Naomi scott finds her voice: from princess jasmine to genre-bending album
Naomi Scott, the actress who captivated audiences as Princess Jasmine in Disney’s Aladdin, has quietly engineered a career pivot. While blockbuster films brought her recognition, a deep-seated musical ambition, nurtured since childhood, is finally taking center stage with her debut album, F.I.G.—a project she describes as a “quarter-life identity crisis” resolved through songwriting and self-discovery.
A childhood soundtrack of icons
Scott’s musical journey began long before the cameras started rolling. Growing up in the east London suburbs, her afternoons were spent singing in the church choir, while evenings were dedicated to dissecting the discographies of Janet Jackson and Kate Bush via her father’s Windows Media Player. A chance encounter with Kéllé Bryan, of the iconic R&B group Eternal, at age 14 led to songwriting sessions and dreams of a career as a solo artist. The interruption came in the form of acting auditions—a detour that, against all odds, led to roles in films like Aladdin and Smile 2.
f.i.g.: a sonic tapestry woven with precision
F.I.G., an acronym for “fall into grace,” isn’t just a debut album; it’s a statement. Eschewing genre boundaries, Scott crafts a soundscape that effortlessly blends R&B, alternative pop, soul, funk, and the infectious rhythms of the 1980s. The result is an impressively cohesive, 29-minute experience that showcases her impeccable taste. Think Janet Jackson's groove alongside a nod to Prince’s guitar prowess, all filtered through the distinctly modern lens of Solange, a friend and mentor whose influence is palpable, particularly on tracks like “Cut Me Loose” where Dev Hynes shares production credits.
Beyond the influences, though, lies Scott’s own distinct musical identity—a quality she attributes to her willingness to embrace the creative process, even the messy parts. “I’m still that girl,” she says, smiling, “I’m still trying different things on.”
A diy aesthetic reflects authenticity
What’s even more remarkable is the album's organic rise. Released on an independent label, F.I.G. hasn't benefited from a massive marketing push. Instead, it’s gained momentum through word-of-mouth, fueled by passionate fans sharing their appreciation online. Scott’s embrace of a DIY visual aesthetic further amplifies this authenticity. The music videos, co-created with Katharina Korbjuhn, prioritize a raw, slice-of-life immediacy, as seen in the delightful video for “Cherry,” filmed on a local soccer field with a women’s team.
“There’s something beautiful about working with limited resources,” Scott observes. “I don’t think money equates to creativity.”
As Scott prepares to embark on a U.S. tour and then hit European festivals, she’s maintaining a refreshingly grounded approach—a small live band, minimal arrangements, and a focus on delivering the feeling of the album live. The stage will feature clothes racks and even a few on-stage costume changes – a playful nod to her ongoing journey of self-discovery.
Ultimately, Naomi Scott’s F.I.G. isn’t just an album; it's a testament to the power of perseverance and the conviction that genuine artistry can resonate, even without the fanfare. The numbers may not scream blockbuster, but the connection with her audience is undeniable—a far more potent measure of success in a world oversaturated with manufactured pop.