(August 6, 2021) It has only been a quick minute since German based Joy Denalane most recently graced our First Listen column with the sophisticated ballad, “The Show” - a poignant piece about the maturation process. Denalane has more than proven herself as one of Germany's soul queens for two decades with 7 CDs that charted in the top 50 on the Swiss and Austrian charts, and the top 10 in Germany. And her musical range stretches from Afro pop to hip-hop and jazz. So, what does the singer/songwriter have up her artistic sleeve?
(August 6, 2021) It has only been a quick minute since German based Joy Denalane most recently graced our First Listen column with the sophisticated ballad, “The Show” - a poignant piece about the maturation process. Denalane has more than proven herself as one of Germany's soul queens for two decades with 7 CDs that charted in the top 50 on the Swiss and Austrian charts, and the top 10 in Germany. And her musical range stretches from Afro pop to hip-hop and jazz. So, what does the singer/songwriter have up her artistic sleeve?
With all those expressive vocals and a confident musical arsenal, Denalane is about to face a new artistic challenge - at least in her own opinion: "The melody and arrangement have less of my signature than many of the songs on the album." For Denalane's return to First Listen, she releases “Forever,” from Let Yourself Be Loved (Deluxe Edition), embodying all those funky, smooth ingredients defining the late sixties Motown Sound.
With all the precious attention to classic soul detail arranged by Roberto Gioia, who also produced “The Show,” Denalane easily nails all her goals. “Forever” speaks for itself, as demonstratedby a couple in the accompanying video who thoroughly enjoy each other’s company: "When forever is more than just the words we say/When it's a place where you and I can lay/You know that I'll be there waiting."
And the winning orchestrations stamped by Gioia's slinky bass and keys fill the room with sweetness and power. A special nod to Denalane's longtime collaborator, Max Herre and Gioia for once again honoring a time-tested record label, as presented by a time-tested soulful messenger.
By Peggy Oliver
Joy Denalane - "Forever"