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After a rocky start to her career, pop up-and-comer Kiiara shows marked improvement on her latest single, “Wishlist.”

Subjectively speaking, things started off rocky for pop singer Kiiara. In 2017, she released a single, “Whippin,” which earned the #6 spot on The 11 Worst Songs of 2017 (So Far) | Playlist. We described “Whippin” as ‘mediocre at its best.’ Another strike against “Whippin” was that it sounded too similar to a previous song, “Gold.” “Gold” earned a spot on the previous year’s worst-of list.  Then there was her “Heavy” duet with the late Chester Bennington of Linkin Park, also a mixed-bag, though a step-up compared to “Whippin” or “Gold.” Essentially, getting excited about what Kiiara has to offer just doesn’t happen given her track record early on.  However, she shows vast improvement on “Wishlist” – she deserves some credit.

“Wishlist” opens with moody piano accompaniment. Later, strings enter into the production work. The quality of the production and song can be described as dark overall.  Even though this is a heavy number, Kiiara provides contrast by singing in her upper register.  This gives the cut a sweetness. She showcases a nice tone here, which makes this a step-up from her previous solo singles. For once, she actually sings instead of making random noises and employing a number of gimmicks.  “Wishlist” features a catchy chorus that’s well-sung.

“You’ll be number one on my wishlist / Get money like tuition / Get diamonds big as bricks is/ You’ll be number one on my wishlist / Get money like tuition / Get diamonds like we never have enough.”

Keeping it “cool,” Kiiara incorporates some profanity that is ultimately, unnecessary.  Still, that’s modern pop for you.

Final Thoughts 

All in all, “Wishlist” is strongest solo single to date Kiiara has released.  It’s definitely a notch or two above the likes of “Gold” and “Whippin’.” It can’t be stated enough just how annoying those records were.  “Wishlist” isn’t the second coming, but it does show their more to Kiiara than she’s shown the world early on.

Kiiara • Wishlist – Single • Atlantic • Release: 10.11.17

Photo Credit: Atlantic