Estelle’s sixth studio album, “Stay Alta,” marks a radiant homecoming after a seven‑year musical hiatus. Released on May 23, 2025, it’s a joyful, self‑affirming tapestry of funk, soul, sunshine jazz, and timeless R&B https://news.theurbanmusicscene.com/2025/05/estelle-releases-6th-new-album-stay-alta/
Themes & Sound
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Self‑liberation & transformation: The album embraces freedom and authenticity—“remembering who you are, rising above the noise, and choosing joy—even when it’s hard” https://youknowigotsoul.com/estelle-announces-album-stay-alta?
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Sunny, soulful vibes: A radiant fusion of funk, soul, and sunshine, reflecting Estelle’s peace and personal growth https://www.service95.com/estelle-interview?
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Rich musical influences: Drawing from icons like Stevie Wonder, Quincy Jones, Bill Withers, and Michael Jackson, the record feels both nostalgic and modern .
Collaborators & Key Tracks
Estelle teamed up with an impressive cast of collaborators:
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Teedra Moses & Russell Taylor on “Grateful”
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D‑Nice on “Love On Love”
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JOI and Nicole Cardoza on “Fire” (Interlude/Outerlude)
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Channel Tres on title track “Stay Alta”
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Durand Bernarr, Aida Rodriguez, Nonchalant Savant
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LaRussell & Keyon Harrold on “New Direction” https://iloveus.media/2025/05/08/estelle-announces-sixth-studio-album/?
She also released several singles in advance—“Oh I,” “Fire,” “Love On Love,” and “New Direction”—each building momentum for the full album
https://youknowigotsoul.com/estelle-announces-album-stay-alta?
Critical Reception
Critics describe Stay Alta as a heartfelt celebration—no pretense, just Estelle fully embracing her evolution. According to one review:
“Her first album in seven years is a celebration, with a complete lack of pretence and a refreshing refusal to be brought down by the state of…” https://www.albumoftheyear.org/album/1312846-estelle-stay-alta.php?
In interviews, Estelle emphasizes that “Stay Alta” is about intentional living and inner peace. She recorded much of it during the pandemic, allowing personal transformation to inform the music .
Stay Alta is Estelle at her most liberated and joyful—an album brimming with positive energy, reflective lyricism, sun‑lit grooves, and rich collaborations. It’s a triumphant return and a reminder that real joy is born from authenticity.
Have you given it a listen yet? Which track resonates most with you?
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