Poppy Ajudha releases highly anticipated sophomore album ‘Poppy’
“Packed with colour and emotion at every turn”
Rolling Stone UK
“A long-time CLASH favourite, the London vocalist blends neo-soul, jazz, and incredible lyricism.”
Clash Magazine
“Celebrating love and redefining her artistic identity with a new sunshine-soaked sound.”
Dork Magazine
Multi-talented artist Poppy Ajudha shares her highly anticipated album, ‘Poppy’ - listen here. This sophomore release demonstrates Poppy’s artistic growth since her debut album, 2022’s THE POWER IN US, as well as her personal progression as we see a more vulnerable side than previously shown. ‘Poppy’ was created with contributions from the likes of Mike Malchicoff (Kanye West/King Princess) and Maestro (Rihanna), Fred Ball (Alicia Keys/Raye/Mariah Carey), Wesley Singerman (Kendrick Lamar/Anderson .Paak), Grades (Kali Uchis, Dua Lipa, Britney Spears) and Travis Sayles (Ariana Grande).
Speaking on the new album, Poppy says: “I can’t believe I’m writing this, but my sophomore album is finally out! After numerous trips back and forth from London to LA, millions of revisions to perfect each song and a lot of moving the track listing around, I’ve made an album I’m so in love with, with people who I felt truly seen by, who I respected and found a natural synergy with. I really put everything into this album, it is a reflection of my growth over the last 2 years, an outward pouring of my raw vulnerability, the inner workings of my chaotic brain and the deep desire I have to challenge myself with everything I do. I’m really proud of what we made, and I hope that when you hear it, it means something to you too.
Thank so much to all the special people who contributed to the making of this project, the producers, engineers, musicians, visual creatives, the friends who listened to me while I processed my life in order to write it down, I wouldn’t have been able to manifest this dream without you.”
The album’s lead track is ‘Somebody To Love’, written by Poppy alongside Trey Campbell and Josh Grant with production from Mike Malchicoff and Maestro. The sonically euphoric track explores how the love we accept and show ourselves is often based on we’ve unconsciously internalised it all of our lives since childhood. Watch the official video here.
Discussing ‘Somebody To Love’, Poppy says, “When I wrote this song, I had just managed to get myself out of a really unhealthy relationship and was reckoning with how I ended up there in the first place. It’s a song about trying to learn new patterns and break old ones, in order to invite healthy love into my life and how to grow from my mistakes rather than repeat them.
We all want somebody to love and to be loved in return, but who we choose can be one of the most important decisions we make. I’m learning to choose wisely.”
‘Poppy’ includes singles that the St Lucian born, London raised artist has released since her triumphant return to music earlier this year with 'My Future', after a two year hiatus. Bold banger 'Lean On Me' comments on the importance of community and supporting each other even during challenging moments. Infectious pop-driven 'Girl Next Door' explores first time queer love, while hopeful track 'Ready' sees Poppy reflect on the personal experience of risking everything for a person.
Poppy’s new album sits comfortably among her existing discography, while also opening the door to a new era. As an independent artist with major ambitions, Poppy is known for using her creative output as a vessel to explore important themes and societal topics. Whilst this is still the case, Poppy’s new music offers an insight into her personal life and relationships, whilst also broadening her sound and direction.
‘Poppy’ tracklist:
Hero
My Future
Girl Next Door
Somebody To Love
Bestie Breakup
Lean On Me
Temptation
Ego Boost
Candy
Seeds We’ve Sown
Ready
Crossroads
In March, Poppy Ajudha will embark on a UK headline tour. Tickets are on sale now and information can be found here.
Full tour dates:
18th March – Patterns, Brighton
20th March – Neon 194, London
21st March – Exchange, Bristol
22nd March – YES (Pink Room), Manchester
24th March – Cabaret Voltaire, Edinburgh
26th March – Belgrave Music Hall, Leeds
The singer songwriter’s music has garnered support and high praise from the likes of NME, Clash Magazine, MTV, The Face, The Fader, with support from Charli XCX and BBC Radio 1’s Greg James, Sian Eleri, Jack Saunders, Mollie King, and Nels Hylton. In May, ‘My Future’ was named Track of the Week on BBC Radio 1’s Future Alternative and Future Pop shows. With several headline tours under her belt and special performances including headlining the Trafalgar Square Stage at London Pride, Glastonbury, SXSW, New York Jazz and beyond, there’s much more to come from Poppy.
Aside from her incredible musical ability, Poppy’s creative talents thrive in the fashion and arts world. Poppy was invited by Naomi Campbell to perform at her ‘Fashion for Relief’ event, opened Virgil Abloh’s ‘Figures of Speech’ exhibition, and has worked alongside brands such as Dior, Delvaux, and Nike. In 2022, Poppy performed at the Venice Biennale as part of an exhibition by award-winning artist Sonia Boyce - the first black woman to represent Britain at the event. Poppy Ajudha’s new music continues to solidify her position as an essential voice within British music.