Gifted singer-songwriter Anderson East thrills on “King for a Day,” the second single from his highly-anticipated sophomore album, ‘Encore.’

What is the best way to categorize Anderson East stylistically? “That, is the question!” East is incredibly eclectic, incorporating elements of country, pop, rock, singer-songwriter, and southern soul into his music.  His debut album, Delilah, was terrific, though unfortunately, underrated.  More than two years later, he returns with Encore, which includes the thrilling “King for a Day.”  

“King for a Day” is a mid-tempo ballad that oozes with soul.  Think of this as a combination of rock, southern soul, and fittingly, blue-eyed soul. The best attribute of the record are the vocals.  Anderson East is beastly, exhibiting ample soul and grittiness.  His sound can be described as earthy, hard-nosed – chocked-full of authenticity and passion.  While the vocals are the crowning achievement, there are a number of other pieces that make “King for a Day” go.  The songwriting is sincere, capped off by a memorable chorus.

“And even if your heart can’t look my way / Even if our love can’t stay together / I’d rather be king for a day, than a fool forever / King for a day, than a fool forever.”

The production is old-school, incorporating horns, organ, and real drums.  Anachronistic? Maybe to some, but with so many synthetic instruments characterizing the 2018 sound, this throwback joint is refreshing.

Final Thoughts 

“All on My Mind” tickled my fancy as the promo single for Encore issued back in 2017. “Girlfriend”, the third pre-release track, had my fancy ‘giggling giddily.’ Now “King for a Day” has me ready to claim my crown.  Anderson East has got it going on.  Again, he’s a BEAST.

Anderson East • Encore • Elektra • Release: 1.12.18

Writers: Morgane Stapleton, Chris Stapleton, Anderson East; Producer: Dave Cobb

Photo Credit: Elektra