Ego Ella May’s “What You Waiting For” is the Gentle Shove We All Need Right Now

There is a specific kind of magic that comes out of South London, and Ego Ella May has been the custodian of that sound for years. The award-winning singer-songwriter has never been one to rush her process, but her new single, “What You Waiting For,” feels like a definitive, upbeat pivot in a journey that’s already seen her sweep up Jazz FM awards and critical acclaim.

If you’ve followed her since Honey for Wounds, you know her brand of soul is usually introspective—the kind of music you listen to while staring out a rainy bus window. But this time? Ego is picking up the pace.

The Vibe: Sophisticated Pop-Soul

“What You Waiting For” doesn’t abandon her jazzy roots, but it dresses them up in a brighter, more infectious energy. It’s got that classic South London grit—think broken beats and a bassline that sits right in your chest—but with a hook that feels tailor-made for summer sunsets.

What makes the track stick:

• Honest Lyricism: She’s talking to herself as much as she’s talking to us, questioning why we hold back when the path is clear.

• The Pocket: The production is crisp and uncluttered, letting her conversational, silk-spun vocals do the heavy lifting.

• The Relatability: It’s a song about the paralysis of choice, wrapped in a melody that makes you want to move.

Why Ego Ella May Still Matters

In an era of TikTok-bait choruses, Ego Ella May remains a “songwriter’s songwriter.” She’s part of that vital lineage of UK artists—alongside the likes of Cleo Sol or Greentea Peng—who prioritize feeling over hype. Hailing from a place as musically rich as South London, she carries that heritage in every note, blending the sophisticated structures of jazz with the raw honesty of modern R&B.

“What You Waiting For” feels like a conversation with a close friend—one who isn’t afraid to tell you to get out of your own way.

How to Listen

You can find “What You Waiting For” on all the usual spots (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.). It’s the perfect bridge between your “mellow morning” playlist and your “Friday night prep” vibe.

South London has given us a lot of gems, but Ego Ella May continues to be one of its most polished. Don’t sleep on this one.