- Bryon Harris
Kay Soul- 'Dear Self'
Review by Patrick Joseph & Staff
The W.A M. Awards celebrate the year’s most outstanding independent artists from around the world in multiple genres and categories. "Best Song" and "Best Album" nominations were based on Artistry, Musicianship, Originality, Professionalism, Diversity, and Excellence. W.A.M. stands for "We Are the Music Makers.' Kay Soul's Album "Hiding in Plain Sight" was the 2020 W.A.M. Award Winner for Best Album in the R & B / Soul music category. Off the album, the song "Dear Self" is a song about self-love and respect.
Production values highlight and elevate great vocal hooks and a relatable message in “Dear Self.” Synth horn lines and strings are executed with a very human feel and layer together with energy. There is a freshness and experiential nature to the rhythm section instruments on this track. The arrangement builds perfectly with the intensity of the vocals. The layered hi hat patterns and trap drum fills during the 2nd section are amazing. The addition of guitar and piano timbres during this section, as well as auto-tune on the vocals give the track a renewed depth of feeling.
A raw and emotional vocal delivery floats over the top of this song and communicates the lyrics with dynamic peaks and valleys. Lyrically, this track is introspective and self-empathic. “Dear 17 year old self, Dear 21 your old self, Learn to love yourself, Don’t be so hard on yourself.” The strength and passion of Kay’s vocal delivery inject the lyrics with a confident resolution. Themes of double-crossing and betrayal are explored and remedied by the idea of accepting and loving oneself.
“Dear Self” is a lofty song that remains fun and engaging. A brilliant backing track is constantly evolving and finding new sonic ground. A sharp lyrical wit, transparent vocal inflections, and catchy melodies combine to create a hip, soothing listen. Intensity and control co-exist in this affirming, insistent track.
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About Kay Soul
KaySoul is a recording artist and aspiring plus model based in Chicago. Kay began singing and writing songs in elementary school and recorded her first solo song at the age of 19. After taking a year for growth and self-reflection, KaySoul returns to share the experiences and insights she has gathered. Kay strives to promote positivity and faith through her songs. Vulnerable and heartwarming, Kay’s music provides perseverance through tough times. Through powerful, soulful and emotionally-rich vocals, Kay's music is an authentic journey of self-expression. In 2020, Kay has released 2 new singles, “Blood In My Veins” and “Silly Love” to positive reviews from the Indie music community.
KaySoul is a 2020 W.A.M (We are the Music Makers) award nominee for the HerSong Artist of the Year for Blood In My Veins and Winner for Best R&B album for her album Hiding In Plain Sight. Kay was Previously nominated for a Chicago Independent Music Award for best R&B singer, Kay has released multiple singles, a mix tape, her debut EP "Deeper" and full-length album "Hiding in Plain Sight". She has performed at several high-profile events including headlining at Elbo Room Chicago and Underground Wonder Bar, the Silver Room Block Party, Full Figured Fashion Week in New York City and singing The National Anthem at the NBA matchup between Milwaukee and Orlando. KaySoul has been a featured artist in numerous publications including Chicago Music Guide 2020, Voyage LA, Buzz Music, Indie Music Reporter, Luxe Kurves Magazine, Rolling Out Magazine, American Pride Magazine and Indie Music Plus. KaySoul was listed as an Artist to Watch by Indie Spoonful and 716 Live magazine and become the first featured artist on the Canada based music-streaming platform, Whoozl. As a plus size model, KaySoul has modeled for multiple designers including national plus size brands Avenue and Lane Bryant and was featured as Ms. April in the Massive Collection 2019 calendar. She is a Brand Ambassador and has continued to build her body positive platform with a featured write up and podcast on Society of Sound focusing on perceptions of beauty. KaySoul is also a cause warrior for mental health awareness and was the May 2020 featured guest on Apple Podcast, Tea Time With Monica, discussing mental health and healing. Kay is currently working on her new album "In My Mind" set to release October 30, 2020.
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