Grammy-nominated urban contemporary artist Gallant aims to get ‘down and dirty’ on his sensually-driven slow jam, “Gentleman.”  

Oh, the plight of R&B, sigh.  It is sad that urban contemporary music has a select few artists making a splash in the mainstream – there are many compelling, capable artists.  Among those who deserve wider recognition is Grammy-nominated artist Gallant, who released his debut album, Ology, in 2016.  The 26-year old standout with the mad falsetto returns with a new single, “Gentleman.”

Over a moody, sensual-sounding backdrop, Gallant unleashes the mad falsetto.  Safe to say, it’s a blessing.  Two particular things stand out about “Gentlemen.”  First and foremost, the vocals are stellar.  Gallant sounds as smooth as butter, making singing sound effortless.  Obviously, it’s not – technically, he has incredible prowess.  That said, even though he’s singing about sex on this particular record, the listener buys it because of the authenticity and passion he showcases.  Secondly, the vibe and the mood of this record is a selling point.  Set in a minor key with modern, incredibly sleek, ‘expensive-sounding’ production, it’s clear that “it’s about to go down.”

Final Thoughts

For the most part, Gallant makes his case for being a “Gentleman” – well more horn-dog, but who’s being technical?  At nearly five minutes, the record is a bit long, but part of that is due to the slow, grinding tempo.  That tempo is appropriate for slow-jam where “getting down” is the modus operandi.  The wheel isn’t reinvented here as R&B males have owned the sexual lane for quite some time.  That said, it’s successful without being transcendent.

Gallant • Gentleman – Single • Release: 4.6.18

Writers: Bhattacharyya, C. Gallant III & T. Walton « Producers: Aaron Bow, STINT & Teddy Walton 

Photo Credit: Mind of a Genius / Warner Bros.