Released towards the tail-end of May, singer Carmen Nichole’s “Sunshine” is a throwback to 90s neo-soul, down to its funk-esque tempo and live instrumentation. A song equally about enjoying the world as it is, environmental preservation, and maintaining a piece of mind, “Sunshine” gives me distinct Jill Scott vibes, down to how powerful the vocals are (without being overwhelmingly powerful for a smoother, mellowed-out song like this). This song is like a warm cup of coffee in the morning. It will relax you, then energize you to do what you need to do with yourself. You may even find yourself humming along to the music in your head (which, I’d hope since we’re talking about it, should be Nichole’s “Sunshine”).

If you’re unaware of Carmen and her powerful story, she’s been featured on SOTB once before. Her comeback is one that’s a testament to God being good all the time (and all the time being good for God to bless those who seek guidance). In 2012, after losing her father, Carmen lost her voice and considered walking away from the musicsphere. I’ve been there, as trauma of any sort can make you reconsider your life choices. Some trauma renders you unable and unwell. However, Nichole, after accepting God’s Glory and Grace (and the restorative powers provided from them), her voice returned and she’s been going ever since. Add that onto years of continued healing both through God’s influence and self-betterment, and you’ve got a musician you can’t help but root for. The last song I featured of Carmen’s was the equally-impactful “Imperfections.”

You should give that one a spin for old time’s sake, check out the continued positivity in “Sunshine” and support dope music in all its forms.