Badu.
PJ Morton’s journey doesn’t end with the album. He is set to embark on the “Cape Town to Cairo Tour,” which will cover North America and beyond, with performances at major venues such as New York’s Beacon Theater and Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium.
With his new album, Disney project and upcoming memoir, the singer says he’s gearing up for a year full of nothing short of adventure.