Say She She: The Disco-Funk Revivalists

Say She She is a New York-based seven-piece band crafting a lush, modern take on classic disco and psychedelic soul. The group, led by the interlocking harmonies of vocalists Piya Malik, Sabrina Mileo Cunningham, and Nya Gazelle Brown, has quickly risen from the city's vibrant DIY scene to achieve critical acclaim and international festival bookings following their debut album.

Early career

Say She She formed in New York City in 2020, born from the city's rich musical soil and the shared vision of its three frontwomen. The band's core members, all seasoned performers in other projects, initially convened for casual jam sessions, bonding over a mutual love for 1970s girl groups like The Supremes and the orchestral funk of labels like Philadelphia International.

Their early sound was honed through local live performances, quickly attracting attention for their impeccable three-part harmonies and tight, groove-oriented instrumentation. They caught the ear of the London-based label Karma Chief Records, a subsidiary of Colemine Records, which specializes in contemporary soul and funk, signing with them to release their first official work.

Breakthrough

The band's breakthrough arrived with their 2022 debut album, Prism, released on Karma Chief/Colemine Records. The album was met with widespread praise from publications like NPR and Rolling Stone, celebrated for its sophisticated songwriting and authentic, shimmering production that evoked the golden era of disco without mere imitation.

Prism solidified their reputation as leaders in the modern funk revival, leading to performances at major festivals such as Glastonbury and a growing international fanbase. The album's success established Say She She not just as a studio project but as a formidable and captivating live act.

Key tracks

Forget Me Not — The lead single from Prism is a hypnotic, bass-driven anthem that perfectly encapsulates their harmonic sophistication and dance-floor mission.

Norma — This track showcases their psychedelic edge, featuring swirling organs and a narrative lyrical style that expands their sound beyond pure revivalism.

Don't You Dare Stop — A quintessential disco-funk workout highlighting the band's rhythmic precision and the vocalists' ability to build euphoric, cascading hooks.

Blow My Mind — Featured on their 2023 EP Silver, this song leans into a smoother, boogie-influenced sound, demonstrating their evolving production palette.

C'est Si Bon — A standout from their second album Reasons To Have Faith, this track is a lush, bilingual groove that underscores their global musical perspective and refined artistry.

The band maintained their momentum with the 2024 sophomore album Reasons To Have Faith, which delved deeper into themes of love, hope, and resilience over expansive, cinematic arrangements. They have collaborated with notable figures in the funk scene, including members of the Dap-Kings, further cementing their credibility within the genre's contemporary landscape.

Fans of Say She She's harmonious, groove-centric sound should also explore the modern soul of Durand Jones and The Indications, who share a deep reverence for classic American soul. The lush, orchestral arrangements of Thee Sacred Souls also offer a similar blend of vintage warmth and modern songcraft. For another take on New York's retro-funk scene, listen to Lucky Daye, whose work incorporates strong R&B and funk elements. The empowering anthems and rich harmonies of The Internet also provide a compelling parallel in contemporary alternative soul.

Say She She's infectious disco-funk sound has earned them regular rotation on a variety of independent music radio stations and specialty shows dedicated to modern soul, funk, and alternative dance music. Their tracks are staples on stations that champion new artists carrying the torch for classic analog sounds with a fresh, contemporary energy.

Listeners can discover the vibrant sound of Say She She by tuning into the curated radio stations available on onairium.com, where their music is featured alongside other pioneering artists in the soul and funk genres.