Fifth Harmony member Normani and Scottish DJ & producer Calvin Harris join forces on “Slow Down,” one of two collaborative singles. 

First it was Lauren Jauregui, and now, it’s Normani.  Context? Members of the pop group, Fifth Harmony (a four-some now), who are exploring solo opportunities.  Regarding Normani, she made a statement earlier in 2018 with her Love, Simon single, “Love Lies”, alongside Grammy-nominated R&B singer, Khalid.  Now, along with Scottish DJ/production wiz Calvin Harris, she releases two singles, “Checklist” and “Slow Down.”

The tone of “Slow Down” is set early-on, thanks to the detuned sound of the intro.  Naturally, Calvin Harris serves up groovy production that is soulful, yet also feels contemporary and fresh. As for Normani, she delivers rhythmic melodic lines, exhibiting ample personality and a pretty sweet vocal tone. As for the lyrics, well, they are rather basic on the first and second verses – nothing deep or necessarily incredibly memorable.  Even so, there are some lyrical highlights, such as the pre-chorus which is chocked-full of innuendo, particularly the second one:

“Swimming in your bed like be like

Fucking to a slow jam, I’m rocking your boat now

I’m still a kid and, I’m stealing your time

But I still feel your heart, so I’m asking.”

On the chorus, Normani is trying to convince this man to embrace her and love in general.

“Could you just be real?

Don’t be scared to feel this

We can make the world go still

Could you let me feel this?

You can risk it, love me, I’m right here I

I can make your lonely disappear I

I could, could you just be real?

Could you just be real?”

Final Thoughts

Much like “Checklist,” “Slow Down” is a well-rounded, enjoyable, infectious urban contemporary record. Nah, Normani and Calvin Harris don’t change the world with this record, but they certainly enhance playlists around the world.

Normani & Calvin Harris • Slow Down – Single • Keep Cool / RCA • Release: 10.26.18

Photo Credits: Keep Cool / RCA