South African-Dutch singer-songwriter Joya Mooi has unveiled her dynamic new EP, Open Hearts. This six-track project explores the theme of identity, guiding listeners through a journey of self-discovery while honoring various historical figures and events.
It follows her 2023 double album What’s Around The Corner, which delved into spirituality, cycles, and social consciousness, earning over 5 million streams and international acclaim for its thought-provoking themes, all delivered through a contemporary R&B style with electronic and neo-soul influences.
In Open Hearts, Joya Mooi experiments with a fresh sonic direction. The EP features a blend of her signature style with new elements of pop and indie, set against groove-driven soundscapes that evoke escapism.
The Amsterdam-based artist’s increased live performances post-pandemic have influenced her move towards more upbeat melodies.
Collaborating with Johannesburg-based producer duo Easy Freak and platinum-certified writer and producer Bastian Langebæk, Mooi has created a project that encourages listeners to redefine their narratives and appreciate the simple moments that make up our lives.
Joya Mooi explains the inspiration behind Open Hearts
“Freedom has always been a central theme in my life. After my last album, I felt compelled to dance and reflect on the past.”
“I’ve struggled with occupying space, and this EP is my way of leading with an open heart, shedding light on individuals who are often overlooked and celebrating their stories and triumphs. Open Hearts is about exploring how our pasts shape who we are.”
The EP opens with the previously released single “Poster Child,” inspired by Dutch painter and actress Nola Hatterman’s 1930 artwork Op het terras (On the Terrace). Joya Mooi channels the feeling of being unnoticed into a vibrant production reminiscent of summer sunshine.
The title track, “Open Hearts,” highlights South African surgeon Hamilton Naki’s remarkable story of assisting in a heart transplant during apartheid without formal training, celebrating resilience with an anthemic sound. “No Holding Back” continues this celebratory tone with a softer, dream-like quality, recounting the story of Jamaican-born football player Beverly Ranger.
“I Can Almost Say” offers a moment of reflection on anxiety, blending electronic influences with ethereal synths to convey growth and new beginnings. “Don’t Answer” addresses daily life struggles and the importance of personal boundaries, delivered in a sweet and heartfelt manner.
The EP closes with “Overlooked Ghosts,” featuring Gracy Hopkins, which explores historical themes inspired by the Congo genocide. This collaboration highlights a chapter of African diasporic history and reflects on grief and remembrance.
Open Hearts underscores Joya Mooi’s commitment to using her voice for positive change. Its diverse compositions further solidify her as a pioneering force in modern R&B. Born to a South African father and a Dutch mother, Joya Mooi aims to amplify overlooked stories and explore her mixed heritage.
Her work has been recognized by Billboard, OkayAfrica, The Line of Best Fit, Notion, Afropunk, and others, and she has featured on Spotify’s top Soul playlist, Soul N the City, as well as H&M’s flagship playlist.
Her achievements also include supporting Benny Sings on his European tour and collaborating with Utrecht-based R&B and hip-hop trio .multibeat on “Don’t Count Me In.”
Open Hearts was released on 30 August 2024 via Unity Records. You can stream/download it HERE.
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