The Making of “Black, No Sugar” by Amber-Simone

Words Josephine Amstad
BTS Photographer Becky Tong
Director Sophie Jones
Stylist Jon Johnson

August 20, 2021August 20, 2021

Notion gets a peek into Amber-Simone’s funk-laden world, with some exclusive behind-the-scenes images from the music video for her buttery new track “Black, No Sugar”

London-based artist Amber-Simone blesses us with her smooth vocals once again on her new track “Black, No Sugar”, accompanied by Part 1 of the stunning live visuals directed by Sophie Jones. Part 2 is set for release with Amber-Simone’s next single.

Amber-Simone’s deeply soulful voice soars on “Black, No Sugar”, showcasing her impeccable and talented songwriting skills. A celebration of her Black heritage, Amber has written a song she believes she needed to hear when she was younger – an anthem for those questioning their validity or beauty. Discussing the track, Amber explains: “It’s a reminder for whoever needs to hear it. You are enough just as you are, and your Blackness is a gift”.

Influenced by an array of influences from Sade to the Police, and having listened to funk and soul music throughout her childhood, it is clear the sound has deeply impacted her music and aesthetic choices. The warm-toned jazzy visuals bring “Black, No Sugar” to life, harking back to the golden era and funk and soul, displaying Amber-Simone’s magnetism and star power – it is impossible to take your eyes off her.

Amber-Simone said: “With this project, I wanted to take the opportunity to reintroduce myself and show what I’m all about. Between now and my last EP a lot has happened and I feel the truest to myself I’ve ever been. Creating this visual and releasing ‘Black, No Sugar’ feels like I’m finally stepping out into my womanhood and art, creating music that really matters to me.

When it came to the video, meeting Sophie and feeling as though she really saw what I was seeing felt like such a breakthrough. We talked and she just got me straight away, so it’s been such a pleasure to have created this piece with another woman who’s such a force. I feel like I chose the most authentic way to communicate this song to people, real instrumentation and playing was ultimately what inspired the writing process and what inspired me down this path in the first place, the video combines the perfect balance of an aesthetic I feel really captures my essence and music in its rawest form – live.”