Ryland James, Love On The Brain | COVERS

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In the 8^th edition of COVERS (2023), Ryland James delivers a compelling rendition of “Love On The Brain,” originally performed by Rihanna.

[otw_shortcode_dropcap label=”A” size=”large” border_color_class=”otw-no-border-color” shadow=”shadow” square=”square”]h, it’s time to get cozy and totally cover up! In COVERS, we highlight a musician or band covering songs by another musician (likely a popular musician). COVERS separates itself from a related column, Head 2 Head 🗣️ only highlighting the musician who covers, as opposed to the original/most famous performer. COVERS is open to both established musicians and musicians who may not be as well-known. In the 8^th edition of COVERS (2023), 🎙 Ryland James delivers a compelling rendition of 🎵 “Love On The Brain”, originally/famously performed by 🎙 Rihanna. [/otw_shortcode_dropcap]

It is always intriguing to hear males covers songs originally performed by females and vice versa. Canadian singer 🎙 Ryland James tips his hat in as a male covering a popular song, 🎵 “Love On The Brain”, originally performed by a female artist, 🎙 Rihanna (💿 Anti, 2016). In James’ hand, the soulful pop cut feels incredibly natural, as if he could have easily been the original performer. His tone is incredible, filled with expression and superb nuance on his late 2022 rendition. Furthermore, his falsetto is lit. He doesn’t only serve up the falsetto, as the first part of the chorus finds Ryland impressing with his mid register.

Regardless, Ryland is most impressive when the head voice comes into play on “Love On The Brain.” Also impressive are his diction and phrasing. James even sounds incredibly refined when he drops the colorful f-bombs, including on the chorus (“It beats me black and blue, but it fucks me so good”). Furthermore, the way he breaks that mf-bomb down syllabically – genius (“What do I gotta do to get in your motherfuckin’ heart?”)! Further making 🎵 “Love On The Brain” a surefire vibe is production, which is a sound reproduction of the original. Basically, Ryland James recaptures the sentiment of this top 5 pop hit sensationally.