Scott's sonic shift: from aladdin to 'f.i.g.' – a musician's unfolding
Naomi Scott’s career trajectory has been a delightfully unexpected detour, yet her core ambition – to make music – has consistently driven her. From echoing in East London church choirs to penning tracks with Xenomania, her path has been anything but conventional.
A ‘girl in process’ finds her voice
Scott’s recent album, ‘F.I.G.’, isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a candid exploration of her evolving identity. Emerging from a ‘quarter-life crisis’ and dedicating herself to the craft, the project embodies a deliberate, almost defiant, approach to artistry. Speaking from Los Angeles, she describes the album as a “process,” a philosophy, a tangible representation of her continued growth – a far cry from manufactured pop star tactics.
Genre-bending & echoes of legends
‘F.I.G.’ is a sonic tapestry woven with threads of R&B, alternative pop, soul, and a generous sprinkling of ’80s influences. But the album’s true identity lies in its subtle nods to musical icons: the Jacksonian groove of “Rhythm,” the Prince-esque guitar riffs in “Losing You,” and the languid, soulful vocals reminiscent of Solange in “Bliss.” Production credits from Dev Hynes, a longtime collaborator, further solidify this rich musical lineage.
Diy authenticity & a visual statement
What truly sets ‘F.I.G.’ apart is its remarkably cohesive and concise structure – a deliberate statement of intent. Scott and her creative director, Katharina Korbjuhn, have embraced a ‘do-it-yourself’ ethos, evident in the album’s music videos. Shot with limited resources, they capture a raw, lived-in energy, eschewing polished extravagance for an immediate, relatable feel. The video for ‘Cherry,’ filmed in a soccer field, perfectly embodies this approach – a blend of sophistication and British eccentricity.
Word-of-mouth momentum
Despite a modest initial release, ‘F.I.G.’ has gained traction through organic fan enthusiasm. Scott’s independent label strategy – prioritizing music over aggressive marketing – has clearly resonated. “It’s just a wonderful feeling,” she shares, “to see people connecting with the music on a personal level, sharing their own interpretations.”
A journey of acceptance and sonic exploration
The title, ‘Fall Into Grace,’ reflects Scott’s personal journey of self-acceptance and her renewed commitment to music. It’s also a subtle reference to Sylvia Plath’s ‘The Bell Jar,’ invoking the metaphor of a fig tree – a symbol of multiple potential futures. But, as Scott herself admits, she’s still ‘figuring it out,’ embracing the ongoing process of artistic discovery.
Looking ahead: live performances & a ‘girl in process’
Her upcoming tour, featuring a minimalist setup – just two musicians on stage – underscores her commitment to authenticity. She’s also slated to support Jessie Ware on her UK arena tour and will deliver a few surprises live, including a cover of New Edition’s “Can You Stand the Rain” and a mash-up with Anita Baker’s “Sweet Love.” Scott’s final word? “I’ll still be in my base uniform: my tracksuit, my knee pads, my heel pumps, my bra,” she concludes with a laugh – a testament to her unshakeable identity. Ultimately, ‘F.I.G.’ isn’t just an album; it's a declaration that, at 29, Naomi Scott is finally, undeniably, a musician.”n