Grammy winning artists Samara Joy and PJ Morton have teamed up for “Why I’m Here,” the lead single from the soundtrack from Netflix’s “Shirley.”
Joy, a 23-year-old jazz phenomenom, strays away from her jazz roots in the new single. Co-written and produced with PJ Morton, “Why I’m Here” sees Joy cover an emotionally stirring, political-leaning track.
Since 2019, the launch of her career, Joy has moved fans to tears with her distinct contralto register. Her Grammy award-winning album, Linger Awhile, solidifies her case to join the likes of Sarah, Ella, and Billie as the next jazz singing sensation.
In an interview with NPR, Joy shared that studying voice in college helped her better understand her own voice and her own approach to songs. “I learned not only about the foundational things, but about phrasing and having control over my voice and not just looking at a song as just something to sing, but, like, actually delving into the story and the lyrics and utilizing whatever tools I have technique wise to, to bring the song to life.”
Joy shared about the new leading track with Variety. “For me, this song was a representation of how Shirley Chisholm’s commitment to pursuing her purpose has affected us all, whether we realize it or not,” she shared. “Regina King’s portrayal of Chisholm only cements the importance of being persistent in the face of adversity and remembering why we all are here: to help one another.”
Morton added, “It’s an honor to put music to such an important and inspiring story. And then to do it with one of my favorite new voices today just made it even more special.”
Morton, known for his indie soul albums and gospel songs that he’s penned, serves as the perfect partner for the inspirational record. The Watch The Sun singer has had a spectacular run of genre-blurring releases that have earned him five Gramophone trophies.
The making of “Why I’m Here”:
“Shirley,” which debuts on Netflix on March 22, stars Regina King as Chisholm, a trailblazer in the political space. The film focuses on the 1972 presidential run by New York Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm. In 1968, Chisholm became the first Black woman to be elected to Congress.