Unapologetic R&B singer K. Michelle returns with a new sensually-driven single, “Birthday.” “Birthday” is a gift, just not your traditional gift.

K. Michelle has never been shy. NEVER. Arguably, Michelle is one of the boldest, most unapologetic artists in the game, regardless of genre. R&B is her expertise, and she continues to push the envelope, at least in regards to her explicitness. Her new single, “Birthday” is a gift, but not your traditional birthday gift wrapped in paper or placed in a bag.  Nonetheless, many would acknowledge that the gift is a crowd-pleasing one, he he…

“Birthday” is a sensually-driven, erotic joint – Shocker! Like 2 Chainz’s “Birthday Song” and Jeremih’s “Birthday Sex,” “Birthday” is naughty. The context of the naughtiness is, ‘it’s going down.’ Among its pros are great production work, characterized by lush sounds and trap drums.  K. Michelle hails from Memphis, Tennessee, so she has the trap-soul thing locked down.

Expectedly, K. Michelle delivers an excellent vocal performance. Michelle shows off her unapologetic personality, but also gives a smoother vocal than usual. It’s impressive when a singer can showcase more poise than anticipated, yet still pack a punch.  This is the effect that Michelle has during parts of “Birthday.”  On the second verse, she goes completely out of character, dropping bars.  Who knew or expected that? The chorus is naughty, yet catchy AF:

“It’s your birthday baby whatcha wanna do / Got some b*tches, got some pretty b*tches coming through / Know I said I never do it, but I guess I lie / Roll a L, Roll a L f*ck it lets get high.”

Final Thoughts

So, how does “Birthday” stack up? Ultimately, it doesn’t break new ground, but gives K. Michelle another bold song. “Birthday” is well-produced, well-sung, and risqué.  This isn’t the song of the year, nor a savior for R&B, but, it’s enjoyable without question.

K. Michelle • Kimberly: The People I Used to Know • Atlantic • Release: 12.8.17

Photo Credit: Atlantic