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Despite being the total package, Chris Brown continues to perform below his skill & talent level on “Questions,” the follow-up to “Pills & Automobiles.”

As previously asserted, it’s become very difficult to get excited about new music from Chris Brown. The one-time heartthrob-turned-bad-boy has become oversaturated. He still has a great voice, but he’s too many places.  The persona, referenced above, is built on supreme cockiness, being profane to the nth degree, and over-libidinous.  Despite this, I was onboard with the star-studded “Pills & Automobiles,” which is an enjoyable banger.  Unfortunately, follow-up single “Questions” is a letdown.  Dang it Chris!

“Questions” is incredibly brief, just crossing the two-minute mark. Joining a number of other R&B, pop, and some country artists, it uses reggae and tropical cues to fuel its fire.  The groove is sound, as is the production work as far as quality, but the reggae vibes are becoming incredibly cliché.  Expectedly, given the slickness of the production itself, there are plenty of vocal effects as well.

Listening to “Questions,” I personally have two questions.  The first is “why?” The second, is “so what?” Yes, Mr. Brown would consider both responses as hater-ation, but ultimately, he brings very little to the table here.  The biggest con of “Questions” is just how generic it is.  It leads to the bigger problem with Chris Brown himself.  He’s a talented artist blessed with great looks – he’s the total package.  But, the material is recycled and clearly, subpar.

Final Thoughts 

If it weren’t already crystal clear, Chris Brown misses the mark with “Questions.”  He sounds okay, and the beat is danceable, but beyond that, this is generic urban-pop. Going back to the assertion that he’s recycled, just listen to how he ‘cops’ the 2004 Kevin Lyttle hit, “Turn Me On.” Not onboard, without questions.

Chris Brown • Heartbreak on a Full Moon • RCA • Release: 10.31.17

Photo Credit: RCA