Ghanaian-American alt-pop sensation Amaarae has officially kicked off her highly anticipated Black Star era with the release of her bold new single, S.M.O. Serving as the lead track from her upcoming third studio album Black Star, scheduled for August 8 via Interscope Records, S.M.O blends Afro-fusion, alt-pop, and sultry R&B into an infectious, dance-inducing sound. The track, whose title stands for “Slut Me Out,” delivers a provocative yet empowering message, with Amaarae’s featherlight vocals gliding over vibrant percussion and futuristic beats, exhibiting her fearless sonic experimentation.
The single marks Amaarae’s return following her critically acclaimed 2023 album, Fountain Baby, and the 21-track EP Roses Are Red, Tears Are Blue — A Fountain Baby Extended Play. S.M.O sets a daring tone for Black Star, celebrating African identity, freedom, and femininity with its bold lyrics and pulsating rhythm. Accompanying the release is a visually arresting music video, directed by Omar Jones in Ghana, which leans into sensuality and mystique with lush cinematography and symbolic imagery, further amplifying the track’s vibe. Fans have already taken to social media to praise its depth, hailing it as a potential summer smash.
The release underscores Amaarae’s reputation as an innovative voice in contemporary music, building on her genre-bending style that fuses her Ghanaian roots with global influences. Available now on streaming platforms, S.M.O promises to be a standout precursor to Black Star, inviting listeners to move and feel deeply as Amaarae redefines her sound once again.
Listen to S.M.O here.
