ESSENCE.com’s “New and Next” column spotlights the brightest new talents we think you should know. This week we meet eclectic soul singer Jade de LaFleur.
The Louisiana-bred songstress who earned her vocal chops being in the group Sophia Fresh and singing backup for the likes of Solange—she’s currently featured on Solange’s Saint Heron compilation album—says she’d rather forgo traditional genres. Speaking about her upcoming EP, Jaded (out January 21), she says, “I didn’t really try to box myself into any specific genre. I was more focused on telling stories.”
“I obviously have my roots in blues and jazz being from outside New Orleans…but I just do what feels good,” she adds.
[BRIGHTCOVE-ID:3023528008001]
Watch Jade de LaFleur perform “Blue Notes and Green Trees” and tell us what you think.