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Photo: Lauren Harris

Alternative indie pop artist Rachel Chinouriri celebrates the announcement of her long-awaited debut album, What A Devastating Turn Of Events, arriving May 3, with the release of the upbeat and captivating single, "Never Need Me." Her witty lyrics and freeing, sunny disposition on the track create an ode that encourages listeners to put themselves first despite caring deeply about others.

“It’s finally here. The moment most musicians dream of when they’re a child," shares Chinouriri. "I can’t believe it’s real in a way, but I’m proud of it. What A Devastating Turn Of Events should feel like discovering a personal journey of all the hardship and struggles that have ultimately made me the person I am today. I was lost when I first made this album, when I felt so lost within myself but also in London. I was on a search to find myself and I can say I’ve managed to do that by the end of this process and have found a love for myself that I never thought was possible. I feel fortunate enough to be able to document that process and have it in physical form and sound. Hopefully it’ll help other people realize that it takes tough times, self accountability, betrayal and uncomfortable moments to finally get to a point of true self love. I’m more than ready for the next chapter.”

"Never Need Me" puts Chinouriri's stunning, soaring vocals at the forefront, supported by an infectious blend of indie pop instrumentation. Her brutally honest lyrics juxtapose her gentle, warm vocal tone, delivering lines that ooze with both heartbreak and empowerment, taking listeners on a journey of taking back their power and cutting out people who aren't willing to change. On the choruses, the songstress sings over the dance-inducing production, "In my head, you can do what you like / Oh no, I couldn't care what you do with your life / I hope you just take it easy / I hope that you never need me."

The single's accompanying music video, directed by Jake Erland, stars the rising singer-songwriter and Academy Award-nominated actress Florence Pugh, who features as Chinouriri's supportive bestie who helps her get over her ex. On coming together to work with Chinouriri on the "Never Need Me" video, Pugh shares, "Recently I was in LA, and I was listening to a few of her songs, and I thought, you know what, I'm actually going to reach out to this amazing artist and I just said, 'Thank you for making my day today' and then she replied and was also a fan, and then this idea came that I was in her music video!'"

The upcoming album is a culmination of the experiences, challenges, and joys of Chinouriri's life so far explored through the prism of musical stylings honed through years of experimentation and creation. Ever eclectic and brutally honest, What A Devastating Turn Of Events will traverse life's trials and joys. In celebration of the announcement of her debut album, Rachel also announced her first-ever US headline dates for this spring, stopping in NY and LA. 

Watch the "Never Need Me" video below: