Yemi Bolatiwa [Soul]

About this event

“A versatile vocalist, at home on an infectious pop song or a confessional soul track. There’s an effortlessness and smoothness to her delivery.” – Crack Magazine 

Independent soul artist and sought-after topline vocalist Yemi Bolatiwa has worked across genres with Josh Butler, Antony Szmeirek, Obeka, The 745s and performs regularly with The Untold Orchestra, and various house bands and ensembles across Manchester and the Northwest. Stepping into her own lane of soulful R&B, and on the brink of releasing her debut album this powerful and versatile artist’s live sound blends deep soulful textures, jazzy riffs and luxurious viola strings.

Fresh off the MOBOs Talent Programme and part of the MOBO Class of 2026, Yemi Bolatiwa is ready to share her fresh sounds. No stranger to the airwaves, she has had plays on BBC Radio 1, 1xtra, Kiss FM, BBC Introducing, Soho Radio, Reprezent Radio, BBC Manchester and more.

During her career, her original work has led to supporting the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, Submotion Orchestra, Riot Jazz, The Skints, Ezra Collective and Annie & The Caldwells.

With a fresh album of material the new repertoire journeys through ’90s nostalgia and bouncy soul fusion, expect tones inspired by the likes of Toni Braxton and Brandy, and a soothing style akin to the vocal tones of Sade and Lianne La Havas.

Festival appearances include Boomtown Festival, Kendal Calling, Tramlines Festival, Beat Herder, Soundwave (Croatia), Nass Fest, Manchester Jazz Festival, Manchester International Festival, Mandrea (Italy) Kendal Calling, Wilderness and Moovin.

“Smooth and powerful, rooted in ’90s and early 2000s R&B melodies” – Hunger Magazine

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