Anderson .Paak delivers a respectable message and flaunts his superb musicianship on “King James,” the promo single for his fourth album, Ventura.

Grammy-winning rapper, singer, and producer Anderson .Paak is returning sooner than later.  It was only in late 2018 that Paak released his third studio album, Oxnard.  However, the follow-up, Ventura, arrives April 12, 2019, less than a year later.  Leading the charge on the 11-track affair is the promo single, “King James.” If “King James” is any indication of the quality of Ventura as a whole, Paak just might find himself winning another Grammy in the near future.

“King James” gives Anderson. Paak another gem, no questions asked.  This heavy-grooving, mid-tempo record thrives off its blend of the West Coast sound (G-Funk included) and of course, a soulful, funky breed of R&B.  Vocally, Paak continues to impress with his distinct, truly ‘one of a kind’ pipes. Once you hear an Anderson .Paak joint, you instantly know that it’s him.  That’s the case once again on “King James.” Thematically, Paak sings about the hard work and hustle it takes to succeed, patterned after the one and only Lebron James.  At one point, during the second verse, Paak sings, “And we salute King James for using his change / To create some equal opportunities.” In addition to the hustle, Paak highlights working beyond barriers, particularly racial barriers on the way to attaining success.

Final Thoughts

Anderson .Paak continues to be one of the more creative and innovative voices in urban music.  Honestly, that characterization could be expanded to popular music as a whole in the late 2010s.  “King James” not only has a respectable message (hard work, social change), but also finds Paak continuing to flaunt his superb musicianship.

Anderson .Paak • Ventura • Aftermath / 12 Tone Music • Release: 4.12.19

Photo Credits: Aftermath / 12 Tone Music