The Progressive Underground: The soulful evolution of vocal powerhouse Marsha Ambrosius
On this edition of 5-on-5, we’re diving into the journey of an artist whose voice and pen have shaped modern R&B and soul for over two decades.
Marsha Ambrosius.
Marsha Ambrosius is a powerhouse vocalist, a lyrical genius, and a staple in the music industry — both as part of the groundbreaking duo Floetry and as a thriving solo artist.
She was born and raised in Liverpool, England, where she discovered her love for music early on. While her initial dream was to pursue a career in basketball, a knee injury changed her course, steering her towards music. Ambrosius’ journey began when she connected with Natalie Stewart, forming the iconic duo Floetry — a blend of spoken word and sultry soul that took the early 2000s by storm.
Floetry became a sensation with their signature blend of jazz, soul, and hip-hop influences. And it’s with that signature sound that we kick off this 5-on-5 with one of their most beloved tracks, which was written by Ambrosius.
5 essential tracks by Marsha Ambrosius
1. “Say Yes” – Floetry
“Say Yes” from Floetry’s 2002 album “Floetic” is a timeless slow jam that put Ambrosius and Stewart on the map. The song was an intimate invitation to unwind and connect, and Ambrosius’ silky, soulful vocals showcased her ability to blend vulnerability with strength, making her voice instantly recognizable. This track solidified Floetry’s reputation for pushing the boundaries of neo-soul.
2. “Butterflies” – Floetry
Ambrosius’ talents extend beyond just her voice — she’s also an acclaimed songwriter. And the track “Butterflies,” which she originally wrote for Michael Jackson, is a testament to her prowess behind the scenes. The King of Pop’s version became a hit on his 2001 album release “Invincible,” but the original by Floetry captures Ambrosius’ raw, heartfelt emotion. “Butterflies” became a symbol of her ability to craft songs that resonate deeply, whether she’s singing them herself or gifting them to other artists.
3. “Far Away” – Marsha Ambrosius
As Floetry’s success soared, Ambrosius continued to develop as an artist, eventually stepping into the spotlight as a solo performer. Her solo debut, “Late Nights & Early Mornings,” was both a critical and commercial success, showcasing her growth as a storyteller. “Far Away” — a deeply personal song where Ambrosius explored heartbreak, mental health, and societal pressures — is one of the standout tracks from that album.
The music video made waves for its portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships and the impact of bullying, a brave and poignant statement that showed Ambrosius wasn’t just here to sing — she was here to use her platform for change. This track solidified her status as a solo artist who’s unafraid to address real-life issues while maintaining that soulful sound we all love.
4. “You & I” – Marsha Ambrosius
Ambrosius’ second album, “Friends & Lovers,” was another evolution in her sound, leaning into lush, intimate vibes that explore the complexities of love. “You & I” from that project perfectly captures the depth of her artistry and offers a great example of her ability to paint vivid emotional landscapes with her voice. The track is a soulful exploration of the highs and lows of a relationship, blending her smooth vocal delivery with a rich, textured production.
Over the years, Ambrosius has become one of the most sought-after collaborators in the industry, frequently lending her voice to tracks by artists like Dr. Dre, Kanye West, and Busta Rhymes. But even as she collaborates, she continues to evolve her own sound.
5. “Music of My Mind” – Marsha Ambrosius
The album “Casablanco” marks a new chapter for Ambrosius, showcasing her growth as an artist who continually pushes boundaries, both sonically and lyrically.
Throughout the course of her musical journey, Ambrosius has proven to be more that just an artist; she’s a storyteller, a boundary-breaker, and a voice that continues to shape the future of R&B and soul. Whether she’s collaborating with icons or crafting deeply personal solo projects, Ambrosius challenges us to feel deeply, to connect, and to remember that music — at its best — is both timeless and transformative.
If you’re into deep, soulful vibes that push the envelope, make sure you’re tuned in to The Progressive Underground every Saturday from 6-8 p.m on 101.9 WDET-FM and wdet.org.
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