Leon Bridges has released the lead single “Peaceful Place” from his upcoming self-titled album Leon. The song features a groovy, slowed-down sound made for calm summer days. The accompanying music video features Bridges and friends having a fun day in the city complete with shopping, dining, jam sessions and a hot air balloon.
In “Peaceful Place” he remarks on the bad times he’s experienced and how he came to be content with his life. He sings, “I ain’t used to walk / On the darker side / Rain in my eyes / Rain in my eyes / Though I was stoned / On the inside / I felt alone / I felt so alone / I’m in a peaceful place / I find something no one can take away / I’m in a peaceful place now.”
The 13-track album is joyful, rooted in feelings of nostalgia and good times. The songs cover Bridges’ childhood and was created throughout his career, waiting for the right moment to release them.
“Leon has been a long-time coming,” Bridges said in a statement. “I started writing pieces of it as far back as Gold-Diggers Sound. They didn’t fit what I was trying to do with that album and I tried moving on. But I couldn’t shake them because they’re part of me. And, if I’m honest, also because I think this is some of my most excellent work yet.”
He continued, “In many ways, Leon has been in the works since my childhood. This record is about simpler days. It’s about time spent in my beloved Fort Worth and the experiences that made me the man I am today. It’s soulful music in the truest sense – it’s imbued with my soul. I’m excited to share these stories about my home, about nostalgia, about my upbringing, about where I’m from, with all of you. I hope this music brings you back to your roots and your journey.”
You can listen to “Peaceful Place” below and watch the music video above. Leon comes out on October 4.
