Let's be honest. As much as we (and by we, I mean singles) swear up and down that we don't need anyone to complete us, we aren't looking for anyone, OR that we haven't found Mr., Mrs., Right yet, it is hard to forget that heart-catching sensation when you experience something that makes you imagine what true love is like.
Sometimes it feels like your breath catching in your throat. Other times you simply take a deep breath in hopes that you won't forget how a wave of excited peace pushed you into a moment of bliss. Weird. I know. But honestly, there isn't much quite like it. And if you don't want to get put in your feels. SURPRISE SON, I'M HERE TO RUIN YOUR DAY! (plz keep reading...)
Here are five songs that bring back that elusive sensation called love (beware, these songs are incredibly groovy tbh).
#1. But You - 9th Wonder (feat. .SMITTY)
9th Wonder is a legend in his own right, having produced for countless artists and worked with Kendrick Lamar, Mac Miller, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, Jay-Z, and more, it is a simple task to pick any of song from his extensive song list. Still, this song particularly has been on repeat for the last week.
.SMITTY delivers easy-on-the-ear vocals over a sample of Cameo's "Sparkle" that aren't fancy or elaborate, but the opposite, and she absolutely glides over two minutes of 9th production. (Oh, this isn't the only 9th Wonder track on here by the way... in case you hadn't had enough. You're welcome.)
I couldn't think of a better fit for this track, which certainly speaks to 9th's surgical assembly of his bodies of work. The first time I listened to this track, I instantly added it to my playlists. "But You" is the head bobbing, soulful record you hear during the intermission of an event that sends you on a mad dash to find the DJ and ask for the name of the song. Or maybe you just sit down in the nearest seat, tapping the "try again" button in Shazam like a madman. This track just sounds rare. And it's certainly a song you'd want to share with a significant other on date night or the next time you go on a late-night drive with your boo.
#2. Come Thru - Mac Ayres, 9th Wonder
I pray to the Christ Almighty that this is not your first introduction to Mac Ayres. The Brooklyn native is one of my favorite artists of all time. He will 100% make it into future blog posts, so just keep that name tucked in your back pocket for future reference. Anyways, if this is your first exposure, congratulations! You just upped your net worth! Don't say I didn't do anything for you. All joking aside, this is an artist you do NOT (I repeat! DO NOT) want to miss.
Mac Ayres is an absolute beast. There are so many things I could say, but I'll save it for later. For now, I want to focus on "Come Thru". The simple fact that 9th Wonder has his hands in this says enough. "Come Thru" has this butter-smooth bass riff throughout that immediately locks you in. It's followed by an addictive bounce with help from hi-hat, snare, and an incredible blend of melodic keys and guitar, both of which blend perfectly in the track and fill the empty space.
Of course, I haven't even mentioned Mac Ayres' vocals. Let's get into it.
Okay, I made it sound like I had an essay prepared... I mean, technically this is an essay but- nevermind... THE POINT IS HIS VOICE IS GREAT! Nothing else to be said. I've always been hooked by his voice because it's so unapologetic and smooth and confident and creative all at the same time. This is another track destined to make an appearance in a late-night drive. Heck, let this play out of the Bluetooth speaker y'all share. "Come Thru" is certain to get you moving and checking your texts.
This is an easy song to miss within his discography, but this two minute jam is unforgettable.
#3. Sunday - Kwaku Asante
This is a classy one. "Sunday" is incredibly soulful with heavy D'Angelo inspiration. Kwaku Asante wields a tenor tone that can only be described as bold and sexy with a slight rasp that is perfect. I haven't heard a voice quite like his. The North-West London native quickly grabs your attention with the walking bass line and secures it with his first note.
This particular song is amazing because there isn't a ton of movement, but rather dedicates the duration of the track to remaining in a soul heavy pocket that only (slightly) alters at the chorus.
"Sunday" is an easy choice for waking up, relaxing, recreation, or eating breakfast on a Saturday (or Sunday cause why not) morning. You do not want to miss this song or this artist. I would also recommend another song off of this album named "Primrose". You're welcome.
Three down. Two to go.
#4. A Little More - Lucky Daye (feat. Victoria Monet)
If you know me well, you know that I love Lucky Daye. And I'm positive you've seen his name around the last year. He is certainly an artist on the rise, and quickly, so keep an eye out. His skill is undeniable. Don't believe me? Listen to his album, Painted. More so, the sheer number of features Lucky has had over the previous two years says it all. And for good reason. I have yet to listen to a song (or feature) that I dislike. And yes. I have listened to every. single. song.
"A Little More" was released both as a song for HBO's Insecure series' soundtrack and Lucky's own Painted (Deluxe) album.
This record brings Lucky Daye and Victoria Monet together, and wow, are they a perfect match-up, both approaching the track with a bright, airy vocal delivery. On the other hand, the instrumental is a classic Lucky Daye feel in that it gets you moving and wanting to dance, a common feature of Lucky's music.
The graceful lyrics of this song are sure to get that special someone into your head. Still, "A Little More" is the perfect jam for a weekend hangout or a picnic/cookout.
#5. Blue Jeans - Jonny Brenns
I wouldn't blame you if you hadn't heard this song. I found it by accident while sifting through new music and I'm glad that I stumbled across it. Out of the songs listed, this is by far the calmest. You won't want to bob your head to this (or flail your arms...for those who are inept at dancing), but it perfectly encapsulates the exact moment when you fall hard for someone. It's the butterflies in your stomach and the bottled giddiness took sonic form.
What I love most about this song is its 2D feel, for lack of better words. While each song so far has layered drums, guitars, synths, and vocals, Jonny Brenns sings over only a minimalist chord pattern from a singular electric keyboard. It is so intimate you can't help but press repeat just to access the space one more time.
When I listened to "Blue Jeans", I thought of two lovers alone together, pressing their foreheads together, only requesting one another's presence. This is a candlelight, anniversary date night song. (Yes, I know, this is incredibly mushy, but it's my blog... and go read the title of this post.) Anyways, it's just cute dawg. I don't know what else to say. Go listen to it. You won't regret it.
Well, there you go! Five songs that put you in your feelings. I would love to know what you want me to review or write about next! Whether it's a new song you found or an artist you discovered, let me know.
From Highland, sending light.
Be well. Peace!
