Release Date: 19 July 2024
Label: RCA Records
JADE Thirlwall, the beloved star of Little Mix, has finally stepped into the solo spotlight with her highly anticipated debut single, Angel Of My Dreams. Released on 19 July 2024, the Mike Sabath-produced track solidifies JADE’s position as the final member of Britain’s biggest girl group to embark on a solo career. And, true to the adage “save the best till last,” Thirlwall delivers a pop anthem that exceeds all expectations.
Angel Of My Dreams is a bold, daring statement both lyrically and sonically. The track opens with a captivating Sandie Shaw Puppet on a String sample, which blends seamlessly with JADE’s unmistakable vocals. Right from the start, the song grabs listeners with its infectious energy and unpredictable transitions, leading into a production-heavy beat drop that Thirlwall had teased for weeks on TikTok. The mix of retro influences with modern electronica creates a fresh, exhilarating sound that feels like a natural evolution for JADE.
Lyrically, Angel Of My Dreams pulls no punches. The first verse, which references “selling her soul” to a money-driven “psycho,” immediately caught the attention of fans, especially her LGBTQ+ following. Longtime “Mixers” were quick to connect the dots, recognizing the “psycho” as a pointed reference to Simon Cowell and the rocky history between Little Mix and his record label, SYCO Music. This lyric serves as a cathartic release for Thirlwall, reflecting the band’s well-publicized fallout with Cowell before the release of their fifth studio album. The wordplay, particularly with “SYCO” being pronounced as “psycho,” adds a sharp edge to the song’s message.
Thematically, JADE has described the track as exploring her “love and hate relationship with the music industry.” That tension is palpable throughout Angel Of My Dreams, as the song moves between moments of vulnerability and defiance. It’s a raw, authentic portrayal of her personal and professional struggles, making the track more than just a catchy pop hit—it’s a statement.
In recent interviews, JADE has made it clear that she had no intention of “playing it safe” with her debut, and she certainly stayed true to that promise. Angel Of My Dreams is an ambitious, electrifying record that not only showcases her vocal prowess but also her ability to push musical boundaries. With its bold production, introspective lyrics, and undeniable hooks, this track is primed to secure Thirlwall a spot in the top ten of the UK charts.
All in all, Angel Of My Dreams is a triumphant debut for JADE, setting the stage for what is sure to be an exciting solo career. It’s fresh, fearless, and absolutely deserving of a five-star review—undoubtedly one of the year’s standout singles.