Elliot James Reay Revives Northern Soul in New Single “Who Knew Dancing Was A Sin”
Rising UK star Elliot James Reay blends retro pop and soul on “Who Knew Dancing Was A Sin,” out now.
Elliot James Reay continues his stylish take on classic pop and soul with his new single, “Who Knew Dancing Was A Sin,” released via Interscope / Island EMI. The track is the 23-year-old Manchester artist’s fourth to date and pays homage to his hometown’s Northern Soul scene.
In the song, Reay spins a playful tale of late-night dancing gone misunderstood. With sharp guitar licks, driving drums, rich horns, and a swooning bassline, it’s an irresistible throwback that places Reay firmly in the new wave of retro revivalists.
“It’s a shame she doesn’t get it, a shame she doesn’t see… Just give me a bourbon, a bass line, and a beat,” he sings.
Co-written with SOAP, Annielle Lisiuk, and Glen Roberts, the song reflects Reay’s growing collaborative creativity. The music video perfectly mirrors the track, showing Reay returning home disheveled before flashbacks reveal a spirited dance night in a red-curtained club—highlighting the joy and culture of Northern Soul.
It’s a joyful continuation of Reay’s breakthrough success. His debut “I Think They Call This Love” boasts 121 million streams, 1 billion views on TikTok, and made him a global viral sensation. That momentum continued with follow-ups “Boy in Love” and “Daydreaming.”
Reay’s music is steeped in influence from icons like Roy Orbison and Elvis, filtered through a modern lens that’s clearly resonating with today’s listeners.
