Jaz Karis, the captivating R&B singer from South London, has returned with Safe Flight, an album that beautifully captures the complexities of love, nostalgia, and self-discovery. Known for her soulful voice and ability to tap into universal emotions, the artist behind Into the Wilderness brings us a deeply personal and relatable project. With themes reflecting her “quarter-life crisis,” the 27-year-old singer-songwriter opens up about her journey of balancing family, friendships, and the pull between two cities—London and Los Angeles.
Welcome to the Diary of a romanticise …
For Jaz, Safe Flight is more than just an album—it explores love in all its forms. “Love is a big influence,” she shares, “but it’s not just romantic love; it’s also about family, friendships, and even the love you feel when you’re travelling and missing people.” From start to finish, love and nostalgia are woven into the album’s core, offering listeners a heartfelt and multi-layered experience.
One of the record’s standout tracks, “Sunset Blvd,” captures the artist’s romantic side and has resonated deeply with fans. Written during her time between London and LA, Jaz describes it as a “lover girl” anthem that embodies the thrill and safety of new love. “It’s about that beautiful beginning stage,” she explains, “when everything feels safe and exciting.” Jaz likens the experience to cruising down LA’s iconic Sunset Boulevard, with feelings of love and possibility filling the air.
In many ways, Safe Flight mirrors the vocalist’s own journey through what she calls a “quarter-life crisis.” At 27, Jaz finds herself navigating the pressures of adulthood—a theme familiar to many listeners of her generation. “There’s this strange rush to achieve, make money, and build a status,” she says. “But where’s the guidebook for all of that?” Safe Flight captures her reflections on these challenges, creating an authentic narrative that resonates across generations.
Splitting her time between London and LA has broadened her sound and identity, adding new layers to her artistry while keeping her grounded. Though she’ll always consider London her home, the songstress admits that LA has a certain pull. “I’m always going to be a South London girl,” she says with pride, adding that LA’s unique energy has grown on her. “LA has this fresh vibe; everyone’s willing to try new things. It’s different from London’s vibe, but I’ve found people and places that make it feel like home.” Her time in LA has influenced the album, bridging her roots with her new experiences abroad.
Adjusting to life in America hasn’t been without its quirks, however. Jaz’s friend and collaborator Phabo—known for Soulquaris and his contributions to Kehlani’s discography—often teases her about her search for British staples in LA, particularly baked beans. “America just doesn’t do baked beans the way we do—they add sugar to everything!” she laughs. Her solution? She stocks Heinz beans whenever she is back in London and always carries tea bags on her travels. “Some things are non-negotiable,” she jokes, “especially my tea!”
Culture and heritage are also constants in the singer’s music. Coming from a mixed background, the 27-year-old has embraced the various sounds and influences that shape her style. Working with producers like Juls, who brings Afro-fusion vibes to the mix, has allowed her to explore her roots in a way that feels personal and authentic. “The more comfortable I’ve become with myself, the more I’ve been able to blend my cultural influences with my sound,” she reflects. Safe Flight represents a new chapter in her journey, where her heritage and personal growth meet in beautiful harmony.
Her sound isn’t the only thing evolving. Recently, the R&B artist’s spiritual journey has deepened, adding another layer of meaning to her music. “I feel so much closer to God through everything I’m doing,” she says. While she’s still figuring things out, she hopes her music carries a message of love—a message she’s refining as she grows. This spiritual path is a vital part of her artistry, one she looks forward to exploring in future projects.
Reflecting on advice that has shaped her career, Jaz cites something simple yet powerful: “Don’t take things personally.” This perspective has been invaluable in both her professional and personal life, helping her focus on her goals without being weighed down by outside opinions. It’s advice that underpins her resilience in an industry that often demands grace under pressure.
For her parting message to fans, the singer leaves them with words to live by: “Just love and let go.” To the songstress, this motto is a reminder to approach life with an open heart and to trust in the journey.
With Safe Flight, Jaz Karis has crafted an album that speaks to the heart of a generation. Her honesty, her connection to her roots, and her commitment to growth come together to create a sound that is unmistakably hers. Through this latest release, she invites listeners to embrace love, nostalgia, and the beautiful complexity of finding oneself along the way.
CREDITS
Creative Director & Photographer: Radhika Muthanna @radhika.photos
Radhika Muthanna - @radhika.photos
Photography Assistant: Izzy Jennings - @capturedby.izzy
Producer & Creative Director: Seneo Mwamba - @seneomwamba
Project Manager: Zekaria Al-Bostani - @zek.snaps
Stylist: Palesa Dlamini - @masentle
Styling Assistant: Elise Wayne - @itselisewayne
Lighting: Alex José - @alexjose.photo
Movement director: Anaïs Watson - @anaiswatson
Makeup Artist: Zakiyah Shani - @zakiyahshani
Hairstylist: Esther Elkana - @estheticshair
Creative Assistant: Whitney Sanni - @its.whit_
Art director & Backdrop artist: Shania-Mae Wright - @shaniam00
Design: @Deeds.Studio (@dianeadanna& @ShalemAlone)
BTS: Johnny Cooke - @Johnny__cooke
Journalist: Thandie Sibanda - @thanddd
PR: Jaisha Thomas-Hinds - @Jaish_
