This week, Octiive is proud to spotlight a unique and powerful new single from Cuban-Ethiopian singer-songwriter, producer, and multidisciplinary artist Arema Arega. Her latest track, She Dances Alone, is a captivating blend of soulful storytelling and rich, layered production that highlights why Arega continues to be a singular voice in today’s independent music scene.
Born in Voronezh during the “cold summer of ’79” and raised with both Cuban and Ethiopian heritage, Arega has built a career at the intersection of cultures and art forms. Beyond her work as a vocalist and composer, she is also a painter and fashion designer, bringing a deep sense of creativity and identity to everything she produces.
Her collaborations span projects like Gilles Peterson’s Havana Cultura, The Bahama Soul Club, Club des Belugas, and TheEEs, as well as joint releases with artists such as Born74, Regis Molina, Jorge Iván Martín, and PAUZA. Her music has been showcased on international compilations and festivals, earning recognition from the New York Jazz Film Festival, Toronto International Women Film Festival, and Florence Film Awards.
With She Dances Alone, Arega delivers a deeply personal and evocative track. The song flows between jazz, soul, and world music textures, carried by her distinctive vocals. It is at once intimate and cinematic — a soundscape that celebrates solitude, independence, and inner rhythm.
The single reflects Arega’s strength as a storyteller: while the lyrics evoke imagery of isolation, the arrangement feels alive and full of movement, reminding us that dancing alone can be an act of freedom rather than loneliness.
At Octiive, we champion artists who defy easy categorization — and Arema Arega is a perfect example. She Dances Alone is not just a song; it’s a statement of artistic independence, cultural fusion, and emotional honesty. For listeners seeking something beyond mainstream pop formulas, this release offers a refreshing and inspiring experience.
She Dances Alone is now available on all major streaming platforms. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the sound of an artist who continues to redefine what independent music can be.