Ashley Paul releases new single and pivots into jazz

Ashley Paul has released “I Just Had to Fall” via Dauman/Universal, marking a shift toward jazz and adult contemporary ahead of her Dec. 29 performance at 54 Below in New York City. The rollout also includes new music with Bizkit and Butta, an Ashley Paul Trio project, and a live show built around standards and originals.

Why it matters: - Ashley Paul is broadening her sound beyond the dance/pop EDM lane that first brought her international attention. - The new release and live plans aim to position Paul in jazz and adult contemporary, two formats that can extend her reach across streaming, radio and intimate live venues. - The rollout adds a clearer artistic identity around vocal storytelling and standards, not just club-friendly singles.

What happened: - Ashley Paul released the new single “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” at 54 Below in New York City on Dec. 29. - The show is built as an intimate live set mixing classics and original music.

The details: - “I Just Had to Fall” is described as the first introduction to a broader musical direction for Paul. - The single highlights a more intimate and sophisticated side of her catalog. - The track expands her work into jazz and adult contemporary music. - The song will also be played on Smooth Jazz radio. - A different mix of the single is set for release in August. - Paul is working with Bizkit and Butta on new music. - Bizkit and Butta are a four-time Grammy-nominated, Soul Train Award-winning duo from Philadelphia. - Bizkit and Butta produced John Legend’s Billboard No. 1 hit “Tonight.” - Paul has launched the Ashley Paul Trio, a new live and recording project. - The trio will pair standards with original music. - Upcoming trio recordings will include “Fever” and “Dream a Little Dream of Me.” - The recordings are expected to be available across major streaming platforms. - The Dec. 29 show will feature “Bingo Baby,” “Hearts Up,” “Fever,” “Dream a Little Dream of Me,” and other songs from Paul’s catalog.

Between the lines: - The strategy points to an artist trying to convert existing momentum into a longer-lasting catalog-driven career. - Moving into jazz and adult contemporary can help Paul reach listeners who value live musicianship and vocal interpretation. - The trio format suggests a more performance-centered brand, with room for both standards and original material. - Paul’s recent releases have already generated international radio play, chart recognition and growing streaming audiences. - Songs including “Bingo Baby,” “Hearts Up,” “When Boys Cry,” “Body Language,” “Finding Rhythm” and “Ribbons” have expanded her presence across dance, pop and Top 40/Sirius radio markets. - Paul’s catalog has surpassed one million streams. - “Hearts Up” reached 2 million listeners.

What’s next: - Paul will continue developing new recordings with Bizkit and Butta. - Additional Ashley Paul Trio recordings are expected to roll out on major streaming platforms. - The 54 Below performance will serve as an early live showcase for the new direction. - More releases in this chapter are likely to emphasize timeless standards, original songs and vocal storytelling.

The bottom line: - Ashley Paul is using a new single, a trio project and a New York live date to reset her image around jazz, adult contemporary and stagecraft.