- 2026-02-03
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MUSIC
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Empire Child Releases Debut Song “Trace The Race”
London-based jazz singer-songwriter Ruth Rothwell, aka Empire Child released her debut song “Trace The Race” on January 30, 2026.
The song will appear on her upcoming debt album, which is expected to be released in 2026.
It is deeply personal. A reflection on identity, ancestry, and belonging, the track is inspired by her heritage, her mother Indo-Jamaican, part of the Windrush generation, and her father from Cape Town, South Africa, who fled apartheid, the song explores migration, legacy, and the idea that “your ancestors were immigrants once.”
The track was written by Ruth Rothwell and produced by Mariano Diaz, featuring Rene Rossano on guitar, Tomi Lujan on drums, and Victor Merlo on bass.
Ruth Rothwell said of the song, “The Immigrant. The other, The subgroup. Why is it we think of people like that? Is it because of the narratives we're fed by governments or those in power? But please remember all of our ancestors were immigrants once. So please, Trace The Race.”- Ruth Rothwell recorded the album with Madrid-based producer Mariano Diaz between London and Spain.
The album tells the story of growing up in London and navigating identity, heritage, resilience, and self-belief.
Sonically, it blends jazz, soul, singer-songwriter intimacy, and reggae influences, mirroring the layered experiences it explores.
Ruth Rothwell said of the album, “The music is inspired by my life so far. Themes of letting go of the past, having the courage to move forward, believing in yourself, and managing past hurts and disappointments. Music is my sanctuary, a way to deal with life on life's terms. Music is my sanctuary, a way to deal with life on life's terms.” - source : Apple Music
