Joy Crookes - 'Pass The Salt'
The Neo Soul superstar comes back with unapologetic new single “Pass The Salt”.
Joy Crookes, the singer-songwriter from South London, has returned after a three-year hiatus with the sharp and glossy new single “Pass The Salt”, featuring Vince Staples. It is a provocative and witty clapback which Joy explains to be “about a woman I vaguely know, who is just a prick, who got jealous and started spreading rumours about me. The song is basically me standing up (musically) and saying, "Okay bitch, if you got something to say, say it to my face”.
This is Crookes’ first release since her critically acclaimed debut album Skin, and the first taste of this new era. Known for her unique blend of Neo Soul, Jazz and Alt-R&B, this song signifies a shift towards a more hip-hop infused sound. Produced by Crookes and her usual collaborator Blue May, the track is filled with heavy drums, an edgy backdrop, and haunting vocal effects. It sounds heavily influenced by its feature, whose short verse gives the track a refreshing take while continuing her narrative.
Lyrically, “Pass The Salt” showcases Crookes at her most confident and unapologetic, as well as provocative. More than just a clapback, it’s a bold assertion of self-respect and resilience in the face of baseless gossip. She’s letting the world know her strength, serving as a refusal to let rumours undermine her, stating in the chorus “I got thick skin on these bones, ah / When a bitch doesn't rise to rumour / Get the words stuck in your throat…”
“Pass The Salt” is not just a return for Joy Crookes but a reinvention that highlights her artistic versatility. The blend of hip-hop influences with her neo-soul roots is a route that we’ve seen before from her, but not as explored as here. Self-assured and masterfully produced, the track delivers a fresh perspective that feels authentic and refreshing. As Crookes sets the tone for this new era, it’s clear that she is not just here to stay, she’s here to redefine what it means to be a modern neo-soul artist in the British music landscape.
Words by Marcos Sanoja
