“Songs That Require Sharp Sight to See, Vol. 1” features 13 sight-driven songs courtesy of Billie Eilish, Dustin Lynch, Fantasia, Ghost, and Wiz Khalifa.  

Hey, hey – HEY! Please, please, PUH-lease make sure that your SIGHT is SHARP AF so that you can SEE these songs!!! Yeah, that made no sense whatsoever.  What does make sense is that the 13 songs that comprise Songs That Require Sharp Sight to See, Vol. 1 all feature some form of the word ‘see’ in the song title.  It’s that simple. Musicians contributing to this excellence in sight include the likes of Billie Eilish (“you should see me in a crown”), Dustin Lynch (“Seein’ Red”), Fantasia (“When I See U”), Ghost (“See the Light”), and Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth (“See You Again”) among others. Without further ado, here are Songs That Require Sharp Sight to See, Vol. 1.

1. Billie Eilish, “you should see me in a crown”

WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? • Darkroom / Interscope • 2019

“Bite my tongue, bide my time / Wearing a warning sign / Wait ‘til the world is mine…” Billie Eilish conquered the world in 2019 with her brilliant debut album, WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO?.  One of the best moments from the LP comes by way of “you should see me in a crown”. Among the many impressive things about Eilish is her vocal poise, eschewing gospel histrionics.  On “you should see me in a crown,” her vocal tone is breathy as she opts for the more understated.

Even though she’s not screaming aggressively, her teenage angst is in full force, aided by sleek, electronic-infused production.  The best example comes on the chorus, the crowning achievement:

“You should see me in a crown

I’m gonna run this nothing town

Watch me make ‘em bow

One by one by one / One by one by…”

Impressively, Eilish doesn’t have to be profane to frighten you with her attitude.  She just relies on her mesmerizing instrument, alluring songwriting, and laser-sharp production.  At the end, the synths really pop, further amplifying the excellence of the record.

2. Ghost, “See the Light”

Prequelle • Loma Vista • 2018

Grammy-winning, Swedish metal band Ghost returned with some serious bite – well, melodic bite – in 2018 with the band’s fourth studio album, Prequelle. According to mastermind Tobias Forge (via Revolver), Prequelle is “loosely themed around the concept of death and doom. It’s…themed around medieval times, but … [clings] onto a lot of very current things.” Despite the darkness, Prequelle shines brightly, filled with compelling metal and incredible musicianship. Plus, the collective totally “See the Light” on the album’s fourth track.

In the context of Prequelle, “See the Light” begins much kinder and gentler compared to “Rats” and “Faith.” “Many a rat I have befriended / And so many a thorn stood between,” Cardinal Copia (Forge) sings on the first verse. After showcasing poise and restraint on the verses, him and Ghost turn up on the pre-chorus and chorus sections.  “Drink me, eat me,” he sings with incredible assertiveness (he rolls the R on “drink”), continuing, “Then you’ll see the light.” Clearly, the communion is a bit sketchy, and the band isn’t exact in their intent, which actually makes things more intriguing.  Beyond the most dynamic parts of “See the Light,” there are superb musical touches, such as the keyboard that appears on the second verse, accentuating the vocals.

3.Nicki Minaj, “Come and See About Me”

Queen • Cash Money / Young Money • 2018

“Come, come see about me / Come, come see about me / Know it can’t always be about me / Just come, come, see about me…” After a four-year hiatus between albums, Nicki Minaj returned in 2018 with her highly-anticipated, fourth studio album, Queen. The lengthy effort is comprised of 19 tracks, clocking in at 70 minutes. While not every song on Queen was made equal by any means, “Come See About Me” marks one of the better moments.

“…You know I’m still trying to find where we went wrong at.” Following the “2 Lit 2 Late Interlude,” Nicki Minaj superbly showcases her personal, vulnerable side on “Come See About Me” – “Love’s always love, you can’t fake it / So please don’t try to deny me of that, no.” Not only is this one of the better moments from Queen as aforementioned, arguably, this is her best singing performance of the LP.  The chorus, excerpted above, is relatively simple, but incredibly memorable.

4. Kids See Ghosts, “Kids See Ghosts”

Ft. Yasiin Bey

KIDS SEE GHOSTS • Getting Out Our Dreams / Def Jam • 2018

“Kids see ghosts sometimes / Kids see ghosts sometimes…” Yeah, that’s pretty much the chorus of “Kids See Ghosts,” the title track of the debut album by Kids See Ghost (Kanye West and Kid Cudi). Unsurprisingly, “Kids See Ghosts” was one of the featured cuts on a previous, most ghostly playlist, 13 Songs About All About Ghosts…Sort Of.

The title track features one of the better beats of the LP.  Shifting the focus to the legend that appears on the record, Yasiin Bey (aka Mos Def), he delivers the hook throughout the course of the record, save for post-first verse.  He also drops a notable bridge. Kid Cudi shines (verse one), while Kanye West impresses with his flow – he’s got some bars on the second verse.

“I like breakfast in bed, but I love breakfast and head

For anybody who said that I was better off dead

Told ‘em, ‘Don’t ever believe nothin’ that you ever read.’”

5. Mason Ramsey, “The Way I See It”

Famous (EP) • Big Loud / Atlantic • 2018

Often times, the ascent to fame is slow and excruciating.  After becoming a viral sensation as the Wal-Mart yodeling kid, and signing a record deal with Atlantic (Big Loud), 11-year old country artist Mason Ramsey released his major-label debut EP, Famous, in 2018.  Throughout the course of the project, the kid shows that he clearly has talent, including on a cover of the classic, “The Way I See It”.

“The Way I See It” definitely doesn’t sound like the type of record one associates with a pre-teen.  It doesn’t matter because Ramsey sounds incredibly impressive, exhibiting the appropriate, characteristic attitude to successfully pull it off.  That includes the signature country twang –southern to the core. Clearly, his musical aptitude is ‘off the charts’ as he nails the technical aspects of this record. Sure, someone older and more seasoned could do wonders with it, but “The Way I See It” him well, particularly the pre-chorus and chorus.

6. Rich Brian, “See Me”

Amen • 88rising / EMPIRE • 2018

“See me run, see me run / Runnin’ ‘til my lungs might give / Runnin’ for the front, I feel like Usain in this bitch (Ayy) / Passin’ all these runners, number one is in my list…” Indonesian rapper Rich Brian has an incredibly deep, distinct voice – it’s quite surprising and unexpected.  Early on in his career, age of 16 to be exact, he offended people with controversial single “Dat $tick”.  Following “Dat $tick” and a host of other singles, a promising debut album, Amen, arrived in 2018. Amen includes the sight-driven song at hand, “See Me.”

The production of “See Me” has a mellow, appealing, synth-driven sound.  Don’t call it soft though – Rich Brian still packs a punch.  He lays a wordy, but appealing hook at the top of the record. Following the hook, things get a bit non-standard regarding the form, with a bridge. Later, the second and final iteration of the bridge precedes chorus, rather than following it.  The meat arrives with the sole verse, where Brian ‘does the damn thing.’ His rhymes encompass sex, money, and hunger.

“I’m on the road and I’m lovin’ my bunk
Still missin’ home, but I’m havin’ my fun, uh
I would never quit, I’m too legit
Indonesian MC Hammer in this bitch.”

7. Tyler, the Creator, “See You Again”

Ft. Kali Uchis

Flower Boy • Columbia • 2017

Tyler, the Creator has made a name for himself as one of the most polarizing musicians of recent times.  Arguably, the best way to take the rapper/producer is with a “grain of salt.” Why? He is one of the rawest in the game, always offending somebody.  Even with his penchant for controversy, he is quite talented and has dropped some good albums. Before Tyler would shock the world with his fifth studio album, IGOR, his fourth studio album, Flower Boy (2017) can arguably be considered his crowning achievement.

Thankfully, Flower Boy gives us quite a soulful record that perfectly fits on this playlist, “See You Again.”  The smooth vocals that grace the first verse are Tyler, the Creator singing.  The vibe is fitting. He gets an assist from Kali Uchis on the chorus, where he also sings.

“Can I get a kiss?

And can you make it last forever?

I said I’m ‘bout to go to war

And I don’t know if I’ma see you again.”

It’s not all singing from the MC, who drops a verse of bars as well.  Even with the anchoring hard drums, there’s a softer vibe here than we’re accustomed to hearing from TTC.  It’s a good look all in all; an alluring sight if you will.

8. Vivian Green, “Stop Sleeping (See the Light)”

VGVI • Make Noise • 2017

Vivian Green is an incredibly underrated R&B musician.  Nonetheless, Green continues to produce solid, well-rounded albums, including her 2017 LP, VGVI.  The main attraction on VGVI was single “I Don’t Know”, a strong song by all means.  Even so, VGVI closes with an intriguing record in its own right, “Stop Sleeping (See the Light)”.

“Stop Sleeping (See the Light)” is by far the most progressive song from VGVI.  The production is a mix of the neo-soul associated with Green, as well as neo-disco, dance, and the more modern urban contemporary sound. Less traditional but meaningful, as “Stop Sleeping” progresses, it becomes more endearing.  The message is on-point – perfect for the turbulent times facing America, specifically black men and women. This is an anthem all about being ‘woke’ to what’s going down in society.  “Stop sleeping / Stay up / Everybody stay up!” Fittingly, in addition to appearing on this sharp-sighted affair, “Stop Sleeping (See the Light)” previously appeared on the playlist 11 Songs That Center Around Sleep and even more recently, 13 Songs That’ll Make You Stop What You’re Doing.

9. Dustin Lynch, “Seein’ Red”

Current Mood • Broken Bow • 2017

“Flame, girl you light it up / When I hear you say my name / Yeah, you know just how to start it / You shine, and I just can’t wait / To get you out tonight / Yeah, you know how bad I want it.” Well da-yum lol. Country artist Dustin Lynch delivers an enjoyable, third album with Current Mood.  Not only is he handsome, chocked-full of that good ole, southern boy sensibility, he also has a great voice. Yes, Current Mood is imperfect, but more often than not, Lynch provides the audience with an enjoyable listening experience.  That includes the advance single being highlighted in this playlist, “Seein’ Red”.

 “Seein’ Red” has some modern touches but doesn’t alienate a purist country audience.  From the jump, it is energetic, featuring a driving, rhythmic groove.  Interestingly, it’s set in a minor key, giving it a notably darker sound. Dustin Lynch plays off of the edginess well, giving a commanding, expressive vocal performance. It’s fun, energetic, and sexy without crossing any lines.

“I’m talking red hot, red kiss

Falling off your lips

I’m talking red hot, red dress

Hanging off your hips

I’m talking backseat heartbeat

Pounding in my chest

I’m seein’ red, I’m seein’ red.”

10. Kim Burrell & Pharrell Williams, “I See a Victory”

Hidden Figures: The Album • Columbia • 2016 

“They’ll call it a mystery / But we’re gonna call it victory / We’ll be writing history / It’s gon’ be victory…” Sigh, there’s no wonder why “I See a Victory” was among songs handpicked for a previous playlist, 10 Songs That Exhibit Spirit.  “I See a Victory,” a collaborative effort from contemporary gospel singer Kim Burrell and Grammy-winning artist/producer Pharrell Williams, is a winning track from the first listen.

“I See a Victory” is an intriguing mix of contemporary gospel and urban contemporary. Call it the rare gospel record including 808s. Williams’ production is unique and intriguing as always. Burrell delivers a lovely, nuanced vocal performance, perfectly suited for this cut with her commanding vocal presence. Furthermore, she receives sound support from the choir. The bridge is handled by the choir, allowing her to perform her signature, golden, jazzy runs.  The chorus – excerpted above and continued below –  is the centerpiece of “I See a Victory.”

“…They’ll be signs on top of signs

Just so you know the history

It’s saying victory is with me.”

11. Idina Menzel, “I See You”

Idina. • Warner Bros. • 2016

Safe to say Idina Menzel sings ballads well.  Unsurprisingly, her 2016 album, Idina., has its fair share of ballads. “I See You”, the sight-driven song at hand is – you guessed it – a BALLAD.  Maybe it’s an oversimplification but sounds like a match to me. Perhaps ‘match made in heaven’ is a stretch, but there’s plenty to appreciate about just what Ms. Menzel sees.

Honestly, “I See You” begins predictably, trending a bit on boring side. Still, even if “I See You” has a little bit of that ‘middle of the road’ characterization attached to it, it’s certainly uplifting and inclusive from the jump. Following a lighter first verse, the drums and overall production are fuller during the second verse. Menzel’s vocal strength on the chorus, the centerpiece, is excellent. As referenced above, everybody is included:

“Here’s to the lonely

To the broken-hearted

I want you to know I feel your pain

Here’s to the hopeless

The almost forgotten

To those who got lost along the way

I see you…” 

It may be ‘middle of the road’ to a certain extent, but Menzel “Bring(s) it on Home” by the end, showing off her commanding pipes.

12. Wiz Khalifa, “See You Again”

Ft. Charlie Puth

Furious 7 (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) • Universal Studio / Atlantic • 2015

“It’s been a long day without you, my friend / And I’ll tell you all about it when I see you again…” Call “See You Again” what it is – it is the song that put Charlie Puth ‘on the map.’ Of course, Wiz Khalifa is the lead artist.  Besides elevating Puth’s career and giving Wiz another hit, the Grammy-nominated no. 1 hit, which appears in the movie Furious 7, is a tribute to actor Paul Walker, who died tragically in an auto accident.

What isn’t there to like about this song? Wiz Khalifa compels with his agile flow and respectable lyrics over the course of two verses, adding a refrain/pre-chorus to the mix prior to the chorus. Of course, the chorus is where Charlie delivers the most memorable part of the song, while also adding a bridge and post-chorus section.  Also, Puth co-produces alongside Andrew Cedar, Franke, Kevin Weaver, and Mike Caren.  Yeah, there’s no far-sightedness, near-sightedness, or short-sightedness on this pop gem.

“We’ve come a long way from where we began

Oh, I’ll tell you all about it when I see you again

When I see you, again.”

13. Fantasia, “When I See U”

Fantasia • 19 Recordings Limited • 2006

“I put your picture on my mirror / Start to blush when somebody says your name…” Sounds like a boy crush! More on that later. The sophomore effect can be devastating for many artists.  That’s sort of what happened when Fantasia released her self-titled sophomore album in 2006.  To make things worse, Fantasia arrived in the crowded fourth quarter, settling for a no. 19 debut/peak on the Billboard 200.  Ouch! Fantasia could’ve been a total loss for the über-talented, Grammy-winning R&B singer, but one of the set’s singles, “When I See U,” caught on, eventually peaking in the Top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100 (no. 32 to be precise).  Furthermore, “When I See U” peaked at no. 1 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, and no. 2 on the Adult R&B Songs chart.  What makes “When I See U” such a must-see, rather, must-hear song?

“When I See U” checks off all boxes, period.  This is a sound, well-written, well-performed contemporary R&B record.  Fantasia sings superbly, whether she’s highlighting the gorgeous melodic line or soulfully ad-libbing.  The production (Midi Mafia and Mzmeriq) is nicely balanced – colorful and lush, but not overdone in the least.  The songwriting is catchy, relatable, and pretty straightforward.  As aforementioned, Fantasia has a crush – who can’t relate to that?  The chorus marks the crowning achievement:

“You’re always on my mind

When you come around, I get shy

When I see you, when I see you

Never know when you might walk by

So, I gotta be right on time

When I see you, when I see you.”

[Photo Credits: 19 Recordings Limited, Atlantic, Big Loud, Broken Bow, Columbia, Darkroom, Def Jam, Getting Out Our Dreams, Interscope, Loma Vista, Make Noise, Pexels, Pixabay,  Warner Bros.]