Essosa – Essie’s World – clashmusic.com

In the UK R&B scene, a new star is rapidly rising. Essosa, a 23-year-old East London native with Nigerian roots, has captured the attention of fans and new listeners alike with the release of her debut EP, ‘Essie’s World’. Blending the nostalgic sounds of 90s and 00s R&B with contemporary production, Essosa offers a refreshing yet familiar sound that resonates deeply with Gen Z listeners.
Essosa’s journey into music began early, influenced by her parents’ love of gospel and jazz, which laid the foundation for her vocal prowess and musicality. By the age of three, she was already playing the piano, and by eight, she was crafting her own songs. Despite her parents’ encouragement to focus on academia, Essosa’s passion for music and dance never wavered. She honed her skills at local youth centers and later during her university years, where she recorded demos that eventually led her to collaborations with industry heavyweights.
Her breakthrough moment came via TikTok with the viral success of her single ‘Waste My Time’, which amassed 500 million views, catapulting her into the spotlight, and earning her co-signs from the likes of Missy Elliot, Kaytranada, and Victoria Monet. 2023 was a big year for the emerging artist, also being appointed Soundcloud’s Ascending Star.
Essosa’s music, deeply influenced by artists such as Aaliyah, Janet Jackson, and Kelis, is characterized by a unique blend of vintage tones and forward-thinking production, creating a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
‘Essie’s World’, a seven-track project, delves into the personal and emotional experiences that are shaping Essosa’s life. The EP opens with ‘Spin The Block’, setting the tone for the journey that follows, with melodic vocals and a lively beat. The project’s production, handled by a roster of top-tier producers including TSB, Sunset Drver, and Powerz, perfectly complements Essosa’s soulful voice, creating an enticing listening experience.
One of the standout tracks, ‘Tell Nobody’, produced by Powerz, serves as a powerful anthem for women, encouraging them not to compromise in relationships. The lyrics are both relatable and empowering, reflecting the struggles and triumphs that many listeners face in their own lives. Essosa’s ability to convey such universal themes through her music is a testament to her songwriting skills, which are mature beyond her years.
Another highlight is ‘Guilty’, produced by Sunset Drver, which explores the heartbreak of a summer romance that ends abruptly due to a lack of honesty. The track’s smooth, alluring vibe is reminiscent of the R&B ballads of the early 2000s, yet Essosa’s modern twist ensures it resonates with today’s audience.
The EP’s lead and standout single, ‘Too Late’, produced by TSB, encapsulates the essence of ‘Essie’s World’. With its upbeat tempo and infectious hook, the track showcases Essosa’s versatility as an artist. The song’s theme of empowerment, refusing to waste time on those who don’t deserve it, is likely to strike a chord with many, especially young people navigating similar experiences. The production is slick, with slightly alternative beats that add a layer of complexity to the track, further highlighting Essosa’s creative range.
‘Essie’s World’ is a cohesive project, balancing introspective lyrics with polished production. Essosa’s voice is the thread that ties it all together, with its rich, warm tones delivering each word with sincerity and emotion. Her ability to blend the old with the new—drawing from her musical influences while adding her own modern twist—makes ‘Essie’s World’ a compelling debut.
‘Essie’s World’ marks the arrival of a significant new voice in the UK music scene. For Gen Z listeners, who often seek authenticity and relatability in their music, Essosa provides both. Likewise, her unique blend of nostalgic R&B with contemporary sounds, combined with her relatable lyrics and strong sense of identity, positions her as a rising star with a bright future. As she continues to evolve and grow as an artist, there’s no doubt that Essosa will continue to captivate and inspire her growing fanbase.
8/10
Words: Sophie Harman
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