Grande, Smith and Pitbull release singles to mixed reviews

By Ryan, November 18, 2015

By Collin Giuliani//Staff Writer

Of the many singles released within the past month, there are a few standouts, for better or worse.“Focus” by Ariana Grande: Grande’s first release off of her third album, Moonlight, is eerily similar to “Problem” from a year ago. Even though “Problem” isn’t a bad song, per se, it did have its flaws with the main one being that there’s this great build-up in the pre-chorus that completely gets destroyed with Big Sean’s whisper-chorus. Ariana Grande does the same thing here, as “Focus” has a solid pre-chorus build-up that should lead to an emphatic chorus. However, instead of Big Sean’s whispering, we get Jamie Foxx whaling in the most annoying voice possible. All build-up gets destroyed and Jamie Foxx’s appearance is not only a questionable one, but one that is laughably bad. Ariana Grande’s vocals are as strong as they have ever been on the track, and the breakdown is catchy, innovative, creative and the best part of the song. The addition of the trumpets in the breakdown redeem the song somewhat from the poor Jamie Foxx chorus, but even that doesn’t hide the fact that this song sounds exactly like “Problem” and is, essentially, a copycat. Seeing how “Problem” reached a peak of number two on “Billboard,” the formula has clearly worked for her in the past, so don’t be surprised if this song hits the top five on the charts. Still, it’s an uninspired release that takes no risks in terms of the pop formula and while the trumpet breakdown and vocals are really good, the Jamie Foxx chorus kills the song. It’s not the worst song she’s ever released, but it’s definitely the worst single she’s released. 4 out of 10
“No Doubt About It” by Jussie Smollett and Pitbull: FOX’s hit television show “Empire” has made some solid music over the course of their first two seasons, including songs such as “You’re So Beautiful,” “Good Enough” and “No Apologies.” Along with solid writing and a fast-paced plot that feels like a primetime soap opera, the music is a huge reason as to why “Empire” is one of the highest rated shows on television according to the Nielsen ratings. It appears this television show might have a legitimate hit on their hands with this latest single. While there are some flaws with the track, Jussie Smollett’s vocals, along with the harmonies and the catchy chorus makes this song one of the better party songs of the year. It is generic, but it is able to send a good message about partying without getting offensive or being disgusting about it. The lyrics are centered on the idea of not caring about anything and just having a good time while listening to music and having a few shots. The production value on “No Doubt About It” is what makes this song incredibly catchy and memorable after just one listen; the added layers in Smollett’s voice at times in the chorus make the song stand out.
There are only two problems with this song. The first is that it is a bit long, running at 4:45 minutes. There is an instrumental section after the bridge that doesn’t really belong considering the flow of the song that could’ve easily been cut out. The second problem is Pitbull. He’s just there rapping about nothing that has to do with the show or anything in particular. Not only does he mention that there is no social media at the party, but he raps for nearly an entire minute, far overstaying his welcome. The verse is at the beginning of the song, so once you get past, it’s smooth sailing. Take Pitbull and the instrumental section outand you’ve got a near-flawless celebration song. 8 out of 10
“Writing’s on the Wall” by Sam Smith: The release of another “James Bond” film means the release of another “James Bond” theme. Whereas Adele had a great release in 2012 with “Skyfall,” which hit number eight on the “Billboard Hot 100”, Sam Smith’s release is one of the most boring, dreariest Bond themes released. “No Doubt About It” and “Writing’s on the Wall” are roughly the same timeframe; yet, this song feels significantly longer and drags on. Sam Smith spends the entire second half of the chorus in falsetto; while he did this in songs such as “La La La” and “Latch,” this worked because the song had a fast tempo. In this song, which may be written in negative time, his falsetto doesn’t show how good of a singer he is; rather, it makes it sound as though Alvin and the Chipmunks are singing the Bond theme. Most Bond themes have an orchestral accompaniment and this one is no different. When the orchestra comes in at the chorus, it feels like the song is finally gaining momentum; however, in the middle of the chorus, the orchestra stops building up and takes a backseat to Sam Smith singing in falsetto. Additionally, when Sam Smith sings his final note, instead of the orchestra playing a great closing, you hear nothing from the orchestra. Sam Smith’s held out note is what ends the song. The fundamental problem with this song is simple- Sam Smith doesn’t have a powerful enough voice to sing this song. This song could easily work with a more powerful artist. Not much about the song is memorable. It’s a disappointing Bond theme, to say the least. 3 out of 10