Scott’s sonic shift: how a former aladdin star found her voice in ‘f.i.g.’
Naomi Scott, known for her Disney roles, is proving she’s far more than just a princess—she’s a burgeoning R&B force with a fiercely independent spirit.
From church choir to chart-topping potential
Growing up in East London, Scott’s musical journey began in her local church choir, followed by late-night explorations of Janet Jackson and Kate Bush through her dad’s Windows Media Player. A chance encounter with Kéllé Bryan at 14 ignited a songwriting passion, leading to sessions with Xenomania, the pop powerhouse that helped shape the sound of Girls Aloud.
But a surprising detour into acting – starring as Jasmine in the 2019 ‘Aladdin’ – ultimately paved the way for her latest project. Now, with ‘F.I.G.’, Scott is reclaiming her identity as a musician, a journey fueled by a recent ‘quarter-life identity crisis’ and a renewed dedication to her craft.
‘F.i.g.’: a raw, unfiltered debut
The album, released in March, is a masterful blend of genres – R&B, alternative pop, soul, and a healthy dose of ’80s nostalgia. Scott’s meticulous production choices, including contributions from Dev Hynes, create a remarkably cohesive experience. Listeners will recognize echoes of Janet Jackson’s rhythmic precision, Prince’s soulful guitar work, and Solange’s atmospheric vocals, yet it’s undeniably Scott’s signature sound that shines through.
More than just music: a visual statement
Scott’s approach to building a visual identity around ‘F.I.G.’ is equally compelling. Music videos, crafted in collaboration with creative director Katharina Korbjuhn, capture a sense of raw authenticity – a far cry from polished, studio-bound productions. From dancing in a soccer field with a women’s team (sporting a Vivienne Westwood hoodie) to strutting down a London street with a leather trench and pink gloves, the videos feel remarkably unscripted, reflecting Scott’s playful eccentricity.
A ‘girl in process’ finds her voice
The album’s title, ‘Fall Into Grace,’ reflects Scott’s personal journey of self-acceptance and her commitment to continuous growth as an artist. Despite limited marketing resources with her independent label, Scott’s confidence in her music's power has allowed it to find a dedicated fanbase through word-of-mouth. She emphasizes that the music speaks for itself, a testament to her unwavering belief in her vision.
A moment of genuine connection
“It’s just a wonderful feeling,” Scott shares, brimming with enthusiasm. “To see people connecting with your work on such a deep level, hearing their stories about how it’s impacted them… that’s far more rewarding than chasing metrics.”
Touring with soul
Currently embarking on her first headlining tour, Scott is keeping the live experience intimate, featuring a small backing band. She’s also incorporating unexpected elements, including cover songs like New Edition’s “Can You Stand the Rain” and a mash-up with Anita Baker’s “Sweet Love,” demonstrating her impeccable musical taste. A few surprises are in store for the audience, adding an element of spontaneity and excitement to each performance.
Final thoughts
Scott’s journey, from Disney princess to independent artist, is a testament to her resilience and unwavering passion. ‘F.I.G.’ isn’t just an album; it’s a declaration – a confident, soulful statement of intent from a young artist who’s finally found her voice, and it’s only just beginning.