MERRY-LYNN - CTRL

Merry-Lynn

With CTRL, Merry-Lynn takes a bold yet thoughtful step away from the hazy warmth of her usual Neo-Soul and R&B roots, dipping into Afro Pop and Alté without losing the heart of what makes her music feel honest. The result is a track that balances rhythm and soul quite nicely — it’s understated but intentional, and clearly made with care.

The production is clean and rooted in a light Afrobeat bounce that doesn’t try too hard to dominate. Instead, it leaves space for Merry-Lynn’s voice to sit front and centre, which is where it really shines. She has a soft but expressive delivery, and it’s clear she’s not just singing words but feeling them. There’s a quiet confidence in how she delivers the chorus — reflective, a bit spiritual, and grounded in self-assurance.

Lyrically, CTRL is about tuning out the noise and tuning into yourself, and that message feels especially relevant. It doesn’t come across as preachy though — it’s more like someone gently reminding you to breathe and come back to centre. It’s personal, not performative.

That said, it doesn’t feel like a song trying to be a massive hit — which is fine, but worth noting. It’s more of a mood than a moment, and depending on what you're looking for in a track, that might make it a bit too mellow or introspective. Some might want a bit more push in the beat or a hook that sticks harder, especially with the genre pivot. But it’s clear that this is an artist exploring rather than chasing trends, and that’s something to respect.

CTRL is a gentle evolution for Merry-Lynn, and while it doesn’t scream for attention, it holds its own quietly and with intention. If you’re after a tune that feels genuine and taps into something deeper without trying too hard, this one’s worth a listen.