There's a distinct lack of pure, unfiltered sensual soul music in 2026.. Artists seem to feel the need to create soul music, with a dash of electronic music or a modern twist, but in Liam L Joseph's new single, there's absolutely none of that. Born from a moment of pure inspiration on a beach in Las Palmas—waves, wind, and laughter all in the mix— "Made For Me" carries the warmth of its creation in every note, with a real and geniune authenticity. It’s a testament to Joseph’s multi-instrumentalist chops, built around a deep, grooving bassline that provides a luxurious carpet for his serene, understated vocals to glide over.
Unlike some of his peers who lean too heavily on retro imitation, Joseph, a seasoned session player for heavyweights like Usher Raymond and Jocelyn Brown, brings a quiet confidence to the production. The influence of classic soul revivalists like John Legend is present, but “Made For Me” emphasizes emotional clarity over bombast. It’s an honest, tender listen that sidesteps cliché, making a strong case for emotional authenticity being the best kind of musical currency.
Joseph’s history, from composing a choir piece at 16 to co-founding the band formerly known as JAAD, suggests an artist who’s always been steeped in music. It's a raw and honesy take, with a wonderful nod to the greats..