Header image via Marguerite Lorraine / single artwork via Jordan Trkulja // 

Following a busy 2022 that’s seen her play shows across Sydney, multi-instrumentalist wonder LADY King has returned with her first single of the year…

Titled ‘Play It’, the new offering (which we’re premiering today) from the ‘Tease Me’ singer sees her venture further inward than ever before, bringing to light past experiences of slut shaming and betrayal for a meditative bop flush with catharsis.

Beginning with a whimsical harp and string section, LADY KING enters on a note of soulful refinement, utilising a laid back vocal tone as she strips back the instrumental layers to find feeling in simplicity. Her lyricism really shines in this number as well, lines like “caught up in between/ the reality of what’s true and what it seems”, outlining the smoke and mirrors that precede the dissolution of connection.

The concoction of sonics (curated by a predominantly female ensemble) as a whole meshes with total synchronicity, ember-like guitar licks, soulful backing vocals and nostalgic chord progressions reminiscent of ’50s soul but with a new-age twist. It seems such musical unison is by design, with LADY KING explaining, “This song is special for me and my journey in reclaiming my power and reconnecting with my femininity so I wanted to make a point of including some of my favourite women in the Sydney music scene.”

Speaking on the heartache that inspired the new tune, LADY KING explains, “This situation affected me and my self-worth deeply, and ultimately took years to overcome. It was made all the worse because it was a close friend of mine. Amidst the chaos of his rejection and heartache, my private relationships and sexual receipts were publicly displayed and weaponised against me – all of this because I didn’t love him back…”

It’s no doubt an important track that hits at the core of intimacy and heartache, and is easily one of LADY KING’s most vulnerable singles to date. Be sure to check it out above ahead of its official release tomorrow. You can also follow her on Instagram here to stay up to date on all of her latest projects.