Press Play: UMI Releases "SOMEWHERE NEW" & "WHAT NOW"

UMI returns with a pair of deeply personal new singles—“SOMEWHERE NEW” and “WHAT NOW”—from her upcoming debut album people stories, out August 22 via Epic Records.

Both tracks reflect the Seattle-born artist’s tranquil blend of soul, R&B, folk, and pop, offering meditative glimpses into the emotional terrain she explores throughout the project. The release is accompanied by a visual for “SOMEWHERE NEW,” and follows earlier singles “10AM” and “HARD TRUTHS” featuring 6LACK.

Inspired by the stories of fans and loved ones, people stories is UMI’s most personal and expansive work to date. “I wanted to be the storyteller, the vessel to express everyone's stories,” UMI says of crafting the record. “We all live very similar lives, same colors, slightly different hues.” With live-style performances, ambient sounds captured at home, and outros from her therapist, the album celebrates the “beautiful messiness” of life.

“This album has taught me that my worth is not in perfection,” UMI says. By embracing vulnerability and imperfection, she creates space for connection and healing. “When I turn people's stories into songs, it pulls me out of myself in a good way.” With people stories, UMI offers listeners more than music—she offers a sense of shared humanity.

Listen to the two new singles below.