Latto to release “Somebody” single on May 16
Latto announces “Somebody” single
Latto has confirmed the release date for her latest single, “Somebody,” scheduled to drop on May 16, 2025. Over the past week, Latto had been building anticipation through social media teasers and cryptic posts, sparking speculation among fans about when the track would officially arrive. That speculation ended when she shared not only the release date but also the official cover art, capturing the attention of fans and music critics alike.
The cover art features Latto in a vintage, postcard-inspired design, posing against a lush tropical backdrop in Jamaica. The postcard reads “Greetings from Jamaica,” a clever nod to the single’s aesthetic and possible musical influences. The visual ties into a broader trend of artists embracing global influences while paying homage to classic sounds — and for Latto, it signals a bold, stylish step forward in her artistic evolution.
A Modern Take on a Classic: Sampling Aaliyah’s “Are You That Somebody?”
What makes “Somebody” stand out is its clear homage to Aaliyah, one of the most iconic R&B voices of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Latto samples the unforgettable vocals from Aaliyah’s 1998 hit, “Are You That Somebody?,” a track originally produced by Timbaland and known for its futuristic production and whispered, sultry vocals.
Rather than simply imitating the original, Latto reimagines it through a modern lens. The pitched-up sample is fused with her signature confident flow, resulting in a blend of contemporary trap and nostalgic R&B that feels fresh yet familiar.
Building on Momentum: Latto’s 2025 Music Journey
“Somebody” marks Latto’s second release of 2025, following her remix of “Blick Sum” featuring Playboi Carti, which dropped in late January. That remix took the already high-energy track from her 2024 album, Sugar Honey Iced Tea, and added an extra layer of chaotic flair thanks to Carti’s unpredictable style. It showed that Latto was more than capable of keeping up with — and even outshining — some of today’s most eccentric voices in hip-hop.
Her Sugar Honey Iced Tea album, released in 2024, was a breakthrough moment for the Atlanta rapper. It showcased her growth, both lyrically and sonically, with a mix of hard-hitting trap anthems and smoother, R&B-leaning tracks. Songs like “Blick Sum,” “Back to Business,” and “Pressure Pack” displayed her range, from braggadocious bars to more introspective themes about fame, identity, and womanhood.
Now, with “Somebody,” Latto is doubling down on that growth. This single represents a more melodic direction, expanding her appeal beyond just hip-hop audiences and into mainstream R&B and pop spheres.
The Rise of Latto: From Breakout Star to Genre-Bending Powerhouse
Latto first gained national attention with her viral hit “B*tch From Da Souf” in 2019, quickly earning a reputation for sharp lyricism and unapologetic confidence. Since then, she has consistently climbed the ranks, earning collaborations with heavyweights like Cardi B, Lil Wayne, 21 Savage, and Megan Thee Stallion.
Her stage name, originally “Mulatto,” was changed to Latto in 2021 to reflect a more thoughtful and socially aware brand. That rebranding — combined with hits like “Big Energy” — cemented her status as a star on the rise. “Big Energy” went on to become one of her biggest hits, further propelling her into the mainstream with radio play, award nominations, and festival appearances.
In many ways, “Somebody” serves as the next logical chapter in her story. It’s playful, stylish, and deeply musical, bridging the gap between Atlanta rap and 90s R&B — a balance few artists today can pull off with authenticity.
Caribbean Influences and the Power of Place
The choice of Jamaica as the thematic setting for “Somebody” is both strategic and symbolic. Caribbean sounds and aesthetics have long influenced American music, especially in the summer months. From Rihanna to Drake, artists have tapped into the lush, rhythmic energy of the islands to create global hits. Latto’s visual and sonic nod to Jamaica adds depth and texture to her rollout, giving the track a sense of atmosphere that extends beyond the music itself.
Whether this indicates a deeper Caribbean sonic influence in the track remains to be seen — but the imagery alone has already captured the imagination of fans. It’s clear that Latto understands the importance of world-building in modern music marketing, and she’s leaning into it with purpose and flair.
What to Expect on May 16
With the release of “Somebody” just around the corner, anticipation is building. Music blogs, fan forums, and TikTok users are already speculating on the track’s full production, music video, and potential guest features (though none have been confirmed yet). If early previews are any indication, “Somebody” is set to be a standout moment in Latto’s 2025 catalog.
The single will be available on all major platforms — Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, and YouTube — and is expected to be accompanied by a visually rich music video, potentially shot in Jamaica. Fans are also watching closely to see if Latto will debut the song live during an upcoming festival or awards show.
Latto’s Confident Leap Into a New Era
“Somebody” isn’t just a single — it’s a statement. With a career that’s already marked by bold reinventions and undeniable talent, Latto is using this release to demonstrate her longevity. By honoring the past while firmly looking toward the future, she’s proving that she’s not just “that somebody” — she’s the somebody shaping the sound of modern hip-hop and R&B.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering her music, “Somebody” is shaping up to be one of the must-hear tracks of the year.