Ashley Paul releases new single and sets New York showcase

Billboard recording artist Ashley Paul has released “I Just Had to Fall” via Dauman/Universal as she expands into jazz and adult contemporary. The new single, a forthcoming trio project and a December 29 show at 54 Below mark the next phase of her live and recorded output.

Why it matters: - Ashley Paul is broadening her sound beyond dance-pop and EDM into jazz and adult contemporary. - The shift gives Paul a new lane for recordings, live performance and radio placement. - The release also sets up a New York City showcase that will put the new direction in front of fans and industry listeners.

What happened: - Ashley Paul released “I Just Had to Fall” via Dauman/Universal. - The song is now available on all major streaming platforms. - Paul will perform “Hearts Up After Dark” on December 29 at 54 Below in New York City. - The live show will spotlight classics and original songs from Paul’s catalog.

The details: - “I Just Had to Fall” is described as a more intimate and sophisticated introduction to Paul’s evolving sound. - The single is the first step in a broader musical direction built around new recordings and live performances. - The song will be played on Smooth Jazz radio. - A different mix of the single is scheduled for release in August. - Paul is working with producers Bizkit and Butta on new music. - Bizkit and Butta are a four-time Grammy-nominated, Soul Train Award-winning duo from Philadelphia. - The duo produced John Legend’s Billboard No. 1 hit “Tonight.” - The Ashley Paul Trio is a new live and recording project focused on timeless standards and original music. - Upcoming trio recordings will include versions of “Fever” and “Dream a Little Dream of Me.” - The trio recordings are expected to land on major streaming platforms. - “Hearts Up After Dark” will include songs such as “Bingo Baby,” “Hearts Up,” “Fever,” and “Dream a Little Dream of Me.”

Between the lines: - Paul is using a single release to reposition herself for multiple formats at once, including Smooth Jazz, adult contemporary and live cabaret-style performance. - The trio format suggests a more musician-forward presentation, with more emphasis on vocals, standards and storytelling. - The move also builds on existing momentum from Paul’s earlier releases, which have earned radio play, chart recognition and streaming growth. - Her catalog includes “Bingo Baby,” “Hearts Up,” “When Boys Cry,” “Body Language,” “Finding Rhythm” and “Ribbons.” - Her music has reached dance, pop and Top 40/Sirius radio markets.

What's next: - Paul plans to release more music with Bizkit and Butta as she develops her jazz and adult contemporary catalog. - The August release of a different mix of “I Just Had to Fall” will extend the rollout. - The Ashley Paul Trio recordings will add more standards and originals to the new era. - “Hearts Up After Dark” will be the public live preview of the new direction in New York.

The bottom line: - Ashley Paul is turning a single release into a broader career reset, with new music, a trio project and a live show all aimed at expanding her audience.