Harleighblu - Thruple (Single) + 10 Questions

Nottingham neo-soul artist Harleighblu returns with 'Thruple', a witty, soulful take on the complexities of modern relationships and dating in 2026.

Blending hip hop, soul and jazz with her trademark honest lyricism, the track explores the emotional whirlwind that can follow when the idea of opening up a relationship is unexpectedly put on the table. Rather than telling a true story, Harleighblu uses the concept to unpack people pleasing, insecurity, curiosity and the internal negotiations that often accompany modern romance.

Premiered by Jess Iszatt on BBC Introducing after becoming a live favourite, 'Thruple' balances humour and vulnerability with an arrangement that shifts effortlessly between sultry grooves and theatrical spoken word. Produced alongside Jack Wolff and featuring trumpeter Joe Binks, the track closes with a standout trumpet outro inspired by the iconic Sex and the City theme, leaving listeners wondering how the story ends.

A respected figure on the UK's neo-soul scene, Harleighblu has built an impressive career through releases on Tru Thoughts, collaborations with artists including Frank N Dank, Tall Black Guy and Bluestaeb, and performances everywhere from Glastonbury and Love Supreme to SXSW London and All Points East, where she supported RAYE. Her music has also earned support from NME, Clash, NOTION and Spotify editorial playlists.

'Thruple' marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter, with a self-produced album and her first US tour both on the horizon. Expect more of the lo-fi soul, dusty beats and fearless songwriting that have made Harleighblu one of the UK's most distinctive independent voices.

Harleighblu sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

Honestly, mum's record collection. Because of her, I've always loved music. She introduced me to neo-soul when I was about ten. I fell in love with Floetry, Jill Scott and D'Angelo whilst my friends were listening to the charts! lol. That love eventually grew into a career as both a recording artist and DJ, so you can say the rest is history.

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

Kaytranada, Anderson .Paak and Little Simz are definitely at the top of my list. They all blur genres in a way that feels really authentic and I love artists who aren't afraid to take risks. I think we'd make something pretty special together.

3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?

The big focus right now is Thruple. I spent about a year road-testing it live before releasing it because I wanted to see how people reacted first. It became my favourite songs to close my sets, and the response gave me the confidence to finally put it out into the world. Alongside that, I'm already writing what's next and getting ready for some DJ sets and tour announcements coming very soon too!

4. How would you describe your sound?

My sound sits somewhere between neo-soul, alt R&B, hip hop and UK jazz. DJing has definitely influenced my writing too. It's opened me up to so many different genres and sounds. With Thruple specifically, I also wanted to bring in a touch of dub as a nod to my Caribbean heritage.

5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

One of my proudest moments has been rebuilding my career independently. I didn't realise it at the time, but looking back, I think it needed to happen. There have been plenty of highs, but also moments where it felt like I had to start all over again. Instead of giving up, I kept creating, kept learning and kept believing in what I was building. As an independent artist, I've worn every hat imaginable. I'm my own boss, my own investor and, at times, my own gatekeeper. Sometimes that means I get things wrong, but every mistake has taught me something. That's the reality of being a creative entrepreneur, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

Back yourself! Stay open to learning, stay open to change, but don't lose your own voice in the process. Some of my biggest lessons came from ignoring my instincts because I assumed someone else knew better. Ask questions, keep growing, but don't hand over your intuition.

7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?

It's the British R&B girl takeover right now, and I'm absolutely here for it! I recently played a DJ set in LA and spent the whole set putting people onto UK gems. Artists like Lynda Dawn, Summer Pearl, Rochelle Jordan and Natanya are making incredible waves, and that's only scratching the surface. The list is endless. I'm so proud of the UK scene right now.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

Jill Scott's new album, To Whom This May Concern, has been on heavy rotation lately! I still need to pick it up on vinyl. I've been making a habit of buying records because I love reading the sleeve notes, taking in the artwork and properly sitting with an album. Physicals are unmatched!

9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?

When I get the chance to, I love going to hot yoga. It's honestly one of the few places where I can completely switch off and reset. I'm also obsessed with audiobooks and podcasts because I love learning. I'm a little bit woo-woo, so anything around manifestation, mindset, psychology and personal growth is a bit of me! Not gonna lie.

10. Name three things you can't live without when in the studio?

Yorkshire Tea. Proper builders' tea though, not too milky either! Recording in America has made me realise how much I take it for granted having it on tap at home. My phone is another one because I voice-note all my melodies and write all my lyrics in my Notes app.. always on airplane mode though, otherwise you'll get completely distracted by notifications. And finally, my keyboard. Ever since learning to play keys, it's become a space I keep coming back to when I'm writing! Stripping back my creative process. I love it.