Joy Denalane Returns & Drops BJ The Chicago Kid Duet 'I Believe'


Admittedly, it's been a while since we've caught up with Afro-German soul singer Joy Denalane. She has kept busy overseas, particularly in her native tongue. Her English-language output, however, has been less frequent. That will change this year as she's now officially signed with Motown, and her debut album Let Yourself Be Loved is planned for a September release. But our first listen is here right now – an irresistible duet with labelmate BJ the Chicago Kid entitled "I Believe."

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Sounding like something straight outta the Blaxploitation era, the feel-good groove is a welcome addition to our rotation. From the funky strut of the bass line to the laid-back cool of the horn section, the song drips with an infectious swagger that's impossible to ignore. Joy explains the song "is about being in that safe space where 'you being you' is enough and where your loved ones see you for who you are.” This assured sentiment is evident throughout the lyrics as she and BJ's vocals perfectly align, singing, "I'm not that gambling type out looking for a rush / But one thing I'll always do, I put my money on your love."

Take a listen to "I Believe" below and keep up with Joy Denalane on Twitter and Instagram. Although we'll have to wait for September to purchase Let Yourself Be Loved, Joy treated fans to a special preview of the album with a streamed performance Let Yourself Be Loved: Live At The Metropol Berlin on her website and YouTube channel earlier today.

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