Ghanaian-American artist Amaarae has confirmed that her highly anticipated new album, Black Star, will be released on August 8, 2025.
The project arrives via Interscope Records and marks her first full-length release since the breakout success of Fountain Baby in 2023.
The announcement of the new album release date comes as Amaarae continues to solidify her place as one of the most original voices in contemporary Afropop and soul. Known for her distinctive fusion of genres, Black Star is expected to further showcase her ability to blend sounds and cultures with bold creativity.
Leading the new album is the single S.M.O., a lively, highlife-inspired anthem that celebrates Black femininity and unapologetic self-expression. Released shortly after Juneteenth, the track draws influences from Ghanaian ’80s highlife legend Ata Kak, Detroit club music, and nostalgic zouk melodies.
In a press statement, Amaarae described S.M.O. as one of her most confident and energetic songs yet. “For as long as I’ve made music, fusion has been my strength, and this comes to full fruition on ‘S.M.O.,’” she said.
Fans can pre-order Black Star now ahead of its August release, with the music video for S.M.O., shot in Ghana and directed by Omar Jones, already generating buzz. The album is poised to build on the momentum of Fountain Baby, which earned international acclaim and was named one of Pitchfork’s “100 Best Albums of the 2020s So Far.”
BREAKING: Amaarae will release her third studio album “Black Star” on Friday, August 8. 📀🇬🇭
— The 12-Track album includes new single “S.M.O”. pic.twitter.com/DZny6RQPhV
— 𝗔𝗟𝗕𝗨𝗠 𝗧𝗔𝗟𝗞𝗦 📀 (@AlbumTalksHQ) June 19, 2025
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