Playlist: Girlhood

London duo Girlhood are set to release their debut self-titled LP on October 23, 2020 via Team Talk Records. Following on from the singles Sister and The Love I Need the duo have shared their new track Queendom, a slow-burning, pared-down affair with lead singer Tessa Cavanna’s voice exquisitely poised between piano and strings. You can give it a spin below.

Tessa says of Queendom: 'This track was one of the last to be recorded and is one of my favourites! Queendom is about picking yourself up when you fall. It's about supporting yourself and the people you love. In this current political climate, and as a colourful woman, I am compelled to spread the message of love and empowerment for those who don't feel seen, heard, or held. To All my people, all my darling loves. I want you to know that you matter and that you are enough! No matter who you are, we are nothing more than blood, dirt, and star-dust.'

Ahead of the release of their album, we asked Girlhood to make us a playlist for the weekend. 

 Tune in.

FU-Schnickens - Movie Scene

This sort of thing was pretty bizarre for hip hop back in it’s early days, it plays as almost a mood piece. 

Malcolm McLaren - About Her

This has to be one of my favourite and most inspirational songs of all time, since the day I heard it on Kill Bill. When I dug out the OG sample he made the hook with, it literally melted my brain.

Burna Boy - Wonderful

A recent discovery for me, but I’ve been into this little choir on YouTube called The Joy, and this song seems like an extension of their vibe. Love love love it. 

BJ The Chicago Kid - Turnin’ Me Up

I am obsessed with songs that song like they are jams are some sort of party. Can’t explain it, but if you listen carefully you can hear a party backdrop in a lot of our songs. 

Spleen - She’s Surrounding Me

Acapella rules. Lo-fi rules. This song has tonnes of heart.

Khruangbin - So We Won’t Forget 

I love the mood this song has about it. I can’t really place it, but it’s sort of like a dreamy jam with an African swing.

The Avalanches - Because I’m Me

The. Best. Song. Ever. 

Lauryn Hill - To Zion

Lauryn Hill’s album is easily the biggest inspiration for our song and production, at least at an early stage. It sounds like it was all recording live and I love being in the middle of it. 

TLC - No Scrubs

Name me one person that doesn’t rate this tune. 

Moby - I Love To Move In Here

One of his lesser known bangers. A perfect song in its simplicity, groove and production.