Awesome Songs That Tickled My Fancy: January 2020 | Playlist 🎧

1. Mac Miller, “Good News”

Circles • Warner • 2020

“Good News” is the crowning achievement of Circles, the posthumous album by Mac Miller, who died at the age of 26 in 2018. One of many Jon Brion co-productions on the album, the sound of “Good News” is quite refined, with plucked strings, a subtle, but highly effective, dusty drum groove, soulful electric guitar, and superb, if modest keyboard/synthesizer touches. It’s quite ear-catching, even if it floats, opting for restraint as opposed to being dynamic.

Beyond the backdrop, Miller is on-point, continuing to be reflective. “I spent the whole day in my head / Do a little spring cleanin’,” he raps on the first verse, continuing, “I’m always too busy dreamin’, yeah / Well, maybe I should wake up instead.” On the second verse, he asks, “Why I gotta build something beautiful just too go set in on fire?” Quite deep and incredibly relatable.   The third verse is quite chilling and eerie, with the key lyric, “There’s a whole lot more for me waitin’ on the other side…”  The centerpiece, expectedly, is the chorus:

“Good news, good news, good news             
That’s all they wanna hear
No, they don’t like you when I’m down
But when I’m flying, oh
It make ‘em so uncomfortable
So different, what’s the difference.”

Listening to “Good News” in particular, it’s easy to be saddened knowing that Miller is no longer with us; he had so much to offer.  “Good News” is the total realization of his talent.

2. Ozzy Osbourne, “Ordinary Man”

Ft. Elton John

Ordinary Man • Epic • 2020

“Yes, I’ve been a bad guy, been higher than the blue sky / And the truth is, I don’t wanna die an ordinary man.” “Ordinary Man”, the third single from Ordinary Man, the 12^th studio album by metal icon Ozzy Osbourne, is quite an elite pop/rock record. As the aforementioned excerpt from the chorus suggests, Ozzy Osbourne reflects on his life. Specifically, he focuses on fame, regrets and mistakes, and being in a better place now that he’s older and wiser.  “I was unprepared for fame then everybody knew my name,” he sings on the first verse, continuing, “No more lonely nights, it’s all for you.” Featured guest Elton John also reflects on the rock star life, singing with strength on the second verse: “Many times, I lost control, they tried to kill my rock ‘n’ roll / Just remember, I’m still here for you.”

Vocally, and lyrically, both Ozzy Osbourne and Elton John sound fantastic.  The chorus, in particular, soars.  Beyond the vocals and songwriting, the production (Andrew Watt and Tom Herbert) – the music itself – is superb.  Between the final two chorus, there’s an idiomatic guitar solo (Slash), that hearkens back to the 70s/80s.  Maybe more impressively, there are STRINGS, as well as a CHOIR! These amplify the sound and the overall impact of the title track, making it a truly epic affair. Osbourne may be past his prime, but man, does he sound reinvigorated as a 71-year old.

3. Alicia Keys, “Underdog”

Alicia • RCA • 2020

Long ago, Alicia Keys moved beyond the neo-soul sound.  Honestly, many R&B artists did, as much as that saddens me. Nonetheless, her single “Underdog” still retains the soulfulness.  “Underdog” stylistically encompasses pop, adult contemporary R&B, and singer/songwriter. Rather than embracing a piano backdrop, this Ed Sheeran co-write is driven by rhythmic acoustic guitar.

Emphasis should be placed on the singer/songwriter vibes lyrically, considering Keys (and her co-writers) have a socially conscious mindset.  This socially conscious mindset is best exemplified on the song’s centerpiece, the chorus:

“So, I sing a song for the hustlers trading at the bus stop
Single mothers waiting on a check to come
Young teachers, student doctors
Sons on the front line knowing they don’t get to run
This goes out to the underdog
Keep on keeping at what you love
You’ll find that someday soon enough
You will rise up, rise up, yeah.”

Of course, Alicia Keys sets up the underdog on both of the verses superbly.  The big takeaway is the end of both verses, where she suggests, “One conversation, a simple moment / The things that change us if we notice / When we look up sometimes.” The theme of “Underdog” latches from the onset.  While it’s not the brand of neo-soul Keys I once adored, I applaud the inspiration and the empowerment exhibited here.  Furthermore, she sings this record well, providing some flashy ad-libs towards the end.

Notably, I handpicked “Underdog” as a track of the week on the playlist I curate, Music to Atone to.

4. Conan Gray, “The Story”

Kid Krow • Republic • 2020

“And the movie’s always runnin’ in my head / All the people, all the lovers, all my friends / And I hope that they all get their happy end / In the end.” “The Story” is an absolutely stunning record – an awesome promo single from Kid Krow, the debut studio album from pop star and YouTuber Conan Gray.

What makes “The Story” so stunning? Well, it all starts with ‘the man of the hour,’ Conan Gray, whose voice is simply angelic. Gray sings with incredible control and expression.  His approach is one that the listener literally hangs on to every note (and lyric) he utters.  He is the crowning achievement of “The Story” obviously, however, the pros are abundant to the nth degree.

Besides the spectacular performance by Gray, “The Story” is accomplished when it comes to production and songwriting. Daniel Nigro handles the production, which begins very restrained and minimalist, placing the emphasis on Gray’s illustrious vocals.  With such adept pacing, the production percolates at the perfect moment, with Conan’s pipes following suit. As respectable as the production is, the songwriting is even more magical.  Written solely by Gray, his ‘story’ encompasses unfortunate suicide (“They were just sixteen when people were mean / So they didn’t love themselves, and now they’re gone / Headstones on a lawn”) and unrealized romance (“I knew a boy and a boy / Best friends with each other, but always wished they were more”).  The ‘sequel’ encompasses two friends trying to make a better life for themselves beyond their evil parents.

Just to reiterate (if I didn’t already ‘fan boy’ enough), “The Story” is an absolutely stunning record.  Gray sounds fantastic, and his songwriting prowess is awe-inspiring.  Furthermore, Nigro stitches up a fantastic canvas for him to sing upon.  All boxes are checked off on this totally must-hear, narrative gem.

5. John Legend, “Conversations in the Dark”

“Conversations in the Dark” – Single • Columbia • 2020

Grammy-winning R&B singer/songwriter John Legend returned sans controversy at the beginning of 2020 with a brand-new single, “Conversations in the Dark”. “Conversations in the Dark” is a sound blend of pop and adult contemporary R&B.  It’s pop in the sense that the use of guitars gives this something of a crossover appeal.  At the same time, there isn’t really a dip in soulfulness even as “Conversations in the Dark” isn’t the same brand of neo-soul that John Legend was serving up in mid 00s.

As always, the crowning achievement of this particular record are the vocals.  John Legend sounds as distinct as ever, singing incredibly confidently and soulfully.  His performance is expressive, nuanced, and quite balanced.  At times, particularly early on, Legend exhibits more restraint.  As the song progresses and percolates, he offers more oomph and grit.  Each chorus adds more of that Legendary bite, particularly as he incorporates those ripe, ad-libs. Beyond the vocals, the theme is relatable – everlasting, unbreakable love.  Legend sings about the depth of love throughout the verse, overtly confirming it on the catchy, memorable chorus:

“I won’t ever try to change you, change you
I will always want the same you, same you
Swear on everything I pray to
That I won’t break your heart
I’ll be there when you get lonely, lonely
Keep the secrets that you told me, told me
And your love is all you owe me
And I won't break your heart.”

Another stellar moment comes on the bridge section, which pulls back slightly, before rebuilding the intensity:

“When no one seems to notice
And your days, they seem so hard
My darling, you should know this
My love is everywhere you are.” 

All in all, John Legend adds another gem to his illustrious music collections with “Conversations in the Dark.” “Conversations in the Dark” shines thanks to rich vocals, relatable songwriting, and production fusing pop and ‘grown folks’ R&B respectfully.

“Conversations in the Dark” previously appeared on the playlist, 17 Thrilling Songs Infused with Darkness.

6. Gregory Porter, “Revival”

All Rise • Decca • 2020

Grammy-winning musician Gregory Porter certainly ‘brings the spirit’ on “Revival”, the epic promo single and closing cut from his sixth studio album, All Rise.  This Porter, Oliver Rockberger, and Troy Miller co-write is special! Focusing just on Porter, he is an incredibly gifted, versatile musician.  Sure, he’s best characterized as a jazz vocalist, but has the ability to dip into multiple genres.  His pipes are absolutely stunning.

Perhaps the first thing to note is that “Revival” expands beyond a jazz script. Yes, it’s jazz, but it’s not solely jazz. Gregory Porter infuses the blues, soul, and gospel into the mix.  Furthermore, the anchoring rhythmic groove is hip enough for 2020 without ultimately compromising or sacrificing the sanctity of jazz and its classic sounds and cues.  Vocally, Porter gives a balanced performance, not revealing all his cards initially.  He saves some of his soulful nuances and runs until the “Revival” percolates.  Furthermore, he’s accentuated by an epic sounding gospel choir, and punchy horns.  The spirit is definitely patterned after the high-flying feel of a church revival or ‘tent meeting.’  One particularly moment that shines is when “Revival” is unapologetically ‘jazz,’ with some sick, rhythmic ‘comping’ from the pianist (Miller) towards the end.

Ultimately, Porter ‘does his thing’ on “Revival.” Vocally, he’s superb.  Musically, Miller delivers an awesome arrangement/production, and all of the musicians excel at their respective roles.  The songwriting gets an enthusiastic thumbs up.  What’s not to like about “Revival?”

7. Hailee Steinfeld, “Wrong Direction”

“Wrong Direction” – Single • Republic • 2020

“I don’t hate you / No I couldn’t if I wanted to / I just hate all the hurt that you put me through.”  Those are the heartbroken lyrics that commence “Wrong Direction”, the first Hailee Steinfeld single of 2020.  Released on New Year’s Day, sure, her ex might’ve pulled her in the ‘wrong direction,’ but the direction of this pop ballad itself is 100% perfect for the rising star.

First and foremost, Steinfeld delivers expressive, nuanced vocals.  If there was any doubt about her vocal abilities, she shuts that down early on. Working with convincing, heartbroken lyrics (she co-writes with Elizabeth Lowell Boland, Skyler Stonestreet, and Stephen “Koz” Kozmeniuk who also produces), she matches the vibe vocally, exhibiting her vulnerability.  On the pre-chorus, she admits:

“Couldn’t even see you through the smoke
Lookin’ back, I probably should have known
But I just wanted to believe that you were out sleepin’ alone.”

Of course, Steinfeld has come to her senses after showcasing utter naivety. It’s happened to us all at some point. She sums up his horrid ways on the chorus, the centerpiece on this lushly produced ballad.

“Loved me with your worst intentions
Didn’t even stop to question
Every time you burned me down
Don’t know how; for a moment it felt like heaven.”

All in all, Steinfeld delivers a surefire, heartbroken gem with “Wrong Direction.”  Her pain is our great listening pleasure, as she delivers a nuanced vocal performance about a totally relatable topic.

8.Jonas Brothers, “What a Man Gotta Do”

“What a Man Gotta Do” – Single • Republic • 2020

The return of Jonas Brothers 2019 was a total surprise.  Nick Jonas, Joe Jonas, and Kevin Jonas definitely had a great year, earning a number one album with Happiness Begins, a number one hit with comeback single, “Sucker”, and earning only the second Grammy nomination of their career.  Even with all those accomplishments, the Jo Bros drop a brand-new single in 2020, “What a Man Gotta Do”, and it’s a total B-O-P!

“What a Man Gotta Do” commences with intense, rhythmic guitar, setting the assertive tone of record.  This is a nice lead-in and accompanying backdrop for Nick Jonas’ commanding lead vocals.  On both of the verses, Nick gives us a nice blend of chest vocals, as well as a dash of falsetto. Joe Jonas gets his vocal opportunities on the chorus, clearly the centerpiece of “What a Man Gotta Do.” The chorus can be described as incredibly catchy and chocked-full of attitude and energy.

“So, what a man gotta do?
What a man gotta do?
To be totally locked up by you
What a man gotta say?
What a man gotta pray?
To be your last good night and your first good day….”

As the song progresses, the song only grows more soulful.  When both Nick and Joe sing together (towards the end particularly) it’s pretty sweet.  Of course, they owe plenty of love to their co-songwriters (Dave Stewart, Jess Agombar, and Ryan Tedder), as well as producers (Stewart and Tedder) for conceiving such a fun, energetic, and irresistible piece of pop music.  Hate on the bros if you want, but you won’t be able to get “What a Man Gotta Do” unstuck out of your head.

9. Lauv, “Changes”

~how it feels~ • Lauv / AWAL • 2020

“I’m getting rid of all my clothes I don’t wear / I think I’m gonna cut my hair…” On “Changes”, Lauv (Ari Leff) decides to make various changes in his life.  “Changes” marked the eighth record to appear on his 2020 album, ~how I’m feeling~.  The arrival of the single feels totally right, given the turn of a new year and new decade – 2020! The results are pretty sweet as well, as he’s quite persuasive promoting making – you guessed it – CHANGES.

Ridding of clothes and cutting his hair are just a couple of changes Lauv makes on this enjoyable, honest pop single.  He continues his changes by taking “a break from alcohol,” but admits, “Probably won’t last long.”  On the second verse, the big change is altering mental health (“Take some pills to fix my brain”).  Basically, these changes are straightforward but totally relatable.  Expectedly, the chorus is the centerpiece:

“Changes (Changes), they might drive you half-insane 
But it’s killing you to stay the same
But it’s all gonna work out, it’s all gonna work out someday
Moments (Moments), livin’ with your eyes half-open
You’ve been thinking ‘bout these changes
It’s all gonna work out, it’s all gonna work out someday.”

Just like the simplistic nature of the verses, the lyrics on the chorus need little to no further explanation.  People are frightened by change but can’t improve if they don’t strive to change.  Yep, that’s the gist of it. All in all, it’s a brief but winning record that’s well produced, well-performed, and features a great, relatable message.

“Changes” previously appeared on the playlist, 10 Intriguing Songs That Reference Change.

10. Tove Lo, “Bikini Porn”

Bikini Porn – Single • Universal Music • 2020

“Uh-uh, I’m on bikini porn / Uh-uh, layin’ out in the sun / Oh, I got those marks on my body…” Say what? Tove Lo has a knack for naughty alternative pop music – understatement. “Bikini Porn” is yet another naughty, certified bop from the Swedish standout.  What makes “Bikini Porn” pretty sweet is the fact that she serves up a balance of being carefree and in a happy place with the naughty, risqué edge we’ve become accustomed to hearing from her.

The chorus is a prime example of the jubilation she exhibits, with some sexual references thrown in, of course:

“All I do is drink champagne all day, all day, all day
And I dance around my room naked, oh yeah, naked
Skinny dippin’ in the pool with me, with me, with me
Take a day from your life all day, one day, today.”

Sure, she ‘gets down and dirty,’ but at the same time, the last line is all about enjoying life without limitations.  That’s the bigger point, as opposed to bikini porn itself, even though one has to shake their head when Tove Lo sings, “Uh-uh, I’m on bikini porn / Uh-uh, now my bikini’s gone.”  Besides the edgy lyrics, another selling point is the production (A Strut, Jack & Coke, and FINNEAS).  The record begins minimalist, but eventually evolves to include pads, synths, and some cool vocal effects. Be like Tove Lo: be happy, and enjoy life without limitations, and take the bikini off!

11. Ryan Beatty, “Casino”

Dreaming of David • Boy in Jeans / Mad Love / Interscope • 2020

“Come around like the moon, sun / Most of the time you’re on my mind.” Ryan Beatty writes amazing songs about boys, period.  Boy in Jeans was among my favorite albums of 2018, even though it didn’t get the attention it deserved.  Perhaps his sophomore album, Dreaming of David, will give the openly gay pop artist the recognition he deserves.  In the meantime, Beatty releases single “Casino” in advance of the project. Should you ‘gamble’ on “Casino?” The answer is a resounding HELL YES! 

“Casino,” which runs north of four minutes is co-written and co-produced by Austin Anderson, Daniel Fox, and Happy Perez (in addition to Beatty himself).  They do a great job, as the production is a contrast from previous songs from the artist, opting for accompaniment from rhythmic acoustic guitars. As always, Beatty shines vocally.  He sounds quite expressive, with lovely falsetto exhibited on the pre-chorus (“Hood on, hand in my pocket, walk away”).  Besides awesome lead vocals, there are also some gorgeous vocal harmonies on the pre-chorus as well as on the bridge section, where the opening quote of this review hails from.  While the pre-chorus is characterized by falsetto, Beatty switches to full-fledged, dynamic chest voice on the memorable, repetitive chorus: “Love me to death or don’t give me anything / Oh yeah, oh yeah.”

Throughout, “Casino” features a number of interesting lyrics that find Beatty reflecting on love.  On the first verse, he sings, “The oxygen was choking like death grips around me / I even thought I couldn’t be sadder than that, I am.” Later, he’s perturbed about his lover’s song being played.  Despite the misfortune, he asserts, “I sing along and laugh just in case of the opposite…/ Everything was blurry so I couldn’t see, thankfully…” Stylistically, Beatty is somewhere between pop and R&B, so there’s a broad appeal.  Pardon my French (or lack thereof) but Ryan Beatty is the shit, and so is “Casino.”

12. Yung Scuff & Jakkyboí, “U DO U”

“U DO U” – Single • 2020

For whatever reason, emo-/punk-tinged rap is a weakness for yours truly.  Maybe it’s the fact that it takes this adult, who’s a big kid at heart, back to the days where emo in particularly flourished, and it was a legitimate outlet to expel teen angst.  Within hip-hop, the ‘emo/punk movement’ is alive and well, thanks to the likes of late artists like Lil Peep, XXXTENTACION, and Juice WRLD.  Yung Scuff and Jakkyboí are propelling the movement forward, evidenced by a short but sweet banger, “U DO U”.

“U DO U” successfully blends contemporary hip-hop, with pop/rock cues.  That means that the beat hits as hard as a number of rap joints, while guitar adds the rock touches. It should be noted that Jakkyboí handles production duties, with the end result being pretty sick. Moving on to the rapper’s respective performances, Yung Scuff, in particular, brings a rock-n-roll spirit with his distinct, whiny, melodic vocals.  The sound is a throwback to some extent yet refreshing entering. It should be noted, of course, Scuff has moments when he pop-raps/sings with more control, in both a lower pitch and an undertone.

That said, Yung Scuff lets loose on the spirited chorus.  That’s where all that pent-up angst reveals itself, in all its glory, undoubtedly the crowning achievement of this two-and-a-half-minute gem.  Even so, Jakkyboí brings the heat himself, contrasting Scruff while remaining in step with the emo/punk-infused style, and dropping the bomb (f-bomb that is).  The big takeaway from “U DO U” is that both Yung Scuff and Jakkyboí bring ample energy and fun to the table.  It’s no poetic masterpiece, but quite catchy not to mention, quite the V-I-B-E.

13. COUNTERFEIT., “The New Insane”

“The New Insane” – Single • Republic • 2020

“I’m on the new insane / You’ll never be like me.” Good to know COUNTERFEIT. – good to know! The London alternative rock collective is comprised of five members including vocalist and guitarist Jamie Bower, who also happens to be an actor.  The single at hand, “The New Insane” is quite an interesting ‘alternative’ record, with ample rock influence, yet doesn’t sound like merely a rock song.  The ‘new insanity’ also embraces modern pop, with its use of electronics – synths and programming – as well as vocal effects (pitch shift, distortion, etc.).  Clearly, from a production (Drew Faulk and Rob Cavallo) and aural standpoint, “The New Insane” is a gem.

Vocally, Jamie Bower delivers, with his personality being easily perceptible throughout.  Thematically (insanity, beating to your own drum, nonconformity) and lyrically, “The New Insane” is certainly enjoyable.  The lyrics are no poetic masterpiece mind you, but they convey the spirit of insanity that COUNTERFEIT. seem to be going for.  The refrain, if you will, is quite entertaining to say the least:

“Gave up on running
No second place, no second option
Yeah, I saw God in
The deepest part of my back pocket
I fuckin’ told you I don’t wanna hear about it
And I’m so sick and tired of people telling me what I can and cannot be.”

Of course, that variant arrives prior to the aforementioned chorus, which is short, simple, and quite sweet.  All in all, COUNTERFEIT. deliver the goods with “The New Insane.”  The record is a spirited rock track that isn’t afraid to dip into electronic and pop.  Jamie Bower is more than a handsome actor – he comes through as a confident lead singer with plenty of personality.

14. Spencer Barnett, “Best Friend”

I’m Fine (EP) • Chateau Barnett • 2020

Cultured Mag definitely seem to have an accurate take on Spencer Barnett – he is indeed “one to watch.” Following his debut EP, Reckless (2019), and approaching his 20^th year on Earth, Barnett releases his second EP and first of the new decade, I’m Fine.  This six-song, 16-minute-long effort certainly shows off his potential.

“Best Friend,” the opener, is an instant bop, thanks to the old-school soul cues. The soulful backdrop is initially merely an intro, that shifts to a guitar-based sound accompanying Barnett’s expressive, nuanced vocals. Producers Hoskins & The 23^rd and Denis Kosiak definitely deserve a shout out. Soul and pop/rock merge together beautifully on the chorus, where he sings:

“I’m my own worst enemy
I’m my own best friend
I won’t say I’mma be the death of me
Until then I’mma ride to the end.”

With the rhythmic nature of some of the melodic lines, as well as sneaking in a f-bomb (two actually), Barnett also bring some hip-hop swagger to the mix.  If this is your introduction to Spencer Barnett, you definitely won’t be disappointed.

15. Mitchell Tenpenny, “Can’t Go to Church”

“Can’t Go to Church” • Riser House Entertainment / Sony • 2020

The first thing that comes to mind when I think of country musician Mitchell Tenpenny? “Bitches”, of course – what did you think I was going to say? Of course, Tenpenny has released songs beyond that eyebrow raising hit (can you say bitches in country music?), which appears on his 2018 debut album, Telling All My Secrets. Now, into the new decade, Tenpenny returns with a new single, “Can’t Go to Church”. Hmm, given his potty mouth, maybe Mitchell needs to be running to the sanctuary, haha.

“I’ll still do my prayin’ but I’ll do it somewhere else…” Hmm, so what’s the problem Mitch? Well, here’s the deal with Tenpenny. The reason that he can’t go to church isn’t because of his spiritual views – it’s because of matters of the heart.  “I ain’t tryin’ to avoid that place / But I don’t know what else to do,” he sings on the bridge (of sorts), continuing, “I don’t wanna see her face / Sittin’ in the front pew.” Later, he even adds, “She gets the church, she gets the Bible / I get the hurt, I get the bottle.” As you can imagine, such a dramatic, emotional song – one that’s four-and-a-half-minutes long – gets an equally dynamic, powerful backdrop (Jordan Schmidt produces).

I was as surprised as anyone when the reason for Tenpenny not going to church ended up being because he was avoiding a woman as opposed to spiritual reasons. “Can’t Go to Church” is definitely an intriguing country record featuring solid vocals and interesting songwriting.

16. ROSALÍA, “Juro Que”

“Juro Que” • Columbia • 2020

You don’t have to comprehend a word of Spanish to be impressed with “Juro Que”, the first single of 2020 from Grammy-winning Spanish pop musician, ROSALÍA.  Honestly, it seems like everything that she releases is a certified bop. Although knowledge of fluency in Spanish isn’t necessary to enjoy “Juro Que,” the title of this bop translates as, “I Swear that.”

From a musical standpoint, instrumentally, “Juro Que” is quite impressive, even given its minimalism.  How the guitar is used (Joselito Acedo) is intriguing in its own right.  The claps (the percussive accompaniment and component) is another awesome musical touch. Beyond the instrumental itself, ROSALÍA shines with her gorgeous, potent vocals. Generally, she’s assertive and quite commanding, but she also knows when to pull back. Interesting, at certain points, there’s a heavy dose of autotune on her vocals.  It’s certainly not necessary, mind you, but it’s used for effect.  Additionally, she’s supported by a ‘choir’ of backing vocalists, which help make “Juro Que” even better. How so? Well, the record possesses a theatrical, dramatic nature, which the choir enhances.

Shedding a more light on the aforementioned theatrical element, apparently, ROSALÍA’s lover is arrested, and she’s totally devastated.  She’s willing to do whatever it takes to be with him, even if it involves her own arrest just to be reunited with him.  Wow – just wow. ROSALÍA is amazing, period.  Once more, she brings the heat on “Juro Que.” This is quite a distinct record – not your every day, typical Latin pop cut.  Again, even if you don’t speak the language, you can’t help but be wooed by this gem.

17. Demi Lovato, “Anyone”

“Anyone” • Island • 2020

“I tried to talk to my piano / I tried to talk to my guitar / Talk to my imagination / Confided into alcohol…” Sigh, vulnerability can be the perfect catalyst for a truly superb musical performance and song. With her powerful, honest, incredibly vulnerable single, “Anyone”, Demi Lovato was part of one of the most moving moments at the 62^nd Annual Grammy Awards.  Lovato has had her fair share of issues with substances, including a near-fatal drug overdose.  This, of course, happened after she revealed on single “Sober” she had ‘fallen off.’

“Anyone” keeps things simple from a musical perspective.  This is Demi Lovato singing, accompanied by piano.  This stripped sound is perfect for such a personal song, putting more weight on the vocals and of course the lyrics.  Focusing on the vocals first, Lovato is as potent as ever.  She pulls back when she needs to, but she lets loose when it feels right.  Her range and her sheer vocal powerful are nothing short of awesome, as Lovato shows off spirit, soulfulness, and most of all, channels that cry for help musically. Are there some pitchy moments? Yes, but given the raw approach and raw subject matter, you can forgive it to some extent.

That leads to the other selling point beyond the vocals – the lyrics.  Apparently, Demi Lovato searched everywhere for help – music, alcohol, God, you name it.  “I talk to shooting stars / But they always get it wrong,” she sings on the pre-chorus, continuing, “I feel stupid when I pray / So, why am I praying anyway? / If nobody’s listening.”  Essentially, she feels all alone, something she makes crystal clear on the chorus:

“Anyone, please send anyone
Lord, is there anyone?
I need someone, oh
Anyone, please send anyone
Lord, is there anyone?
I need someone, oh.” 

“Anyone” is incredibly powerful, period.  Clearly, Demi Lovato needed serious help when she recorded this record, prior to her overdose.  Sure, it’s simple musically, but Lovato packs a serious punch vocally, with some truly technical moments.  Furthermore, the complexity also comes into play transcendently – life in itself is complex, and Lovato has clearly experienced its ups and downs.

18. Isaac Dunbar, “Isaac’s Insects”

“Isaac’s Insects” – Single • RCA • 2020

Question: “Why are all of Isaac’s Insects insane? / Terrorize his life and pick apart his brain.” Good and quite intriguing question, by all means – thought provoking! Alternative pop musician Isaac Dunbar may be young, but he’s an incredibly talented individual, something he impressively exhibits on the unique single, “Isaac’s Insects”.

Apparently, the ‘insects’ know too much about Isaac, something he emphasizes throughout the course of the song.  From the onset of this minor key cut, he sings, on the first verse, “Insects know my secret life / They on my walls only at night / To judge me / Oh, how they judge me.” On the second verse, the ‘creepy crawlers’ are even worse: “Insects wish the worst for me / And they befriend my enemy / And it shocks me / Oh, how it shocks me.” Sigh, as much as he tries to rid of them, they simply won’t go away, best exemplified by the crowning achievement, the chorus:

“Stomp on them, they’ll come right back
This time they’re back with more times ten
I’ve had enough of beady eyes
And men in black who know my lies…”

The lyrics are quite compelling.  Obviously, Isaac Dunbar isn’t talking about literal insects, but fans who go to the absolute extreme.  Beyond the theme, though, what about the vocals? Dunbar sounds fantastic, whether he’s singing in harmony, falsetto, or even dabbling in some autotune/pitch shift.  The backdrop is also pretty sweet, with the synths and the infectious, if enigmatic groove.