Headphones: Runtown Is Here To Take Over The Reggae Genre
ALBUM OF THE WEEK
Runtown
Signs by Runtown: Runtown's album "Signs" is an excellent example of his progress throughout his career. His Nigerian roots heavily inspire his music, with his primary genre being Reggae. He is not afraid to experiment with other genres, and he has taken many risks in his career to get to where he is currently at.
The album was released in December of 2022, an excellent collection of songs showcasing his growth as an artist. The production of the album is top-notch, and the songwriting is excellent. Runtown's vocal performance is solid, and he passionately delivers each song. The album is worth checking out, and it is a perfect addition to his already impressive body of work.
"Sinnerman" is one of the standout tracks on his album. The beat is incredibly groovy, and his vocals fit perfectly with the instrumental. He delivers the lyrics with ease, but his words are still emotive and powerful. The overall effect is a track that is catchy and easy to listen to but also has a lot of depth and emotion. This track was driven by the Reggae genre but had elements of R&B music. Although most of the Reggae music popular today is not new, this song shows that Reggae music is still a thing in the modern-day. The instrumental production was clean, and each song element fits together perfectly. Although there are not many instrumental aspects within this song, the mixing allows the instruments to take up more space.
There are many moments within the album where Runtown proves he is a musical all-rounder. He is fond of the idea that less is more, and this is what makes his music stand out. "Things I Know" is another standout track from this album. The vocal production makes this song stand out, and Runtown exhibits his expertise as a vocalist. The top-line vocal is dynamic and packs much emotion into it, while the background harmonies are soft and provide another layer to the song. They are light and airy, and the composition is done well.
Runtown is open to collaboration. Since he moved to Lagos, Nigeria, he has been collaborating with underground artists and has since begun collaborating with big names in the modern-day music industry. Mr. Hudson, a notorious producer, singer, and songwriter, has collaborated with many music titans. His connections include Kanye West, Jay-Z, DJ Snake, and Taylor Bennett. "Dangerous Hearts" is not different from the rest of the album. Not only does this show the artistic integrity of Runtown, but it also shows Mr. Hudson's willingness to make other artists' visions come true. There is genre fusion within this song, and Mr. Hudson helps to incorporate the R&B genre with Reggae.
This album has many elements that prove that Runtown is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. He has brought Reggae into the modern-day music scene and shows that the genre is still alive. He has the talent to produce, write, and collaborate with others. If he keeps on with this, he will surely take the world by storm.
SINGLE OF THE WEEK
"Wasted" by Coi Leray: Coi Leray has been on the music scene for a few years, and this song is a perfect example of her talent. The lyrics are catchy, and the instrumental is powerful. This song is a breath of fresh air during these challenging times.
Coi Leray is not new in the music industry, but she is known for outdoing herself with each release. Her latest single, "Wasted," shows her exemplary vocal and songwriting skills. The lyrics showcase what it is like to be in love with someone who does not feel the same. As the title suggests, Leray discusses wasted love and energy on someone who does not treat you the same.
The vocals are the best part of the song. They are strong yet pack much emotion. The top-line vocals are dynamic, while the harmonies provide more depth to the track. They act as synthesizers and are very creative in the context of the track. Although many musicians need help understanding the importance of well-done harmonies, Leray paid much attention to her delivery. By many, harmonies and background vocals are seen as less important, but when delivered correctly, they can also provide an emotional layer to a track. Aside from providing an instrumental layer, the harmonies also offer an emotional later.
The instrumental production of "Wasted" is also very well done. The guitar riff, in the beginning, draws the audience in as it is airy and emotional. The space within the track allows for the vocals to shine through. Although there is no percussion in the track, there is no need for it. Leray can experiment with the rhythm of her voice. Overall, this track allows Leray's voice to shine through and see an emotional side of her. This track is simple, a breath of fresh air, and deserves to be listened to.
MUSIC VIDEO OF THE WEEK
"2022" by Ty Dolla $ign: This year has been challenging for many. Ty Dolla $ign took his experiences this year and turned them into a simple yet beautiful track. Not only is the song beautiful, but the video accompanying it is a cohesive, personal, and touching body of work.
The entirety of the video is in black and white and is reflective. The lyrics are somber and represent how the past year cannot be regained. Ty Dollar $ign had quite a few successes throughout 2022, although he did endure losses. However, the point of this song and video is to avoid pondering over the past. Throughout the song, he acknowledges that it is time to move and make new memories and introduce new people into his life.
The video is a compilation of the events that took place in his life in 2022. Although these were happy memories, the black and white represent that they are gone. The reflectiveness of the video allows the viewers to reflect on their year as well. Although only some things may have been perfect this year, it is essential to go into the next year positively.
