(September 20, 2021) Finding out about the Nashville based vocal trio The Shindellas was one of the happy coincidences that often happens when I’m scrolling through my phone looking for some good workout music. That’s how I stumbled upon their 2019 EP Genesis.
I was struck by the three distinctive voices of Tamara Chauniece, Kasi Jones and Stacy Johnson, as well as their tight harmonies. They kind of reminded me of The Jones Girls in that regard. Of course, The Jones Girls are sisters, while The Shindellas come from different musical backgrounds and regions of the country. The three were brought together by producers Claude Kelly and Chuck Harmony, who scored hits for the likes of Rihanna and Bruno Mars before deciding to become a group in their rights under the name Louis York.
(September 20, 2021) Finding out about the Nashville based vocal trio The Shindellas was one of the happy coincidences that often happens when I’m scrolling through my phone looking for some good workout music. That’s how I stumbled upon their 2019 EP Genesis.
I was struck by the three distinctive voices of Tamara Chauniece, Kasi Jones and Stacy Johnson, as well as their tight harmonies. They kind of reminded me of The Jones Girls in that regard. Of course, The Jones Girls are sisters, while The Shindellas come from different musical backgrounds and regions of the country. The three were brought together by producers Claude Kelly and Chuck Harmony, who scored hits for the likes of Rihanna and Bruno Mars before deciding to become a group in their rights under the name Louis York.
Their vocal talent - and their common vision of using their music as a platform to promote their belief that women can create powerful change when they come together - gives their music an organic sound of three people who have known each other for years. The music on Genesis often touched on themes of empowerment and women taking agency over their lives. That has been a recurring theme in the music made by many women artists, and I have been waiting for a full-length album from the trio.
Well, that wait ends with the release of Hits That Stick Like Grits. I struggled with which tune to highlight as a First Listen. I could have gone with the track like “Posters,” a track that finds the trio employing their impeccable harmonies to warn of the dangers of hero worship. I also thought of going with one of the great ballads like “Volcano Love” or “Win My Heart.”
In the end, this First Listen will focus on “Money,” which is the lead single. “Money” is a rollicking, fun amalgamation of gospel, funk and jazz in which the three vocalists warn audiences to watch people are a bit too thirsty for money and fame. The tune showcases all The Shindellas’ vocal virtues. We hear those sharp, crisp harmonies, as well as the distinct vocals of each woman. Check out the video for “Money” here.
By Howard Dukes
The Shindellas – “Money”