Jill Scott, Beautiful People | Song Review

After more than a decade-long hiatus, Grammy-winning R&B singer-songwriter Jill Scott makes a strong, soulful return with “Beautiful People.”

Word.  And also, she’s back! Who back? Why, the Grammy-winning R&B singer-songwriter, Jill Scott (b. 1972).  How long has our beloved neo-soul songstress been MIA? Since 2015 (Woman).  Far too long, Jill! No worries, “Beautiful People” is the promo single and third track from her highly anticipated sixth studio album, To Whom This May Concern (arrives February 15, 2016).  Scott penned the pleasant, nostalgic-sounding “Beautiful People” alongside producer Om’Mas Keith. There’s a lot to like about “Beautiful People.”

“Beautiful People” commences with a spoken word intro, accompanied by a soulful backdrop. The sound of the record is characteristic of Scott’s music from old.  This is neo-soul through and through.  One of the best instrumental features is the active, robust bass line. Scott is the star of the show, delivering buttery smooth vocals.  “Our love canceled mountains (Yes!) / Our love traversed the sea (Yes!),” Scott sings in the second verse, and adds, “Our love is the art of war / Conquering all algorithms.” Beyond her commanding lead, shaping the melodies and sharing the love-driven lyrics,  she gets great support from the background vocals, providing the response to her call. Fittingly, the bridge distinguishes itself from the verses and the chorus (“I just wanna be cool with you / I am genuine / I love your soul”). I love the harmonic progressions used throughout, particularly during this section. Fittingly, Scott delivers superb high-flying vocals by the end, letting ‘er rip as she touts her “beautiful people /… Enterprising, good timin’, people”! By the conclusion of the record, I feel like I better understand what Scott was going for on this comeback single.  Is “Beautiful People” perfect? No, but all in all, it is a well-rounded return to the game. With an artist as consistent as Scott has been throughout her career, it’s hard to outdo yourself! The voice remains as powerful and versatile as ever, and the more I listen to the single, I find myself enjoying it more and more.

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Jill Scott » To Whom This May Concern » Blues Babe Records LLC / Human Re Sources / The Orchard » 1.2.26 [📷: Blues Babe Records LLC / Human Re Sources / The Orchard]

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