It’s been a long four years since Ro James gifted the music world with new material, but his latest single, “Platonic,” marks a triumphant return. Released under TTT Records and produced by his trusted collaborator Brady Watt, the track delves into the beauty of emotional and intellectual intimacy.
In “Platonic,” James explores the profound connection between two souls that transcends physical boundaries. With lyrics like, “’Cause we keep it platonic / Could be the one for me / Best part of my day, match my energy,” James crafts a narrative that celebrates building a relationship on friendship and mutual respect before venturing into romance. The song’s smooth bassline, paired with a delicate piano arrangement, perfectly underscores his soulful delivery.
James shared his inspiration for the track, explaining, “Created this [with] my bro/producer Brady Watt. Wanted to explore the concept of connection without having to be physical and highlighting the beauty of platonic friendships.” The result is a song that feels both timely and timeless, resonating deeply in an age where meaningful connections are increasingly valued.
Brady Watt, reflecting on their creative journey, noted on X (formerly Twitter), “This is our first official release together again since our R&B classic ‘A.D.I.D.A.S.’ that we recorded in my room in Harlem 10 years ago and changed our lives.” Their synergy is evident, with Watt’s production perfectly complementing James’ heartfelt lyrics.
“Platonic” serves as James’ first release since his 2020 sophomore album MANTIC. That project, a masterclass in contemporary R&B, featured standout collaborations with Miguel (“Too Much”), Brandy (“Plan B”), and Masego (“Slow Down”). While MANTIC didn’t receive the commercial attention it deserved, it remains a critical gem. Rated R&B placed it at No. 2 on their 30 Best R&B Albums of 2020, acknowledging its subtle brilliance and the legacy it will likely cement over time.
Looking back further, Ro James’ debut album ELDORADO (2017) introduced him as a force in R&B. Its lead single, “Permission,” not only topped Billboard’s R&B Songs chart but also earned him a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Performance. Tracks like “Permission” showcased James’ ability to blend sensuality with sincerity, a quality that continues to shine in his work today.
With “Platonic,” Ro James reminds us why he’s one of the most evocative voices in modern R&B. This song isn’t just a return—it’s a statement. James is evolving, and if “Platonic” is any indication, his next chapter is one fans won’t want to miss.