The subtle, addictive single is a pulsating pop-R&B jam produced by two of the talents behind Sing
Erika Costell is a social media titan with several million fans across platforms like YouTube and Instagram. Social stars like Costell come with preconceived notions; the fact they do music often inspires eye rolls and utterances like, “of course.” Don’t discount Costell, though. Putting her in such a box is a mistake.
Photo © Erika Costell
Produced by movie musical genius Harvey Mason Jr. (Dreamgirls, Sparkle, Pitch Perfect, Sing) & Brittany Burton (Sing, Girls’ Generation), the new Erika Costell single “Queen” is a slinky, pop-R&B song with a subtle hook that won’t leave your head for days. The track pulses forward with a rhythmic sense of urgency; Mason Jr. also produced the Britney Spears Circus album cut “Mannequin,” which had a similarly striking beat, urgency and chilled vocal performance.
The song’s brilliance is how it feels like it could be played anywhere, from a club, to the radio, to a movie trailer. This versatile song is imbued with the sense of casual confidence its vocal delivery and lyrics portray. Lines like, “They say that I don’t look right” bring to light the type of harsh critiques the singer faces on the daily. She brushes them off, though, singing on the chorus, “Don’t let shit get skin deep.”
At a svelte three minutes in length, “Queen” lends itself to repeat listens, which is essential in the streaming era. Addictive songs like this leave the audience wanting more, and flow seamlessly on “repeat” mode. Whether by intention or mistake, it’s a strength the song bolsters.
Music Video
Directed by Shannon Curry and Costell herself, the “Queen” music video matches the song with moody visuals and a sense of wealth, without trying too hard. The jewelry her mostly-off-screen handlers adorn her with could be costume jewelry, but the audience would never know; Costell’s confident performance makes everything read like the real deal. Powerful moments like Costell destroying a full-length mirror in the desert convey metaphors of conquering self-doubt and body insecurities.
What’s your favorite song at the moment? Tweet me: @DerekPlease