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Nakamarra isn’t set in one specific key, and there isn’t much functional harmony used in this song either; the key shifts around related tonal centers. The main key is Eb major (or Eb mixolydian), but it frequently drifts.

Intro: Ebmaj7 – Db major

(Imaj7 – bVIImaj7)

This can be seen modally as Eb mixolydian. Dbmaj7 can be analyzed as the flat VII chord.

Verse: Abmaj7/Eb - Ebmaj7 – Abmaj7 – Fmin7 – Cmaj9 - Abmaj7/Eb

(IVmaj7/I - Imaj7 – IVmaj7 - II-7 - bVImaj9 - IVmaj7/I)

The verse centers around Ebmaj7. This section mainly revolves around I and IV sonorities, with a temporary chord shift to the borrowed bVI (Cmaj9).

Chorus: Cmaj7 – Abmaj7 – Abmaj7(#11) – Cmin9 – Abmaj7(#11) – Dbmaj7

(bVImaj7 – IVmaj7 – IVmaj7(#11) - VI-9 - IVmaj7(#11) - bVIImaj7)

The chorus has no dominant function, the chorus alternates between borrowed chords (bVI) and subdominant (IV) chords.

Outro: Fmaj7 – Ebmaj7 – Dbmaj7 (x2), then Fmaj7 – Ebmaj7 – Gbmaj7

(IImaj7 – Imaj7 – bVIImaj7) then (IImaj7 – Imaj7 – bIIImaj7)

The outro ends with chromatic mediant movement (Eb → Gb)

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Hiatus Kaiyote is an Australian neo-soul and future soul band celebrated for their rich, experimental sound that fuses soul, R&B, jazz, funk, electronic, and hip-hop influences. Their complex rhythms, elegant harmonies, and profound emotional depth, the kind that feels both otherworldly and incredibly human make their music stand out. Famous musicians like Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and Anderson have taken notice of their distinct style.Even their tracks have been sampled by Paak.

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Nakamarra by Hiatus Kaiyote opens with the poetic image of sunrise beneath a desert sky, introducing themes of love, friendship, and cultural identity. Written by Nai Palm for her friend Hannah Nakamarra, the song honors both personal connection and Indigenous heritage. The repetition of “I love you” functions like a mantra, symbolizing love as a timeless force that unites souls beyond distance or difference. The use of “Nakamarra,” an Aboriginal skin name, deepens the cultural meaning, representing kinship and respect for land and ancestry. Ultimately, the song celebrates love not only as romance but as empathy, humility, and shared humanity—creating harmony between people, culture, and nature.

Verse

“I will follow you into the sunrise under desert sky”

With this opening line, Nakamarra immediately evokes renewal, endurance, and a spiritual journey. The desert sunrise symbolizes loyalty and trust that transcend distance and hardship, while “hearts connected for all to see” reflects emotional openness and sincerity.

Chorus

“I love you, I love you, I do”

Is simple yet powerful. Its mantra-like repetition expresses a love that is both romantic and spiritual, embodying emotional continuity and timeless devotion.

Verse

“Sweet red earth will embrace you”

Connects the song to the Australian landscape, representing strength, roots, and the nurturing power of the land. Lines such as “We are truly humbled, watching as I strive to understand your words” demonstrate humility and cross-cultural respect, emphasizing growth through empathy and learning.

Finally Chorus

“I’ll always love you”

Serves as a vow of eternal connection, its repetition echoing Indigenous oral traditions of reverence and spiritual invocation.

In essence, “Nakamarra” celebrates love as both personal and universal—an enduring expression of empathy, respect, and unity between humanity, culture, and the natural world.

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I’m Carmen, and I play piano and keys. Grew up with the whole ABRSM thing, and now I teach a bit too :) In the future, I want to work on more production stuff, but I’ll try my best on performing…

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Hiatus Kaiyote - Nakamarra cover by Lab Music Education Professional Program Students

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'Nakamarra' Cover by Sri Venkateswara College Band | Pulse 2017

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The name “Gas Station" was chosen because we see music as a kind of fuel-something that energizes people, brings them together, and keeps them moving forward. Just like a gas station is a place where travelers stop to refuel, our performances aim to recharge audiences with rhythm, harmony, and emotion.

Musically, we draw from jazz, soul, and R&B, with their smooth chords, improvisation, and expressive grooves, but we also enjoy blending in elements of popular music. This gives us a flexible style that can be both sophisticated and accessible, creating a sound that is warm, soulful, and contemporary.

As performers, we see ourselves not only as individual musicians but also as collaborators who contribute to a shared sound. Each member brings a unique voice, but together we form something greater than the sum of our parts. With Gas Station, our goal is to fuel listeners with music that is refreshing, uplifting, and memorable.

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https://youtu.be/jIWQyWCzK3Q?si=LzX6qhyjyWmZKei0

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BADBADNOTGOOD – In Your Eyes (ft. Charlotte Day Wilson)

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BADBADNOTGOOD – In Your Eyes (ft. Charlotte Day Wilson)

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https://youtu.be/-PCauQozne0?si=7HT9fPqJltuBx0y6

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The reason we choose both songs is because their different harmony and voicing, rhythm, and the contrast of the lyrics. At the same time, we choose the same genre and emotion songs base of our preference.

Nakamarra’s reliance on 7th tone creates a grounded and common warmth, which complements the lyrics about the sense of belonging; in contrast, the 9th/13th extension of In Your Eyes creates a floating and intimate atmosphere, amplifying the emotional weight of its sparse lyrics. Besides that, Nakamarra uses poetic and impressive lyrics, creating an expressive appearance and uplifting tone (Brill, 2014) while In Your Eyes is minimalist, using repetition to evoke a sense of intimacy and introspection. While Nakamarra paints a vivid image of the community, In Your Eyes focuses on the subtlety of emotions and shows how both expansive and minimal language can express deep human connection.

On the other hand, our band chose to play “Nakamarra” and “In Your Eyes” because both songs perfectly blend jazz, soul, and R&B. They allow us to explore rich harmonies, groove-based rhythms, and emotional dynamics. Besides that, studying and performing these songs allow us to explore different influences from African American traditions of jazz and soul that align with our musical interests, and the connection between contemporary sound and the theme of love and human connection.

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Key changes

This song are being played in 3 different keys, A minor in intro, verse 1 and the last outro, C minor in both chorus, verse 2 and post-bridge, and lastly Eb minor in the bridge.

Chords

In the very beginning of the intro and at the very end of the outro, the chords are just Dm9 and G13 (iv9 – VII13) on the 4th bar.

After that it went to this chords in post-intro:

Am9 – AbM9 – FM9 (i9 – bI9 – VI9)

Am9 – AbM9 – FM9

Am9 – AbM9 – FM9

Em9 – Dm11 – Am9 (v9 – iv11 – i9)

Verse 1 have pretty much the same chords, but it replaces Am9 with DbM7 as the transition of the modulation in the later part of the song.

The chords in the choruses are:

Fm7 – Gm7 (iv7 – v7)

Fm7 – Gm7

Fm7 – Gm7

Fm7 – Gm7 – Cm7 (iv7 – v7 – i7)

The chords in verse 2 are:

Cm7 – Ebm7 – Fm7 (i7 – iii7 – iv7)

Cm7 – Ebm7 – Fm7

Cm7 – Ebm7 – Fm7

Gm7 – Fm7 – Cm7 (v7 – iv7 – i7)

Bridge:

Abm7 – Bbm7 (iv7 – v7)

Abm7 – Bbm7

Abm7 – Bbm7

Abm7 – Bbm7

Post-bridge:

Fm7 – Gm7 – Abm7 – Bbm7 (iv7 – v7 – bvi7 – bvii7)

Fm7 – Gm7 – Abm7 – Bbm7

Fm7 – Gm7 – Abm7 – Bbm7

Fm7 – Gm7 – Abm7 – Bbm7

Lead Melody

The melodies in the intro are being played in A minor but there are some notes that are borrowed from other scales, such as Bb from Phrygian scale (b2) and D# from blues scale (#4).

The melodies in the chorus are only ranged between D4 to Bb4 (2 to 7) in C minor.

Next, the melodies in verse 2 are pretty much inside the C minor, except there is Gb (b5), which is a note taken from minor blues.

In the bridge, all of the melodies are inside the Eb minor that ranged from Db4 to Bb4 (₇ to 5).

And the outro, are being played in C minor with Gb as the borrowed note from blues scale (b5). It ranged from C4 to Gb4 (1 to b5)

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Hi, my name is Sharmayne Teoh, and I’m currently a music student. My musical journey began when I was four years old, when I joined the Yamaha Music Course. I continued there until I achieved my Grade 5 result meanwhile I also continue with ABRSM syllabus, where I completed Grade 8.

Along the way, I also joined my school’s marching band as part of the percussion team to explore instruments beyond the piano. Later, I became the conductor of the band, which allowed me to develop leadership and ensemble skills. Besides that, I’ve also self-learned a bit of guitar and ukulele out of personal interest.

Music has always been a big part of my life, and I’m excited to continue learning, performing, and growing as a musician.

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My name is Jia Jingte. I'm a vocalist, and I very afraid of the cold (like pic).. I will try to do my best.

PS: I can play a little be guitar and piano.

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My name is Isaac, I play guitar, bass and a bit of drums. I started playing guitar and bass when I was 12, and drums when I was 20 (last year). I completed my diploma in music from ICOM in 2024 and my Grade 8 in Rockschool soon after. I love performing and writing my own music. I enjoy listening to Jazz, Rock and Soul, with artists like Charles Mingus, Al Green and Slint. I plan to improve in all aspects of my musicianship, refine my songwriting, and  improve my studio production skills.

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Never being into music until my dad bought me a CD consisting of CCM songs, including some songs from Skillet, RED, Building429 and more. Because of that, I started to learn guitar when I was 10 and moved to coding when I was 12, but my brain is too weak for coding, so I went back to music, in order to be an EDM producer, during covid era (was 14 at that time), thus I played guitar again since then.

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Fundamentally, "In Your Eyes" expresses what it's like to want someone you shouldn't. It concerns two individuals who obviously have a connection, but one of them is already emotionally or romantically involved with someone else. Even though the narrator is aware that it's wrong and that they're going too far ("I know you know it's wrong but I'm ready"), she can't resist being drawn in by how strong and alluring the connection feels.

When it comes to verse-by-verse lyrical breakdown,

Verse 1

"Don't blow me off so I can't help it"
"When you shy off I can't help it"

In these 2 sentences, there's a combination of vulnerability and frustration can be seen. Clearly see that, the narrator is addressing someone who is probably already seeing someone else. Phrases like "when you shy off" and "don't blow me off" convey to the narrator the other person's lack of feeling or regret. Even though she is aware of the tension and difficulties, she is still drawn to them; her emotions appear to override rationality and self-control.

"And I know you know it's wrong but I'm ready"

This is where the moral conflict is made clear. Though the narrator acknowledges that she is emotionally and physically prepared to give in, both individuals acknowledge that what they are feeling or thinking is "wrong." It's a brave confession.

"So just rid yourself of him and come get it"

This is a direct invitation , she’s urging the other person to leave their current relationship and be with her instead. It’s blunt, raw, and honest, she’s tired of waiting, and the desire has reached its breaking point.

Pre-Chorus

"Got you enticed from the middle"

It's a interesting phrase, "enticed from the middle." It might indicate that she has captured the person's interest on an emotional level as well as a physical one. Additionally, it could mean that this person is "in the middle" of a relationship or emotional conflict and is drawn to her in spite of other commitments.

"You know I'm willin' and able"

A confident declaration of readiness , emotionally and physically. There’s no hesitation on her end.

"And I know you know it's on when you're ready"
"So just rid yourself of him and come get it"

The repetition reinforces mutual awareness: both feel the pull, but timing is the obstacle. She’s waiting for the other to be ready to act , but her patience is running thin.

Chorus

"Oooh, I see it in your eyes"
"In your eyes every time"

The song's emotional focal point is the eyes. They stand for silent communication between two people who are unable to publicly express their desire and truth beyond words. The phrase "every time" implies that this connection occurs frequently, perhaps these same emotions are rekindled with each encounter.

"(In your eyes)"
"Oooh, I see it in your eyes every time"

This echoing of the phrase builds intensity and sensuality. The simplicity of the chorus contrasts with the complex emotions in the verses , it’s hypnotic, as if she’s lost in the gaze.

Verse 2

"I know there's something about me / That you can't wait to just tell me"

She’s aware of her effect on this person. The tone here is flirtatious, but there’s also empathy , she knows they’re holding something back, perhaps feelings they can’t admit aloud.

"And I love the way you move, it's so bashful"

This line deepens the intimacy. “Bashful” describes a shyness that’s attractive , it suggests innocence mixed with desire, reinforcing the theme of restraint versus attraction.

"So just take my hand 'cause baby it's natural"

This is an invitation cloaked in reassurance. “It’s natural” suggests that their connection isn’t wrong , it’s instinctive, fated, something beyond social rules. She’s framing the act of coming together as something inevitable and right in its own way.

Pre-Chorus (Reprise)

"And I got you enticed from the middle"
"And I know you're willin' and able"
"And I know you've got someone but I'm ready"
"So just rid yourself of him and come get it"

This repetition brings heightened tension. The acknowledgment “you’ve got someone” makes the situation explicit , this is an emotional triangle. But “I’m ready” shows persistence; she’s no longer hiding or rationalizing her feelings.

Chorus (Reprise)

Repetition here intensifies the emotional pull. Each time she sings “I see it in your eyes,” it reinforces the sense that their connection transcends conversation , it’s seen, felt, and silently shared.

Bridge

"I'll let you into my life"
"And I'll show you, oh, when it's right"

The bridge introduces tenderness and sincerity. It’s no longer just seduction , it’s an offer of real intimacy. She’s willing to open up and show what love or connection could look like if the timing were right.

"Then I guess we can say we tried"
"Don't let this fall by the side"

She’s aware it might not work out , the line “we can say we tried” hints at bittersweet realism. But she still doesn’t want to lose the chance. “Don’t let this fall by the side” is a plea not to let their connection fade into what-ifs.

Outro

"'Cause I can't, can't leave / And I can't, can't wait"

This repetition conveys emotional entrapment. She’s stuck between patience and obsession , she can’t leave the situation, but she can’t wait for it to resolve either. That duality captures the pain of longing.

"'Cause I see it in your eyes / And I feel it every time"

Ending on the “eyes” motif brings the song full circle , returning to the silent, undeniable truth that has been present all along. The emotional loop continues, unresolved.

Conclusion

"In Your Eyes" has the feeling of a quiet storm. On the outermost layer, it seems gentle and soulful, but underneath, there is tension because you want something you know is wrong. It lives in that gray area between doing what you know is right and what your heart tells you is true. The way the song stays on the image of eyes makes it feel personal and unspoken, like an emotional conversation that happens in a glance, long before either person is brave enough to say anything. Ultimately, it is less about seduction and more about recognition, the irresistible attraction when two individuals perceive something genuine in one another, despite being aware of its inaccessibility.

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Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Hannah my darling
I will follow you into the sunrise under desert sky
We fly, rise together
With our hearts upon our sleeves for all to see
We two will breathe, aqua queen though vast distance between us
Heart sails with love for you

[Refrain]
I love you, I love you I do
Love you, I love you, I love you I do

[Verse 2]
Nakamarra sweet red earth will hold you
Like the strength you bless to me
True we engage humility, watch me struggle with your words
However truthful they may be
We'll see in time, opening our hearts
And nurturing our minds to shine

[Refrain]
I love you, love you, I love you I do...
Love you, I love you, I love you I do...

[Verse 3]
Oh, it sets our hearts to fire
Sweeps you and I
Honey don't you know, it sets our heart to fire
Sweeps you and I
Honey don't you know we too will pulse in through this light
Honey don't you know we too will pulse

[Refrain]
I'll always love you, love you, love you I do
Love you, love you, I love you I do

[Verse 1]
Hannah my darling
I will follow you into the sunrise under desert sky
We fly, rise together
With our hearts upon our sleeves for all to see
We two will breathe, aqua queen though vast distance between us
Heart sails with love for you

[Refrain]
I love you, I love you I do
Love you, I love you, I love you I do

[Verse 3]
Oh, it sets our hearts to fire
Sweeps you and I
Honey don't you know, it sets our heart to fire
Sweeps you and I
Honey don't you know we too will pulse love in through this light
Honey don't you know we too will pulse

[refrain]
I'll always love you, love you, love you I do
Love you, love you, love you I do...
Yeah yeah yeah...

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Lyrics

[Verse 1: Charlotte Day Wilson]
Don't blow me off so I can't help it
When you shy off I can't help it
And I know you know it's wrong but I'm ready
So just rid yourself of him and come get it

[Pre-Chorus: Charlotte Day Wilson]
Got you enticed from the middle
You know I'm willin' and able
And I know you know it's on when you're ready
So just rid yourself of him and come get it

[Chorus: Charlotte Day Wilson]
Oooh, I see it in your eyes
In your eyes every time
(In your eyes)
Oooh, I see it in your eyes every time

[Verse 2: Charlotte Day Wilson]
I know there's something about me
That you can't wait to just tell me
And I love the way you move, it's so bashful
So just take my hand 'cause baby it's natural

[Pre-Chorus: Charlotte Day Wilson]
And I got you enticed from the middle
And I know you're willin' and able
And I know you've got someone but I'm ready
So just rid yourself of him and come get it

[Chorus: Charlotte Day Wilson]
Oooh, I see it in your eyes
In your eyes every time
(In your eyes)
Oooh, I see it in your eyes
In your eyes every time
Oh

[Bridge: Charlotte Day Wilson]
I'll let you into my life
And I'll show you, oh, when it's right
Then I guess we can say we tried
Don't let this fall by the side

[Outro: Charlotte Day Wilson]
'Cause I can't, can't leave
And I can't, can't wait
'Cause I can't, can't leave
And I can't, can't wait
'Cause I see it in your eyes
And I feel it every time
'Cause I see it in your eyes

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BADBADNOTGOOD | In Your Eyes (Feat. Charlotte Day Wilson)

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BADBADNOTGOOD performing "In Your Eyes (feat. Charlotte Day Wilson)" Live on KCRW

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BADBADNOTGOOD - In Your Eyes (feat. Charlotte Day Wilson) (Bass Cover) (Play Along Tabs In Video)

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"In Your Eyes" Drum Cover- badbadnotgood

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How to play “In Your Eyes“ by BADBADNOTGOOD!!

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BADBADNOTGOOD - In Your Eyes (Uncommon Cover)

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In Your Eyes - BADBADNOTGOOD (Cover by Cordelia Fox)

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Background of Jazz, Soul, and R&B (Rhythm and Blues)

 

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Background of Jazz, Soul, and R&B (Rhythm and Blues)

 

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Jazz, Soul, and R&B (Rhythm and Blues) are closely related genres that share roots in African American musical traditions.

Jazz originated in the early 1900s in New Orleans, combining blues, ragtime, and African rhythmic sensibilities. It was soon known for its improvisation, synchronized rhythm and harmonic depth (Tribino, 2024). Early jazz evolved through styles like wing and bebop, with musicians such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington and Miles David shaping its identity. Jazz emphasized creative personality which every performance is a spontaneous dialogue between instruments.

R&B appeared in the 1940s, combining jazz, blues and gospel elements. It emphasized strong rhythmic grooves, backbeats, and expressive vocals, which is suitable for both dance and emotion. Artists such as Ray Charles and Ruth Brown helped shape the sound, which later evolved into rock ‘n’ roll (Kyhana, 2023). Over time, R&B expanded to include more sophisticated production, lush harmony, paving the way for modern soul and pop music.

Soul music, rising in the 1950s and 60s, drew heavily from gospel’s emotion delivery and R&B’s rhythmic foundation. Pioneers such as Aretha Franklin, Sam Cooke, and Otis Redding infused a message of love, faith, and empowerment into their music. The soul was centred on human emotions and authenticity, making it one of the most expressive musical forms at that time.

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She is the Lead vocals, guitar, and primary songwriter. Known for her soulful, raw voice and poetic lyricism.

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His the Bassist and producer, grounding the band’s experimental sound with deep groove.

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His the Keyboardist, brings jazz and electronic textures to their songs.

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“Nakamarra” by Hiatus Kaiyote (Sharmayne)

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“Nakamarra” by Hiatus Kaiyote (Sharmayne)

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It is mainly classified as neo-soul and future soul, with strong elements of R&B, jazz, and funk.

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“In Your Eyes” by BADBADNOTGOOD (featuring Charlotte Day Wilson) (Sharmayne)

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“In Your Eyes” by BADBADNOTGOOD (featuring Charlotte Day Wilson) (Sharmayne)

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is best described as a blend of neo-soul, alternative R&B, and jazz fusion.

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Both “Nakamarra” by Hiatus Kaiyote and “In Your Eyes” by BADBADNOTGOOD featuring Charlotte Day Wilson fall under the same soulful, genre-blending universe , a mix of neo-soul, jazz fusion, and alternative R&B. They share that warm, dreamy atmosphere built from rich harmonies, smooth grooves, and emotional, expressive vocals. While Nakamarra feels more earthy and rhythm-driven, In Your Eyes leans into a softer, cinematic flow , yet both songs blur the lines between soul, jazz, and modern R&B in such a natural, forward-thinking way. It’s that perfect balance of groove and feeling music that hits both the heart and the head.

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Hiatus Kaiyote–type

“Tadow” – Masego & FKJ

BADBADNOTGOOD–type

“Get You” – Daniel Caesar ft. Kali Uchis

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His the Drummer and producer, known for intricate beats and polyrhythmic percussion.

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The band originated in Melbourne when self-taught singer, guitarist, and composer Nai Palm (Naomi Saalfield) started playing solo at open mics in the area. Paul Bender, a bassist and producer, immediately became attracted to her music because of her vocals and songwriting. After that, he got in touch with her and recommended starting a band to give her songs a rich, dynamic sound. After deciding to work together, Nai Palm and Bender looked out for other musicians who could handle the kind of complicated emotional, and experimental music they were interested in producing. At that point, Perrin Moss, a drummer and producer with experience in hip-hop and electronic music, and Simon Mavin, a jazz keyboardist widely recognised in the Melbourne scene joined in.

They officially formed Hiatus Kaiyote in 2011. The name reflects two ideas “Hiatus” means a break or a pause (symbolizing freedom from musical boundaries) “Kaiyote” means a made-up word inspired by “coyote,” representing instinct, adaptability, and creativity.

Their first album, Tawk Tomahawk (2013), was released independently before being picked up by Flying Buddha/Sony Music after Q-Tip (from A Tribe Called Quest) heard their music and became a huge fan.

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Hiatus Kaiyote hasn’t collected dozens of trophies, but their three Grammy nominations and international respect have made them one of the most influential and innovative bands in modern R&B and soul admired for artistry over commercialism.

Grammy Awards (U.S.)

Hiatus Kaiyote is a multi–Grammy-nominated band which is especially impressive considering they’re an independent group from Australia.

1. 2014 – Best R&B Performance

Nominated for: “Nakamarra” (featuring Q-Tip)

From their debut album “Tawk Tomahawk”

2. 2016 – Best R&B Performance

Nominated for: “Breathing Underwater”

From their second album “Choose Your Weapon”

3. 2022 – Best Progressive R&B Album

Nominated for: “Mood Valiant”

Their third album, released under Brainfeeder/Ninja Tune

ARIA Music Awards (Australia)

The ARIA Awards are Australia’s biggest music awards (like the Grammys of Australia), and Hiatus Kaiyote has been recognized multiple times there too.

2021 – Nominated: Best Soul/R&B Release (“Mood Valiant”)

2015 – Nominated: Best Urban Album (“Choose Your Weapon”)

2014 – Nominated: Best Urban Album (“Tawk Tomahawk”)

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1. Nai Palm is entirely self-taught. She never had formal music training , she learned guitar and developed her voice by ear, drawing inspiration from nature, anime, and old soul records.

2. Nai Palm used to be a fire dancer before music. Before forming the band, she performed with fire and did visual art , creativity has always been her way of life.

3. Nai Palm battled breast cancer — and came back stronger. During the making of Mood Valiant (2021), she was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a mastectomy. Instead of stopping, she channeled her healing journey into the album’s themes of resilience and womanhood.

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Nakamarra by Hiatus Kaiyote - Tabs and Transcriptions Inside! - Transcription Tuesday w/ Dale

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The development of jazz, soul, and R&B over the 20th century created the foundation for most of today’s contemporary music. In the 21st century, these genres combined to build new forms such as neo-soul and modern jazz fusion, which highlight emotional depth, groove, and harmonic richness. Artists such as Hiatus Kaiyote and BADBDNOTGOOD reinterpret modern production techniques and worldwide influences to transform these traditions. “Nakamarra” reflects soul’s expressive warmth with jazz’s harmonic sophistication, while “In Your Eyes” expands R&B’s smooth rhythmic flow and atmospheric tone. Both groups demonstrate how 21st-century musicians combine the improvisational freedom of jazz, the emotional sincerely of soul, and the rhythmic sensuality pf R&B to create intimate but forward-thinking soundscapes.

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Instrument Line-up

Both songs blend a mix of neo-soul, R&B, and jazz fusion. Within the context of these genres, these bands share the same line-up of instruments: Drums, keys/piano, bass, guitar and lastly vocals.

Harmony

Both songs utilize rich chords and lush voicings with the use of extended chords (7ths, 9ths and 11ths), non-diatonic shifts, and borrowed chord progressions. For example: Nakamarra by Hiatus Kaiyote flows through chords that don’t strictly belong to one key. The main key it’s in is Eb major but even then, it frequently drifts.

Instrumentation

While both songs may sound different, the key characteristics of the genre (neo-soul/alternative R&B) are still there. Starting with the groove, both songs make use of syncopated drumming with hip-hop style drumbeats, but In Your Eyeshaving a little more of a straight-forward beat. Both songs also have very fluid warm electric piano/Rhodes tones and very busy but smooth bass lines that really hold the songs together. The vocals are expressive, soulful, and conversational. Altogether creating a very personal and laid-back feeling to both songs.

Production and form

Both songs utilize atmospheric layering, cinematic textures (especially In Your Eyes), and the use of dynamics to shape the “contour” of each section of these songs. Both songs actually have more “traditional” song forms, In Your Eyes and Nakamarra mainly use an ABAB song format, but Hiatus Kaiyote brilliantly employs the use of odd-time sigantures in Nakamarra.

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Both Nakamarra by Hiatus Kaiyote and In Your Eyes by BADBADNOTGOOD featuring Charlotte Day Wilson, are part of the modern soul and R&B, but each shows a different side of it. Nakamarra fits mostly into the neo-soul and alternative R&B genre, while In Your Eyes blends contemporary jazz, R&B, and soul fusion. Despite their different sounds, both songs reflect how today’s musicians mix soul, jazz, and R&B influences to create warm, emotional and expressive music.

Neo-soul is a style that emerged in the 1990s as a new version of classic soul and R&B. Artists like as Erykah Badu, D’Angelo, and Lauryn Hill made it popular by mixing warm, emotional vocals with jazzy chords, hip-hop grooves, and lyrics that were personal and honest. Neo-soul is not as shiny or commercial as pop R&B; instead, it is more easy going, thoughtful, and creative. That is why it often sounds deeper and more artistic. Alternative R&B, which developed later, took those same soulful, adding electronic elements and unexpected rhythms. Hiatus Kaiyote’s Nakamarra shows both sides perfectly. The band uses funky rhythm, jazz-like chords, and smoother basslines, but they also use some electronic textures to make it sounds modern. The groove feels natural and earthy, with drum and bass working together to make it smooth yet interesting. Nal Palm’s voice is soulful and emotional, she slides between notes, adds soft improvisations, and sings in a way that feel spiritual, which fits the neo-soul tradition, but the structure of the song feels looser and more experimental. Lastly, the warm sound of the electric guitar and the glowing chords from the keys give the song that soulful and human atmosphere. This makes Nakamarra an excellent example of what is now known as “future soul”, which is basically neo-soul with a futuristic edge.

On the other hand, In Your Eyes by BADBADNOTGOOD featuring Charlotte Day Wilson sits between jazz, soul and R&B to create a modern but emotional sound. The group began as jazz musicians who loved reinterpreting hip-hop and R&B songs in their own unique style, and this influence continues to affect their music today. Their sound frequently blends jazz fusion, soul, and neo-soul, showing the expressive side of instrumental music. In this song, the leisure groove and Charlotte Day Wilson’s delicate, emotional vocals give it a neo-soul feeling, while the harmony and arrangement clearly come from jazz. The chords are rich and smooth, the rhythm is gentle and steady, and the whole ambiance is warm and intimate. Instead of complex jazz solo, BADBADBNOTGOOD focuses on mood and texture, using their musicianship to create emotion. The reserved drumbeat and simple bassline give the song slow, while piano and guitar add soft layers underneath. Wilson’s voice feels intimate and personal, like she’s telling a quiet story, and her delivery connects to other neo-soul singers who focus on honesty and feeling.  The lyrics explore love, vulnerability, and connection, which are common themes in both R&B and soul. Together, their collaboration represents contemporary jazz-soul fusion, blending jazz harmony, soul emotion, ad R&B warmth.

Overall, Nakamarra by Hiatus Kaiyote and In Your Eyes come from different countries and artists, they share similarities. They avoid bright pop beats and focus on warm tones, relaxed grooves, and emotional vocals. Nakamarra adds Australian creativity to neo-soul, while In Your Eyes shows how a jazz band can make soulful music that feels fresh and real. Both highlight live, heartfelt performances and smooth harmonies, demonstrating that even as genre mix and evolve, the soul and emotion behind the music remain eternal.

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An Analytical case study: Hiatus Kaiyote. (2018, June 5). The Musings of a Musician. https://rachelallenmusic484001540.wordpress.com/2018/05/12/an-analytical-case-study-hiatus-kaiyote/

Baileypennick, V. a. P. B. (2020, February 6). The alchemy behind Nai Palm’s intuitive and curious techniques. BAILEY PENNICK. https://baileypennick.com/2019/03/05/the-alchemy-behind-nai-palms-intuitive-and-curious-techniques/

Brill, J. (2014, August 26). Hiatus Kaiyote Interview + Session-.

https://www.stampthewax.com/2013/07/17/artist-spotlight-hiatus-kaiyote-interview-session/

Cowie, Del F. (2014). Hiatus Kaiyote on the meaning of “Nakamarra”.

https://share.google/UVWvSzjI2PmcUUmyN

Kyhana (2023, Oct 18). The Evolution of R&B.

https://medium.com/@kyhana/the-evolution-of-r-b-0860ed73f26e

Meaning of In your eyes by BADBADNOTGOOD (Ft. Charlotte Day Wilson).

(2023, June 20). https://www.songtell.com/badbadnotgood-ft-charlotte-day-wilson/in-your-eyes

Songtell. (2023). Meaning of In Your Eyes by BADBADNOTGOOD (Ft. Charlotte Day Wilson).

https://www.songtell.com/badbadnotgood-ft-charlotte-day-wilson/in-your-eyes

Ritz, & David. (2025, October 3). Soul music | Definition, Songs, Artists, & Facts. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/art/soul-music

Tribino, C. (2024, April 9). The evolution of jazz music — Oh! jazz. Oh! Jazz.

https://www.ohjazz.tv/mag/the-evolution-of-jazz-music

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hiatus_Kaiyote#2011–2013:_Formation_and_Tawk_Tomahawk

https://www.grammy.com/artists/hiatus-kaiyote/18210

https://genius.com/Badbadnotgood-in-your-eyes-lyrics

https://sonichits.com/video/badbadnotgood_featuring_charlotte_day_wilson/in_your_eyes

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While both songs are categorized as soul R&B, but their differences are basically like day and night. Here are some comparisons between these two songs:

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• Nakamarra: Warm and playful neo-soul r&b

• In your eyes: Smooth and emotional-driven soul r&b

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• Nakamarra: Using offbeat syncopation to make the groove sounds alive as it is being shown at the start of the second half of the chorus

• In your eyes: Everything sounds quantised as the harmonies are becoming their focus from the musical aspect of this song

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• Nakamarra: Using varied jazz chords (7th, 9th, 11th) and the chords placement are all over the place as they are just being used for emotional color. This song also play the chords like it is the melody

• In your eyes: The chords are just stuck with major 7th and minor 7th (although the verse 1 are using 9th chords), also the chord change rate are pretty much slower than Nakamarra to fill the original purpose of being the chords

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• Nakamarra: Using scat singing to phrase with known lyrics as shown in the fifth bar of the verses

• In your eyes: Controlled and rhythm-based phrasing while emphasizing on the emotion

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• Nakamarra: Abstract but sweet

• In your eyes: Direct but emotional

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• Nakamarra: Energetic for soul R&B standard and funky

• In your eyes: Smooth, relaxing, and sounds united

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• Nakamarra: Morning trip music 🏜️

• In your eyes: Calm night music 🌃

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BADBADNOTGOOD is a Canadian instrumental group formed in Toronto in 2010, consisting of musicians Alexander Sowinski, Chester Hansen, and Leland Whitty. The band is known for blending jazz, hip-hop, and electronic elements into an experimental and atmospheric sound. Emerging from their reinterpretations of hip-hop tracks by artists like J Dilla and MF DOOM, BBNG quickly gained recognition for bridging underground jazz improvisation with contemporary popular music.

Their song “In Your Eyes” (featuring Charlotte Day Wilson) from the 2016 album IV reflects the band’s fusion of soulful melodies and cinematic textures, highlighting their focus on emotional depth and organic instrumentation. The collaboration with Wilson adds a smooth vocal layer to their typically instrumental compositions, showcasing the group’s versatility and sensitivity in crafting music that feels both intimate and expansive.

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He is a Canadian musician, producer, and drummer for instrumental group BADBADNOTGOOD. With the band, he has released five studio albums and is noted for his jazz drumming musicianship.

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He is a Canadian musician and songwriter, best known as bassist of instrumental group BADBADNOTGOOD.

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He is a Canadian musician, songwriter, and music producer. He is best known as a founder of the instrumental group BADBADNOTGOOD. with whom he released five studio albums and produced with for other artists.

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He is A multi-instrumentalist. Most known primarily for being the saxophonist in the Canadian band BADBADNOTGOOD.

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BADBADNOTGOOD (often abbreviated as BBNG) formed in 2010 in Toronto, Canada, when Alexander Sowinski (drums), Chester Hansen (bass), and Matthew Tavares (keyboards) met while studying in the Humber College jazz program. The trio bonded over their shared interest in jazz improvisation and hip-hop production, blending two genres that were rarely combined in formal music schools at the time.

Their breakthrough came when they posted experimental jazz covers of Odd Future and J Dilla tracks on YouTube, attracting widespread attention for their raw energy and genre-defying sound. These viral performances led to collaborations with major hip-hop artists such as Tyler, The Creator and Ghostface Killah.

By 2012, BADBADNOTGOOD had released their self-produced albums BBNG and BBNG2, which solidified their reputation as innovators bridging the worlds of jazz, electronic music, and hip-hop. The group later expanded with saxophonist Leland Whitty, further refining their sound into a more cinematic and soulful style.

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BADBADNOTGOOD has received widespread acclaim for their innovative fusion of musical genres. Their album IV, released in 2016, was nominated for the Polaris Music Prize, recognizing it as one of Canada’s most significant and influential albums of the year.

In 2022, their collaboration with KARMA and Daniel Caesar on the single “Love Again” won the Juno Award for Traditional R&B/Soul Recording of the Year. In addition, the band has been nominated multiple times for Juno Awards, including categories such as Group of the Year and Instrumental Album of the Year.

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• Nakamarra: Intro – Verse 1 – Chorus – Verse 2 – Chorus – Chorus 2 – Verse 3 – Chorus 2 – Outro

• In your eyes: Intro – Verse 1 – Chorus – Verse 2 – Chorus – Outro

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1. All of us think about the Group Name and the concept of [Gas Station]

2. Yap Kai Min- Rationale behind the setlist, Leadsheet for Nakamarra, Music Genre, Other Relevant Information Pertaining to the setlist

3. Sharmayne Teoh - Organize & design the padlet, Analysis in lyrics for In Your Eyes , Artist background of Nakamarra, Song covers for both songs, Similar Artists and songs to the genre

4. Grady Calvin - Analysis in Music for In Your Eyes, Comparison of both songs,

5. Isaac Alexander- Leadsheet for In Your Eyes, Analysis in Music for Nakamarra, Genre Characteristics

6. Jia Jing Te- Analysis in Lyrics for Nakamarra, Artist background of In Your Eyes