Today, breakout alt-R&B singer Nobu Woods makes his major-label debut with the audacious new single “SAVIOR.” Listen HERE via Second Estate Records / Warner Records. Combining poignant lyrics with moody, understated production, the track is a powerful calling card from the Queens native, heralding another serious player in the ever-expanding world of alt-R&B.
“Back in the day you prayed I’d be down and now I’m your favorite,” Woods sings over tight percussion and ethereal, fluttering tones. “Baby, you’re losing your mind.” Later, in the chorus, the rising artist emphasizes that he’s no longer interested in pursuing a relationship: “What makes you think imma save you’” he declares. “I’m not your savior.” Anthemic and powerful, the atmospheric kiss-off showcases Woods‘ unique perspective and artistry.
That description also applies to the moody visual. Taking inspiration from film noir and classic thrillers, the video begins with Woods enjoying a solitary drink in a bar until a femme fatale enters the room and triggers a series of evocative scenes with grainy filters and seductive lighting. There’s even a cliffhanger of an ending that hints at a larger storyline.
“Over time I’ve noticed as more people discover my music, seeing the numbers go up, my exes have been trying to show up in my life again,” Woods says of the song’s inspiration. “It’s been a mix of feelings along the way for me. What’s been happening has inspired me to realize the reasons why I had to leave those girls in my past.” He then goes on to break down the lyrics.
“The message is that even though you’re trying to be in and out of my life, I’m not here to save you,” Woods adds. “You have to get it on your own now. Same goes for the girls who wouldn’t give me the time of day but suddenly want the chance to know me now. I always heard other artists talk about this, but I didn’t really understand the extent of it. I think no matter what type of growth someone is experiencing in their lives, the song is about a feeling we can all relate to.”
“SAVIOR” is Woods’ first release since signing with Second Estate Records / Warner Records. Prior to that, he rolled out his EP MIDNIGHT MOTIONS in the winter of 2023, which included tracks like “TWENTY NIGHTS” and “LUCKY ACE.” To date, the EP has amassed over 13 million streams on Spotify alone. It was preceded by his first-ever EP, IRIS, in 2022, which introduced the brooding, magnetic sound he continues to perfect.
Now, with “SAVIOR” and much more to come, Woods is ready to level up and bring his shape-shifting brand of R&B to a whole new audience.
