Re: Goapele Break Of Dawn
Stephanie Dejoode
Goapele Break Of Dawn: A Review
Goapele is a singer-songwriter from Oakland, California, who blends R&B, neo-soul, jazz, and hip-hop influences in her music. She is known for her socially conscious and personal lyrics, as well as her collaborations with artists like E-40, Mos Def, and Eric Benet. Her fourth studio album, Break of Dawn, was released in 2011 after a five-year hiatus. The album showcases Goapele's growth as an artist and a woman, as she explores themes of love, sexuality, empowerment, and spirituality.
The album's title track, "Break of Dawn", is a motivational anthem that encourages listeners to keep moving forward despite the challenges and hardships they may face. Goapele sings, "I've had some starless nights left in darkness / I've walked down roads with no direction / Somehow I find my way within / The sun will rise, the day will begin" . The song has a smooth and uplifting production by Malay and Terrence "Scar" Smith, who also worked on other tracks on the album.
One of the most popular songs on the album is "Play", a sensual and playful song that celebrates female desire and agency. Goapele sings, "I wanna play with you / You wanna play with me / Don't be afraid to be / All that you wanna be" . The song has a catchy and funky beat by Dan Electric and Teddy Thunderbolt, and a seductive video directed by John Mazyck . The song was featured on the soundtrack of the movie Think Like a Man.
Another highlight of the album is "Milk & Honey", the first single that was released in 2009. The song is a metaphor for the sweet and satisfying aspects of love and intimacy. Goapele sings, "You're my milk and honey / You're so good for me / You're my milk and honey / You're so sweet to me" . The song has a soulful and sultry production by Bedrock, Kerry "Krucial" Brothers, and Electric Thunderbolt, and a visually stunning video shot with the Red One Camera by David Telles .
The album also features other songs that showcase Goapele's versatility and range as a vocalist and songwriter. For example, "Tears On My Pillow" is a heart-wrenching ballad about the pain of losing a loved one, "Money" is a socially conscious song about the corruption and greed in the world, and "Pieces" is a soulful song about finding peace and harmony within oneself. The album also includes collaborations with rappers such as Clyde Carson on "Right Here" and Mos Def on "Different".
Break of Dawn is an album that reflects Goapele's maturity and confidence as an artist and a woman. It is an album that offers a balance of emotion, passion, wisdom, and inspiration. It is an album that deserves to be heard by fans of R&B, neo-soul, and good music in general.
References:
- [1] Break of Dawn (Goapele album) - Wikipedia
- [2] Goapele Break of Dawn Lyrics Genius Lyrics
- [3] Goapele - Break of Dawn Album Reviews, Songs & More AllMusic
- [4] Goapele - Play (Official Music Video) - YouTube