Olivia Dean Presents An Ode To Fate And Femininity With Latest Single ‘Lady Lady’

Following the release of her last single ‘Nice to Each Other’Olivia Dean is back with ‘Lady Lady'.

It’s an ode to the universe and trusting in divine timing, a theme that was also laced amongst her first single, which beautifully addressed the art of not caring, instead allowing the chips to fall where they may in relationships. Now, this new release feels somewhat like a continuation of this feeling and, as Dean so beautifully put it, “it feels like peace.” Who couldn’t use a bit of that now and then?

Opening up with the soulful keyboard tones before Dean’s jazzy vocals hit the track, we know we’re in for something introspective. The song touches on feeling lost, but ultimately accepting that in life, you always end up where you’re meant to be. So instead of feeling frustrated, maybe just enjoy whatever the universe has in store for you. The opening lines, “God I'm gonna miss this house, but I guess I'm moving out,” succinctly display this journey, and what this song is talking about: change. Something inevitable, you either hate it or you love it- but perhaps this song is trying to teach us how to do the latter. 

The production mirrors the emotional journey felt throughout, primarily starting with the simple tap of the drums from Homer Steinweiss before the percussion hits; adding more energy to the track. Soon, we’re moving swiftly through the song with different elements added as we go. When arriving at the final pre-chorus, the layered vocals multiply to something entirely ethereal, very apt for a song discussing mother nature, fate and all things cosmic. It’s clear Dean’s typical neo-soul, jazz stylings are not lost, especially as the trumpet takes over, providing the brassy tunes to see us out of the track. Placement of the instrument is so simple, yet effective, creating a joyful and even, triumphant end to the song. It sounds something like acceptance, stepping into your power as a woman. 

The lyrics and production work hand in hand, displaying this journey. Initially, in the pre-chorus, Dean sings, “she’s always changing me without a word.” By the time the chorus reaches us. Acceptance washes over the track, “that lady lady, she’s the man/ I think she’s got a master plan.” Instead of becoming enemies with fate and the unknown, Dean is teaching us to make friends with it. But also, for women to trust their intuition and femininity. The song truly feels like a warm embrace, a gentle reminder that even through life's tough troughs, there are always peaks ahead. It speaks to the idea that the universe is constantly guiding you, teaching you something profound. Ultimately, the central theme boils down to trust – a call to relinquish control and understand you don't have to manage everything. Sometimes, the most powerful act is simply to be still and trust in the healing power of time. This song serves as a vital reminder of that surrender. It keeps fans satisfied ahead of the full album release, ‘The Art of Loving’ set for September 26th.


Jessica Sansoa

@jessicasansoa

Image: ‘Lady lady’ Official Single Cover


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