Red Rosamond has officially dropped her debut album, WIP, and the singer-songwriter’s captivating voice and deeply emotive songwriting are already making waves in the music world. Known for her huskily emotive vocals and undeniable stage presence, Rosamond channels a modern twist on classic soul with a touch of alt-R&B that draws comparisons to heavyweights like Adele and Amy Winehouse. However, she carves out a unique space for herself with an artistry that speaks to a deeply personal journey, making WIP not just a collection of songs, but a reflection of life’s evolving nature.
Rooted in a love for timeless soul music and threaded with bold production choices, WIP (short for “Work In Progress”) is a reflective dive into themes of family, hope, hurt, and resilience. Across its six tracks, Rosamond shares stories from the heart, laying her emotions bare while inviting listeners to find their own meanings within her music. Each song serves as a piece of a larger narrative about the ever-evolving nature of life and self-discovery. “WIP is a reflection of life as a continual work in progress,” Rosamond explains. “It’s about growth and transformation. I wanted to create a space where people could see themselves in the music, even if the experiences are mine.”
The album is a testament to Rosamond’s skills as both a producer and songwriter, showcasing a rich sonic landscape. With GRAMMY-winning engineer Neal Pogue (Tyler The Creator, Outkast, Doja Cat) on the mix and Mike Bozzi (Childish Gambino, Kendrick Lamar, SZA) mastering the tracks, WIP resonates with a soulful authenticity and sonic clarity that envelops the listener. The lush tones, deep 808s, and velveteen strings set the backdrop for Rosamond’s magnetic voice to shine through, expressing a range of emotions with heart-wrenching intensity.
A Soulful Journey Through Love and Loss
WIP opens with “OCEANS & VALLEYS,” a track that encourages speaking one’s truth and holding strong to boundaries. It’s a fitting beginning for an album that sees Rosamond navigating through complex emotions and emerging stronger. The closing track, “NEW US,” brings the album full circle by embracing rock bottom as a place for renewal. “It’s about finding hope when you feel like you’ve reached the end,” says Rosamond. “The album loops back to the beginning because growth is cyclical—you reach one breakthrough and start the process over again.”
The record’s lead single, “PLEASE,” perfectly captures Rosamond’s artistry with its infectious rhythm and emotional depth. This standout track delves into the highs and vulnerabilities of love, confronting the fears that accompany loving deeply. “The song flowed out of me,” shares Rosamond. “It’s about the complexities of love—letting it in while grappling with the fear of getting hurt.”
Her latest single, “TELL ME THE TRUTH,” offers a poignant, cathartic release, exploring the cyclical patterns of relationships and the yearning for honesty. It transforms painful experiences into an empowering anthem, inviting listeners to find strength in vulnerability. This track is another example of Rosamond’s ability to turn her personal reflections into universally relatable music.
A Rising Star with a Timeless Soul
While WIP marks Red Rosamond’s debut album, the singer has already made a significant impact on the music scene. With millions of streams worldwide, appearances on prominent playlists, and her music featured in hit TV shows like Dark, True Detective, Lucifer, and Netflix’s thriller Fool Me Once, Rosamond’s name is quickly becoming synonymous with soulful, evocative music. Her single “Sike” and co-writing credit on Chris Avantgarde’s viral hit “Inside” have garnered widespread acclaim, solidifying her as a force to be reckoned with.
Rosamond’s live performances have been equally captivating, sharing stages with legends such as The Smashing Pumpkins, J. Mascis of Dinosaur Jr., Cage the Elephant, and The Black Keys. Her undeniable presence and magnetic voice draw comparisons to Adele and Amy Winehouse while echoing the spirit of iconic artists like Billie Holiday, Aretha Franklin, and Eartha Kitt.
With WIP, Red Rosamond has not only established herself as an artist with a distinct voice and message but has also crafted a love letter to individuality and self-discovery. As she continues to evolve, one thing is clear—Red Rosamond is destined to leave an indelible mark on the world of music, bringing soul, authenticity, and a fearless spirit that will resonate for years to come.
A Journey of Growth and Resilience
The concept of the album’s title, WIP, reflects not only the nature of the songs but Rosamond’s own personal journey. The 6-track collection serves as a musical diary of sorts, where each song peels back another layer of Rosamond’s life. The lyrics traverse the emotional highs and lows of love, family dynamics, and finding strength in vulnerability. From the outset, she presents herself as an artist who isn’t afraid to confront hard truths, drawing listeners in with a voice that’s at once vulnerable and assertive. In speaking about the inspiration behind the album, Rosamond says, “WIP is a reflection of life as a continual work in progress, an ever-evolving journey of growth and self-discovery.
Red Rosamond is making a claim that can only leave us wanting more. But for now, let us know what you think about the project. What’s your favorite track?
