Dawn Richard – “chuuuuurch” (Feat. Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph)

Dawn Richard is preparing to release her upcoming album, Creole Culture. This album delves deeper into her New Orleans roots, a theme she has explored in previous albums. The production of Creole Culture was handled by drummer/producer Greg Paul and his Katalyst collective. The singles "enough" and the collaboration with Durand Bernarr, "baby, can we?", foreshadow the album's fun, linear sound, which is reflected in her latest single, "chuuuuurch".

This third track from Creole Culture is an upbeat dancefloor anthem with a distinctive early-90s house bassline, and features New Orleans singer Anjelika "Jelly" Joseph. The song is a reflection of Richard's personal journey in the music industry, with her declaring affirmations about her identity amidst the challenges she's faced.

In a press release, Richard describes "chuuuuurch" as a conversation with herself, addressing her experiences in the industry and the need to remind herself of who she is. Culturally, the term "church" serves as a powerful affirmation, signifying "amen", "you right", and even self-affirmation when no one else is around. The song's musical journey is a mix of gospel, bounce, and dance music, incorporating elements of Crystal Waters and La Bouche, with all these influences converging in one place.

The song is playful, honest, and richly musical, emphasizing the importance of being one's own congregation. The video for "chuuuuurch" was directed by Zebretta Johnson and includes self-animated visuals by Dawn Richard.