H.E.R., Sometimes | Track Review 🎵

Grammy-winning R&B artist H.E.R. shines on the soulful, thoughtful, new single (her first of 2020), “Sometimes.”

H.E.R. is special – understatement.  In a time where R&B hasn’t necessarily seen the level of notoriety it once enjoyed, she’s been one of the artists propelling the genre.  The accomplishments this young Grammy-winner has earned over two Grammy cycles (61^st and 62^nd Grammy Awards) is impressive.  Sure, she walked out empty handed during her second Grammys cycle with I Used to Know Her, but the fact that she was nominated twice consecutively in the big categories – awesomeness exemplified.  One reason worth mentioning the Grammys is because that’s where H.E.R. debuted her first new single of 2020, “Sometimes.”

“I had a plan, I had it mapped out / I knew where I was going when I left out /… But now I know things change for better or worse / You say that I’m the same, but I ain’t adjusted to all the hurt…” “Sometimes” is definitely a complete record.  While it checks off the boxes for a R&B song, it also features some pop/rock elements, not to mentioned strong songwriting.  The songwriting arrives courtesy of H.E.R., as well as of a team consisting of Brittany “Chi” Coney, Denisia “Blue June” Andrews, Dernst Emile II, and Hue “SoundzFire” Strother.  Dernst (DMile) Emile II also handles the production, which is quite lush, soulful, and most of all alluring.

Focusing on H.E.R. first, her vocals are simply marvelous.  She delivers a lovely performance, never overreaching nor overwhelming.  Besides soulful lead vocals, she’s accompanied by lovely backing vocals (Chenee Campbell, Matia Washington, and Melanie Daniels), who harmonize superbly with her.  Returning to the songwriting, it’s quite philosophical and thoughtful, particularly the chorus:

“Sometimes shit don’t go your way, sometimes
And sometimes you gon’ have those days, yeah
And sometimes you’ll feel out of place
You can’t promise me it’ll be the same
‘Cause sometimes change.”

Of course, the verses, (first verse is excerpted above), also contribute to the philosophical message and vibe.

Final Thoughts

As H.E.R. sings so truthfully, “sometimes shit don’t go your way.” This is another fantastic record from the extremely gifted, Grammy-winning R&B artist.  It’s R&B, but also dips into pop/rock, with even a dash of gospel with the soulful vocals.  The songwriting rings true – quite relatable.  Basically, all things seem to be working for H.E.R.

H.E.R. • “Sometimes” – Single • RCA • Release: 1.26.20

Photo Credit: RCA