The term ‘sellout’ usually carries a negative connotation, often associated with one compromising their integrity for some sort of gain. Rising singer-songwriter Jae Stephens‘ new EP, SELLOUT, sidesteps that narrative.
The project, released Sept. 20 via Issa Rae’s Raedio in partnership with Def Jam, marks her first project in two years.
Stephens says SELLOUT is “me stepping into a light that I’ve wanted to dance in for a long time.” She continues, “I had so much fun making this project and my hope is that everyone who listens will feel the same confident, carefree energy come through each song the same way I did while writing them!”
On SELLOUT, Stephens tethers her R&B core to pangs of pop that recall the Y2K era. The EP is replete with party-ready bops anchored by irresistibly catch hooks, as indicated on the early singles “WET” and “Body Favors.”
Songs like “Kiss U Back” and “Better Boy” are more sultry, but the production still has enough bounce to catch a groove.
“‘Kiss U Back’ is my nod to the smooth and sexy R&B divas of the ’90s, but with a modern feel,” Stephens tells Rated R&B. “The melodies are fluttery and flirty just like the lyrics, and I’m actually whispering throughout a lot of it, which really helped capture that cool throwback feel I was referencing.”
Stephens ends SELLOUT on a strong note with “PDA,” a standout track that redefines the acronym for public displays of affection. “P stands for the p-p-party / Let me set the scene, VIP, 1:30 / D, stands for the – don’t test me / I could take there, take it off, if you let me / A, he already ate / But he want a taste, written on his face,” she sings.
“‘PDA’ is me at my most unapologetic. I wrote, produced, and recorded the song entirely by myself in my bedroom in a few hours because I was really in the zone of sexy, anthemic pop divas,” Stephens comments to Rated R&B. “I’m really proud of how it turned out and it’s probably my favorite track at the moment!”
SELLOUT is the follow-up to Stephens’ 2022 EP, High My Name Is. Before that, she released her three-track And Friends EP in 2021 and F***k It I’ll Do It Myself in 2019.
Aside from her solo music, Stephens has been keeping busy penning songs for other artists. Most recently, she has written tracks for Jennifer Lopez, Bryant Barnes, Chxrry22, Tanerélle, and more.
Stream Jae Stephens’ new EP SELLOUT below.
