15 Songs Characterized by Their Colors, Vol. II | Playlist

1-2. Taylor Swift, “Lavender Haze” & “Maroon”

Midnights • Taylor Swift • 2022

Back in the aughts (2000s), I’m not sure I would’ve characterized Grammy-winning artist Taylor Swift as a versatile musician.  No shade, of course, but she seemed locked into country and country-pop solely.  However, after multiple albums, Grammys, stylistic shifts, and prudent business decisions, Swift has built an empire and proven time and time again just how versatile she is.  After dabbling in alternative and indie stylings over the course of two superb albums – folklore and evermore – Swift returns to pop on Midnights. Notably, she kicks off Midnights with two colorful records:   “Lavender Haze” and “Maroon.”

From the onset, “Lavender Haze” is nothing short of a vibe.  It is exquisitely produced by a team including Swift, Jack Antonoff, Jahaan Sweet, and Sounwave (!).  As you might expect, the sound is distinct, contrasting any and everything else that Swift has released to date.  The slickness of the backdrop is ear catching but it’s Swift’s lyrics (and hazy vocals) that make “Lavender Haze” so delightful.  She’s bothered by the noise made by others such as, “All they keep asking me / Is if I’m gonna be your bride / The only kinda girl they see / Is a one-night or a wife.” Those are mic-drop worthy lyrics right there! The chorus, of course, is where Swift’s bread is buttered – Parkay, baby!

“I feel the lavender haze creeping up on me

Surreal

I’m damned if I do give a damn what people say

No deal

The 1950s shit they want from me

I just wanna stay in that lavender haze.”

Beyond that “1950s shit,” Taylor Swift moves on to “Maroon,” produced by Swift and Antonoff.  Obviously, forms of the color red are a BIG DEAL on this one.  So is love for that matter.  The pen game remains top-notch for Swift in the verses and of course, the centerpiece, the chorus.

“Looked up at the sky and it was

The burgundy on my t-shirt

When you splashed your wine into me

And how the blood rushed into my cheeks

So scarlet, it was

…So scarlet, it was maroon.”

Vocally, Swift is quite effective.  She never under nor over sings.  She’s not a powerhouse vocalist and potent song with cool energy like “Maroon” doesn’t require her to be.  Of course, some aggressive f-bombs also give this red record bite (“And I wake with your memory over me / That’s a real fucking legacy to leave”). Woo!

3. Omar Apollo, “Evergreen”

Ivory • Warner • 2022 

“Evergreen” is arguably the crème de la crème of Ivory, the debut album by Omar Apollo. The intro of this soulful, heartbroken record says it all: “He don’t love / Me no more.” Most of Ivory has focused on a relationship that Apollo has been part of with another man and the various ways it’s affected him.  “Evergreen” might be the biggest moment, as he can’t get him and apparently, the rejection off his mind. “Evergreen, he controls me / Was there something wrong with my body?” he asks in the first verse.

In the second verse, more light is shed by Apollo: “She don’t know you like me / She could never love you more / More than me.” It’s interesting as Apollo has previously sung about this with “Stayback” and “Bi Fren” from Apolonio.  Is he potentially singing about the same situation where the guy chose a girl over him?  Could be! Interestingly, Omar was infatuated with him, so much so that he sometimes pray his ex falls in love. This situation has hurt him tremendously: “Evergreen, he tears me to pieces.” Nobody wants to see this incredibly gifted, handsome man in pain, but at the same time, his pain on “Evergreen” is our listening pleasure.  Adding to the pleasure is an epic live version, “Evergreen (You Didn’t Deserve Me At All) [Live At NPR’s Tiny Desk]”, the highlight of his Tiny Desk concert for Latinx Heritage Month.

Appears in :

• Awesome Songs: April 2022
• Incredible LGBTQ Songs, Young & Old, Vol. 2
• 13 E Songs: No Rhyme or Reason, Vol. 2

4. BLACKPINK, “Pink Venom”

BORN PINK • YG Entertainment / Interscope • 2022

They’re back! Who? K-Pop collective BLACKPINK, of course! The girls return with a bang with “Pink Venom” which is totally tuned in and turned up from the jump.  The biggest selling point is arguably the production by  TEDDY which is slick AF.  There’s no question that he puts in work with an assortment of musical ideas and beat switches, which are all the rage these days. Also, credit TEDDY for the oriental stylings which appear at the beginning and recur throughout much of “Pink Venom.”

Of course, it’s not all the production that makes “Pink Venom” so potent. BLACKPINK is totally tuned in as well.  It begins with the chanting of the group’s name during the intro, crescendoing as “Pink Venom” establishes itself.  You’ve got to ‘heart’ the attitude that the girls bring to the table, exhibiting and showcasing ample personality.  Like many of their singles, the girls give the audience bilingual treatment, performing in both Korean and English.  Even though it’s tough to decipher Korean if you don’t speak it, there’s enough English (and attitude) to provide context to what the girls are serving up.  Obviously, it’s “…the pain like / This that pink venom!”  While there’s arguably a bit too much going on at times, “Pink Venom” is ear-catching from start to finish.

Appears in :

• Awesome Songs: August 2022

5. Drake, “Texts Go Green”

Honestly, Nevermind • OVO / Republic • 2022

In 2022, Drake surprised everybody with the release of Honestly, Nevermind.  No, it wasn’t shocking that he released a new album – he tends to be prolific, if you hadn’t noticed.  That said, what was surprising was the fact that he moved away from rap for the project, focusing on singing and house music. Some enjoyed the project, like AllMusic and Rolling Stone, while others, such as NME and some fans, were mixed.  Honestly, Nevermind has its fair share of moments, including the intriguing “Texts Go Green.” Question: “If I come around you, can I be myself?”

“This time I have left, cannot be wasted anymore / You realize it now and you miss it.” Woo! The five-minute-plus “Texts Go Green” commences with one of the more infectious, percussive grooves you’ll hear in 2022 – period.  It’s safe to say that producers Esona Tyolo and Black Coffee put in work behind the boards.  With the inspiration from the backdrop, Drake sings about those pesky matters of the heart, sigh. The centerpiece is the chorus, where he’s blocked her, he imagines she misses the work he put in (“Know you miss the days when I was grippin’ on it”), and he makes it clear, he’s moved on.  “Texts go green, it hits a little different, don’t it?” Indeed! However, if things were toxic, the Grammy-winner made the right move to block her @$$!

6. Red Hot Chili Peppers, “Black Summer”

Unlimited Love • Warner • 2022

“It’s been a long time since I made a new friend / Waitin’ on another black summer to end.” “Black Summer” proves that legendary band, Red Hot Chili Peppers, still has a pulse! There is plenty to heart about the Unlimited Love highlight, despite those dark, pessimistic vibes from the chorus. From the onset, the intro is ‘sweet,’ establishing the minor key that last throughout the record.  59-year-old Anthony Kiedis remains a force as the lead vocalist.  Honestly, I don’t believe the man misses a beat, or better yet, a note.  Of course, he gets ample fuel from the fire with Flea (bass), Chad Smith (drums), and John Frusciante (guitar). Also, worth noting, Rick Rubin is behind the boards – another win!

The theme and lyrics might be the most interesting part. The lyrics are focused on nature, specifically ecological happenings. Even if ecology doesn’t strike one as a source of poetry, RHCP makes it poetic.  From the start, the words are ear-catching:

“A lazy rain am I, the skies refuse to cry

Cremation takes its piece of your supply

The night is dressed like noon…”

Intriguing, right? It doesn’t end there, with the likes of, “My crater weighs a tone, the archer’s on the run / And no one stands alone behind the sun.” Woo! As “Black Summer” progresses, the band’s intensity ratchets up, led by a spirited, on-point Kiedis.

Appears in :

• Awesome Songs: February 2022
• 13 B Songs: No Rhyme or Reason, Vol. 2

7. 5 Seconds of Summer, “Red Line”

5SOS5• 5SOS, LLC / BMG Rights Management • 2022

“’Cause I been spendin’ all this time alone / I’m on the red line, sinkin’ Aperol.” “Red Line” appears deep into 5 Seconds of Summer’s 2022 album, 5SOS5 (the 14^th track of 19 total). Despite its late appearance, “Red Line” is much greener (positive) as opposed to red (negative).  It commences with a warm sound, produced by 5SOS member, Michael Clifford.  Of course, lead vocalist, Luke Hemmings, puts in work from start to finish.  It doesn’t all come down to Luke though, as there a contributions from Calum Hood (with Hemmings in the chorus) and Clifford (select moments in the second verse).

From the start, Luke Hemmings appears to have issues: “It’s hard to fake when I’m not faded / I thought I could repair myself.” Wow! His lovely vocals match the warmth of the pad and guitars within the production, despite his problems. Unsurprisingly, those pesky matters of the heart seem to be the culprit:

“How many times did we run from each other?

How many times did I walk out the door?

Into the dark, we’re no good for each other

Into the dark, I’m not welcome no more.”

Following that spirited chorus, Hemmings makes it clear he’s in a horrible place – a downward spiral encompassing overindulgence in alcohol.  Basically, the road to recovery looks bleak, despite how sweet that falsetto is and how tuneful the melodies are.

8. Snoh Aalegra, “Neon Peach” (Ft. Tyler, The Creator)

Temporary Highs in the Violet Skies • Artium Recordings / Roc Nation • 2021

“It’s the things that you do / I know we’ve gone too far.” Swedish-born and bred Iranian singer/songwriter Snoh Aalegra (Shahrzad Fooladi) ‘shows out’ on her third studio album, Temporary Highs in the Violet Skies. Over the course of 15 tracks, the Grammy-nominated musician captures the listener’s attention with cool but expressive vocals and songs centered on matters of the heart. She pairs up with Grammy winning rapper, singer, and producer Tyler, The Creator on “Neon Peach,” which ranks among the top tier of Temporary Highs in the Violet Skies.

“I don’t even try to bring up and remind you

All the things that you have done

So put the past behind you

You’re livin’ a lie to

The present time has had enough.”

Woo Snoh! Continuing to amplify his game behind the boards, Tyler gives Aalegra an awesome instrumental that fuses hip-hop, jazz, and soul.  Additionally, he supports her with some great bars on the verses (“You got better shots, but you blockin’ the rim / But too scared to work it out ‘cause you locked in the gym”). She shines on the pre-chorus, chorus, bridge, and outro.

Appears in :

• Neon: 3BOPS No. 49 (2021)
• 15 N Songs: No Rhyme or Reason, Vol. 2

9. Zuli, Jr., “Blue Sky”

Stop It God.• Nurtured Ideas • 2021

If you aren’t familiar with alternative/indie pop artist Zuli Jr. (Ryan Zuli Jr.), well, it’s time to familiarize yourself.  Pencil in his new album, Stop It God. (May 14, 2021), as the perfect opportunity to do so. Better yet why not start with the absolute bop, “Blue Sky”, the second advance single from the album. “Blue Sky” was written and produced by Zuli Jr., Aire Atlantica, and TK the Architect. The rhythmic nature of the production is one of the biggest selling points of the record. “Blue Sky” has one foot in the door of the past, while simultaneously feeling fresh enough for 2021.  Adding to the allure is the song’s underpinnings – music theory lovers get excited! The harmonic progression definitely gives the record a lift and a unique sound.

Of course, the biggest reason why “Blue Sky” is so rad is Zuli Jr himself. The man has an absolutely radiant tone.  His falsetto is incredibly sweet.  Furthermore, the songwriting is excellent, providing further fuel for the fire.  The best part is the chorus.  Here, in particular, the writing, vocals, hyper rhythmic drums, synths, and etc. all make it feel like you’re experiencing a slice of heaven.

“Stop selling me blue sky

In a grey light

Like the clouds won’t fill with rain

Believing a white lie

Like it’s divine

And it holds my fall from grace

I’ve been tryna live three lives

At the same time

Now I don’t know who’s to blame

No telling me no

I know, I know the feeling takes me whole.”

Listening to “Blue Sky” it’s clear that we definitely don’t want ‘The Man Upstairs’ to dare stop Ryan from serenading us and flaunting his artistry .

Appears in :

• Awesome Songs: March 2021

10. Lil Durk, “Golden Child”

7220 • Alamo / Sony • 2022 

Lil Durk keeps things brief but potent on “Golden Child.”  “Golden Child” was released as a single in advance of the rapper’s no. 1 album, 7220. Over dramatic CuBeatz, RealRed, YC, and Hitmaka production, Durk keeps it real: “Know a pit who was born a poodle.” Hmm, is that even biologically possible, Durk?

As you see with the pit turning into a poodle line, Lil Durk talks a lot of shit in “Golden Child.” I don’t mean that disrespectfully either.  The song doesn’t even end up being two minutes long, but Durk gives us a tough flow and some compelling one-liners.  For example, “If you got Power with that Tommy, you can ghost a nigga.” Woo! There’s also the likes of “That shit foo-foo, feds cracked the case with that shit on YouTube” and ‘I’m akh, but I love the Christians.”  So, anti-feds + good to know Muslims and Christians can coexist!  In the second verse, there’s more including a closing ‘high’ point: “Got gas, don’t fuck with mild.” “Golden Child” indeed!

11. Masego & Shenseea, “Silver Tongue Devil”

Studying Abroad: Extended Stay • UMG Recordings, Inc. • 2020

“You know I-I-I could talk my way into sacred places / I no try-y-y, just blame my snake it is the son of Satan.” Snake, huh? Wonder if Jamaican musician Masego is referencing the same animal that slithers and honestly, scares the bejeebers out of me? Or could it be his *cough* he’s referencing on “Silver Tongue Devil” from his 2020 album, Studying Abroad: Extended Stay ?  Hmm , well, he does later say, “I put a child on you” . Regardless, “Silver Tongue Devil” is pleasing to the ears. Jamaican dancehall artist Shenseea collaborates alongside Masego.

“Silver Tongue Devil” has the chill, international flavor going for it.  The groove is sensational.  Even with his ‘snake’ issues – “Silver tongue devil / She call me cocky man / I say my head level” – Masego delivers easy-going and relaxed vocals. Every time he plays the saxophone, it’s a total vibe.  God, I love those harmonized sax moments! Shenseea complements superbly on the second verse (“I will have you wantin’ it more / Lock down di devil inna hole”), further enforcing the sounds of the island, specifically, the dialect, and pleasure. After all, “Masego bring flames to me soul.” Woo!

Appears in :

• DEVIL: A Compendium of 21 Devilish Songs
• Silver: 5ive Songs No. 15 (2022)

12. Zach Bryan, “Something in the Orange – Z&E’s Version”

American Heartbreak • Belting Bronco / Warner • 2022 

“Please turn those headlights around,” Zach Bryan begs on “Something in the Orange – Z&E’s Version.” Uh-oh – it’s those pesky matters of the heart at work on 15 Songs Characterized by Their Colors, Vol. II! “Something in the Orange” appears on the country singer’s gargantuan, two-hour-long, triple-disc album, American Heartbreak.

So, what’s going on with Zach’s relationship on “Something in the Orange?” Well, it seems as if Bryan is working hard to mitigate the damage, if the damage isn’t already too severe. Throughout this superbly penned, heartfelt number, Zach tries to convince her to say and that “Somethin’ in the orange tells me [him] we’re not done.” He tries to convince her,  “It’ll be fine by dusk light, I’m tellin’ you, baby,” but it seems to be easier said than done. He makes it clear that she means the world to him – “To me, you’re all I am.”  Furthermore, without her, he’s hopeless.  Sadly, he realizes, “I poisoned myself again, somethin’ in the orange / Tells mе you’re never comin’ homе.” The orange, of course, is the sun.  Oh, that American Heartbreak stings something awful!

13. Disclosure, “Lavender” (Ft. Chanel Tres)

ENERGY • Island • 2020 

“I change the channel on you / I’m on it / I like the lace on you / She about it.” Woo! Who doesn’t heart a lit groove? Disclosure ( Howard Lawrence and Guy Lawrence) has had a knack for lit grooves, epic production, and dance hits for years – ! ENERGY arrived quietly in 2020 but that doesn’t mean it lacked color or energy for that matter! One of the best records from ENERGY was none other than “Lavender” which enlists the services of rapper Chanel Tres (Sheldon Young).  Stellar work behind the boards, coupled with infectious rhymes by Chanel Tres make “Lavender” a surefire vibe.

There are no shortage of memorable lines from Chanel Tres.  The first verse is fitting place to start and the rapper makes it clear it’s all about her.  This continues in the chorus, where Chanel Tres makes it clear, “I need you in my life, lady.” Ooh-la-la! In the post-chorus, “Girl, she be fuckin’ with my rhythm / she be fuckin’ with my rhythm, yeah.” What else can you say to that but, FU¢K YEAH! As the record progresses, she continues to be his focus, particularly moments like, “Hear me say, ‘Now let me see you shake.’” If you missed out on this gem back in 2020 – it was the COVID-19 pandemic after all – well, it’s still lit AF in 2022.  What I’m saying is, the lavender remains potent (“Is that lavender? / I like lavender”)!

14. Lana Del Rey, “White Dress”

Chemtrails Over the Country Club • Interscope • 2021

From the start, it’s clear that Chemtrails Over the Country Club, the seventh album by Grammy-nominated alternative pop singer/songwriter Lana Del Rey, is set to be more stripped and subtle compared to her past albums. “White Dress” commences mysteriously, which isn’t far-fetched for Del Rey.  That said, vocally, she’s hypnotic, blessing us with her refined, breathy upper register.  It’s incredibly easy to lean on her every note given how magical the performance is, backed by rhythmic piano with otherwise restrained instrumentation in the mix.

Besides the top-notch vocals, the songwriting is sweet too.  What truly stands out is the reminiscent, narrative nature or this record, as evidenced below:

“When I was a waitress wearing a white dress

Look how I do this, look how I got this

I was a waitress working the night shift

You were my man, felt like I got this.”

Classic Lana, and we wouldn’t have it any other way!

Appears in :

• Dress: 5ive Songs No. 65 (2021)

15. Coldplay, “Violet Hill”

Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends • Parlophone • 2008

“Was a long and dark December / When the banks became cathedrals / And a fox became God…” Say what? Anyways, damn, it has to suck to ‘play second fiddle!’ What do I mean exactly? Well, the biggest song on Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends, the excellent, 2008 studio album by Coldplay was “Viva La Vida”.  Don’t get me wrong, the former no. 1 hit is a terrific song – epic! That said, “Violet Hill” has a legitimate argument as the crowning achievement from, in my humble opinion, Chris Martin and company’s last elite album.

“Violet Hill” is a striking record. It sounds different compared to other Coldplay songs – distinct.  Sure, the band has recorded songs in a minor key previously, but this one ‘hits different.’  Part of the reason is owed to the timbre of the guitars, which are used prominently. The guitar solo is also sweet. Of course, as always, Chris Martin is a beast, wowing with his compelling voice, particularly that falsetto.  The best part of the song lyrically? While the verses are marvelous (as excerpted), the chorus is the most memorable, of course: “If you love me, won’t you let me know?” The Grammy-winning band shined on this one.

Appears in :

• 11 Songs That are Purple Through & Through
• 11 Songs Where There are Hills to Climb