Song of the Day: Lady Wray “Underneath My Feet”

Virginia-born, Brooklyn-based vocalist and songwriter Nicole Wray is an artist with a knack for self-preservation. Two decades into a rollercoaster musical career that spans career-launching guest spots with the likes of Missy Elliott, Cam’ron, and Kelis, her own chart-topping Timbaland-produced R&B, multiple shelved solo projects, personal struggles and artistic reaffirmations, Wray, has released her most fully-realized album yet. Recording as Lady Wray, Queen Alone showcases her rich, classically-minded soul vocals, honed from real life experience. As she describes it, “It’s a reflection of my soul. It’s who I am today.”

Working with Leon Michels (El Michels Affair) and Thomas Brenneck (Menahan Street Band and Daptone Records), the album has a authentic soul feel, polished but immediate. “Underneath My Feet” showcases her wonderful voice against an economical, dynamic arrangement, with a terrific breakdown two minutes in. “Underneath My Feet” and Queen Alone are out on on Michels’ Big Crown label.