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Get ready for a show that redefines duets! Just the 2 of Us unites award-winning Canadian chanteuse Joëlle Rabu and Nigerian-born rising star Buwa in a concert that crosses musical eras and styles. Born decades apart in different corners of the globe, they join forces to celebrate 60 years of music.
On Thursday, November 28, Joëlle and Buwa will breathe fresh energy into classics by Piaf, Garland, Elton John, and Prince, supported by a stellar ensemble. Presented by the Sid Williams Theatre Society’s Blue Circle Series, this concert is a tribute to the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect hearts.
At its core, Just the 2 of Us showcases music that bridges generations and genres. Buwa emphasizes the eclectic mix of styles, describing the show as “nothing short of electrifying…[it’s] two powerhouses coming together sharing music that we both love….that convey love, joy, positivity, vulnerability.”
For both artists, the songs reflect their personal journeys and experiences. “Singing is just a part of our life…our music is always about the world around us, what we’ve been through – the joys, the ups and downs,” says Joëlle.
Joëlle’s journey into music was a twist of fate. Though she had a musical childhood, including teen years in choirs and theatre at Courtenay Junior and G. P. Vanier, she hadn’t planned on making it a career. She recalls a pivotal moment when her brother bragged to somebody mounting a show about songstress Edith Piaf. “He said, ‘Oh, my sister sounds just like Piaf.’ So the director gave the girl without a resumé a chance to sing. Next thing I knew, I was in full-time music and theatre in Vancouver. It was a hit play and kept running…that was 40 years ago!”
Buwa’s journey, by contrast, was a determined pursuit of opportunity. A Nigerian performer who landed in Nanaimo in 2016, he explains, “I moved because I wanted a better life and opportunities for myself and for my family.”
For him, the joy of performing is innate – a deep-rooted passion he cannot ignore. “There was never one thing that inspired me to be a performer. There’s an indescribable level of joy and contentment I feel when I get a chance to perform. I do not take it for granted as it is a privilege I hold dear to my heart.” Through his music, he seeks to reshape perceptions of Africa, celebrating its richness and diversity while sharing personal stories that resonate with audiences.
The connection between Joëlle and Buwa blossomed through their musical director (Joëlle’s son) Nico Rhodes, who introduced them four years ago at a Port Theatre concert series that Joëlle helped stage. She recalls their instant bond: “Hearing Buwa sing for the first time, I was absolutely gobsmacked by his phenomenal voice and the honesty in his presence.”
Their friendship flourished despite their differences in age, culture, and musical style. “As much as I’ve got a young soul in me, he’s got old soul in him,” says Joëlle. “So it seems to marry well on stage with music.”
Buwa was likewise impressed with Joëlle. “Can I just start with the fact that Joëlle is INCREDIBLE and such a gift! It's an honor to get to share the stage with her…. Good music recognizes good music regardless of time and style.”
Having decided on a partnership, selecting songs for the concert proved to be both a challenge and a joy.
Joëlle explains, “We realized we had about three shows worth of songs!” But as they sifted through potential tracks, they discovered that many love songs felt awkward due to their different life stages. “It’s not like we’re the same age. His path in love is totally different from mine...I’ve lost a lot of love; he’s creating new love.”
Ultimately, they chose more humorous selections, incorporating influences from their African and French backgrounds, as well as Latin music. The result is a vibrant mix of duets, mashups and solos that connects with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Central to the collaboration is their talented backup band, featuring Rhodes on piano and vocals, Alexandra Lee on cello and Brad Shipley on guitar, mandolin and vocals. Each member’s unique musical background adds depth to the performance, enriching the show and allowing the duo to shine.
Looking ahead, Joëlle and Buwa hope to keep growing their partnership, including potential recordings and tours, starting with two weeks in Mexico this March.
Join Joëlle Rabu and Buwa for an unforgettable evening that celebrates how music can unite us all.