Deep… | 5ive Songs

1. Fousheé, “Deep End”

“Deep End” • 2020

Fousheé seems destined to do big things, period. The R&B singer is on [autopilot] from the start of “Deep End”. This brief record – a mere two minutes and 21 seconds – is incredibly potent.  Backed by a vibe-filled backdrop, “Deep End” is fresh, moody, and set in a minor key. Primarily R&B, there are hip-hop sensibilities, which only make things fresher.  It commences with an intro, which eventually becomes the chorus (the crowning achievement).

“I been trying not to go off the deep end
I don’t think you wanna give me a reason...”

Fousheé gives us commanding, expressive, and nuanced vocals.  Furthermore, she conveys a big personality, which speak to her artistry.  She’s classy but also unafraid to bring in some ‘stank.’ Sung vocals dominate, however, she’s equally effective when she ‘busts a rhyme.’

2. Drake, “Deep Pockets”

Dark Lane Demo Tapes • OVO / Republic • 2020

Drake and vibe are synonymous, and I double dare you to dispute that.  Anyways, the ‘6 God’ commences his demos album (or mixtape would be more accurate), Dark Lane Demo Tapes with the vibe-laden “Deep Pockets.” “Deep Pockets” features production by Noah “40” Shebib and Plain Pat.  The sound is cloudy, laid back, and lush.  While the backdrop lacks finesse where a clear, crisp sound is concerned, it suits Drake perfectly.  His flow provides an excellent contrast.

“Yeah, then we rollin’, then we rollin’
Deep pockets on a n***a, I can’t find my phone in
Now we rollin’
Yeah, then we rollin’, then we rollin’
Deep pockets on a n***a, I can’t find my phone in
Now we rollin’.”

3. Summer Walker, “Deeper”

Life on Earth (EP) • Interscope • 2020

“Boy, you say you’re done with games and more / We gotta get deeper now.” That’s right – kick things up a notch and take it to the next level! Post-Over It, Summer Walker dropped a five-song, 16-minute EP in Life on Earth in 2020. Life on Earth embraces the ‘vibe-laden culture’ of today’s R&B.  It’s a bit liter than some R&B preceding it. Walker concludes her 2020 EP, Life on Earth, with “Deeper.” Sexy guitar accompanies equally sexy, smooth vocals by Walker. If you’ve followed her up to this point, you can pretty much predict the script.  Walker is more of a cooler presence than a dynamic one, something that holds true on “Deeper,” a successful, well-rounded record overall, but nothing groundbreaking or game changing.  

4. Tame Impala, “Breath Deeper”

The Slow Rush • Island • 2020

The groovy “Breathe Deeper” marks another cut on The Slow Rush that extends beyond six minutes in duration.  The record may run long, but it’s quite a glorious listen. It can’t be overstated how great Tame Impala is with neo-psychedelia – it’s definitely Kevin Parker’s thing.  That said, this record also manages to be quite soulful, with the ostinato keyboard passages and synths hearkening back to 70s funk, soul, and disco. And, it’s poppy too! The lyrics are simple, but potent, yielding a top-notch chorus, not to mention catchy verses too (“If you think I couldn’t hold my own, believe me, I can”).

5. Jon Bellion, “Stupid Deep”

Glory Sound Prep • Capitol • 2018

In the context of Glory Sound Prep, the sophomore album by Jon Bellion, the arrival of “Stupid Deep” provides contrast – thoughtful balladry. The production is bright and optimistic, characterized by its use of keyboards and synths.  Vocally, Bellion sounds beautiful, nuanced, and incredibly tender in his execution, that is until he grows grittier and more dynamic towards the end.  The chorus is the centerpiece, followed by an instrumental feature.

“What if who I hoped to be was always me?
And the love I fought to feel was always free?
What if all the things I’ve done
Were just attempts at earning love?
But the hole inside my heart is stupid deep, oh, stupid deep.”