Fake Suede – “Speak Up”

Based in Los Angeles, this neo-soul project is the brainchild of multi-hyphenate artist Jeffrey James, joined by multi-instrumentalist and producer Kevin Hutchens. Jeffrey first built a prolific career in Nashville as a vocalist, songwriter and TV composer. He released solo material, had songs embedded in TV shows such as “All American” and wrote the stage musical “Chaining Zero”. Inspired by The Doobie Brothers, Chicago and The Temptations, they debuted with “Don’t Mind If I Do” in 2024.

Singing about finding yourself at the crossroads of a relationship and having to decide whether casual becomes serious, their new single highlights the vulnerability of the early stages of romance. Taken from their upcoming album “This Is Fake Suede”, expected on October 16th, this song is a time-traveling production blending organic 70s soul with an 80s pop vibe. With a funky bass, jazzy guitar licks and a smoky 80s sax solo, it’s the smooth vocals that make this a delicious sonic fusion.