New Imprint Launch Single Announcement

Expansion Records unveils Expansion Select

The UK’s premier independent soul label opens a bold new chapter with a dedicated imprint for standout releases that stretch beyond its core sound while staying rooted in soul.

Launching the imprint is “Break The Rules”, a powerful debut single from Rochelle Sherona of The Lion King, taken from the upcoming original British musical Soul Mates by acclaimed writer and composer David Kent.

Release date

1st July, 2026

Artist

Rochelle Sherona

Label

Expansion Select

Break The Rules

Debut release on Expansion Select

2026

High-octane first taste of Soul Mates
Inspired by the 1980s Essex Soul scene
West End vocal power meets UK soul roots

A new avenue for soul

For decades, Expansion Records has stood as a definitive home for classic and contemporary soul. The creation of Expansion Select gives the label a dedicated platform for exceptional projects that share its soul ethos while exploring more vibrant, theatrical, historical, and crossover territory.

This new imprint is designed for releases that sit just outside the core Expansion sound, yet remain deeply connected to its identity, standards, and passion for authentic music.

From Expansion

“There is so much incredible music that shares our passion for soul but sits just outside the core Expansion sound. Expansion 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.”

— Ralph Tee, Expansion

The sound of 1987 Essex

Neon-soaked, club-driven, and built to revive the pulse of the late-eighties soul underground.

Brassy, synth-heavy arrangements

The track authentically recreates the late-eighties club landscape with a sound world rooted in the atmosphere of venues like Lacy Lady and the Ilford Palais.

A four-on-the-floor drive

Designed to bridge the gap between dedicated soul purists and modern dance floors, the rhythm delivers energy, momentum, and crossover appeal.

West End vocal power

Rochelle Sherona brings commanding theatrical presence and emotional force, giving the single a vocal performance that is both polished and deeply rooted in UK soul feeling.

About the musical

Soul Mates

A floor-filling new British musical exploring the vibrant subculture of the 1980s soul movement.

Soul Mates follows the journey of three aspiring stars from the heart of Essex, blending nostalgia with a fierce contemporary edge.

The production charts the rise, friendship, and ambition of Romford’s premier soul trio, immersing audiences in a world of drive, identity, and music-led storytelling.

Penned by acclaimed writer and composer David Kent, the musical positions “Break The Rules” as its first major musical statement.

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

Press and assets

Access supporting materials and referenced media assets below.

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Debut single launch for Expansion Select
Featuring West End performer Rochelle Sherona
Introducing the original musical Soul Mates

A bold first step for a new imprint

With Expansion Select, Expansion Records creates a fresh space for boundary-reaching projects that still beat with a soul heart.

Download assets

Soul Mates - The Musical