Soul Searching
2019
Neo-soul vocalist with a voice described as "honey poured over velvet"
Sarah J. Soul emerged as one of the most distinctive voices in neo-soul when she released her debut album "Moonlight" in 2012. Born in Atlanta and raised on a diet of Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, and Nina Simone, Sarah developed a vocal style that critics have described as "honey poured over velvet" – smooth, rich, and utterly captivating.
Her breakthrough came with the single "Heart of Gold" (2015), which showcased her ability to blend jazz improvisation with soulful storytelling. The track earned her widespread critical acclaim and her first Grammy nomination, establishing her as a major force in the neo-soul revival. The song's intricate melodic phrasing and emotional depth demonstrated that Sarah was not just another vocalist, but a true artist with something meaningful to say.
What distinguishes Sarah from her contemporaries is her jazz background. Trained at Berklee College of Music, she brings sophisticated harmonic knowledge to her songwriting, creating compositions that reward repeated listening. Her music seamlessly bridges the gap between neo-soul's organic warmth and jazz's improvisational freedom, resulting in a sound that is both accessible and intellectually satisfying.
Her Grammy-winning album "Soul Searching" (2019) represents the pinnacle of her artistic achievement so far. Recorded entirely with live instrumentation at Soul Labels' Los Angeles studio, the album features extended jazz-influenced arrangements that showcase both her vocal prowess and her band's musical chemistry. The album's success confirmed Sarah's place among the elite vocalists of her generation and earned her the Grammy Award for Best Urban Contemporary Album in 2020.
"My voice is my instrument, but my heart is my guide. Every song I write, every note I sing comes from a place of genuine feeling. I believe that's what soul music is all about." — Sarah J. Soul
Beyond her recording career, Sarah is passionate about music education. She regularly conducts vocal workshops for aspiring singers, emphasizing the importance of technical foundation alongside emotional authenticity. Her masterclasses on "Finding Your Soul Voice" have become sought-after events at music schools nationwide, inspiring a new generation of artists to find their own unique sound.
Sarah's live performances are intimate affairs that feel more like conversations than concerts. Her ability to read a room and adjust her setlist accordingly has earned her a reputation as one of the most engaging performers in contemporary soul music. Whether performing in intimate jazz clubs or on festival main stages, Sarah creates a connection with her audience that lingers long after the final note fades.
Best Urban Contemporary Album (2020)
Best New Artist (2013)
Best R&B/Soul Female Artist (2016, 2020)