Hey friends, if you're anything like me, the start of a new year hits different when it comes with fresh music that actually feels something. Right on cue, vocalist-songwriter Sam Tru just released her new single "We Could Be" from the EP Lately (dropped worldwide on January 16th—talk about perfect timing!). This one's a proper adult contemporary and alt pop standout, built on that quiet courage that makes you pause and really listen.
Picture this: you're in that fragile moment where love could explode into something beautiful or just quietly fade away. "We Could Be" captures exactly that tension—a soaring pop power ballad that builds with cinematic patience, never rushing the emotion. The production is restrained yet powerful, letting the melody unfold slowly and deliberately. It's all about emotional honesty without overdoing it, turning hesitation into this hopeful invitation. In a world full of flashy, instant-gratification tracks, this song stands out for its subtlety and depth—perfect for those late-night reflections on modern romance, vulnerability, and taking the leap.
Sam Tru brings a rich, alto vocal that's warm, aching, and full of conviction. She sings with restraint but real fearlessness, creating something that feels deeply personal yet hits home for pretty much anyone who's ever been scared to fully commit. Fans of Adele's raw emotional clarity, Sara Bareilles' heartfelt songcraft, or Cynthia Erivo's vocal authority will instantly vibe with this—it's got that same undeniable sincerity and quiet strength.
Hailing from the Pacific Northwest (Idaho-raised, with roots in the Portland scene) and now based in Chicago, Sam Tru has been blending jazz, soul, pop, and R&B for years, creating a sound that's timeless yet totally contemporary. Her debut album Cycle (released back in 2020) was a big deal—hitting #1 on Amazon’s Top 100 New Releases, getting spins on over 200 radio stations worldwide, and even landing on the 2021 GRAMMY nominating ballot in multiple categories like Album of the Year and Best New Artist. Praised in DownBeat Magazine for its rule-breaking energy, she's shared stages with legends like Gladys Knight and performed at festivals including Portland Jazz Festival, Monterey Jazz Next Generation, and Treefort Music Festival.
Now with Lately, she's leaning even more into emotional resonance, and "We Could Be" feels like a natural evolution—tender, resolute, and beautifully crafted. In today's music scene, where adult contemporary pop continues to thrive with heartfelt ballads and emotional storytelling (think the enduring appeal of big romantic anthems amid all the genre-blending experiments in 2026), this track fits right in. Power ballads like this are having a moment, offering that perfect mix of vulnerability and vocal prowess that listeners crave when life gets real.
If you're into songs that make you feel seen—those quiet, powerful moments that stick with you long after the last note—this is one to add to your rotation immediately.
What do you think of this artist's sound? Does "We Could Be" hit you in the feels, or remind you of your own "what if" moments? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I'd love to hear!
And hey, if you're an independent artist like Sam Tru putting your heart into new music and ready to share it with the world, distribution is key. DistroKid makes it super easy to get your tracks on all the major platforms, and you keep 100% of your earnings. Pro tip: snag 7% off your membership with this link: https://distrokid.com/vip/seven/2058328. It's a game-changer for reaching more listeners while keeping more of what you make!
