Tamara S makes a striking first full-length statement with the release of her debut album, Where Are The Butterflies?, a project that highlights her depth as a songwriter and her growing presence within the UK R&B and soul landscape. The album presents a refined fusion of R&B, hip hop, and neo-soul, delivering a sound that feels warm, intentional, and deeply connected to lived experience.
Inspired by both her immediate environment and the wider world, Tamara S captures the feeling of summer through music that breathes and moves with ease. Although the album was developed over a long period, each song came together quickly once its core idea surfaced. This balance between patience and instinct gives the project a sense of freedom while maintaining clarity and purpose.
The album’s sonic direction was shaped through close collaboration with producer Oliver, whose preference for live instrumentation plays a central role in the sound. Beginning with stripped-back chord progressions, often led by guitar, the tracks gradually expanded into layered arrangements. While the album leans heavily into an organic palette, selective electronic elements are introduced to bring a contemporary edge without distracting from the natural warmth of the music.
At the heart of Where Are The Butterflies? lies a personal narrative. The album documents Tamara S’s ongoing commitment to honesty, both in her everyday life and within her art. The opening track, True to Me, emerged early in the creative process and helped define the emotional direction of the project. Across the album, themes of healing, optimism, and closure surface repeatedly, allowing space for reflection and emotional release.
The project also extends beyond personal experience, touching on broader social and environmental concerns. Tracks such as I Don’t Like It address issues including pollution and the mistreatment of animals in captivity. These messages are delivered thoughtfully and with care, reflecting Tamara’s values while encouraging listeners to consider their impact on the world around them.
As a body of work, the album feels confident and carefully shaped. Tamara S’s vocal performances are smooth, controlled, and emotionally grounded, carrying each song with warmth and sincerity. There is a sense of calm assurance throughout the project, with melodies and lyrics unfolding naturally rather than competing for attention. The result is an album that feels immersive, considered, and emotionally resonant.
Recorded across approximately two years, the album was revisited and refined multiple times before its release. This extended process allowed Tamara and her collaborators to develop the music fully, ensuring that the final version reflects both artistic growth and creative certainty.
Born and raised in Leeds, Tamara S began her musical journey early, singing as a child and writing songs from the age of eight. By sixteen, she was already recording music seriously, laying the groundwork for an artist defined by emotional awareness and confidence. Her songwriting frequently explores themes of self-discovery and spirituality, drawing from personal experience to create music that feels honest and relatable.
Her debut single, Queen of the North, released in 2018, marked the beginning of her professional journey. Since then, Tamara S has continued to evolve, releasing music influenced by artists such as Kehlani, Jhené Aiko, Elmiene, and Chronixx, while developing a sound that remains distinctly her own. Recent releases including What We Gon’ Do, Fast Life, and Very Special have accumulated over 400,000 streams on Spotify, demonstrating her growing connection with listeners.
As a performer, Tamara S brings a composed yet engaging presence to the stage. She has shared lineups with artists such as Donae’o and KeiyA, and has performed at venues including Belgrave Music Hall, Headrow House, Hyde Park Book Club, and Brudenell Social Club. Her festival appearances include Leeds West Indian Carnival and Sound City Festival in Liverpool, alongside high-profile performances such as the Leeds United New Year’s Eve celebration.
Her work has received airplay on BBC Introducing and BBC 1Xtra, and she has earned continued support from organisations including Music:Leeds and Rip It Up. Tamara has also received funding through the Launchpad organisation via PPL, benefiting from mentorship by Simon Rix of Kaiser Chiefs. In 2023, she collaborated with Leeds-based label Come Play With Me on the release of Would You?, which was featured on The Independent’s curated playlist.
With Where Are The Butterflies?, Tamara S presents a debut album that reflects patience, honesty, and artistic maturity. The project positions her as an artist with both emotional depth and creative direction, establishing a strong foundation for what promises to be a meaningful and lasting career.
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