Taking the time to be still, to listen and let the music and the space surrounding it connect with humanity and heart. Northampton-based singer and songwriter Sali Clinton captures the essence of a moment, with the vulnerability and soulful, intimate waves of So Long.
Pairing piano and voice in a natural, alluring and honest setting, So Long is less than two minutes of music, but the vastness of its reach is mighty. The song leans back and forth between scenes and memories at first, reflecting and setting the mood, feeling relatable but also profoundly personal and private in the same instance.
Then we reach the song’s crescendo, a single chorus, within which Sali’s voice delivers stunning evocative peaks. And despite the simplicity of just piano and voice in theory, the output is immense – the sudden volume and passion intoxicating, and the song’s resolve, its outcry on behalf of nostalgia and connection and desire, is beautiful.
Returning to his acoustic roots after a string of afro soul releases, Sali Clinton holds attention perfectly well, with the Gospel inspired, stripped-back fluidity and wonder of So Long.
The single was selected for use in the 2023 feature film Flaws, on Amazon Prime Video, and viewers commented consistently on how it felt like the piece had been written exclusively for this storyline; a true testament to the universal power and presence of organic music, and Sali Clinton’s skilful, genuine songwriting.
Find Sali Clinton on Instagram.
