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Buenos Aires, Thursday 12, September 2024

Olivia K’s “Gold”: A Double Dose of Soulful Freedom

Brooklyn-based artist Olivia K releases a double feature EP, offering two unique versions of her powerful anthem, “Gold.” The song is a blast of retro-soul sunshine that celebrates personal freedom and the release from trying to change others. With two distinct takes—one a more traditional southern soul rendition, the other a “vibed out” lo-fi version produced by Rench of Gangstagrass fame—Olivia K serves up a refreshing spin on soulful self-discovery.

 ​Por Tina Sollosky

At the heart of both versions of “Gold” is Olivia’s standout vocal performance, which radiates unshakeable joy and confidence. The song is not just an anthem of liberation but also a deeply personal reflection. Olivia says, “I really wanted to give myself permission to be honest about the kind of crazy emotional situation I was in. I was at an emotional stalemate with someone who didn’t want to be different—that’s dumb! I let them be free and became the person I always dreamed of being.”

In line with her other writings, “Gold” carries a higher intention. Inspired by the Serenity Prayer, the song encourages listeners to take care of themselves first, letting go of the need to “turn others to gold” and instead finding peace in letting go.

Within just a month of announcing The Sankofa Project, Olivia K & The Parkers surpassed their crowdfunding goal, proving that their message and music resonate deeply with fans.

Olivia K has been making waves since founding her band Olivia K & The Parkers in 2016, which was reimagined in 2019. The band, a dynamic fusion of soul, jazz, gospel, and art rock, features Olivia K as the “Guardian of Soul” and Jesse Featherstone as the “Bringer of Madness.” Together, they create electrifying performances that have captivated audiences across NYC.

After early shows at venues like Baby’s All Right and City Winery, the band’s breakout moment came at Sony Hall, where they opened for New Orleans jazz legend Kermit Ruffins. Their performance turned a stunned crowd into their devoted followers, solidifying their place in New York's vibrant music scene.

Now, Olivia K & The Parkers are embarking on their most ambitious project yet: The Sankofa Project. This creative endeavor will see the band recording Olivia’s entire catalogue of songs—many of which were never tracked before. The project is inspired by the Ghanaian symbol Sankofa, which teaches that in order to move forward, we must first confront the past. This act of closure and creation allows the band to face their demons and move into the future with clarity and purpose.

The response to the project has been overwhelming. Within just a month of announcing The Sankofa Project, Olivia K & The Parkers surpassed their crowdfunding goal, proving that their message and music resonate deeply with fans.

When not in the studio, Olivia K & The Parkers continue to bring their all-Brooklyn blend of soul, jazz, and art rock to venues across New York City and beyond. Their sound speaks to expansive minds and righteous spirits, offering a fresh, heartfelt fusion of genres that captivates listeners from all walks of life.

With the release of “Gold” and the promise of more music to come through The Sankofa Project, Olivia K is well on her way to cementing her place as a soul powerhouse in the modern music scene. Her message of self-liberation and growth resonates far beyond her Brooklyn roots, inviting listeners everywhere to let go of what holds them back and embrace who they’re meant to be.