Alternative-pop singer-songwriter Maya J’an has signed with Warner Records, and released a striking debut major-label single that coincides with the one-year anniversary of the devastating Los Angeles wildfires from last January.

“Cul-de-sac,” released on Friday (Jan. 9), combines handclaps, icy synths and subtly thumping percussion with a gentle, haunting vocal take from J’an. Produced by Jonas Jurstom, “Cul-de-sac” is a tribute to J’an’s hometown of Pasadena; the singer-songwriter has also worked closely with the organization Altadena Girls as a means of repairing her community following last January.

“‘Cul-de-sac’ is my love letter to where I’m from — Pasadena, California — and to the places of my childhood that disappeared after the fires of January 2025,” she says in a press statement. “After driving through what was damaged, I was overwhelmed by longing, nostalgia, and loss. ‘Cul-de-sac’ is an ode, and sometimes a portal, to the places I can no longer visit.” 

J’an’s deal with Warner Records, led by CEO & co-chairman Aaron Bay-Schuck and COO & co-chairman Tom Corson, follows songwriting sessions with artists like Pharrell Williams, Justine Skye and SAINt JHN, among others. A co-writing credit on Aqyila’s song “Bloom” earned J’an contemporary R&B recording of the year at the 2025 Juno Awards.

“From the very first conversations, signing with Warner felt like coming home to a team that truly understands my vision,” she says. “This music has lived quietly with me in my bedroom, and to finally share it with the support of Bay-Schuck, Tom, and an amazing team who believe in it, feels incredibly special. I’m so grateful and ready for this new chapter.” 

“I’ve been following Maya’s career for a while now, from her work as an in-demand and acclaimed songwriter to the singular artist she’s now become,” adds Bay-Schuck. “Her talent , storytelling, and emotional conviction stand above, and we’re so honored to have her join the Warner Records family.”