Tempest Makes Bold Debut with EP The Ranch, Embracing Authenticity and Artistic Freedom

Long Beach native Tempest, a rising star in the West Coast Alt-R&B scene, is reclaiming her artistic freedom and embracing her true vision with the release of her debut EP, The Ranch. This 5-track project represents a pivotal moment in Tempest's career, capturing her evolution as an artist while reflecting on the valuable lessons she’s learned along the way.

In The Ranch, Tempest dives deep into themes that range from salty exes and casual flings to navigating industry pressures, staying true to oneself, and overcoming personal adversity. Her signature 'doing whatever I want' attitude is evident throughout, endearing her to fans who appreciate her unapologetic authenticity.

Tempest reveals that this project marks a significant departure from her previous work, driven by the realization that she needed to take control of her narrative.

The EP kicks off with the playful, candy-coated title track single “The Ranch” featuring Amindi while other tracks like “Cha Cha Freestyle” continue to showcase her bold, unrestrained style. The singles have received support from major editorial playlists on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, including Vanguard, R&B Weekly, New In R&B, and more. Rounding out the EP are three new tracks: “Worthy,” “DontNeedYou,” and the focus track “Stop Playing,” each both interesting and familiar at the same time, perhaps thanks to Tempest's influences.

A rich blend of music shaped Tempest from a young age. Growing up in Long Beach at the intersection of Bigsby Knolls and the East Side, she was exposed to a mix of suburban and inner-city cultures that fostered her versatility. Her father, a DJ from the Bronx, introduced her to East Coast hip-hop legends like Busta Rhymes and Lil’ Kim, alongside R&B icons such as Mary J. Blige and Missy Elliott. Meanwhile, her Jamaican mother filled their home with dancehall rhythms and classics from artists like Celine Dion. This eclectic musical upbringing sparked Tempest's passion for crate digging and developed her broad musical perspective.

Her creative exploration continued through the 2020 lockdown, where she refined her sound and experimented with new styles, blending elements of alternative and R&B. She draws inspiration from artists like Tyler, The Creator, and Rihanna, and channels the introspective lyricism of James Fauntleroy and Frank Ocean. Her unique approach allows her to craft immersive worlds within her music, making her a standout in the genre.

Tempest’s breakout performance at SXSW's RNB FOREVER showcase this year further solidified her presence in the industry. She has since collaborated with artists like Amindi, Naomi Wild, WEST SIDE BOOGIE, Zyah Belle, and Asha Imuno, and was named an Artist to Watch by Complex Pigeons and Planes. Her dynamic stage presence has been showcased on Jordan Ward's FOREWARD Tour and at sold-out DJ sets at LA’s Tenants Of The Trees.

Tempest is clear about her intentions with this release. “I’m about to get active and, God willing, I’m better than I was before,” she declares, ready to reintroduce herself to the world and make music that speaks directly to her soul.

Listen to The Ranch below:

"I love this project for what she stands for. She’s a fighter. A warrior. So much armor. You can hear the pain if you listen close enough," Tempest shares. "I don't care to perfect anything from that time. I just want to celebrate that fighting girl and finally show my face!"

Photo Credit: Courtni Poe

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