Vacancy Marks a Confident New Chapter for Ari Lennox

Photographed by Gizelle Hernandez

Ari Lennox enters a powerful new chapter with the release of Vacancy, her third full length album since 2022. The GRAMMY nominated R and B artist delivers a body of work rooted in creative autonomy emotional confidence and personal growth, marking one of her most intentional and self assured statements to date.

Recorded over the span of three years across Atlanta Los Angeles and Miami, Vacancy is the result of patience and intention. The album reflects a slower more reflective creative process shaped by self awareness freedom and trust. Ari completed the final sessions in summer 2025 alongside executive producer Elite, bringing the project into focus with clarity and conviction. Notably she co wrote every track on the album further cementing her voice not only as a vocalist but as a sharp and deeply personal lyricist.

The album opens with Mobbin In DC produced by Elite, a soulful homage to Ari’s hometown that sets the tone for the record’s emotional grounding. Early singles Under the Moon and the title track Vacancy reunite her with GRAMMY winning producers Jermaine Dupri and Bryan Michael Cox, the duo behind her Billboard charting and RIAA platinum certified hit Pressure. Their return brings a timeless R and B sensibility to the project allowing Ari’s expressive delivery to shine without distraction.

The album’s focus track High Key produced by J White Did It highlights the playful and flirtatious vocal energy that appears throughout the record. Latest single Twin Flame produced by Tommy TBHits Brown and Leather Jacket leans into vulnerability offering a tender and intoxicating portrait of emotional intimacy. The song has quickly gained traction at radio and among fans, with Ari recently performing it on The Jennifer Hudson Show, bringing its emotional weight to a wider audience.

Elsewhere Vacancy balances softness and confidence with ease. Standout moments include Soft Girl Era produced by Dupri and Cox, the retro leaning 24 Seconds produced by Tricky Stewart and Dream Sarae, the playful Horoscope, and the anthemic closer Hocus Pocus. The album features just one guest appearance Jamaican music icon Buju Banton on Company produced by SupaDups and Stephen Di Genius McGregor. The collaboration blends R and B and dancehall effortlessly creating a sound that feels both nostalgic and current. Beyond the studio Ari Lennox continues to elevate her live presence with standout appearances including Robert Glasper’s Blue Note residency in Los Angeles and a featured set at the 80th EBONY Power 100 Gala. These moments reflect an artist fully in control of her narrative and comfortable in her evolution.