International recording artist, songwriter and cultural ambassador Lí-Lí Octave has officially released her latest single, “More Than Me”, stylized as “>ME,” on major global streaming and digital platforms. Released today, September 11, 2026, the song represents a significant new chapter for the Dominican artist, who has earned recognition as “The Caribbean Neo Soul Queen” and is regarded as a pioneer of the Caribbean Neo Soul sound.
Blending Caribbean soul influences with acoustic instrumentation and expressive vocals, “>ME” examines the relationship between self-worth, love, and selflessness. Written by Octave, the song challenges the traditional perception of sacrifice as self-denial, instead presenting it as something that can emerge from emotional and spiritual abundance. Octave summarized the philosophy behind the composition by saying,
“The idea is you must fill yourself with love and overflow into the other – this is my definition of selflessness.”
The song’s story began at Jazz ’n Dine 2025, where Octave first performed an intimate acoustic version before an audience of music enthusiasts and industry professionals. Her emotionally charged performance reportedly left a strong impression and prompted calls for a professionally recorded version of the song.
That momentum continued into 2026 when Octave headlined Dominica’s Jazz and Creole Festival, delivering a performance that combined jazz, neo-soul and elements of Dominican musical heritage.
For Octave, “> ME” represents the belief that meaningful generosity begins with having something within oneself to give. “Self-love isn’t selfish; it is the prerequisite for true generosity,” she explained.
According to the artist, when a person is emotionally fulfilled, giving to another does not necessarily diminish them, but instead allows love to flow outward. Bass guitar contributions on the recording came from Anika “LukaBassGirl” Luke-Balthazar and Lindsay George, adding to the song’s rich musical foundation.
“More Than Me” now launches the next phase of Octave’s musical journey, following her high-profile Jazz and Creole performance and continued efforts to establish Caribbean Neo Soul as a distinctive musical expression. The single is available from today on major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Amazon Music and YouTube Music, with an accompanying conceptual visualizer scheduled for release later today.
