(January 2, 2026) She is music royalty, a woman who helped define the first decade of the 21st century with her seminal album Who Is Jill Scott? and a message that celebrated Black womanhood with honesty, warmth and vulnerability. And it has just been too long since we had new solo music from the incredible singer, songwriter and actress Jill Scott.
Now “Jilly From Philly” welcomes us all into 2026 with a brand new single that again uplifts. “Beautiful People” honors the glow of ordinary people who overcome both the natural and man-made obstacles of the world to shine for themselves and for each other:
Our love is bigger than time or race
Our love is rhythm and charm
It resonates in every space, it fills the place
My beautiful people
Written by Scott with Om’Mas Keith (who also produced), “Beautiful People” is just the kind of reminder of the human loveliness that is needed at a time of perpetuating division. And, of course, Ms. Scott sounds fantastic vocally.
“Beautiful People” is the first single from Ms. Scott’s upcoming album To Whom This May Concern, arriving February 13. It will be her first full length album in nearly a decade. Ms. Scott posted on social media about the album: “To Whom This May Concern (my new album) had and has a bevy of thoughtful, talented and focused folk to assist me on my work. Sometimes musician, sometimes, just a releasing friend to laugh with. We had fun!!!”
Check out “Beautiful People” below, and welcome Jill Scott back.
By Chris Rizik
