Photo courtesy of Juel Concepts
(November 24, 2020) We’ve been following the incredible Atlanta-based soul and funk band, Ruby Velle and the Soulphonics for a couple years now, and SoulTrackers have shown that they are hooked on the band’s Stax-style Southern soul. Ruby Velle’s strong, sultry voice stand out up front, and it is supported by full-bodied arrangements that include powerful horns and a killer rhythm section.
For the group’s newest single, they take a look at the current situation in the US with concern. “Lost Lady Usa” looks at the lost dreams of many as we grind through 2020, and makes a plea for coming together in a more equitable way.
(November 24, 2020) We’ve been following the incredible Atlanta-based soul and funk band, Ruby Velle and the Soulphonics for a couple years now, and SoulTrackers have shown that they are hooked on the band’s Stax-style Southern soul. Ruby Velle’s strong, sultry voice stand out up front, and it is supported by full-bodied arrangements that include powerful horns and a killer rhythm section.
For the group’s newest single, they take a look at the current situation in the US with concern. “Lost Lady Usa” looks at the lost dreams of many as we grind through 2020, and makes a plea for coming together in a more equitable way.
Ruby tells us, “Lyrically, this wasn’t a hard song for me to write. Some take weeks/years, others flow out like tears in a sense. As an immigrant turned citizen, who is actively seeking human rights for all, talking about writing this song is much harder. The state of all things has seen worse before better in America.
So when I got into the studio with the brilliant brothers of mine from the Soulphonics, as well as the incredible Binky Griptite (SJDK guitarist) - the words came pouring out. Melodies shaped behind the phrase 'Give Me Back My Dreams' on behalf of immigrants in America like myself, and on behalf of children here who are increasingly being put in danger through our misguided decisions. I was thinking of our collective search for freedom as a lost soul named 'Uussa,' drifting around a city never able to truly feel rooted. Writing these laments for our great Nation (or as I call it lately 'caring out loud') has been cathartic for not only for myself but for our listeners who are increasingly caring out loud too.”
We have the World Premiere of the video for “Lost Lady Usa,” below. Check it out and tell us what you think!
World Premiere Video
Ruby Velle and the Soulphonics – “Lost Lady Usa”
