Ashley Paul is entering a new era—one built around emotional vocals, live musicianship and a sound that moves comfortably between smooth jazz, adult contemporary and soul.

The Dauman/Virgin recording artist’s latest single, “I Just Had to Fall,” has reached No. 4 on the Smooth Jazz Network’s Most Increased Airplay chart following an increase of 25 spins. The latest movement builds upon the track’s earlier recognition as a Mediabase Smooth Jazz Top Gainer and signals that Paul’s expansion beyond dance and pop is connecting with radio programmers and listeners.

Written by acclaimed songwriter Alan Rich, the single pairs Paul with four-time GRAMMY-nominated, Soul Train Award-winning and platinum-selling production duo Bizkit & Butta.

Rather than approaching smooth jazz as a temporary stylistic departure, Paul teamed with producers whose careers are deeply connected to instrumental performance, R&B, soul and contemporary music.

Allen “Bizkit” Arthur began playing saxophone in the fourth grade and later performed in the jazz band at Philadelphia’s High School for Creative and Performing Arts. His career eventually placed him on stages around the world, including an extended tenure performing with John Legend and appearances with Kanye West.

Arthur also played saxophone on Beyoncé’s “Déjà Vu,” produced by Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins.

His response to Paul’s recording was immediate.

“When I first heard Ashley’s vocals, I cried. Her performance was so moving,” Bizkit said.

Keith “Butta” Justice heard something equally distinctive in Paul’s voice.

“Right away when she started singing, I was like, she’s channeling Angela Bofill,” Butta said.

A pianist, musical director, keyboardist, DJ and producer, Butta began playing piano at age eight. His background complements Bizkit’s experience as a saxophonist and touring musician, giving the duo an approach shaped as much by performance as production.

Together, Bizkit & Butta have created music across R&B, pop, soul and contemporary formats. Their credits include work connected to Ne-Yo, Miguel and John Legend, including Legend’s “Tonight (Best You Ever Had)” featuring Ludacris.

That musical history can be heard throughout “I Just Had to Fall.” The track allows Paul’s voice and emotional delivery to remain at the center while the production creates a natural bridge between modern adult contemporary music and classic soul-influenced smooth jazz.