One thing Janelle Richardson is going to do is root for you.

“If anybody knows me, knows that I’m one of the loudest ones that be cheering for my friends, for my family, or there’s people who are near and dear to my heart,” she tells RoyalTee.

Richardson, whose stage name is J’Nelle has always been sponge of inspiration, soaking it in and squeezing it out, through her lyrics. And in many ways the Tampa-based singer and songwriter, whose admirers include Grammy-award artist Jill Scott, is a social advocate, using her platform to give a voice to the voiceless and a light to those who may not have been heard before. For her latest project, the mission is no different.

Fused with R&B and live instrument beats inspired by her high school experience, “The Real Ones (T.R.O)” is a feel-good anthem that pays homage to individuals who J’Nelle says barely receives the recognition they deserve, while also reminding everyone of their value. It’s a reminder to celebrate yourself and others, and to keep pushing forward.

“A lot of people think that you don’t need no validation or reassurance or recognition,” J’Nelle explains about the inspiration behind her song. “But no, that is definitely important, especially for creatives, to get flowers from people. ‘T.R.O.’ is showing and giving praise to those people who don’t get as much recognition, or who haven’t gotten their flowers. Y’all are the real ones, I’m going to be the one that’s clapping for you.”

The song’s release date, Jan. 20 on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, is no coincidence. “He was a real one as well,” she says, referring to the slain civil rights leader. “And I want people to know they are the real ones just like Martin Luther King Jr.

And although the single is not political in any sense, it offers hope, positive and unity amidst challenging social and political times.

“Music is healing,” she says. “We need music to remind us that everything’s going to be okay.”

Listen to T.R.O. here