My recent discovery of Lulu James and her latest single “Sweetest Thing” left me thinking “Wow, she is soul good!”
James’ brand of 21st century soul has been stuck in my head the last couple weeks, and rightly so with its loved up, future R&B groove. With a laidback electronic production, and a minimal beat, James’ sultry voice lends itself to the infectious melody and chorus. The song is silky and bubbly at the same time, seductive, playful and optimistic.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldvISWVpzEg
Tanzanian born and UK raised, she first honed her skills in singing and harmonizing in her grandmother’s choir. Influenced by artists from Whitney Houston and India.Arie to Mount Kimbie and Jamie XX, James has worked with producers like Dom Zilla, Dave Okumu and Kidnap Kid to create soulful deep disco in “Closer” to post-dubstep seduction in “Be Safe.”
Gaining support from BBC Radio 1 DJ Annie Mac has helped expose audiences to her talents and in November James’ will be featured on the Annie Mac Presents Tour.
Lulu James’ single could fit well in cores like The Blvd., Urban Beat and Trendspot as well as customs that could benefit from a modern sophisticated, soul jam like this one.
“Sweetest Thing” will be released on November 4th. Here’s hoping she releases an album soon as well!
– Submitted by Jesse Nathason, Music Design