Elijah Blake Pours Out Raw Emotion in New Single “White Rum”

GRAMMY-nominated R&B singer-songwriter Elijah Blake unveils his latest single “White Rum,” out today via MNRK Music Group.

Known for his uncanny ability to fuse soul-stirring lyrics with bold and inventive production, Blake’s newest release is a striking departure from his feel-good summer anthem “Work It Out.” Where “Work It Out” radiated optimism and breezy soul, “White Rum” is a slow-burning reflection on relationships unraveling—beautiful in its ache and bold in its vulnerability.

Blake describes the track as “a shot of love that doesn’t quite hit in the end the way it once did in the beginning.” He adds, “The song takes place where ego and pride enter what used to be a safe space between two souls, and accountability is just too little, too late.”

The record was born during a creative retreat to Houston, where Blake tapped into a raw, unfiltered energy. “I asked around for the best up-and-coming, untapped musicians and ran into a group of college kids—plus some church players—and we worked on this until 7 a.m. The bridge/vamp haunts me in a way, because I remember being in that place—where you both know one simple phone call could change everything, but the hurt is just too deep.”

Sonically, “White Rum” is layered and evocative, marked by its stripped-back arrangement that allows Blake’s vocals and storytelling to cut through with razor-sharp clarity. The accompanying visualizer, equally poignant, places Blake in the spotlight with moody, introspective visuals that echo the song’s themes of longing and emotional unrest.

The single arrives as Blake wraps his national debut on the Keyshia Cole: The Way It Is – 20th Anniversary Tour, earning praise for his powerhouse performances and heartfelt stage presence. His remaining dates are as follows:

REMAINING TOUR DATES
July 25 – Houston, TX – Toyota Center
July 26 – Fort Worth, TX – Dickies Arena
July 31 – Oakland, CA – Oakland Arena
August 1 – Los Angeles, CA – Peacock Theater

“White Rum” offers a taste of what’s to come on Elijah’s highly anticipated full-length album, slated for release this fall. If this single is any indication, fans can expect a body of work that pushes the boundaries of R&B while delving even deeper into the emotional core that makes Blake’s artistry so compelling.

Stay tuned—Elijah Blake is only getting started.