Radical Joy and Chosen Kinship: Allison Russell and Brittney Spencer’s “Black Lavender”

In a year where everything feels a bit heavy, Allison Russell has given us a sanctuary. Her new single, “Black Lavender”—a beautiful, breezy collaboration with the incredible Brittney Spencer—is a reminder that joy isn’t just a feeling; it’s a form of resistance.

If you’ve been following Allison’s journey, you know she doesn’t do anything halfway. This Montreal-born, Nashville-based powerhouse has already stacked up the GRAMMYs, JUNOs, and Americana awards, but she’s always remained grounded in her role as a mother, an advocate, and a bridge-builder. With “Black Lavender,” she’s inviting us into her circle.

A Song for the Ones Who Have Your Back

“Black Lavender” feels less like a pop single and more like a late-night conversation with a close friend. It’s about that specific kind of grace we often forget to give ourselves, but find instantly when we’re with our “chosen sisters.”

As Allison put it, this song is about the way Black women have shown up for each other for generations. Hearing Brittney Spencer’s voice weave through the track is the perfect touch—it’s earthy, soulful, and hits exactly where it needs to. It’s a song about admitting you’re tired, letting your guard down, and letting someone else hold the weight for a while.

Looking Toward ‘In the Hour of Chaos’

This track is our first real look at Allison’s upcoming album, In the Hour of Chaos, dropping July 10, 2026. Produced by Allison and Dim Star, the project feels like a massive collaborative effort—not in the “industry feature” sense, but in the way a community actually functions.

She’s pulling in collaborators like Norah Jones, Ruby Amanfu, and Joy Oladokun, not just to add names to a tracklist, but to help build a sonic space that feels deeply human. It’s an album about staying present and finding that “golden thread” of solidarity even when the world feels like it’s falling apart.

Why You Need to Listen

Whether you’ve been with Allison since her early days or you’re just now finding her music, “Black Lavender” is a breath of fresh air. It’s a song for anyone who’s feeling the weight of the moment but still wants to believe in the power of showing up for each other.

It’s honest, it’s vulnerable, and it’s exactly the kind of music we need right now.