Tempest Takes Control With Her ‘The Ranch’ EP

In a worldwide sea of alt-R&B voices, Tempest showcases the true embodiment of fearless authenticity. Hailing from Long Beach, California, this “People’s Princess” has been making waves in the West Coast music scene with her mixed sound, blending elements of R&B, hip-hop, and a touch of soul. 

Her journey from the gritty streets of Bigsby Knolls to the bright lights of SXSW is marked by a musical upbringing that spans genres and generations, thanks to her DJ father’s East Coast influences and her Jamaican mother’s love for everything from dancehall to Celine Dion. Now, with her debut EP, The Ranch, Tempest steps into the spotlight, showcasing not just her musical versatility but her evolution as an artist and a woman.

The Ranch is a five-track roller coaster that takes you through the highs and lows of Tempest’s recent experiences. It’s a departure from her earlier work, not just in sound but in attitude. “I love this project for what she stands for. She’s a fighter. A warrior,” Tempest has said on the EP. “You can hear the pain if you listen close enough.” This sentiment permeates the entire project, from the infectious beats to the raw, unfiltered lyrics. It’s a love letter to her past struggles and a celebration of the strength she’s found in facing them head-on.

The title track, “The Ranch,” is a candy-coated anthem of freedom and fun, featuring fellow genre-blender Amindi. It’s no wonder the track has already caught attention with its playful rhythm and catchy hook, “The Ranch” is the kind of track that makes you want to roll down the windows on a picturesque car journey. The song has a carefree vibe and is a middle finger to the pressures and expectations that once weighed her down, it’s Tempest’s declaration of independence, wrapped in a body-moving beat.

Then there’s “Cha Cha Freestyle,” a bold, swagger-filled track that showcases Tempest’s lyrical prowess and fearless approach. It’s a dance-floor banger that’s unapologetically brash, a reminder that Tempest isn’t here to play by anyone else’s rules. But The Ranch isn’t just about partying and defiance. Tracks like “Worthy” and “DontNeedYou” delve deeper, touching on themes of self-worth and liberation from toxic relationships. 

These songs are where Tempest’s vulnerability shines, layered with the confidence of someone who has been through the fire and comes out stronger. The standout track, “Stop Playing,” encapsulates this duality perfectly. It’s an anthem of self-discovery, with Tempest’s smooth, sultry vocals gliding over a truly assertive beat. 

For Tempest, this EP is about taking back control of her narrative. “I’m about to get active and, God willing, I’m better than I was before,” she declares. It’s a sensation that resonates with her fans, who have come to appreciate not just her music but her personal journey. As she gears up for what promises to be an exciting year ahead, including potential collaborations with names like Naomi Wild and WEST SIDE BOOGIE, and more sold-out DJ sets, one thing is clear: she’s only getting started. The Ranch publicly declares her ability to evolve while staying true to her roots. It’s a bold, unfiltered snapshot of an artist and woman who’s not afraid to embrace her flaws, celebrate her victories, and invite us all along for the ride.

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Photographer: Courtni Poe

Words: Izabel Rose