Ari Lennox Says Her Label Won’t Promote 'Smoke'—So We Will

Ari Lennox, the soulful voice behind the timeless album Shea Butter Baby, recently opened up about ongoing struggles with her record label, Dreamville. In a now-deleted Instagram reel, the Grammy-nominated artist expressed her frustrations, saying she feels undervalued and misrepresented by her label when it comes to promoting her music.

In the 18-minute video, Lennox shared that the lack of support for her latest single, "Smoke," was the "final straw" in a series of disappointments. Released on October 18, "Smoke" touches on themes of mental health, a topic Lennox has openly explored in her work. Despite its depth and relatability, Lennox lamented the lack of marketing push, stating, “I wish I had a label that cared, that would want to protect me… I was trying to do everything the right way, but now I’m pissed."

Lennox's candidness sheds light on a larger issue in the music industry: the disconnect between artists and labels, especially for those who value authenticity over mainstream appeal. Her vulnerability made clear that she seeks more than promotion—she wants respect and understanding from those responsible for her music.

At The Wave, we admire artists who stay true to themselves. Lennox's situation resonates with us deeply because her contribution to modern R&B is undeniable, and her work proves that individuality matters, even in an industry obsessed with numbers.

In light of her challenges, we want to shine a spotlight on "Smoke." The single is another powerful addition to Lennox's catalog, showcasing her emotional transparency and melodic talent. It’s a reminder of why her voice deserves to be heard, regardless of the obstacles.

Despite her frustrations and desire to leave her contract, Lennox's passion for music remains strong. She has also reflected on past experiences of being misled by other labels and producers, painting a picture of resilience in the face of repeated challenges.

For those who appreciate authentic R&B, "Smoke" is not to be missed. Lennox continues to bridge the gap between personal storytelling and universal themes, even when the support behind the scenes falters.

As a publication, we stand by artists like Ari Lennox, who refuse to compromise their identity. Stream "Smoke" today and help us celebrate the brilliance of independent-minded artists navigating a challenging industry

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