In case anyone needs this reminder, whether you’re in a committed relationship, have never dated, or your heart is freshly broken, you matter as an individual. When we struggle to tell ourselves that, music can help.

“From now on, I know I can take what comes my way,” Mahalia serenades in “Ready,” the opening song of IRL. This intro perfectly sets the scene for IRL, underlining that Mahalia has persevered through difficult times, and will continue to do so.  

On July 13th, R&B artist Mahalia, from Leicestershire, England, dropped her album, IRL. A deluxe edition was released on the 20th, with six additional songs. While the album explores multiple aspects of relationships, finding self-worth is the underlying message.

Beaming with confident energy, “In My Bag” addresses those who only want to be around Mahalia to benefit themselves and those who wish to hurt her career due to envy. Assuring them that they can never take away what’s hers, Mahalia also suggests they could be successful too if they devoted themselves instead of obsessing over her.

Perfect for chanting relatable lyrics while aggressively pointing at the air (or whoever’s nearest), “Terms and Conditions” has Mahalia describing her requirements for potential boyfriends, many of which stem from negative experiences.

Accompanying this album are five features including Joyce Wrice, JoJo, Stormzy, Destin Conrad, and Kojey Radical. A standout among these songs is “Wassup.” Ideal for both clubbing or sashaying around your home, “Wassup” with Kojey Radical, expresses a desire to mess with your deceiving boyfriend in order to inflict pain on them.

On a more vulnerable note, Mahalia unveils her own inconsistencies and insecurities in “Isn’t It Strange?”. Furthermore, “Lose Lose” soothes with its guitar melodies and Mahalia’s angelic voice, but ingrained in this song are Mahalia’s attempts to hold onto a shattering relationship.

Closing the standard edition of IRL, Mahalia reflects on her journey of becoming an artist on the title track. With two musically talented parents, music has been influential in Mahalia’s life. Her career officially began at age 13, when she signed with Music’s Asylum Records. Since, Mahalia has withstood professional and personal hardships, while maintaining a grasp on her dreams, namely to have her supporters sing along with her.  

Enclosed in the new songs of IRL (Deluxe), Mahalia expresses her wish for honesty and consideration in her relationship, composes a message for her boyfriend’s ex, and further exposes her delicate, longing heart. Amid songs concerning relationship struggles, “Mani Pedi” glows, breezy and assured, as Mahalia relishes in her independence and potential.

Leaving listeners with positivity, Mahalia accepts that she doesn’t wish to stay with her insincere boyfriend in “Plastic Plants.” With pleasant, approachable vibes, “Plastic Plants” shows that relationships that aren’t genuine, or don’t involve effort on both sides, should be discarded.

Now 25, Mahalia has been steadily releasing music and refining her artistry, while striving to remain her most authentic self. IRL, stocked with smooth R&B songs, beautiful vocals, and honest lyrics, reveals the negative effects that linger after a relationship has ended. However, Mahalia also discloses how she has prioritized herself through, and outside of, her relationships. For both its upbeat and sensitive moments, and for emphasizing the importance of treating yourself with care, IRL is a meaningful album that’s easy to enjoy.