By Bridget Sinden
Joy Oladokun weaves folk, country, soul, and pop into something uniquely her own and she’s becoming one of the new vital storytellers in American music. That’s a hell of a set up – but hear me out.
Her most recent album “Observations From a Crowded Room” (2024) follows a string of critically acclaimed releases, each one building on her reputation as an artist unafraid to tackle the complexities of identity, belonging, and self-acceptance with both vulnerability and strength.
The Power of Authentic Storytelling
Songs like “Breathe Again” and her collaboration “Bigger Man” with Maren Morris showcase Oladokun’s gift for turning personal struggles into universal anthems. “Breathe again” explores getting over difficulties in the past and moving on, while “If You Got A Problem” tackles confidence and not caring what others say.
These tracks resonate because they don’t offer easy answers or superficial comfort. Instead, they acknowledge the messiness of healing while offering hope that feels earned rather than handed down. Her ability to balance raw honesty with uplifting messages has created a devoted following among listeners who crave authenticity over polish.
What sets Oladokun apart is her refusal to sanitize her experiences for mass consumption. As a Black, queer woman in spaces that haven’t always been welcoming, she brings perspectives that expand what stories get told and who gets to tell them.
She is the new personification of soul where you can hear every scar as she sings and reveals herself through her music. I first heard her collaboration with Chris Stapleton called Sweet Symphony which really did rip my heart open and I vowed to share her music with as many people as would listen to me.
It’s criminal that she only has less than 60 thousand followers on her Youtube channel and it’s my obsession to change this. So, listen to her over and over and tell your friends!
Wild Hearted Take
Joy Oladokun represents everything we believe about the power of authenticity. She’s not trying to fit into existing categories or meet anyone else’s expectations—she’s creating music true to her and trusting audiences to connect with that honesty.
Bottom Line
Joy Oladokun is redefining what it means to be a storyteller in American music. Her blend of folk, soul, and country sensibilities creates something entirely her own while honoring the traditions that shaped her.
Stay Wild. Stay Real. Stay Soul.
