Common Ground [7"]

Mophono and Rojai as the Motavators - Common Ground [7"]

CB Records proudly presents Mophono and Rojai as The Motavators. Blending vintage funk production with deep, lowrider soul songwriting, The Motavators create a sound that is simultaneously melancholy, emotional, and vibrant—cinematic in warmth and timeless in its feel. Their debut single, “Common Ground,” speaks to the shared human struggle that transcends boundaries. It reflects the weight communities bear under systemic greed and corruption, and honors the resilience, strength, and humanity of honest, hardworking people. At its core, it is both a protest and a love song—a tribute to heroic hearts and intentions. This 7” release features some of the Bay Area’s most talented live instrumentalists and marks a vocal-driven departure for Mophono, reimagining his signature experimental style through the lens of classic funk and lowrider soul. The B-side, “Can’t Ignore,” is a timeless love song—patient, heartfelt, and deeply grooving. Anchored by an undeniable rhythm section, staccato piano and guitar interplay, and lush strings, it balances playful funk energy with soulful, immersive depth. Rojai (Row-Juh), aka Jairo Vargas, hails from San Francisco’s Mission District and brings over two decades of experience as the frontman for Bayonics, The Pocket, and Starship Connection. He (more...)