By Colin 
Amber Saqladi has released her first single in two years, the country-pop confessional ‘Liquor’. Out on 22nd August, the track is a shimmering exploration of love as both comfort and vice, with Amber’s poetic lyricism and golden-hour warmth turning vulnerability into strength. Produced by multi-platinum producer King Tut at Metropolis Studios, the single marks a confident and emotive return for the Leicestershire-born artist.
The lyric “You’re the liquor for my soul” lies at the heart of the song. For Amber, the inspiration came from the idea that falling in love can mirror the experience of drinking: we often promise ourselves we will take things slowly, but find ourselves swept away, sometimes to the point of embarrassment. Just as love can be intoxicating, it can also become a vice, drawing us back even when we know it may not be the right time. Through ‘Liquor’, Amber channels this contradiction with humour and openness, reclaiming vulnerability as a source of power.
The single has been several years in the making. Written three years ago, ‘Liquor’ was the first song Amber ever created in a co-writing session, collaborating with King Tut and producer Patris when she was just nineteen. She recalls arriving at Metropolis Studios with nerves so strong that she barely slept or ate the day before, but the session became the beginning of something special. It also marked the start of her relationship with collaborators who have since helped shape her evolving sound. Additional production and instrumentation from Patris, mastering by Jonas Westling, visual support from Joe Noon, and creative contributions from Richard Steele all played a role in bringing the project to life.
A voice that bridges genres
Amber’s music exists at the meeting point of country, folk, pop, and rock. That blend has become her signature, creating a soundscape that feels cinematic while remaining grounded in storytelling. Her early releases set this path: debut single ‘Summer Rain’ delivered a heartfelt narrative of summer romance, while follow-up ‘Save Yourself’ offered a dynamic breakup anthem built on both empowerment and honesty.
Her range has only expanded since. ‘Siren Song’, her most recent single before Liquor, leaned into pop-punk, channelling dark feminine rage and heartbreak into an electrifying statement. The track drew industry attention, including a BBC Introducing live interview and a personal comment of support from Taylor Swift on one of Amber’s TikTok posts. These moments underline her ability to capture attention not only with her songs but also with her fearless approach to artistry.
Alongside her studio work, Amber has built a live reputation with performances at The Long Road, Buckle and Boots, CarFest, and Sound City, as well as support slots for Paris Paloma. The release of ‘Liquor’ was premiered on BBC Introducing with Dean Jackson, underlining her continued connection with grassroots support.
Review
‘Liquor’ is a striking release from Amber Saqladi, balancing emotional depth with an undeniable polish. The track’s production glows with warmth, but it is Amber’s delivery that carries its true impact. Her voice holds both fragility and strength, allowing the lyric “You’re the liquor for my soul” to resonate long after the song ends. It is a confessional but also a celebration of what it means to embrace vulnerability.
The single succeeds because it avoids being overly polished or detached. Instead, it feels alive with honesty, marrying country storytelling with contemporary pop energy. ‘Liquor’ is both accessible and deeply personal, a track that invites listeners to reflect while still offering the glow of a summer anthem. It confirms Amber as an artist capable of turning her rawest emotions into captivating songs.
You can follow Amber over on Instagram.