Maya Law Is Representing The New Wave Of UK Soul
Maya Law is a rare voice. Hailing from Norwich – a city with a deep DIY heritage – she’s an independent voice within UK soul, blending different aspects of R&B and neo-soul into her own unique recipe.
Recently supporting Clash faves such as Pip Millett and Children of Zeus, she’s peppered 2023 with a string of singles. Expanding her aesthetic vision, Maya Law is part of a wave of talent within UK soul making their mark.
Writing for Clash, she picks up on this mosaic of artists, taking time out to platform her peers. Maya Law writes…
I’ve always been shifting genres during my creative career, and the current UK music scene is the perfect melting pot to pick up inspiration. I’ve picked a few of my stand-out artists I’m sure you’re going to find your new favourite artist in there somewhere.
—
Ashaine White
I first caught Ashaine White at a really intimate show in my hometown. I was totally blown away by the power and control of her vocal, and felt very lucky to have caught it by accident.
I’ve since seen her a few times and she’s recently released a beautiful project named ‘Ash’ which everyone should be listening to right now. She’s reshaping the game with her genre, creativity and performance and it’s been amazing to watch – ‘Favourite Thing’ hits me in the heart every time.
—
Freya Roy
I couldn’t do a feature on my favourite current artists without mentioning Freya Roy. I’ve collaborated with her for several years and she never ceases to amaze. I’m lucky enough to get previews of tracks she’s working on and you’re all in for a huge treat very soon.
Working within (and beyond!) the realms of jazz, R&B, and hip-hop, her musical mind is unlike any other. I’m highlighting ‘Calling My Name’ this time as it was a staple track for me when she showed me her EP ‘For Who I Have Become’ (July 2022). It’s been an honour and a privilege to watch her grow as an artist and producer – get booked in with her now before it’s too late!
—
Holysseus Fly
I met Holysseus Fly when I supported Ishmael Ensemble and her warmth and energy left a big mark.
Watching her fly with the solo projects she’s released over the past year has been beautiful. ‘Bloom’ particularly felt special for the listeners, coupled with an incredible music video, Holysseus gives out all the good that we needed.
I’m really excited to see how the rest of the year plays out for her – her headline tour tickets are now on sale so grab them while you can!
—
Leo Lore
Leo Lore’s genre-bending and creative twists leaves listeners wanting more. Again, I’m lucky enough to hear previews of tracks he’s working on so I can confirm that the next project is bound to blow socks off. I’ve had the honour of watching Leo go on his creative journey and what’s been most incredible is his ability to make every live performance unique.
If you can catch him live, do it – a mixture of soul, reggae, spoken word and jazz. It’s really a sight that needs to be seen, sounds that need to be heard.
—
China Bowls
I caught China Bowls at Amazing Grace a couple of months after I moved to London. It was the perfect welcome to the London music scene.
I’d known of her through friends for a long time but seeing her live truly blew me away and left me speechless. Think, Nai Palm, Lianne La Havas. Sometimes performances stay stuck in your brain forever and it hadn’t happened for me in a while. This was definitely a gig that I won’t forget.
Her energy on and off stage was the warmth that I needed and I can’t wait to see what she has in store for us next.
—
DEACON
I worked with Deacon from a young age on our track ‘Full Circle’ with Gabriel Gifford and he is always a pleasure to be around, creatively and as a pal.
He’s been recreating his sound ever since we first connected and it’s been a joy to watch his development. His melodic vocal over rich beats makes a real treat for the ears, and his writing never disappoints. He’s a must-watch artist for me.
—
