Album Review: Summer Walker’s ”Over It”
The musical genius of Summer Walker, an Atlanta-based rapper, singer, and songwriter, through her remarkable album released in early October 2019. Prepare to be captivated by her unique blend of old-school and post R&B styles, which has taken the music industry by storm. In fact, Summer Walker’s album has shattered records, becoming the most streamed R&B album by a female artist, surpassing even Beyonce’s Lemonade.
This 18-song album is a treasure trove of collaborations with renowned artists such as Bryson Tiller, Jhene Aiko, 6LACK, PartyNextDoor, A Boogie wit da Hoodie, Usher, and even Drake, who features in the remix version of “Girls Need Love.”
Delving into the essence of love, heartbreak, and intimate relationships, Summer Walker’s music resonates effortlessly with the Generation Z audience. Each song beautifully captures the struggles and desires of modern-day romance, making it incredibly relatable. For instance, in the opening track, “Over It,” Summer Walker expresses her longing for a partner who can handle her and emphasizes the importance of authenticity in relationships. Another standout track, “Playing Games,” featuring Bryson Tiller, intertwines a remix of Destiny’s Child’s classic “Say My Name” in the chorus, emphasizing the need for appreciation in love. Summer Walker yearns for recognition and attention that she rightfully deserves, echoing the sentiments of many in today’s era of complicated “situationships” and “friends with benefits.” The album’s overarching theme explores the challenge of finding genuine connections, whether in committed relationships or reliable companionship.
The album boasts several personal favorites, including “Body,” which cleverly samples the R&B group 702, “Come Thru,” featuring Usher, reminiscent of the soulful vibes of the 2000s, “Drunk Dialing…LODT,” where Summer Walker flawlessly portrays a drunken phone call midway through the song, and the emotionally charged “Anna Mae,” evoking a sense of nostalgia. Notably, the collaborations with Jhene Aiko and A Boogie wit da Hoodie add unexpected layers to the album, showcasing Summer Walker’s ability to stand out from the crowd.
Prepare yourself for an immersive musical experience as you indulge in the entirety of this album. From start to finish, it delivers an enchanting blend of post-R&B goodness, making it the perfect choice when you crave exceptional music. Summer Walker’s talent shines through each track, making her a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
Photo: Out of official music video