Track of the Day: Tash Hills “First Breath” (2020)

Released on Friday, “First Breath” is the sophomore single from up-and-coming soul singer Tash Hills. Infectious and upbeat “First Breath” is like an injection of sunshine to the soul, and is perhaps the perfect remedy to the gloom of 2020. 

Hills is inspired by Chaka Khan, and influenced by the likes of George Benson and Quincy Jones. So it’s perhaps no surprise that, “First Breath” is somewhat retro-tinged. Those 80’s-soul vibes are clear for all to hear. But, there’s no denying the song’s quality. Nor, for that matter, should its ability to get you moving be denied either – even if it’s just the living room for now. The blaring horns and that bass-line are just crying out for the remix treatment. 

It’s empowering, it’s funky and it’s fun. A lot of that comes from Hills’s vocal performance too. They’re big, they’re bold and just that little bit sassy too. “First Breath” is three minutes of joyful energy, and I for one, am very much here for it. 

“First Breath” is out now. You can keep up to date with Tash Hills via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Simon Clark

Books Editor. An admirer of songs and reader of books. Simon has a PhD in English and Comparative Literature. All errant apostrophes are his own.