Auckland’s own JessB is back with a bold new single, “life is lifing”.
Describing the confident rap track, she says, “’life is lifing’ is a tongue in cheek song that speaks to the exhilarating experience of a new relationship.”
The release lands just ahead of her supporting slot on Kehlani’s Australia and New Zealand tour.
“I have known Kehlani for quite a few years now, and she messaged me on instagram and asked me if I wanted to open, which I obviously was honoured to say yes to,” JessB shared.
“She has always been so supportive and warm to not just me, but lots of other queer artists over the years. It really feels like one of the biggest opportunities of my career to be in front of a crowd that understands and aligns with who I am. I am so so grateful and I can’t wait.”
Last year, JessB dropped her debut album, Feels Like Home, featuring Gold Fang, Sampa the Great, and dancehall legend Sister Nancy. It earned a spot on our Best NZ Albums of 2024 list.
“The Auckland-based rapper and artist did everything but release a debut album over the past several years. She worked with international stars like Doja Cat, Sweetie, and G Flip, and shared stages with Genesis Owusu, Kehlani, and so many more big names. She co-founded a vital queer-friendly club space in Auckland, earned praise for her distinct fashion style and blistering singles, and appeared at notable festivals like Laneway and SXSW,” we noted.
“When Feels Like Home finally arrived this winter, it proved to be the debut album JessB was always capable of making. “Power” is a highlight among many highlights, from the slinky “Hold Me Down” to the supreme Gold Fang collaboration “Ring Ring”.
“Rarely has an artist come into their debut album with such an extensive resumé behind them, which is why Feels Like Home often feels and sounds like a third or fourth album. JessB is just that good.”
“Feels Like Home sounds global, an exportable collection ready to take JessB far from home base,” we added in a positive review last this year.
Read our 2024 interview with JessB here.
JessB’s “life is lifing” is out now via Say Less and Warner Music Australia,
