Shine

Shine

"Shine" is a song that feels like a warm hand on your shoulder. Released on 17 July 2020 as the title track of Cleo Sol's single, the song is a gentle, soulful plea to someone who's lost their light. "I want to get so close to you / And cherish the sunshine / Leave everything behind / And run away so far together," she sings, before the chorus arrives with its simple, powerful command: "Shine / Shine your light, yeah."

Cleo Sol, born Cleopatra Zvezdana Nikolic, has built a reputation as one of the most soulful voices in modern British music. Working closely with producer Dean Josiah Cover, she has released a string of acclaimed albums, and she's the lead vocalist of the collective Sault.

The song's message is universal. It is about seeing someone you love struggling, and wanting nothing more than to remind them of their own worth. "A lot of pain in those eyes / Please don't lose your light," she sings, and it is the kind of line that stops you in your tracks.

What I find compelling about "Shine" is how it asks very little of you and gives back everything. It is the kind of song you play when you need a reminder that things will be okay, and it is the kind of song that stays with you long after it's over.

The song is a strong example of Cleo Sol's gift for making music that feels both personal and universal. It is a reminder that the best soul music can be both gentle and powerful. It is a song that stays with you long after it ends, and it is a strong example of the craft behind modern soul. The song's gentle melody and powerful message make it a favorite among fans of soul, and it is the kind of track that stays with you.