KCRW Exclusive: Michael Kiwanuka A Cappella Version of Bones

Written by

As y’all may or may not know, I play an a cappella piece in the last 20 minutes of my show every week. Lately I’ve been getting more exclusive recordings, including a very special one recorded last Monday in a bathroom, backstage at The Troubadour.

Some time ago, I reached out to a young artist that I came across in my research named Michael Kiwanuka, telling him how much I was moved by the one song he had online. We talked of getting him to the States for his first time, and me perhaps doing a remix for him.

He was so warm and sincere, and open to any musical ideas. Since then it’s been a whirlwind of a ride for Michael, and he’s handled it with the talent and authenticity so consistent of his character.

I went to his sold-out show at the Troubadour and afterwards we caught up for a while and recorded some a cappella songs, including the one below.

Michael Kiwanuka: Bones (Jeremy Sole Exclusive A CAPPELLA) by KCRW

Definitely do your soul a favor and catch Michael and band when they come to your town. It was one of the most timeless and soulful shows I’ve ever seen.

If you missed it, check out his live appearance on KCRW from last year – it was his U.S. live radio debut. Also, catch him LIVE on October 9 at the Ford Amphitheatre. You don’t want to miss that show.

–Jeremy Sole

Editor’s Note: the last couple seconds of the song when Leanna Rachel lays on another harmony is a euphoric musical moment. So beautiful!