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Jack Harlow Debuts Neo-Soul Album 'Monica' in Major Genre Shift

He pursues a live‑band R&B sound using strict rules—no rapping or profanity—recorded at New York’s Electric Lady Studios.

Overview

  • - Released March 13, 2026, on his 28th birthday, Monica is Harlow’s fourth studio album and a nine‑track set sung throughout.
  • - In a New York Times Popcast interview, he said he “got Blacker” making the record and described leaning deeper into Black music, drawing immediate online criticism alongside support.
  • - He acknowledged coming from the “school of Drake” early on but said he is now intent on finding an independent voice.
  • - The project’s credits include producers Aksel Arvid, Jermaine Paul, Angel “BabeTruth” Lopez and Hollywood Cole, with contributions from Robert Glasper, Ravyn Lenae, Omar Apollo and James Savage.
  • - Early listener response is polarized over the stylistic pivot and vocals, and there are no official updates yet on charts or touring.