Jimmy Lee cover art | courtesy of the artist
Raphael Saadiq announces first album in eight years with new single “Something Keeps Calling”
In the eight years since he released Stone Rollin’, singer-songwriter and producer Raphael Saadiq has just been adding to his resume. He has collaborated with the likes of Miguel, Solange, John Legend, and more, been nominated for an Oscar, and scored HBO’s Insecure. Following all this and a stellar set at last week’s Roots Picnic, Saadiq is finally ready to unleash a new album onto the world. On August 23rd he will release the deeply personal Jimmy Lee via Columbia Records.
Jimmy Lee shows Saadiq pondering how pleasure leads us to pain. The record was largely inspired by Saadiq’s brother’s experience with addiction. With it he brilliantly explores the topics of craving, self-destruction, and empathy. The record boasts collaborations with Kendrick Lamar, Brook D’Leau, and Ali Shaheed Muhammad among others. In creating such a personal body of work alongside son many talented artists, Saadiq has crafted a uniquely rewarding listen.
“Something Keeps Calling”, the album’s first single, is marked by powerful lyrics that describe the experience of an addict being warned about the danger of his choices by his loved ones. The track features gorgeous vocals by Saadiq and a moving guitar solo by Rob Bacon. It is the perfect introduction to the contemplative and harrowing world of Jimmy Lee.
Check out “Something Keeps Calling” and Saadiq’s upcoming tour dates below. Jimmy Lee is out August 23rd.
Tour Dates
Aug 3 – Columbia, MD – Summer Spirit Fest
Aug 23 – Los Angeles, CA – El Rey
Sep 5 – Houston, TX – Warehouse Live Ballroom
Sep 6 – Austin, TX – Mohawk
Sep 7 – Raleigh, NC – Hopscotch Festival
Sep 7-8 – Atlanta, GA – ONE Musicfest
Sep 10 – Brooklyn, NY – Music Hall of Williamsburg