Today, Motown Records’ German Queen of Soul Joy Denalane unveils her new single “The Show.”
This soulful slow-burn simmers over laidback guitar and a steady beat. It builds into a sweeping and soaring refrain backed by orchestral strings and cinematic horns. Joy’s vocal acrobatics uplift the hook as she confesses, “If my mistakes come to the surface, I’m sorry I was part of the show.”
Talking about the track, she shared, “The Show” is about that moment when kids realize, ‘After all, my parents are just as questionable and flawed as I am.’ When children become teenagers, their parents’ hero status is quite rightly questioned. I tell my children, ‘Please forgive me, that I too am only a part of the show, a part of the system and as such fallible.’ The song aims to soften the shock of that realization for the kids and help navigate them through the complexities of life.”
Forbes praised the original release of her Motown debut album LET YOURSELF BE LOVED and claimed, “Throughout her career, Denalane has remained intentional about developing and maintaining her own unique style. The release of LET YOURSELF BE LOVED is a celebration of the music that she loves, and a culmination the musician that she has become.” Meanwhile, Atwood Magazine raved, “Denalane’s syrupy smooth voice is a little bit Diana, a little bit Etta.” It has also racked up over 5 million-plus streams and counting thus far. Recently, she paid homage to Bill Withers with a traffic-stopping cover of “Use Me.” Receiving acclaim, Rated R&B said, “The German-born lady of soul, who has a remarkable affinity for channeling the kindred soul spirit of the past, does a fine job remaking the immortal song about getting the best use of someone.” Be on the lookout for more from Joy Denalane soon.
LET YOURSELF BE LOVED is in equal parts self-assertion, genealogy and homage to the great classics of the genre. A musical masterpiece where Denalane confidently brings together all the strands of her previous work. Nevertheless, she is not interested in vintage simulations of old soul recordings. She is driven by showing her musical identity. The album includes her singles “I Believe (Feat. BJ The Chicago Kid),” “I Gotta Know” and “Top Of My Love.” Recently Joy performed her track “Be Here In The Morning (Feat. CS Armstrong)” on COLORS.
Listen here.
