Amaarae Set to Release New Album “Black Star”
Release Date and Single Announcement
The highly anticipated follow-up to Amaarae’s debut album, “Fountain Baby,” is set to arrive on August 8, 2023. Titled “Black Star,” the album will be released via Interscope Records. Fans can get a taste of the new project by watching the music video for the Ghanaian highlife-inspired single “S.M.O.,” which was filmed in Ghana under the direction of Omar Jones.
Musical Influences and Artistic Vision
In a recent press release, Amaarae shared her thoughts on the new single, emphasizing her love for musical fusion:
Fusion as Strength
“For as long as I’ve made music, fusion has been my strength,” she stated. “This comes to full fruition on ‘S.M.O.’ The song draws inspiration from 1980s Ghanaian highlife pioneer Ata Kak and combines it with a compelling Detroit club bass.” She also noted that the track features a drum roll reminiscent of both Magic System’s “1er Gaou” and Michael Jackson’s “Rock With You,” along with an infectious zouk melody that evokes a steel pan sound paired with an edgy synth.
Artistic Comparisons
Amaarae describes her artistic identity with confidence, stating, “I feel like the new Donna Summer mixed with Control-era Janet.” She elaborated on the song’s bold message, saying, “The song pretty much speaks for itself. Like ‘Pleasure Principle’ or ‘Love to Love You Baby,’ I don’t know how much clearer one can get when they ask you to ‘SLUT ME OUT.’ The message can’t be mistaken, and the beat makes you move. That’s all I want to do this summer, make people dance and feel things!”
Previous Works and Reception
Following the release of “Fountain Baby,” Amaarae also put out an EP titled “Roses Are Red, Tears Are Blue — A Fountain Baby Extended Play.” The debut album has garnered critical acclaim, ranking at No. 20 in Pitchfork’s “The 100 Best Albums of the 2020s So Far.”
Conclusion
Amaarae’s upcoming album, “Black Star,” promises to showcase her distinctive blend of genres and her knack for creating danceable tracks with meaningful messages. As anticipation builds for its release, the artist’s commitment to her craft and her roots shines through, ensuring that fans will have much to look forward to this summer.
FAQs
When will “Black Star” be released?
“Black Star” is set to be released on August 8, 2023.
What is the title of the new single?
The new single is titled “S.M.O.”
Who directed the music video for “S.M.O.”?
The music video for “S.M.O.” was directed by Omar Jones.
What are some influences mentioned by Amaarae for “S.M.O.”?
Amaarae cites influences from Ghanaian highlife pioneer Ata Kak, Detroit club music, and iconic tracks from Michael Jackson and Donna Summer.
What was Amaarae’s previous release before “Black Star”?
Before “Black Star,” Amaarae released an EP titled “Roses Are Red, Tears Are Blue — A Fountain Baby Extended Play.”
