Don Toliver, Drugs N Hella Melodies | Track Review

Rapper/singer Don Toliver enlists R&B singer Kali Uchis for “Drugs N Hella Melodies,” an ultra-smooth, vibe-laden single.

“No place I can’t go / Love ain’t here, no / Drugs and hella melodies.” Intriguing lyrics, Don Toliver. Those lyrics, hail from the chorus of the Houston, Texas artist’s latest single, “Drugs N Hella Melodies”. “Drugs N Hella Melodies” is set to appear on his forthcoming sophomore album, which follows up his 2020 debut, Heaven or Hell.  Toliver doesn’t sing about those drugs and melodies all by himself.  He enlists R&B standout Kali Uchis for the assist.

“Drugs N Hella Melodies” features silky smooth, soulful production work courtesy of Sir Dylan, DJ Dahi and Los Hendrix.  The backdrop is fire – a vibe – setting up Don Toliver and Kali Uchis for bigtime success. Uchis delivers stunning vocals, as always, sounding expressive, nuanced, sexy, and soulful.  She matches the gorgeous, ear catching backdrop. The refrain, performed by Uchis, ranks among the biggest selling points of “Drugs N Hella Melodies.”

“Sex full of adrenaline
This pussy put you right to sleep just like a sedative
Not to sound conceited, I’m not one to brag
But I’m the girl you needed that you never had...”

After Uchis sings the refrain first, Toliver follows, bringing his own warm, relatively soulful touches.  First, it’s the chorus, excerpted above. Then, we get a brief first verse, where, ultimately, it’s more ‘vibe’ than substance.  Following the final Uchis refrain, Toliver delivers a lengthier verse, focused totally on love/sex.  His chorus appear as the final lyrics of the song, with a sweet, lush musical outro.

Final Thoughts

All in all, “Drugs N Hella Melodies” is compelling.  Don Toliver and Kali Uchis work well together, which only further fuels rumors they’re a couple in real lie.  While “Drugs N Hella Melodies” isn’t game changing, it does enhance any playlist, particularly one missing that chill, sexy, R&B-infused hip-hop cut.  

Don Toliver • “Drugs N Hella Melodies” (Ft. Kali Uchis) • Cactus Jack / WeRunit Ent. / Atlantic • 6.18.21

[: Cactus Jack / WeRunit Ent. / Atlantic]