The Lael Project Releases ‘It’s About Soul’ as a Powerful Tribute to Lael Summer’s Legacy.
The Lael Project has unveiled It’s About Soul, the seventh posthumous release from late New York singer-songwriter Lael Summer.
Originally released in 2013, the track has been reimagined by longtime collaborators Tomás Doncker and James Dellatacoma, blending Lael’s live vocals from a performance at New York’s iconic Blue Note with new instrumentation from The Specials Horns and the late Amp Fiddler. The result is a vibrant, soulful celebration of an artist whose voice continues to resonate nearly a decade after her passing.
Lael Summer died by suicide in 2017 at the age of 24, but her music and message live on through The Lael Project, the nonprofit founded by her mother, artist and activist Marla Mase. Dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and suicide prevention, the organisation uses Lael’s music to encourage open conversations around emotional wellbeing, healing and hope.
A bold female empowerment anthem, It’s About Soul captures Lael’s trademark blend of vulnerability, strength and authenticity. According to Marla Mase, the song reflects Lael’s belief that true power comes from within, not from appearance, while also showcasing her humour, confidence and unmistakable spirit.
The release arrives during a period of growing recognition for The Lael Project’s advocacy work. Over the past year, the organisation has collaborated with major mental health charities including To Write Love on Her Arms, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and NAMI, while expanding its outreach programmes for young people and preparing to launch a new creative wellbeing initiative, AS IS, later this year.
More than just a song, It’s About Soul is a reminder of Lael’s enduring mission: to help others feel seen, heard and less alone. As The Lael Project continues its work, the release stands as both a celebration of Lael’s artistry and a call to keep the conversation around mental health moving forward.
It’s About Soul is available from 10 July on all major streaming platforms.