Will Smith and the Struggle of Black Boyhood - F. D. Signifier
After the big ado with the Will Smith incident, this was a very appropriate thinkpiece. This has a lot thoughts on boyhood in America. The bit of history on Will and how even Bel-Air seems to show some aspects of life as a black adolescent made for a really intriguing video. I share this with you in hopes that you enjoy it as did I.
Favorite Title Track
Glitch - Kwon Eun Bi
I was pleased with Kwon Eun Bi's solo debut with Door, but this track was a whole 'nother story. Glitch hits all the right notes when it comes to this style of music. The drums, the synths, the vocal melody, and harmonies! Every bit of it makes me instantly click the replay button as soon as the track ends. In my reaction, I mentioned that it seems like something Chungha could release, and to me, that is high praise since she's one of my favorite soloists. Therefore, if you're a big fan of the runway worthy jams of Chungha, Kwon Eun Bi has you covered here!
Favorite Live Performance
Young-Luv.com - STAYC
The Young Luv EP has already lodged its place solidly on my favorite albums of year. Therefore, to see that STAYC released a nice medley of all the tracks for the fans to enjoy made me ecstatic. Once again we get to see the talent that all six of these ladies possess, alongside a nice variety of genres of music. If you haven't gotten into them yet, I dare you to watch this and come out saying that they aren't worth listening to. I know that can't be the truth!
Jamie is well known here to be one of my favorite Korean soloists and her new single, Pity Party, allowed her to guest on her long hosted show, After School Club. The great part about that is they brought back one of her older co-hosts to fill in which led to so much banter and hijinks. A big part of my love for Jamie was derived from her personality and that's on full display with the people she's close to along with fan interactions which was truly a gift served well! The staff even made it a special event for her, so you can't help but feel the joy in the room. Give it a watch!
Favorite Live Performance
Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, Eminem, & Kendrick Lamar - Super Bowl Halftime
This undeniable performance was the talk of the town for weeks and for good reason! The stage production, the collection of songs, a surprise 50 Cent and Anderson .Paak sighting all lead to many moments to recall and relish. I got to witness this live at a Wing Bar with many sports fans filling the building, so seeing everyone reliving their childhoods and jamming in unison was an experience. Yet even upon rewatching, getting the chance to see hip hop on display and being celebrated was phenomenal. Quite a highlight of the year as a whole so far.
Favorite Podcast Interview
Kenny Beats on OtherTone
Kenny Beats just continues to find himself in conversations/interviews that I just get so much out of. In this you learn a bit more about his journey in the industry, many thoughts on the industry currently, and bits of life advice sprinkled in between. Hearing the questions asked between the creatives, being Kenny, Pharrell, & Fam-Lay, is just fascinating, especially when comparing their similar and differing thought processes on the art. Truly a fine listen for those interested in that kind of thing.
Favorite Comeback
Young-Luv.com - STAYC
Even though the title track didn't have the classic slogan, as soon as I heard the opening of the song I knew it was STAYC girls, and it was going down. The direction that Black Eyed Pilseung has given these ladies has been immaculate since conception and this was further proof of that. My first listen had me like it and as I moved on to other comebacks, my mind drifted its memory to the melodies of Run2U over and over. Though, I can't only give praise to the lead single because every b-side holds an even greater hold on my eardrums. They continue to expand STAYC's sound while still maintaining a signature feeling that's all their own. I find that the most admirable quality of their development. You got to listen to believe!
The instant I heard the chorus from the teaser, I was so excited! After the video dropped, I had it on loop for days. I wouldn't be surprised if I reached 100 plays of the song itself within the first 24 hours of release. The composition of this song is so perfectly done, I knew this is going to be a song of the year contender. The flute-like motif, the great vocals, addicting rap, and infectious choreography made this my absolute favorite song in a month full of amazing music. Some from my biases, so that's saying something...
Favorite Online Concert
Songs For You - Tinashe
Tinashe is an underrated talent in my opinion. She makes some pretty great music and is able to dance, as well, making her a great performer. This online concert was proof of that with much of the Songs For You album on the setlist, alongside some other popular songs in her discography. Now there may not actually be live vocals, but the untrained eye most likely wouldn't be able to tell. Yet, regardless she puts on a superb show that I can recommend to any fan of contemporary R&B.
Favorite Music Analysis
The Most Elegant Key Change - Adam Neely
I love my music theory videos, especially when they are able to show where it and the average listening experience collide. In this video, Adam Neely breaks down the amazing writing choices in "All by Myself" and how Celine Dion's performance of it touches the listener. It also shows how music's ability to affect people emotionally is powerful, and being able to wield that power is a feat in itself. Videos (and songs) like this always remind why I love music so much.
Favorite Music Video
Night Before the Exam - ATARASHII GAKKO!
I love these girls! At first, I wasn't sure the basis of the song was; I just liked how the words matched with the beat. Then, I finally understood that it was like cramming for a vocabulary test. Ingenious! The Japan Leaders continue to bring their signature style of performance in this one take video with all the charm and energy as expected. They always bring different sounds to the table and concepts that get people familiar with Japanese culture. This is something that I'll always appreciate along with jumping around with every jam they release!
