Rising R&B artist Ella Mai, assisted by ubiquitous Grammy-winning R&B artist Chris Brown, shines on the ‘cheating’ single, “Whatchamacallit.”

For Ella Mai, “Boo’d Up” certainly gave her a surefire, breakthrough hit. For an R&B/urban contemporary artist in this day and age, that’s big, given how consistently the genre has cooled over the years.  While Mai didn’t rush the release of her highly-anticipated, self-titled, full-length debut, she also doesn’t wait for the buzz of “Boo’d Up” totally wane either – smart woman.  Joining “Boo’d Up”, “Trip” and “Naked” as advanced singles is “Whatchamacallit,” featuring Chris Brown.

“Whatchamacallit” is a mid-tempo, minor-key cut produced by DJ Mustard and J. Holt.  The vocal production surrounding Ella Mai and Chris Brown is strong. Both artists sound fresh and modern, idiomatic of R&B ala 2018. Mai sings the majority of the first verse by herself, though the opening line – “I know you got a girlfriend” – is sung alongside Brown.  The premise of the first verse you ask? Creeping. On the chorus, Mai continues to lead the charge, with a select few collaborative lines with Brown, as well as a few solo ones by Brown as well.

“It’s something ‘bout being wrong that just feels so right

Think about it in the morning ‘cause we be all night

And baby, we could keep going ‘cause you already know

That you’d never stop the show until you see the lights…

I ain’t cheating, it’s a whatchamacallit…”

Chris Brown sings all of the second verse. Expectedly, the vibe is sexual, yet, he manages to keep things clean.  Surprising. Both sing respective solo lines on the bridge, including a dash of profanity at the end:

Brown: “I’m thinking we could do this forever… And let some bullshit creep in.”

Mai: “You’re my n***a, so f**k him.”

Final Thoughts

“Whatchamacallit” is another alluring single from the rising R&B singer. It’s not as memorable as “Boo’d Up” mind you, but Ella Mai definitely sets herself up as the next big thing in urban music.

Ella Mai • Ella Mai • 10 Summers / Interscope • Release: 10.12.18

Photo Credits: 10 Summers / Interscope