LONDON, UK: Expansion Records, the UK’s premier independent soul label, has officially announced the launch of its brand-new imprint: Expansion Select. The new venture has been established to house exceptional releases that carry the label's signature soul ethos but venture into vibrant, distinct sub-genres and theatrical crossover projects.
Leading the charge for the imprint’s debut is "Break The Rules," a stunning new single from West End powerhouse Rochelle Sherona (The Lion King). The track serves as the first high-octane taste of the upcoming original British musical Soul Mates, penned by acclaimed writer and composer David Kent.
A New Avenue for Soul
For decades, Expansion Records has been the definitive home for classic and contemporary soul. The creation of Expansion Select allows the label to broaden its sonic horizons, providing a dedicated platform for projects like Soul Mates that fuse traditional soul sensibilities with distinct narrative, historical, and theatrical backdrops.
"There is so much incredible music that shares our passion for soul but sits just outside the core Expansion sound," says the Ralph Tee of Expansion. "Expansion Records Select gives these projects the spotlight they deserve. 'Break The Rules' is the perfect maiden release. It's bold, it’s authentic, and it absolutely demands to be heard."
The Sound of 1987 Essex
Set against the neon-soaked, high-energy backdrop of the 1980s Essex Soul scene, "Break The Rules" is a sonic resurrection. Driven by an original score that avoids simple pastiche, the track captures the "new old" sound of 1987 as spun at clubs like Lacy Lady and the Ilford Palais.
The single delivers:
Brassy, synth-heavy arrangements that authentically recreate the late-eighties club landscape.
A driving "four-on-the-floor" rhythm designed to bridge the gap between soul purists and modern dance floors.
A masterclass in vocal power from Sherona, bringing West End caliber to raw UK soul roots.
About the Musical: Soul Mates
Soul Mates is a floor-filling new British musical that explores the vibrant subculture of the 1980s soul movement. Following the journey of three aspiring stars from the heart of Essex, the production blends nostalgia with a fierce contemporary edge, charting the rise, friendship, and ambition of Romford’s premier soul trio.
Single Release Details
- Title: Break The Rules
- Artist: Rochelle Sherona
- From the Musical: Soul Mates by David Kent
- Label: Expansion Select
- Release Date: 1st July, 2026.