Don't you just love New Music Friday? What is arguably already the best day of the week was just made even better by the debut solo single from Halle Bailey, titled “Angel.” I mean, what more could you ask for?
Other new releases today, from brand new singles to highly anticipated full-length projects, include a joint track from Jordan Ward and 6LACK, a new single from Uncle Waffles (affectionately known as the Princess of Amapiano), the sophomore album from K-pop group TREASURE, and an unexpected remix and collaboration from LE SSERAFIM and Demi Lovato. Keep scrolling to check out our selects for this week's best new songs and releases. Happy NMF, friends. *kissy emoji*
Halle, “Angel”
The Little Mermaid and The Color Purple star and Chloe x Halle alum Halle Bailey is setting out on her own, making waves with her first solo single “Angel.” The vocally-impressive song arrives with a gorgeous music video directed by Wendy Morgan, in which Halle is depicted a living art, moving with water and paint brush-stroked clouds like a bonafide angel.
“This song for me is so very special and near and dear to my heart," the four-time Grammy nominated singer said about her record in a statement. "With everything I’ve gone through the past 3-4 years, suddenly finding myself in this bubble of all these eyes and new opinions, it was easy for me to feel doubt in myself and who I was. This song for me was my climb out of those feelings, a mantra and promise to myself that the work I’m doing here on earth matters and that I matter. I wanted to be able to embrace and be proud of myself and who I am naturally through and through. I hope other brown and Black girls and everyone in general feel embraced, respected, and inspired hearing the words of this song.”
Jordan Ward featuring 6LACK, “MUSTARD”
28-year-old artist Jordan Ward is almost ready to drop the deluxe version of his critically-acclaimed album FORWARD, and is setting the tempo with his new single off the expanded project, “Mustard.” The new record features Ward's fellow R&B innovator 6LACK.
“We made this song a year ago just playing around," Jordan Ward tells Teen Vogue in an exclusive statement, “And it actually grew to be one of my favorite songs. I’m hype to finally share it with the world!!” The deluxe, titled moreward(FORWARD), is expected to hit shelves later this month on August 25. The genre-challenging singer-songwriter will also go on the road this fall with his “Mustard” collaborator, joining 6LACK as the opener for his Since I Have a Lover Tour in the United States. The VHS-taped visualizer for “Mustard” speaks directly to the smooth, free spirit of Ward's music, and is a promising offer to fill that Frank Ocean-shaped hole in your heart. Listen to “Mustard” by Jordan Ward and 6LACK above.
LE SSERAFIM featuring Demi Lovato, “Eve, Psyche & The Bluebeard’s wife”
How many remixes can a song have? When it comes to HYBE releases, the limit seemingly does not exist — but we can’t complain when they are as good as this one. Originally released back in May as part of LE SSERAFIM's debut studio album, “Eve, Psyche & The Bluebeard’s wife” immediately became a fan favorite and a constant on social media. The song got the English treatment in early July, followed by remixes from the likes of UPSAHL and Rina Sawayama later in the month.
Now, to usher in August, the track is getting another revamp with the help of labelmate Demi Lovato and the result is a feast for the ears. Lovato showcases their vocal prowess with an added verse and sprinkled adlibs that elevate the track even further. “I see it written on your face / I know you want a little taste / You know I’ll put you in your place / You’re crawling on the floor / Begging me for more,” Lovato belts halfway through the track, with a suave murmured verse following suit. The summer of being a mess in distress but still well-dressed continues, and we are not mad at it.
TREASURE, Reboot
After much anticipation, K-pop group TREASURE is back with their second studio album, and they are welcoming a whole new era. Compromising ten tracks, including subunit T5's sensuous “Move,” Reboot has something for everyone. Want some high-powered and danceable? Look no further than “I Want Your Love” or title track “Bona Bona.” Looking for your next rom-com-worthy rock anthem? “Run” is the one for you. In the mood for a vocal feast? “The Way To” is just want you need. It might have taken a bit, but the end result was well worth the wait. Featuring even more creative contributions by the members than ever before, Reboot heralds a bright future for TREASURE.
Uncle Waffles, “Echoes”
23-year-old international superstar and DJ-producer Uncle Waffles is blessing us with a brand new song ahead of sophomore EP Solace, which is slated to release on August 11. “Echoes” featuring Tony Duardo and Manana & Lusanda is a 180 from the sound that dominated her first EP Asylum — soft, serene, and imaginatively romantic, the billowing new record is the perfect soundtrack to close out your soft-girl summer.
“This new EP represents peace,” the Princess of Amapiano said in a statement. “It’s a reflection of the positive things that have happened in my life recently, both personally and professionally. Asylum was very upbeat and explosive, but I’m looking forward to introducing listeners to a new side of my artistry. ‘Echoes’ is the first single dropping that will set the tone for what’s to come.”
