London-raised alternative R&B artist Prple is turning being misunderstood into a source of power.
Out now, “Misunderstood” is a dark, reflective cut that explores identity, self-perception and the uncomfortable reality of outgrowing the version of you that other people have become accustomed to.
What starts from the pain of being misunderstood quickly becomes something more empowering: a reminder that, ultimately, your own understanding of yourself matters most.
“I am ever evolving”, says Prple. “If I am not, that’s stagnancy and the only things that are stagnant are dead.”
It’s an ethos that sits at the heart of Prple’s wider artistic world. Her DGC — ‘Don’t Get Comfortable’ — philosophy is all about embracing discomfort as part of growth, refusing to stay in places, identities or expectations that no longer feel authentic.
And she’s not particularly interested in making that evolution comfortable for everyone else either.
“People aren’t always comfortable with change, especially when it breaks the reality of the character they’ve created in their head,” she says. “Don’t get comfortable init.”
Sonically, Prple sits in a compelling alternative R&B/Soul space, blending introspective lyricism with a darker, sensual edge. Fans of SZA, Kali Uchis, Mariah The Scientist, Naomi Sharon, Ari Lennox and DOECHII will find plenty to tap into, while Prple continues carving out a world that feels distinctly her own.
‘Misunderstood’ follows previous singles ‘Love Trap’ and ‘Runaway’, and sets the tone for her forthcoming debut EP, Heliotrope.
There’s a simple message running through it all: growth can be uncomfortable, being perceived can be daunting, but abandoning yourself is worse.
Prple isn’t trying to fit back into anyone’s idea of who she should be.
She’s evolving. Catch up if you can.
