With one month to go until the season of crushes and warmer, longer nights is upon us, it’s time to be in your feelings – and no one understands this better than upcoming British-Canadian-Nigerian R&B/pop superstar Essosa. So put on your best low rise jeans, platform flip flops and glittery lipgloss because Essosa’s fresh yet nostalgic sophomore EP Crush! is sure to be on repeat this summer. 

Inspired by the R&B icons of the ‘90s such as Mary J. Blige and Janet Jackson, Essosa blends smooth vocals with innovative instrumentals on her latest project. Featuring production by jkarri (PinkPantheress, Nia Archives) and WAVSDNTDIE (Wretch 32, Tiana Major9 and Benjamin A.D), this six-track EP is a must-listen for lovers of upbeat dance tracks and ballads alike.  

Speaking on the inspiration for this EP, Essosa characterises the project as a total examination of the word crush: “often used to describe an infatuation with someone, but it also means destruction and ruin.” This tension underpins the project, with tracks chronicling the thrill and heartbreak situationships bring as well as the confidence that putting your needs first inspires. 

Opening with the throwback track ‘Crush!’ which sparkles with yearning and followed by focus single ‘Missing U’, the project instantly evokes the potent rush of falling for a fling. Sultry, possessive lead single ‘Signs’ and chill, girl group anthem ‘Favourite Liar’ are next, perfectly encapsulating the project’s modern yet nostalgic influences. ‘Touch bby’ and ‘He’s Not All That’ tap into a playful self-awareness that brings the EP to a confident, reflective finish.

Already beloved by industry icons such as KAYTRANADA, Kali Uchis, FLO and Missy Elliott, Essosa’s sophomore EP further cements her status as an R&B it girl. Whether you discovered Essosa through her viral hit ‘Waste My Time’ or this New Music Friday, don’t miss the chance to catch her captivating performance of these tracks at her upcoming European headline shows. 

Essosa’s latest EP Crush! is out Friday 1 May. For tickets to Essosa’s headline London show, click here.