(February 18, 2024) When Nao Yoshioka pursued her musical aspirations in New York City, U.S. audiences gravitated to her vocal talents. That included an appearance at the 2010 McDonalds Gospel Fest finals. And the dream for this Osaka, Japan born singer/songwriter eventually aligned with a profitable recording career. The proof comes via a dexterous voice that embraced her trademark neo-soul, yet was well versed in jazz funk (“Love is The Answer” on the 2022 Tokyo Funk Sessions) and classic soul (Sam Cooke’s Change is Gonna’ Come from her 2013 debut The Light).
(February 18, 2024) When Nao Yoshioka pursued her musical aspirations in New York City, U.S. audiences gravitated to her vocal talents. That included an appearance at the 2010 McDonalds Gospel Fest finals. And the dream for this Osaka, Japan born singer/songwriter eventually aligned with a profitable recording career. The proof comes via a dexterous voice that embraced her trademark neo-soul, yet was well versed in jazz funk (“Love is The Answer” on the 2022 Tokyo Funk Sessions) and classic soul (Sam Cooke’s Change is Gonna’ Come from her 2013 debut The Light).
Collaborations with Eric Roberson and performances at The Capitol Jazz Fest further accented her climb to international soul stardom. But what brings her artistry to light is how she expresses her stories and winning song choices through adversities growing up. Of course, SoulTracks has been in Yoshioka’s corner, honoring her as the 2015 Readers’ Choice New Artist of the Year, plus several First Listen features and two album reviews.
For this highly anticipated new track and latest First Listen showcase, Yoshioka and Musicman Ty (“Wave,” “Got Me”) present a precious canvas entitled “Let It Flow” on her longtime label Sweet Soul Records. Ty lays down a stress-free soundtrack in a symphony of synths and keys stripped of dense beats. And Yoshioka’s blissful lead and background voices attest to moments of shear harmonious joy and a hope past the confusing pandemic.
While this dose of calming reality seems too brief at 2-1/2 minutes, it delivers a timely message of living life without the excess mental health traps. Thanks again to Yoshioka for always blessing SoulTracks. Now check out “Let It Flow.”
By Peggy Oliver
Nao Yoshioka - "Let It Go"