L.A. funk-soul rising star discusses his empowering, life-affirming new EP
This summer is ripe for celebration in tandem with uplifting joy to follow. Many will be venturing out of their homes little by little to see family, friends and attempt to thrive in the outdoors for the first time in a long while. Music will join them as they tentatively test their comfort with more mask wearing freedom.
Butterfly Ali is a recommended choice for such music that can offer a sense of therapy or support by fusing R&B, soul and funk for the collective good. With his newly released EP Preacher’s Kid, his neo-soul tracks “Testimony” and “Pray for ‘Em” have already made him easily intriguing to eager listeners.
“Testimony” is full of spiritual gospel from the onset. A choir of voices welcomes the listener in praise as Butterfly Ali’s soulful vocals come roaring up. Claps and stomps can be heard in that true church ambiance. Butterfly Ali’s world is shared in this rare and intimate track. Listeners are given a chance to dive into this spiritual universe that helped solidify this musician’s sound and growing ambitions. Fans will feel empowered and supported by an unusual sense of relief in the pursuit of their life’s goals.
Butterfly Ali made sure to share his thoughts on his work and the year ahead, which you can read below:
Speaking on the upcoming EP, he had this to say:
…It’s been a long time coming, and a lot of soul searching to find my voice. I had to figure out what was important to me to sing about. I came up with this EP title by truly trying to find a description for who I am and my body of work. The best name I could come up with is exactly the truth of who I am, a preacher’s kid. I was raised in the church, and brought up with so many wonderful morals/lessons of love from my father, who has been a preacher the majority of my life. I felt if I was going to be making a project about my life and who I am, I can’t leave out the people who helped shape me…my father & mother.
How has 2021 been for you so far? Any notable moments?
2021 has definitely had its highs and lows for me. Overall, [there is] a lot of growth and maturity happening, as well as creative output.
Do you have any additional ambitions tied to music or beyond?
I aspire to do some amazing collaborations in the future with my music. Also a goal of mine is to perform at a Super Bowl halftime show one day.
Are there any artists/producers that you would love to work with and why?
I would love to have an entire project produced by Pharrell. I would also love to work with Anderson .Paak, Andre 3000, and CeeLo Green. I just always appreciate the unique artistry these people exhibit and feel like they would have a fresh take on my sound.
What are your plans this summer?
[I plan to enjoy] some family time and travel.
What is your favorite hobby and why?
My favorite hobby is binge watching almost any show on the HBO app.
