Empire Child Releases Empowering Sophomore Single “Negativity Be Gone” Ahead of Debut Album

Empire Child, the musical project of Ruth Rothwell, is back with a brand-new single, “Negativity Be Gone”, accompanied by a live performance video. After decades shaping the music industry from behind the scenes, Rothwell is now fully stepping into the spotlight as a songwriter and artist. This acts as her official sophomore single, following from her debut single release, titled “Trace The Race”.

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Official single cover artwork for "Negativity Be Gone" which sees Ruth Rothwell, as Empire Child, smiling while wearing a blue blouse. She has draped an orange shawl over her head and arms and is looking upwards against a colourful floral background. The song's text is in the top right corner in a cursive blue script.

Following her debut single, which centred on personal heritage and the idea of where we come from—shaped by her Indo-Jamaican and South African roots—Empire Child now returns with “Negativity Be Gone”. Written by Ruth Rothwell and produced by Mariano Diaz, the track also features mixing from Pablo de la Loza and mastering by Alex Gopher.

At its core, “Negativity Be Gone” focuses on taking back control from negative thinking and outside influences, delivering its message through a rich and layered arrangement. Norberto Cordoba appears on bass, Tomi Lujan on drums, Miguel Parrondo on saxophone, and Rene Rossano on electric guitar, alongside Ruth Rothwell’s vocals. As Rothwell explains, “I’m trying to get the message across that we have choices. Choices about what we think and who we surround ourselves with. There are so many wonderful people in the world that you’ve yet to meet. Find the good people.”

Ruth Rothwell as Empire Child posing standing up, wearing a blue top and orange bottoms with a big medallion necklace hanging from her neck. There's a background of flowers amongst a blossom pink backing. — Photo Credit: Tomàs Moyà

Lyrically, the track leans into themes of healing and self-reflection, capturing the gradual process of confronting inner fears and moving past limiting beliefs. It carries a sense of perseverance throughout, reinforcing the idea that change and growth are always within reach. Sonically, “Negativity Be Gone” unfolds with a laid-back, genre-blurring feel, weaving together elements of jazz and soul with a subtle rhythmic warmth that creates an easy, reflective atmosphere. With emotionally rich vocals at the forefront, Empire Child brings a strong sense of identity to the track, delivering a message rooted in positivity and encouragement.

Looking ahead, the forthcoming album builds on these ideas, drawing from Ruth Rothwell’s personal experiences and shaping them into a broader narrative around growth and self-discovery. Reflecting on the project, she explains, “The music is inspired by my life so far. Themes of letting go of the past, having the courage to move forward, believing in yourself, and managing past hurts and disappointments.”

Before launching Empire Child, Ruth Rothwell built an extensive career within the music industry, holding key roles at MCA/Universal and BCM Records during the height of the UK’s 1990s dance boom. During this time, she was involved in introducing acts such as Digital Underground to UK audiences, while also collaborating with influential figures including Andrew Weatherall.

Her move into publishing at MCA marked another chapter, where she worked closely with a range of artists and songwriters, including Zero 7, Basement Jaxx, and Air. Alongside this, she supported writers like Rob Davis and Eg White, whose work went on to shape major releases such as Kylie Minogue’s “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” and Adele’s “Chasing Pavements”.

Ruth Rothwell, as Empire Child, smiling while wearing a blue blouse and orange trousers. She has draped an orange shawl over her head and arms and is looking upwards against a colourful floral background. — Photo Credit: Tomàs Moyà

Despite this behind-the-scenes success, songwriting was always Ruth Rothwell’s true passion. She says, “Songwriting is really my calling, and I could no longer ignore that fact.” This drive eventually led to Empire Child, with the upcoming record produced by Madrid-based jazz professor Mariano Diaz.

Splitting her time between London and Spain to write the record, Ruth Rothwell embraces her artistry with purpose and clarity. “Music is my sanctuary, a way to deal with life on life’s terms,” she adds—a fitting statement for an artist whose work is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

“Negativity Be Gone”, by Empire Child, is available to download and stream, right now, across all platforms, via Fine Roots Recordings. Be ready for the release of her forthcoming debut album, which is set to be released soon.