New Orleans marks the Cash Money imprint’s first step toward broadening its already wide appeal, thanks to a hit-making and award-winning roster that includes founder Lil Wayne, Drake and Nicki Minaj. And there’s no better ambassador to musically personify that message than Morton, whose self described “soulful pop” seamlessly spans multiple genres from gospel and R&B/funk to pop and rock.
“I’ve always pushed boundaries,” says Morton, “but I always remain true to who I am musically. New Orleans is a natural progression of who I am. I can’t explain it except through my music. That proves it better than anything I can say.”
Building that case is “Only One” featuring Stevie Wonder. Quickly garnering strong reaction following its January premiere on Billboard.com, the song is the lead single from New Orleans. Armed with an infectious hook and a head-boppin’ groove, the up-tempo number showcases Morton’s velvety tenor, songwriting skills and musicianship, accented by Wonder’s distinctive harmonica.
“Stevie joining me on the track is the ultimate start. It’s my dream come true,” says Morton of teaming with Wonder. “I want to continue the legacy he represents: musicianship and positivity.”
New Orleans itself stems from Morton’s acclaimed 2012 EP, Following My First Mind, featuring guest cameos from Maroon 5’s Adam Levine, Lil Wayne and Jazmine Sullivan. A nod to Morton’s hometown and musical roots, the forthcoming New Orleans finds Morton at the keyboard playing with a full backing band complete with horns and strings. The result is a lush, melodic yet organic 10-track set that grabs listeners right from the opening title track.
“New Orleans is where I learned how to play music,” recalls Morton. “It’s the physical and mind space I was in when I fell in love with music. It wasn’t about marketing, radio and publicity. It was just about making music because I loved it. It made me feel good. Young Money wanted me creatively as I am. That’s why I’m excited about this next chapter.”
Also featuring rapper Busta Rhymes, New Orleans comes packed with a diverse slate of musical influences. There’s the reggae-infused “Hard Enough,” which explores relationship issues. “I’m looking for a love unconditional / Not one that goes wherever the wind blows,” declares Morton as the song opens.
The self-described “Dr. Love” traverses the same landscape on the mid-tempo “Work It Out.” Set off by a touch of synth and a hypnotic drumbeat, the song once again spotlights Morton’s tantalizing tenor. Also noteworthy is “Heavy,” a song revamped from Morton’s 2012 EP and featuring Adam Levine. Sporting a funk/rock track reminiscent of Sly Stone and Prince, the song’s lyrics were inspired by Morton’s frustration at one point with his indie career.
“It was at a point where I was trying to figure out what the next step was,” says Morton, who hadn’t yet connected with pop hitmakers Maroon 5. “This was me getting those feelings out. Since that frustration, I’ve had one of the biggest years in my career. It’s crazy.”
Influenced by acts ranging from the Beatles and James Taylor to Wonder and Donny Hathaway, the New Orleans native is the son of gospel singer Paul S. Morton. His formal foray into the industry was as a member of the band Freestyle Nation, which debuted in the early 2000s. But it was as a songwriter/ producer that Morton left his first indelible impression. He won a Grammy Award for his songwriting/ production of India.Arie’s “Interested” from her 2002 album Voyage to India.
That opened the door to more collaborations (Jermaine Dupri, LL Cool J, Monica, Musiq Soulchild, Trinitee 5:7) and additional accolades (Dove and Stellar Awards) for his work with gospel singer DeWayne Woods. Woods’ “Let Go, Let God” spent a record 70 weeks on the gospel chart. Along the way, Morton released several acclaimed indie solo albums. He also attracted the attention of Academy Award-winning producer AR Rahman (“Slumdog Millionaire”), who asked Morton to contribute a song (“Sajna”) to the soundtrack for the Vince Vaughn comedy “Couples Retreat.”
Morton’s next big break occurred three years ago, when he was asked to audition by friend and Maroon
5 music director Adam Blackstone for a spot in the band as its keyboardist/vocalist. Soon after, childhood friend and Young Money Entertainment president Mack Maine championed Morton’s music and vision to Cash Money co-CEO’s Roland “Slim” Williams and Bryan “Birdman” Williams. With Lil Wayne co-signing his approval as well, Morton is ready to bring his journey full circle with New Orleans.
“My indie years and working with various artists, including Maroon 5, have helped me understand who I am as both an individual and an artist,” says Morton. “It has allowed me to create a fan base that will forever be with me. Now I’m being given the opportunity to do on steroids what I’ve been doing for years.”
Don't Let Go
PJ Morton Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
And you don't know what it all means, mmm
But don't you ever let go
See, there's a reason you're still standin'
After all you've seen, mmm
So don't you ever let go
Don't let go, don't let go
You're getting tired
And it feels like it's been going on for years, oh
But don't you ever let go
Nothin' wrong with cryin'
There's no denyin', let out all your tears, mmm
But please, just don't you ever let go
Don't let go, don't let go
Oh my, don't you ever let go
Don't let go, don't let go
Oh my, don't you ever let go
Oh
The song Let Go by PJ Morton and Bishop Paul S. Morton is a powerful and uplifting message to encourage listeners to persevere and not give up in the face of adversity. The song acknowledges that life can be hard and that at times it can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. However, the lyrics urge the listener to remain steadfast and not let go, no matter how difficult the situation may seem. The song suggests that there is a reason why the listener is still standing, despite the challenges they have faced, and that they should hold on to that reason.
The song reinforces the idea that crying or expressing emotions is okay, and sometimes necessary, as a way to cope with the difficulties of life. The lyrics encourage the listener to let out all their tears, but to never let go of their inner strength, courage, and hope. The repetition of the phrase "don't let go" serves as a reminder to persevere through the tough times and to never lose sight of the light at the end of the tunnel.
Overall, the song Let Go is a powerful message of perseverance, hope, and encouragement, urging listeners to never give up on themselves, even when faced with adversity.
Line by Line Meaning
I know it's been so hard
I understand that everything has been challenging
And you don't know what it all means, mmm
You feel like you don't comprehend the cause of your struggles
But don't you ever let go
Regardless of how difficult things become, don't give up
See, there's a reason you're still standin'
You've been through a lot, but you haven't crumbled yet for a reason
After all you've seen, mmm
Despite everything you've confronted and witnessed
So don't you ever let go
Always persist and have faith that things will improve
You're getting tired
You're feeling exhausted
And it feels like it's been going on for years, oh
This ongoing battle appears to have lasted forever
But don't you ever let go
Still, keep clinging on and don't relinquish hope
Nothin' wrong with cryin'
It's perfectly okay to sob and show your emotions
There's no denyin', let out all your tears, mmm
Unquestionably, tears should be released and emotions expressed
But please, just don't you ever let go
However, remember to maintain faith and never give up hope
Oh my, please just don't ever let go
Please persist and don't relinquish confidence
Don't let go, don't let go
Don't abandon hope, don't give up faith
Oh my, don't you ever let go
Persist always and cling on to hope
Don't let go, don't let go
Maintain hope, don't give up on faith
Oh my, don't you ever let go
Remain steadfast and never lose hope
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Paul Sylvester Morton Jr.
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@chanreed1234567890
I know it's been so hard
And you don't know what it all means, mmm
But don't you ever let go
See, there's a reason you're still standin'
After all you've seen, mmm
So don't you ever let go
Don't let go, don't let go
Oh my, please just don't ever let go
You're getting tired
And it feels like it's been going on for years, oh
But don't you ever let go
Nothin' wrong with cryin'
There's no denyin', let out all your tears, mmm
But please, just don't ever let go
Don't let go, don't let go
Oh my, don't you ever let go
Don't let go
Don't let go
Oh my, don't you ever let go
Oh, oh-oh
@nrvdmg1979
I traced my way from an iPhone 15 ad all the way here and am currently sobbing. what an absolutely gorgeous, beautiful, soulful sound. thank you for making this. I'll be sharing this to all of my friends as my new favorite way of reminding them that they have someone who cares. 💕💕💕
@trashimamccall3231
I’m with u, sitting hear bawling in this process of healing and it feels impossible.
@CochiseBryant
PJ has always had that affect no matter what he does. Glad you found your way here for a slither of healing in some way or form 💯
@klovingmusic
Me too!
@davidwittman2725
BIG TEARS!!! I love that Apple commercial and am even more glad it got me here.
@latiandaytona826
I’m here too and oh my god ❤️❤️❤️
@p.princesolomon3845
Who's here after watching fatherhood and hope things get better 🙏 may there be the blessing and strength to everyone out there going through their hardest times recently! 😭❤️ Things will change and I am there for you if you need me! 🤗
@aebonydenise8333
Me!
@evilsacramento
Im watching fatherhood right now...heard this song...had to step outside.
@peakyblinders2490
love you my brother♥️