Madison McFerrin’s new album ‘Scorpio’ explores heartbreak and rebirth in soul

Madison McFerrin has emerged with artistic clarity and emotional resonance on her new album, Scorpio, released on June 24, 2025. The independent sophomore effort is an intimate exploration of heartbreak and rebirth, fully realized through her signature “future soul”—a seamless blend of vocal layers, gospel-tinged harmonies, minimalist electronic textures, and raw lyrical honesty .

Scorpio finds McFerrin grappling with the end of a long-term relationship. As she confided in a press release, “It was as if the music demanded it of me. Scorpio is for everyone who has ever felt lost, fought like hell to find themselves…”

The album flows through 13 tracks, from the confessional opener “Heartbreak” to the final meditation “The End.” Standouts include the sultry “Ain’t It Nice,” which weaves themes of deception into a sleek, synth-soaked groove, and the mournful yet empowering “I Don’t,” a collaborative single co-produced with Willow .

Critics have praised the album’s expressive depth. Flood Magazine notes how McFerrin “stands in her purpose,” buoyed by her powerful Tiny Desk performance and her refined vocal-crafting. The album’s sonic architecture marries vocal looping and rich harmonies with minimalist production—crafted for “commute-time listening,” concise yet potent .

In late spring, McFerrin appeared on NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Concert to preview songs from Scorpio. Accompanied by a seven-piece Chicago band led by Kameron Lowe and the Lovely Lowe Sisters, she delivered a dynamic set that has already surpassed half a million YouTube views .

On Wednesday, August 13, McFerrin heads to Milwaukee as part of the Summer of Soul Outdoor Marketplace & Concert Series, a free community event at the Peck Pavilion in Marcus Performing Arts Center.

The evening begins at 5 p.m. with sets by Milwaukee-born singer-songwriter Grace Weber and DJ Gemini Gilly, followed by McFerrin’s set under the stars. The event blends live soul, vibrant DJ support, food trucks, local vendors, and an atmosphere that fosters community connection.