POP/NEO-SOUL

 UK singer-songwriter Tia Gordon returns with her six-track EP, i asked the stars for this. X, alongside the soulful single “friends,” produced by Earl Hondo. She also opens up on the reflective track “should i give it up?,” a deeply personal meditation on the self-doubt and emotional exhaustion many creatives face while pursuing success. Blending soothing production with heartfelt lyricism, Gordon’s soulful sound captures everyday vulnerability with tender simplicity and emotional depth, creating music that resonates with listeners searching for reassurance and connection.

Yaya Bey delivers a deeply moving and intimate tribute with “Forty Days,” a standout track from her third album Fidelity . Dedicated to her late father, Grand Daddy I.U. of the Juice Crew, the song reflects on grief, spirituality, and the belief that it takes forty days for a loved one’s spirit to reach the ancestors. Over a dusty, soulful groove, Bey sings directly to him, asking for guidance, comfort, and love during this transitional period, while the official video deepens the emotional weight by capturing her at home surrounded by photographs of her late relatives. These personal visuals reinforce themes of remembrance and connection, turning the video into both a memorial and a celebration of family, as the refrain “and it don’t stop” underscores a bond that transcends death and a devotion that endures long after loss.

Jorja Smith delivers a smooth, late-night vibe with “Price of It All,” a standout from the Bait soundtrack. The track carries a laid-back, easygoing feel, perfect for unwinding with a glass of wine, even if it doesn’t fully push boundaries. Its subtle charm leans more into mood than standout moments. Directed by KC Locke, the cinematic visual adds depth, placing Smith in stylized spy and assassin scenarios, with action-driven scenes that reflect the series’ blend of thriller, drama, and dark humor.

Rising indie vocalist Avara’s “Levitate” music video, directed and produced by Vinaini Jayasinghe, brings a moody elegance to her R&B and contemporary soul sound. The Indian-American artist, born in NYC, delivers a sultry performance while dressed as a ballerina, gracefully spinning and executing pole acrobatics in a dark, airy setting while blending her classical dance training. Paired with lyrics about independence and self-worth, Avara’s hypnotic movements mirror her message of emotional detachment, creating a visually captivating and empowering experience that lingers well beyond the final note.