It’s been a minute since I’ve done a post about UK soul-pop stunner Cleo Sol and for that, I sincerely apologize. The talented up & comer just released her major label debut single, “Never The Right Time (Who Do You Love)” on July 9th through Island Records, following some very prominent early spins on BBC Radio 1Xtra, Radio 1 and Choice FM. Admittedly, I wasn’t really feeling the track after the first listen but then I gave it a couple more plays. NOW, I’m groovin’ along to the retro-soul-infused beat. If you’re not feeling it right away, definitely give it some time. This one’s a grower for sure!
Taken from her forthcoming debut album, “Never The Right Time” is Cleo Sol‘s “statement of intent.” The song just OOZES old skool 70’s soul. Picture Solange Knowles singing her big sisters’ 2003 hit single “Crazy In Love” and you’ve got the vibe here. It’s smooth, it’s sultry, it’s jam-packed with sexy. “Never The Right Time” is a beautiful mainstream re-introduction for Cleo Sol, who already proved herself and her talent with her indie releases (listen to “High“). Now signed to a major label, she’s got a bigger stage and more expectations to meet. There’s really no reason why this song shouldn’t catapult her into the limelight.
Sol was originally discovered by veteran underground producer Davinche (Tinchy Stryder, Kano) after she posted several of her tracks online. After that, Cleo was immersed in the UK’s urban scene, collaborating with big names including Tinie Tempah (“Tears“), Wretch 32 (“Dancefloor“), Bashy (“Riding For Love“) and Davinche‘s own track “Hero.” You might also remember her soul drenched vocals from her feature on that Roll Deep/Wretch 32 collab, “Give A Little Love.” All solid tracks, made even more solid with the addition of a fresh new talent like Cleo Sol.
Raised in Ladbroke Grove by musical parents, Cleo Sol‘s sound is (at least in part) influenced by her unique heritage – her mother being half Serbian/half Spanish; her father Jamaican. Her heritage, combined with her immense talent and unique style have also earned fans among those artists she’s been fortunate enough to collaborate with. Tinie Tempah says “I close my eyes and hear the voice of a soul diva. I open them and see one of the UK’s brightest rising stars,” while Wretch 32 says “Cleo has the coolest style and the most beautiful vocal. Her vibe makes me vibe and the whole room smile.” Eloquent and accurate statements for sure.
Download “Never The Right Time (Who Do You Love)” on UK iTunes, or pick up the four track Remix EP featuring remixes from Devolution and Yungun (iTunes UK). Oh, and check out the sexified video for the single below. Hot hot hot!
Check out Cleo Sol on the web: