Jhené Aiko has dropped some hints about her upcoming fourth album, saying that it will be influenced by her native California, which she calls a “magical place.”
To tap into that magic, the singer co-hosted a transformative Rituals of Renewal wellness experience in Healdsburg, California, in mid-April, in partnership with luxury lifestyle service Velocity Black.
Ahead of the upcoming release of her fourth studio album, potentially titled Westside Whimsy, the R&B singer-songwriter immersed journalists, lifestyle influencers, and Velocity Black members in a three-day wellness retreat at resort and spa Montage Healdsburg.
During the trip, she gave some hints about the album, saying that it will be based around the state where she’s from, and where most of her family still lives.
“All the music of the ‘90s has really influenced me but especially West Coast car culture, surfing culture, beach, laidback,” she said. “When I think of California, it’s just such a magical place and I love a good road trip and I’ve been doing them for many years.”
The festivities reflected that love of California magic. They began with introductions to fellow keynote speakers and experience hosts Kirsty Godso, Mona Sharma and Dr. Jonathan Leary along with Jhené, who guided attendees in a private meditative sound bath and ceremonial tea tasting with herbalist Jennifer Ndidi Ilonzeh throughout the week. The singer also participated in a wellness discussion with Dr. Leary, Godso, and Sharma about their respective health journeys.
With Jhené’s upcoming album slated to release this year, the LP has also been teased in the singer’s first Erewhon smoothie, dubbed “Westside Whimsy,” which was available for a limited time in January. Last week, jewelry brand Awe Inspired also unveiled a collection in partnership with the “Break” vocalist inspired by the “magical history and undeniable whimsy” of her California roots.
Velocity Black, a digital concierge service acquired by Capital One, curates bespoke experiences spanning travel, dining and entertainment. During the Rituals of Renewal retreat, guests were treated to moments across all three themes, including multi-course meals held at Sonoma County establishments Cyrus and Skipstone Winery.
To purchase Jhené’s previous solo albums, including her Grammy-nominated 2020 album Chilombo, visit her Complex Shop page.