Xowié’s ‘ALLO Deluxe’: ushering in a fresh wave of South African R'n'B

South African R&B singer-songwriter Xowié has officially released “ALLO Deluxe" through Exodus Records, marking a defining evolution of her debut, “ALLO (A Little Long Overdue)”.

The expanded edition builds on the foundation of her first project, offering sharper storytelling, emotional depth and a confident sonic direction that underscores her growing presence in global R&B.

“‘ALLO Deluxe’ is different because I was more comfortable with the process,” Xowié explained.

“With my first project, I was nervous. Everything was new. For the deluxe, I knew the system, which made creating smoother. Another difference is that all the songs were made in the same space with the same producer, right after I came back from a hectic media tour in Kenya.”

The project explores love, boundaries and self-definition. In the track “No One”, Xowié reflects on her personal journey.

“‘No One’ is about a deep-rooted love that oozes calmness and ease,” she said.

“That is what I aspire to in love.” The song demonstrates a maturity in her songwriting, moving beyond youthful romance to a more grounded understanding of relationships.

Executive production by Grammy-winner Andre “DreBombay” Harris elevated the record. Known for his work with Kehlani, Alicia Keys and Justin Timberlake, DreBombay produced four of the six tracks and collaborated closely with Xowié in South Africa.

“Working with DreBombay brought out versatility in me,” she said.

“He encouraged spontaneity and different sounds without limitations. It taught me not to overthink when creating.”

“ALLO Deluxe” also features a collaboration with Ghanaian dancehall and reggae artist Stonebwoy. The track bridges R&B and dancehall, reflecting Xowié’s love for reggae.

“The song needed an artist with an authentic reggae or dancehall touch,” she said.

“When Stonebwoy was in South Africa, it was a no-brainer to have him on it. Working with him made me realise that when the music is good, it doesn’t matter if you’re upcoming or at the top.”

“I grew up listening to reggae through my dad’s playlist,” she added. “To finally make this kind of song and have someone like Stonebwoy on it felt full circle.”

Stonebwoy echoes the sentiment: “From the first listen, I felt the emotion in this song. It’s honest and grounded, and I’m proud to stand beside Xowié as she takes her sound to the world.”

Xowié’s songwriting draws on personal experiences, often written as conversations she has already had.

“Sometimes I even write from the other person’s perspective,” she said.

“That honesty helps me stay connected to the story and to myself.” Her approach allows her music to resonate universally while remaining deeply personal.

Raised in Northern KwaZulu-Natal, Xowié is a former “Idols SA” contestant who developed her voice through songwriting, drawing inspiration from artists such as Lauryn Hill, SZA and Erykah Badu.

Her 2023 single “Rainy Days” earned critical acclaim and led to her signing with her current label.