Continuing to build a name for herself, rising R&B singer Normani (Fifth Harmony) enlists 6LACK for the enjoyable, vibe-filled single, “Waves.”

After dropping a couple of notable singles throughout 2018 (“Love Lies” chief amongst them), Normani returns with ‘another one’ to quote DJ Khaled. “Waves” features superb, sleek production work.  The sound can further be described as chill, moody, and absolutely stunning.  She serves up strong vocals throughout, doing a fantastic job performing the rhythmic melodic lines on the verses.

That said, she truly takes flight on the pre-chorus, including aggressively ‘dropping the bomb’:

“First, I blame you, then I want you
Fucking hate you, then I love you
I can’t help myself, no
When I have you, wanna leave you
If you go, that’s when I need you
I can’t help myself, no.”

Following the pre-chorus, on the chorus, Normani shows off her falsetto, contrasting the fuller, more aggressive vocals on the pre-chorus.  Additionally, some slick vocal harmonization comes in to play, not to mention the playfulness of the melody.

“You come in waves, waves, waves

Every hour, every day, day, day

You come in waves, yeah.”

Featured guest 6LACK arrives on the third verse.  His sound can be described as a blend of pop-rap and sung vocals.  He doesn’t deliver any straight, un-pitched rhymes. His performance definitely isn’t energetic or thrilling, but it’s in line with what we hear from the rapper/singer on his own 2018 album, East Atlanta Love Letter.

“I come with ups and downs, yeah, I know

If you tryna ride, ride slow

Deep breath for the tide

Hold tight for the stride, I can see it in your eyes…” 

Notably, Normani delivers powerful ad-libs on the final chorus.  The girl can flat out sang.

Final Thoughts 

All in all, Normani ‘comes through’ strong on “Waves.” She has a sensational voice and brings plenty of personality to “Waves,” beyond that colorful f-bomb of course.  While 6LACK provides contrast, he isn’t necessary – Normani holds things down like the champ she is.

Normani » Waves (Ft. 6LACK) [Single] » Keep Cool / RCA » Release: 11.15.18

Photo Credits: Keep Cool / RCA