Currently listening to: Janelle Monae
In times where 99% of chart music sounds the same its SO refreshing to hear artists like Janelle Monae. Although her single Tightrope sounds like Hey Ya by Outkast (it features Big Boi) its in no way a representation of her overall sound. Her album The ArchAndroid is a concept album that spans over 70 minutes telling the story of the earthly descent of an alien-esque alter ego of Monae’s called Cindi Mayweather. Okay so its sounds absolutely crazy but the story’s weaved in through orchestral segues that narrates and flows beautifully.
From start to finish you’ll hear influences from artists like michael jackson, pink floyd, bowie, stevie, james brown, the hives and Jimi all mishmashed and groomed over with her Beyonce/Amerie-esque vocals that add the modern touch. To add to this her live performances are explosive and her art direction embraces the narrative (see the sleeve and little movies that come with the album).
I really respect musicians who take their roles as artists seriously, not just limiting themselves to one type of expression but taking other forms along with them on the ride. We dont see much of that recently and its mostly just people fulfilling their roles as singers and stopping there (and theres also singers who dont sing live at all). Why stop there? Why not continue to push the envelope in other arenas and make an identity that is truly original? I understand this has much to do with the machine of the music industry itself so its even more refreshing to see singers that are also artists.
ANYWAY rant over, cant wait to see her live
P.S So excited for Friday!! rehearsals tomorrow.
titsay
gummygunk
tangentwithtanner
dailybridgerton
discoholicmusic
