South African born, singer songwriter Josie Field releases her new single Miami today. The song is her first offering since arriving in the UK a few years ago and symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter. Nominated for 9 South African Music Awards over her career, it’s evident that she has no intention of slowing down. Now based in Birmingham, and with a BBC Music Introducing Artist of the Week title under her belt, Josie expands her horizons to bring her music to a much wider audience.
With lyrics leading the way the song bursts into life with Field’s distinctive voice like a warm coastal breeze. The production is a fresh, unassuming wash of warm sound, like muscles relaxing in a hot tub. By the time we hit the chorus it’s a deep dive into the ocean with Field’s soulful vocals, full of resonance. By the second chorus, we’re just about ready to sing along as the song gains momentum, Field hones in on simplicity in her writing style. The keys and synth bring a light bounce to the track like champagne bubbles making beelines for the surface, then we plunge a little deeper into a darker sense of longing for the bridge. The song plays out with the clean tones of an understated guitar solo that dances above the rhythm to fade. At just over 3 minutes, this is where you want to hit repeat.
“It’s been a while since I released any new material and I am so freakin happy, I’m finally in a good place! With several personal issues to resolve, coupled with the uncertainty of the last few years I have really struggled to get on track creatively – I’ve been in survival mode. For the first time in a long time, I feel like I’m back and can’t wait for you to hear what I have been working on.” Exclaims Josie.
When asked about the inspiration behind the track she adds, “The buildings, the people and the sunsets of South Beach, Miami. That holiday feeling that makes you forget all your troubles, that sense of longing. The song compares the city to the love affair, a fleeting holiday romance that leaves you pining for more.”
Josie Field is a combination of Florence and the Machine meets Janis Ian meets Aretha Franklin, Field’s voice is distinct and unusual. Her signature sound is a potent mix of lyricism and fire, heart-felt issues and tender constructions, she has a unique textured blues infused voice and soulful vocal delivery style. Rooted in folk but having experimented with blues, country and soul, Josie is no ordinary singer songwriter. She calls her sound ‘Indie Soul’ aptly the title of her last full length studio album which garnered her ninth SAMA nomination for Best Adult Contemporary Album.
After the release of Indie Soul, Field took a break from music and went traveling for 3 years, finally settling in the UK just before covid hit when everything stood still. Field used that time to recalibrate, working part time jobs and writing new material aboard her tiny house narrowboat. With the scene finally beginning to open up, she is ready to reintroduce herself with a brand new single.
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