*Jill Scott is preparing to reenter the musical conversation with “To Whom This May Concern,” her sixth studio album and first full-length release in nearly ten years. Arriving February 13 via The Orchard, the project follows a milestone period in her career that included the 20th anniversary of “Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1” and a sold-out North American tour celebrating the landmark debut.
Per the news release, the album is rooted in themes of connection, humanity, and personal truth, reflecting Scott’s belief in art as both refuge and reflection. Built on stories shaped by time away from the spotlight, the project emphasizes lived experience over urgency. Scott has described the importance of stepping back, noting that creation requires space to live fully before returning to the work.
“To Whom This May Concern” features a wide range of collaborators, including Ab-Soul, J.I.D., Tierra Whack, and Too $hort. Production contributions come from Adam Blackstone, Om’Mas Keith, DJ Premier, Camper, and several others, reinforcing Scott’s reputation as a deeply collaborative artist. The album artwork, created by visual artist Marcellus, mirrors the richness of the music with layered imagery and bold textures.
In a recent interview with The Guardian, Scott reflected on her cultural impact while resisting narrow definitions of her work. “I don’t really like boxes. I’m a Black woman, and both portions are as powerful, rooted and exciting, but I’m an artist and believe in telling stories about the human condition for all people,” she said.
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Scott added, “I’m not Nina Simone, though I respect that kind of work. I’d love people to read my lyrics and listen to the body of work from beginning to end. I’m still discovering who Jill Scott is, but like a good meal, it takes time. I also like some mystery.”
That sense of mystery, she explained, is intentional and inspired by artists she admires. “I love Sade, but I don’t know what she had for breakfast, what she wore last night or any of her business. I just love her music. As an artist, you have to have some kind of balance.”
Scott also continues to approach intimacy with honesty on the new album, particularly on the songs “Pressha” and “Don’t Play.” “Making love and screwing are different things, and I’d like people to know the difference,” she said.
For Scott, singing about real connection remains inseparable from singing about life itself.
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Jill Scott Announces New Album ‘To Whom This May Concern’
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