Sam Cotton Unveils Soulful, Jazz-Laced EP 'FOOL'

London artist blends hip-hop, soul and candid storytelling in magnetic six-track project

South West London’s rising talent Sam Cotton returns with 'FOOL,' a soulful, jazz-infused six-track EP that explores the tangled world of love, lust, and self-discovery.

At just 21, the rapper, singer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist is carving out his own lane in UK alternative rap, delivering warm grooves, sharp lyricism, and a magnetic honesty that has already won him sold-out shows and a loyal following.

Blending mellow hip-hop beats with smooth vocals and laid-back jazz textures, 'FOOL' draws inspiration from the likes of Loyle Carner, Rejjie Snow, and Berlioz, while firmly showcasing Cotton’s own voice and vision. The project features a stellar cast of collaborators, including KeepVibesNear, Baby Panna, Danny Chaska, Honor Carr, and Josie Beth, each bringing fresh dynamics to the EP’s soulful palette.

“'FOOL' is about embracing vulnerability,” Sam explains. “It’s messy and complicated, but that’s where the truth of love and self-discovery really lives.”

Raised on his mum’s collection of jazz and soul records, Cotton’s musical journey began early. By 11, he was performing weekly with local outfit Groove Academy, whose track 'Moonlight' earned them a place at the Music for Youth Festival finals in 2019. His breakout moment came with 'Rules' - a track made entirely through online collaboration, which has since amassed over 1 million streams, despite the trio behind it never meeting in person.

With headline shows in London and Leeds already under his belt and a sound that bridges jazz, soul, and hip-hop, Cotton is quickly establishing himself as one of the UK’s most exciting new voices.