Soulful, nostalgic and tinged with irony, Nolah Young is an exciting voice and worthwhile addition to the landscape of modern American singer-songwriters. As a first-generation Korean-American from New Jersey, she brings a unique perspective to her music, blending heartfelt storytelling with a genre-defying sound that reaches across the past to the present.
Eschewing the theatrics and autotune that dominate today’s music scene, Nolah delivers a stripped back sound through her commanding vocals and emotionally compelling songwriting. Pairing grooving basslines and drums with jazz and blues-infused vocal stylings, Nolah’s music is a masterclass in contrast. Her ability to float between fluttery falsettos and powerful belts has charmed listeners, while her grounded stage presence has seen her connect with audiences in a meaningful way. Inspired by iconic artists like Carole King, Bruno Mars and Stevie Wonder, Nolah’s music carries a timeless quality that pays homage to the greats while walking its own path.
Early in her career, Nolah made an impact with her EPs Lonely Lovers Fantasy and 1-800-FANTASY, earning critical acclaim and winning over listeners. Her breakout track “It Is What It Is” clocked over a hundred thousand streams and secured placements on coveted playlists like Spotify’s Fresh Finds: The Wave and Tidal’s Rising R&B.
After a brief hiatus, Nolah returns with her latest single, “Best Friend,” a heartfelt exploration of companionship in its many forms. Written in just 30 minutes during a moment of vulnerability with her partner, the track serves as a love letter to those who offer unwavering support; be it a romantic partner, family member or even a beloved pet. The song’s moving lyrics and uplifting melody strike a delicate balance, showcasing Nolah’s knack for transforming personal moments into relatable musical experiences.
Reflecting on the track, Nolah explains, “‘Best Friend’ is about the raw essence of loyalty and friendship. It’s a celebration of those connections that carry us through life’s challenges, no matter what form they take.” This notion shines through every note, reinforcing her reputation as a storyteller who connects directly with her audience.
While her previous releases showcased her ability to glide between genres and experiment with sound, this track distills her sonic vision into an intricate blend of soulful vocals and reflective songwriting, resulting in a song that feels at once intimate and memorable. With “Best Friend,” she serves up a catchy and emotive jam brimming with shimmering arrangement, alluring vocal performance and infectious groove, presenting a superb song that’s impossible not to love.
Listen to Best Friend below
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