Elle Varner has returned with her new single “Fallin’ Up” via her independent label Two Twelve Enterprises. It was produced by Jordan Ware, Los Hendrix, and L3gion.
On the dreamy, self-penned ballad, Varner coos about the thrill of a newfound love that feels undeniable. Though she admits to being “scared to death,” she pushes her insecurities aside and follows her heart.
“I could be wrong / But this feels too good to walk away / So I’m in the kitchen / I’m makin’ us some lemonade / And I bring it to the couch and lay / On top of you / And suddenly my whole world is okay,” Varner sings.
Regarding the song’s inspiration, Varner exclusively tells Rated R&B, “‘Fallin’ Up’ was inspired by an extraordinary love that unexpectedly knocked on my door. The romance was really romancing, and all through it, I somehow managed to feel extremely grounded yet lifted at the same time.”
She continues, “So I did what I always do and poured my emotions onto the page, capturing the essence of that love in words and melody. It’s a reflection of a heart open and unguarded, embracing the magic of something truly special — real love.”
“Fallin’ Up” is Varner’s second song release of 2024, following the unapologetic “Black,” which was shared in time for Black Music Month.
“This is my FIRST independent release EVER!!” Varner wrote about “Black” on Instagram. “It’s on all the streaming platforms not just SoundCloud. I fought long and hard for this but your girl is a freeee agentttt. I am so proud and grateful for my team, my Dad, my family and friends, and most importantly my fans!!”
In 2019, Varner released her Ellevation EP via MNRK Records (then known as Entertainment One). The project included the singles “Casanova,” “Pour Me” featuring Wale and “Kinda Love.”
Ellevation marked Varner’s first body of work since releasing her critically-acclaimed debut album, Perfectly Imperfect, in 2012.
The album included the Grammy-nominated hit “Refill,” plus other standout singles like “Only Wanna Give It To You” featuring J. Cole, “I Don’t Care,” and “Not Tonight.”
In a 2023 interview with Rated R&B, Varner teased her long-awaited new album, which has not materialized yet.
“This album is called S.E.L.F., and it stands for Some Energy Lasts Forever,” she said.
“This was my way of saying, ‘I am who I am. I said what I said. And you’re going to know me whether I’m here or not. I’ve made my claim.’ It’s just very powerful. I feel like it’s going to inspire and uplift a lot of people who need to speak up and speak out.”
No word if Varner still plans to release S.E.L.F. or if she has taken another creative approach. Either way, here’s hoping for a new Elle Varner project in 2025.
Stream Elle Varner’s new song “Fallin’ Up” below.
(Scroll below to listen on Spotify)
