Reading Time: 2 min read

Hidden Figures © Columbia

4 out of 5 stars

Pharrell Williams nails throwback, vintage soul on single “Runnin’,” a song that appears on the soundtrack to upcoming film, Hidden Figures.  

Pharrell Williams is 43 years old! While ‘Skateboard P’ looks as young as ever, he is a veteran in the music game.  Even though he is technically middle-aged, his music continues to resonate.  Williams produced and composed the soundtrack to the upcoming film Hidden Figures.  Naturally, the singles issued from Hidden Figures stay true to his signature sound.  He is the featured artist on single “Runnin.”  

“Runnin’” has an pld school soul sound coupled with jazz. Clearly, Williams had 50s and 60s R&B in mind.  The sound is tongue-n-cheek, with Williams pulling this off without a hitch.  Why is he so successful? He has the perfect, unique voice to execute this somewhat odd, unique record.

The record makes excellent use of background vocals, supporting Williams’ lead.  While Pharrell mostly sings,  there are spoken word components as well.  Expectedly, the chorus is catchy:

“Sometime my mind dives deep / when I’m runnin’ / I don’t want no free ride / I’m just sick and tired of runnin’ / some nights I cry / cause I can see the day comin’ / together we fight / oh, but no more runnin’.”

Final Thoughts

All in all, Pharrell Williams does an excellent job of erecting the vintage soul sound. This fits the film, at least based upon observations. “Runnin’” is well performed by Williams – enjoyable through and through.

Various Artists • Hidden Figures • Columbia • Release: TBD
Photo Credit: Columbia
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the musical hype

the musical hype aka Brent Faulkner has earned Bachelor and Masters degrees in music (music Education, music theory/composition respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and a freelance music journalist. Faulkner cites music and writing as two of the most important parts of his life. Notably, he's blessed with a great ear, possessing perfect pitch.

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