New Track: 'Betty (For Boogie)' By Jamila Woods Is A Brilliant Ode To Chicago House
Tristan Young @talltristan
Jamila Woods’ new album Legacy! Legacy! has been long gestating and long hyped. Now that it’s actually here, it kind of lives up to that hype. The Chicago soul/R&B singer’s sense of purpose, lyrical confidence and melodic intrigue has evolved considerably since her previous release. While there are a lot of contenders, ‘Betty (for Boogie)’ is one of the true standouts. It’s a reimagining of the first track from the album but translated into a Chicago house banger. The propulsive and foot work like percussive beat is some of the best use of drum sequencers this year. The gliding breeze of pianos quickly landing and taking off is fantastic and radiates a house/trance kind of vibe just as well as it does gospel energy. According to Woods the track is an ode to Boogie McLarin, a pioneering dance instructor from Illinois. Indeed, the gracefully fast and stylized accentuation of the melody practically begs for choreography. Woods’ vocals are equally intricate, processed with rippling echos right as she starts with, “I am not your typical girl”. Despite her fierce and defiant lyrics and speedy charisma, she sings with a casual serenity, especially in the verses; “What is it with you independent men, it’s always something”. Woods contrasts the tired cliches of male insecurity with the myriad and invigorating ways women can express themselves; sometimes all at once. As this track, one that is cathartic, confrontational, stimulating, and relaxing shows, Woods is well equipped to be the arbiter of such a concept. Legacy! Legacy! Is out now, you best get on it.