MALARKEY, Shackles (Praise You) | COVERS

In the 31st edition of COVERS (2024), MALARKEY delivers a compelling rendition of “Shackles (Praise You)” originally performed by Mary Mary.

Ah, it’s time to get cozy and cover up! In COVERS, we highlight a musician or band covering songs by another musician (likely a popular musician). COVERS focuses solely on the musician who covers.  It is open to established musicians and musicians who may not be as well-known. . In the 31^st edition of COVERS (2024), MALARKEY delivers a compelling rendition of “Shackles (Praise You)” originally performed by Mary Mary.

“Take the shackles off my feet, so I can dance (so I can dance) / I just wanna praise You (just wanna praise You).” Yes, yes, yes! Amen! UK-based DJ/producer/songwriter MALARKEY (Sam Butler) remixed a contemporary gospel classic: “Shackles (Praise You)” by Mary Mary.  Gospel and electronic dance music seem worlds apart, at least on paper.  However, Butler manages to transform a ‘poppier’ song of praise into one fitting for the dancefloor.  

In the hands of MALARKEY, “Shackles (Praise You)” takes on a much quicker tempo. The increase in speed makes it more idiomatic of dance. The dance music cues work seamlessly on this remix.  Butler adds an infectious beat with a thudding kick intact, colorful synths, and that signature, rhythmic house piano. Woo! Even as Butler tweaks the original by Mary Mary, many of the contemporary gospel music vibes remain intact.  The vocals by the duo, although sped up, maintain their soulfulness and high-flying praise.  The chorus that solidified “Shackles” as a pop hit for the duo is still lit. MALARKEY proves on “Shackles (Praise You)” that gospel dance music is legit. Praise Him 🙌!

MALARKEY // “SHACKLES (PRAISE YOU)” // HEXAGON // 2021

MALARKEY, Shackles (Praise You): Covers No. 31 (2024) [📷: Brent Faulkner /The Musical Hype; HEXAGON; Alan Cordero, Ba Tik, Kampus Production, Matteo Milan, SHVETS production from Pexels; OpenClipart-Vectors, StockSnap, Vicki Hamilton from Pixabay]