Elijah Blake is one of those rare artists who continues to evolve with each release, never content to stay in one lane. His latest offering, the deluxe edition of elijah!, serves as a testament to this evolution, taking what was already an impressive album and expanding it with nine additional tracks that deepen the emotional resonance and expand the sonic landscape of the original. Available now via MNRK Music Group, this deluxe edition isn’t just about adding more music; it’s about pushing the boundaries of what modern R&B can be.
The album’s heart is still intact—Elijah Blake’s signature blend of vulnerability, innovation, and soul—but the deluxe version introduces fresh collaborations with some of the genre’s brightest stars, including Sevyn Streeter, Keyshia Cole, Kim Burrell, and Cheryl “Salt” James of Salt-n-Pepa. Each track is a new chapter in Blake’s ever-expanding story, from the soulful, aching duet “Stuck In My Ways” with Sevyn Streeter to the deeply personal tribute “Does Something Happen When You Hear My Name (Jason’s Song),” which honors late music executive Jason “Hoody” Hobdy.
One of the album’s biggest highlights is “Every Little Thing,” which features Keyshia Cole covering Carly Pearce’s 2017 hit. Blake notes how the track became something of a personal anthem for him after he first heard Cole’s soulful take, and her angelic vocals are the perfect complement to his smooth, emotive production. Songs like this remind us why Blake has become such a respected figure in the R&B world—not just as a performer, but as a curator of moments that make us feel something real.
With elijah!‘s deluxe edition, Elijah Blake further solidifies his place in the modern R&B pantheon. It’s a record that feels both timeless and forward-thinking, offering up classic soul vibes while exploring new sounds, all anchored by Blake’s exceptional songwriting and evocative voice. For fans old and new, this deluxe edition is a must-listen, showcasing an artist at the top of his game—fearless, innovative, and as emotionally resonant as ever.
Listen to Elijah Blake’s elijah! (Deluxe Edition) here.