Grace | 5ive Songs

1. Lil Baby, “Grace”

Ft. 42 Dugg

My Turn • Quality Control Music • 2020

“Thou shall not try one of us, if they do, I’ma bust / Please don’t reach for no chain…” On “Grace,” the fourth track from the ultra-successful, 2020 Lil Baby album, My Turn, the rapper taps 42 Dugg for the assist. In the context of My Turn, “Grace” marks another trap banger where Baby ‘brings the heat’ – NO CAP! 42 Dugg raps the first verse, with Lil Baby directly segueing on the second verse (he also drops the third verse). Baby’s best moment, however, comes via the chorus, particularly the last half.

“Ran up my check, when I walk in the bank
They greet me at the door by my government name
I made a promise, I’m never gon’ change
Rolls Royce umbrella, I’m hopin’ it rain, yeah.”

2. Florence + The Machine, “Grace”

High as Hope • Virgin • 2018

“I’m sorry I ruined your birthday / I guess I could go back to university / Try to make my mother proud / Stop this phase I’m in, she deems dangerous.” Spirituality is pronounced on the high-flying “Grace” from the 2018 Florence + The Machine album, High as Hope… or is it?  Grace happens to be Florence Welch’s beloved sister.  That said, she also functions as a terrific spiritual reference to grace itself.  Welch and co-producer Emile Haynie do an exceptional job of amplifying the gospel sensibilities on this surefire highlight from High as Hope.

3. Lewis Capaldi, “Grace”

Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent • Universal Music • 2019

“Grace” kicks off Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent powerfully, showcasing Lewis Capaldi’s marvelous voice.  On the verses, Capaldi flaunts his magnificent tone, never growing too riled up.

Beginning on the pre-chorus, he debuts his upper register, while he lets loose on the simple but moving chorus: “Your grace / Your grace / Your grace / Don’t take it away.” What stands out about the chorus is the sheer beauty of the melody, which, to reiterate, is delivered powerfully.

4. Bebe Rexha, “Grace”

Expectations • Warner • 2018

The ballad “Grace” ranks among the best songs on Expectations, the 2018 debut album by Bebe Rexha. The reason why “Grace” is a gem from Expectations is due to deeper songwriting, vocals showcasing more technical prowess, and greater authenticity.  On “Grace,” as much as she hates to, Bebe knows she has to breakup with her boyfriend because it’s just not right.

“I hate to see the look on your face
I wish I could make myself stay
But our hearts don't live in the same space
So tell me how to break yours with grace.”

5. DaBaby, “Amazing Grace”

Blame it On Baby • Interscope • 2020

“A n***a barely read the scripture, but I’m spiritual (Let’s go).” Hmm, sounds like DaBaby may be firmly planted in the ‘spiritual but not religious’ realm on “Amazing Grace.” His spirituality is sketchy but, who am I to judge. Depending on which version of Blame it on Baby you listen too, “Amazing Grace” is either the penultimate (Deluxe) or final cut (standard).  At least the rapper is thankful for his come-up: “Seven-figure n***a, thank you, God, it’s a miracle.” #GRACE