Yola is not a new name in the music industry, but her sound constantly evolves, defying easy categorization. While many recognized her breakthrough in Americana, earning Grammy nominations and critical acclaim, her musical roots run deeper and wider. In a recent episode of Song Exploder, Yola, alongside co-writer and co-producer Sean Douglas, dissected her song “Symphony,” offering listeners a rich understanding of its creation – truly, a Song For A Song.
Yola in a recording studio, highlighting her expertise and experience as a singer-songwriter.
Yola’s journey began far from the Americana spotlight, in the UK’s electronic music scene. Starting in the early 2000s, she lent her vocals to tracks for DJs and producers, a period that shaped her versatility and understanding of rhythm and melody. This background is crucial to understanding her recent EP, My Way, released in January 2025. As Yola explains in the Song Exploder episode, this new music is a deliberate step towards asserting her identity beyond genre boundaries, a reclamation of her diverse musical self.
“Symphony” becomes a key piece in this artistic puzzle. The conversation with Sean Douglas reveals the intricate layers of the song’s development. It’s not just a melody and lyrics; it’s a tapestry woven from Yola’s experiences, influences, and her desire to express a multifaceted identity. Listeners gain insight into the collaborative process with Douglas, understanding how different musical ideas converged to form the final track. This deep dive into “Symphony” showcases the value embedded within a single song – a value born from the artist’s journey, creative collaboration, and a commitment to authentic expression.
Beyond her musical endeavors, Yola’s artistic range extends to acting. Her portrayal of Sister Rosetta Tharpe in the film Elvis and her Broadway role in Hadestown demonstrate her dynamic talent and further enrich the context of her music. These experiences inform her songwriting, adding layers of storytelling and performance to her musical identity. Listening to Yola unpack “Symphony” is like receiving a masterclass in artistry, revealing the depth and complexity that goes into creating music that resonates. It’s a reminder that a song is never just a song; it’s a universe of influences, experiences, and artistic intention, offered generously to the listener.
Hear the full exploration of “Symphony” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and other platforms. Discover the symphony within “Symphony,” and appreciate the journey behind this compelling track.
