Today's Pick

UK soul Songstress Marsha Ambrosius devotes newly-premiered music video for her new single "Far Away" as a catalyst for her to be able to speak out and to raise awareness about losing a lost one, so it makes sense that for the video Ambrosius chose to focus on an issue that has been in the news a lot lately—gay bullying and suicide. "As an artist I have an opportunity to make music that affects people, and if my music can evoke the emotion that stirs up social awareness and save lives, then why wouldn't I?" The video is getting a lot of buzz because it is the first video from a major-label R&B/Soul artist to really portray black gay men in a sympathetic light.
The Just Blaze-produced ballad "Far Away," is the second single from the formerly of the neo-soul duo Floetry singer's upcoming solo album "Late Nights, Early Mornings," due in stores February 22. The new track makes a bold social commentary by tackling issues surrounding homosexuality and suicide. Near the close of the piece, Ambrosius discloses that she recently lost a friend to suicide, personalizing the emotion in the song. Messages aside, the track features the strong, soulful vocals fans grew to love on songs like "Getting Late" and "Say Yes." Riding a beautiful melody, Ambrosius delivers a solid follow-up single.
The singer said that she was inspired by her own experiences with bullying, and recently released a statement discussing the video and its message. "Dear friends, every year over 1 million people commit SUICIDE. Some were BULLIED because of their SEXUALITY. I lost a friend to SUICIDE, and I'm asking all of you to support alternative lifestyles," Ambrosius states. "Don't put up with or join in with BULLYING. It's time we become more aware in this WORLD. Take a responsibility to make a difference. So if my MUSIC can save one life, I've done my job." Vocally and lyrically the track is quite effective but the visual took it to another level.
Inspired by her real-life experience, the clip revolves around a gay who is shoved aside by people in his neighborhood due to his sexual orientation. It exemplifies the power of music to tackle social issues. Rather than putting on a leotard or a colorful wig and dancing in circles to a catchy beat, Ambrosius addressed the problems facing the gay community through song and hopes her fans follow her footsteps. I did listen to the song before watch the video. I really love her voice and feel like I might have missed out on her talent during her Floetry days. The extraordinary English recording artist sings it beautifully and with great emotion, plus the lyrics are brilliant. Touching and sad stuff. All in all, Ambrosius has crafted an R&B gem.