The Princess Who Curated a New Sound in R&B.
By | Aniyah Davies
There are many people you've witnessed gaining love and adoration through social media, such as Cardi B, Sexxy Redd, Asiahn, and many more! However, one artist who has spearheaded many social media dance trends and captured the emotions of young women is Laila¡—the newest R&B singer and rapper who has gained traction with her quirky hits, along with the fame inherited from her father, Mos Def. Artists with famous parents or connections in the industry often struggle to make their mark because they find it challenging to shape their image, carve their path, or fully showcase their talents. Laila¡, however, stands out by creating an entirely new sound of R&B with her latest album, Gap Year, which resonates deeply with young adults.
To provide some background, Laila¡ began her rise on TikTok with her 2023 song "Like That," which sparked a viral dance craze and had girls singing their hearts out like SWV. "Like That" was written and produced by Laila¡ at just 16 years old in her bedroom, and it remains a masterpiece—a song that evokes nostalgia through its lyrics while retaining the playful essence of adolescence, making it both relatable and captivating.
Following her breakout, Laila¡ occasionally posted videos of herself singing riffs, producing beats, and teasing another single, "Wassup." She built anticipation for the release of her debut EP, In CTRL!, in early 2024, solidifying her place in the music industry with a sound that blends multiple genres, similar to SZA’s alternative R&B. The EP features four songs, all written and produced by Laila¡, capturing the emotions of summer and exploring the unorthodox yet human experiences of making choices, finding freedom in adulthood, and deciding who you want to become. The EP not only evoked emotion but also showcased Laila¡'s flawless production skills and unique rapping style. While many female rappers focus on generic themes around their bodies or desires, Laila¡ rejects these expectations, rapping with a fast, laid-back, and effortless style akin to Karrah Boo, but with more playfulness and wordplay. The standout tracks from the EP are "80 In A 55" and "Soft Serve."
In CTRL! was a stepping stone into the industry, but Gap Year promises to be her true breakthrough. Released on Friday, September 6, 2024, Gap Year consists of 17 tracks, all sung and produced by Laila¡, with no features. Despite the absence of collaborators, the album's production is exemplary, allowing Laila¡ to carry the project and fully showcase her personality, ambition, and creativity.
The album opens with "Talent Show," which feels like a recorded video where Laila¡ introduces herself and sings "Nothing to Say," a song she wrote. It has an innocent feel but beautifully displays her talent as she communicates her deepest thoughts through music. The song reflects on a failed love story and her journey of moving on, speaking life into herself while validating her feelings of betrayal and sadness. One standout lyric that resonates with many women is: "That’s what happens when you're young and make mistakes; And if he was a mistake, then he was great." Many artists use metaphors and euphemisms to convey emotion, but Laila¡'s impact comes from her honest and literal lyrics. The song ends with a sweet voice message from a family member, adding to its nostalgic charm.
The album then transitions into "SINK 2 RISE," "R U Down?," and "If U Don’t Know By Now"—all fun tracks reminiscent of her EP’s vibe. "SINK 2 RISE" has an old-school house music beat, making it feel perfect for seasoned listeners, while "R U Down?" is a groovy, feel-good track with a dynamic progression. "If U Don’t Know By Now" is a smooth, romantic song that’s perfect for couples, reminiscent of classic R&B.
Other vital tracks include "Grand Opening," "Blackberry (Date 4 Prom)," "Could Be," and "Coupé DeVille." In "Grand Opening," Laila¡ raps with confidence, letting listeners know she's here to make her mark while having fun. "Blackberry (Date 4 Prom)" resembles SZA's "Prom" and samples lyrics from Frank Ocean's "Voodoo," playing with technology-infused beats at a slower tempo. "Could Be" ties the project together with its emphasis on Laila¡'s vocal talent and passion for navigating dating and adulthood. The closing track, "Coupé DeVille," stands out with its introspective subject matter, similar to Chase Shakur's "Honda Civic '98," where the car serves as a metaphor for the person driving it.
One of the most imperative elements contributing to Gap Year’s success is its seamless transitions between songs, making the project cohesive. Along with three singles incorporated into the album, each track flows effortlessly into the next, showcasing Laila¡'s artistic vision and attention to detail.
In conclusion, Gap Year marks a significant milestone in Laila¡'s artistic journey, solidifying her place as a unique voice in the R&B and rap landscape. Through her authentic storytelling, innovative production, and refusal to conform to industry expectations, she has crafted an album that resonates with listeners on multiple levels. From nostalgic reflections on love and youth to the bold declaration of her individuality, Laila¡'s growth as both a musician and a person shines through. Her ability to seamlessly blend genres, capture raw emotions, and experiment with sound proves that she's not just an artist following in the footsteps of her famous father, but a trailblazer in her own right. With Gap Year, Laila¡ has not only cemented her spot in the music world but has also shown that she's a force to be reckoned with—one who is shaping the future of R&B with her creativity, honesty, and undeniable talent. If you not listening to Gap Year, then what you doing?
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