Merce reemerges with “My Guy,” a somber meditation on the range of emotions following loss. The singer, songwriter, and producer was a co-founder of the ’90s neo-soul group The Jazzyfatnastees, who made Philadelphia their base. The quartet eventually became a duo, and their debut album, The Once and Future—which featured input from Questlove and Scott Storch—became an era classic.
They also co-founded the Black Lily talent showcase for women alongside their late manager, Richard Nichols. The platform expanded internationally and hosted two music festivals with appearances from Jill Scott, Jean Grae, Alice Smith, Toshi Reagon, Amy Winehouse, Kindred The Family Soul, and more. The Jazzyfatnastees released three albums before becoming sought-after backup singers for artists like Eric Benét, Stevie Wonder, The Brand New Heavies, Meshell Ndegeocello, and De La Soul.
Merce is now channeling her creativity into her solo voice, with “My Guy” serving as the lead single from her forthcoming album, ALIVE. The project is inspired by the loss of Nichols—who was also her life partner—and the challenges of caring for their autistic son. Through her music, she explores grief, reinvention, strength, and self-discovery.
Merce crafted ALIVE alongside longtime collaborators Kush Oxford and Rick Friedrich. Reflecting on the new track, she shares:
“‘My Guy’ is less about a guy I didn’t align with and more about reassuring myself that there’s no need to cry. Who or what is meant for me will not pass me by. The music is atmospheric and moody with a march-like quality that feels like the path I’m on—the twisting, winding road to my highest good.”
The accompanying music video features Merce confronting grief, life, and renewal through distinct wardrobe transformations. Ultimately, Merce takes a difficult but inevitable life transition and turns it into a musical survival manual.
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