Neela drops new EP ‘Exposed’

Hailing from Toronto in Canada and Lucknow in India, Neela is a talented R&B and soul singer-songwriter, actor and dancer. With a unique blend of silky vocals and smooth indie R&B melodies, she’s won over audiences worldwide while exploring human emotion with authentic honesty and passion.

Neela’s musical journey began with her debut single “Lovers in Danger” in 2019, produced by the Juno Award-winning Beatchild. Since then, she’s continued to make an impact with releases like “Prelude” in collaboration with the three-time Grammy Award-winning producer Chin Injeti. Her recent singles, including “You’ll Never Know” and “Tease,” have earned widespread acclaim from renowned platforms, showcasing her ability to stitch together elements of her Indian heritage with modern R&B sounds.

With a track record of dazzling live performances at iconic festivals and venues, Neela now presents her latest offering, the highly anticipated EP titled Exposed. Crafted in collaboration with Akeel Henry, who’s previously worked with the likes of John Legend and Mary J. Blige, and Kofo in Toronto, this seven-track record is thematically based around ideas of queer sexuality, body image, domestic violence and the complexities of belonging within an immigrant family.

Title track “Exposed” sees elegant vocals hover above lightly playful guitar plucks, casting a dreamy stripped-back R&B sound. Full of gorgeous melodic writing and stunning vocals, the song builds with the mellow snap of drums and pulse of bass resulting in a truly charming sound.

On “Tease,” delicate vocalisations flutter above the laid back groove of drums to craft a sultry slice of downtempo R&B bliss. Built on a swaying rhythm and playful instrumental touches capped by Neela’s stunning vocal performance, it’s a catchy pop outing that’s sure to put a smile on your face.

Other highlights on the EP include lead single “Forgive,” a song that explores themes of love, forgiveness and closure. With another display of Neela’s delightful alternative R&B sound, the intricate patter of drums and rhythmic guitar skanks underpin her impassioned vocals on this sensational jam. Paired with the track is an animated music video created by creative director Purusha Anokhei to deliver a metaphorical visual offering that tracks the artist’s journey to self-acceptance and inner-peace.

Watch the music video for Forgive below

Closing the release with “Cry,” smooth instrumental textures float over the soft shuffle of drums and plod of bass, creating a jazz-inflected outing above which Neela lays down a vocal masterclass. It’s a superb finale to her sensational new EP as she continues to go from strength to strength with each move.

Listen to Exposed below