Nectar Woode Unveils ‘Lights Off’ with BBC Radio 1’s Hottest Record Premiere

: by Andrew Braithwaite • Latest • 23 February 2026

Nectar Woode has released her first single of 2026, “Lights Off,” which premiered as BBC Radio 1’s Hottest Record on 23 February. Introducing the track on BBC Radio 1, host Jack Saunders praised the song, saying “The vibes are immaculate.”

Carried by Woode’s velvet smooth vocals, “Lights Off” leans into a darker, grittier atmosphere than some of her previous releases. The alternative soul track was co written and produced by Benza and Gramm, and moves through themes of doubt, emotional pressure and release.

Speaking about the single, Woode said: “During this time of writing I found that other people’s opinions would play on my mind constantly and affect my choices and what I wanted to do in life. So, this is a love song about wanting to be with someone but having to drown out the noise and having to turn the ‘lights off’ which are other people’s opinions.”

She continued: “It’s about not being dictated by anyone's emotions and is also a form of growing up and realising you can do whatever you want. A journey to finding your love all wrapped up in a desert soul tune.”

Lyrically, the track reflects that struggle. Lines such as “Turn the lights off, let the dust settle, nothing is forever” capture the desire to shut out external pressure and find peace.

The release arrives ahead of a special BRITs Week performance in aid of War Child, where Woode will join Olivia Dean on Thursday 26 February. It follows a strong run of live appearances, including supporting Joy Crookes on her UK and European tour, a sold out headline show at Village Underground in London and a performance at the Royal Albert Hall in December. She also recently made her debut on Later with Jools Holland.

Earlier today, Woode announced plans for a four date European headline tour this spring, powered by NOTION and dollop. The run will open at the Jazz Cafe in London before heading to Paris, Amsterdam and Berlin, with additional dates set to be announced.

With “Lights Off,” Nectar Woode opens her year with a track that confronts outside noise head on, while staying rooted in the soulful sound that has defined her rise so far.