Model and music creative Selah [Marley], the granddaughter of reggae icon Bob Marley and the daughter of eight-time Grammy Award-winner Lauryn Hill, has released her debut EP, a five-song EP titled “Star Power.” Coming to terms with the reality there’s no such thing as the “right time” just time itself, Marley credits both the universe and herself as co-creators for the album.
To her credit, Selah has always sought to strike out on her own with her music, taking a very different approach than her famous family members are known for. Similar to prior Soundcloud releases, the EP is largely experimental and heavy on distortion and extended instrumentals. All told, the project is an honest reflection of the weighty journey of being a young woman caught in the crossfire of normal youthful yearnings, insecurities and wonder as intersected by a weird sort of fame.
“Each track is a sonic journey of some of the individual facets of this concept, ‘Star Power,'” the 22-year-old songstress told Vogue, reflecting her push and pull relationship with stardom as a theme underpinning the EP. “It’s about creating space for a unique perspective. This is the first time I’ve allowed myself to step into that birthright and speak.”
Marley further explains that her debut album is an “escapism” from her reality, describing it as rebellion from her parents and lineage and self-preservation.
Marley also recognizes the impact that both her grandfather Bob Marley and mother, Lauryn Hill, have had on music. “My mother is someone who stunned the world as a beautiful, liberated Black woman and was punished for it because that was not what the world was ready to see.” Acknowledging that Lauryn’s “prominent voice” spoke out against a system that she knew was unfair.
Now available on all streaming platforms, check out “Star Power” below.
