Despite, a number of push backs, name changes and the release of two EPs, Girl Disrupted is finally here! Having written for major music acts including Alicia Keys, Ariana Grande and Chris Brown. Sevyn’s songwriting capabilities have never been questioned but this album was intended to showcase Sevyn’s abilities as an artist.
As expected the songwriting on the album was great (Sevyn co-wrote the entire album) but what I really appreciated was the rawness and honesty. The opening monologue sets the tone with Sevyn sharing how initially her focus was her album sounding amazing with perfect vocals and flawless production but as life normally does, unexpected events occurred leading to her battling with depression. A test of a great album is can people relate and connect with the music. This album touches on several life experiences, which most women can relate to from wanting to get revenge on that ex that did you wrong on ‘Everything in Me’ to being fully committed and infatuated with your partner on ‘My Love for You’.
Sevyn effortlessly exudes sex appeal which is at the forefront of tracks ‘Been a Minute’ and ‘Peace Sign’ which were produced by the Grammy award winning music producer Bangladesh. Both are stand out tracks on the album with smooth production also sensual and catchy lyrics. On this 13 track album, there are only 3 songs that I will probably not listen to again due to humdrum production or predictable lyrics. However, Sevyn’s vocal performance on this album definitely supersedes her last musical offering, Shoulda Been There, Pt. 1. Her voice doesn’t often get the credit it deserves, as it’s often overshadowed by memorable lyrics or first-rate production.
Features on the album include August Alsina, Ty Dolla $ign and Wiz Khalifa. They were appreciated and did not seem forced in the hope of securing a hit. The beat for ‘Been a Minute’ blended well with August Alsina’s voice and their vocals meshed perfectly. The producers on this album did a wonderful job complimenting Sevyn’s voice and helping to produce a cohesive body of work.
Overall, this a solid album which was worth the wait. Sevyn showed her abilities as both a singer and songwriter. It was a mix of pop and R&B, I hope Sevyn utilises creative marketing tactics and reaches beyond traditional media to promote this album. The typical posting on Instagram a picture of the album is not sufficient either, we need music videos, lyric videos, social media challenges and interviews to help this album get the recognition it deserves. As unfortunately, we are not in the time in the music industry where good quality music will prevail to the top of the charts.
The support given to black female R&B singers is at an all time low. As we are living in a visual era, it’s great that visuals have been produced for all three singles from the album. Other ways to bring attention to the album is to produce a similar documentary style of footnotes, Jay Z has used to promote 4:44, especially as the topics on the album, are so relatable. Reaching out to online influencers e.g. xoNecole, Karen Civil and vloggers that discuss pop culture and music with large followings e.g. Everyday Struggle. I think hip hop artists have harnessed the power of podcasts but I am yet to see an R&B singer hit the podcast circuit, how I have seen so many hip hop artists do. There are a plethora of podcasts which cater to Sevyn’s target audience e.g. The Receipts Podcast, Therapy for Black Girls, The Remedy Podcast and Angela Yee’s Lip Service.
On Repeat: Been a Minute, Ol Skool, Peace Sign and Translation
Songs I didn’t need: Before I do and Present Situation
Rating: 3.5/5
Watch the video for Sevyn’s latest single, Anything You Want feat. Ty Dolla $ign, Wiz Khalifa & Jeremih here
Listen to Girl Disrupted here
