Maybe her return was not highly anticipated by the majority of the pop music population, but many generations have adored her music and talent. Then there are the few, like me, who never knew who she was, but either way Gwen Stefani has made her return to the solo artist recording studio with her knew song, “Baby Don’t Lie”.
After disappearing from the pop charts for nine years, Stefani will debut her next album come 2015. With such a gap between albums, I thought she would come back on the scene with some firepower, but that was not the case, which may explain why the anticipation was mute.
Nevertheless, the opening hook lights up the sky for Stefani’s new song. “Baby Don’t Lie” fuses pop and reggae, creating a unique up-beat clapping melody. Enthusiasts and skeptics alike will agree that the beginning engages any person within earshot.
Potential grows for the spectators as the first verse’s calm lyrics conflict with the rising melody, setting up what looks like the next chart- topping smash-hit song. Then the chorus chokes.
The pulse-pounding base kicks it into high gear, while Stefani remains at her neutral tone. The energetic tempo is ruined by Stefani’s lack of vocal inflection.
Far more than disappointed, I thought she might be waiting to let out her vocal talent in the next chorus. That too was ruined by one of her idiosyncrasies that I could not ignore. Perhaps I am just being picky, but after most lines she tails off her words into a high-pitched squeak. Artists call it a “hiccup”, but in this case it was overkill.
The second chorus was no different than the first. And if it weren’t for the standout melody of the song, I would not have made it through this boring repetitious chorus. Then my prayers were answered as the beat switched back to the beginning clapping.
From there she also switched from her pop-reggae genre to a pop hip-hop. Although hip-hop is the least favorite of my musical taste, I could respect the effort she made to keep listeners entertained.
Immediately, it jumped back into the pop-reggae theme and chorus. This quick transition brought some, but not much, life and excitement into her chorus.
Despite her lack of vocal enthusiasm, Stefani produces a rhythm that is sure to stay with the listener long after the song ends; and admittedly, it was not too terrible of a tune to have ringing in my head.
“Baby Don’t Lie” has a high-energy tune that will build its popularity among parties and dances. Still, the lack of meaningful lyrics and vocal bedazzlement keep it a cliché pop song, not a chart topping hit.
