After capturing hearts and critical acclaim with his debut single ‘Say It Like You Mean It’, Stephan Leroy Folkes returns with a powerful and deeply introspective follow-up: ‘It’s All Within Time (Travelling Through the Stars)’. A bold, genre-blurring statement of intent, the new track cements Stephan’s place as one of the most compelling voices in the next wave of boundary-pushing artists.
Known for his fearless approach to songwriting and his steadfast belief in individuality and self-worth, Stephan’s music is more than just sound—it’s a journey. On ‘It’s All Within Time’, he invites listeners to reflect on their own paths, encouraging them to see every hardship not as a roadblock, but as a stepping stone toward growth and transformation.
“Mainstream music doesn’t often cover these deep, introspective questions,” Stephan shares. “The industry wants to tell you what to like, what to follow. But I want people to ask themselves, ‘How did I handle that situation? What can I do better next time?’ Music should be a space for self-reflection, and that’s what I aim to create.”
Echoing the timeless elegance of George Michael’s ‘Careless Whisper’ while tapping into the emotional rawness of Billie Eilish, Stephan’s voice is both classic and current—smooth, soulful, and unmistakably sincere. The track traverses an atmospheric soundscape, blending soft rock, R&B, jazz, funk, and pop with the ease of a seasoned innovator. It’s no wonder critics have taken notice: EARMILK praised him as “a true visionary,” while CURIOUS FOR MUSIC remarked that Stephan possesses “the soul of Stevie Wonder, the funk of Prince, and the pop sensibilities of Billie Eilish.”
Raised in Leytonstone, East London, Stephan’s music is shaped by a life lived with resilience and depth. Childhood experiences—including a hospitalization at age five and a near-drowning incident—instilled in him a rare emotional clarity, something that reverberates through every note of his music. As a self-described “Visionist” and “King of Fantasy,” Stephan isn’t just creating songs—he’s building universes. His art dares listeners to defy societal norms, reject conformity, and fully invest in their true selves.
Drawing influence from musical greats like Prince, Stevie Wonder, and George Michael, as well as modern trailblazers like Eilish, Stephan crafts a sound uniquely his own. His creative palette is vast, seamlessly weaving together genres like soft rock, funk, metal, and dance music—a testament to his wide-ranging taste and technical prowess.
Having started his musical journey at just 11 years old, Stephan has grown into a multi-hyphenate talent: songwriter, sound engineer, producer, and performer. He’s collaborated with industry names including Nick Michaels of the legendary band Bethnal and producer Phil Curran, all while carving a path uniquely his own. With his second album already in the works and live performances planned across the UK, Stephan shows no signs of slowing down.
Through his music, Stephan Leroy Folkes continues to be a voice for the dreamers, the thinkers, and the self-seekers. ‘It’s All Within Time (Travelling Through the Stars)’ isn’t just a song—it’s an invitation to look inward, hold space for your story, and boldly embrace the person you’re becoming.
