Matthew Tyler Musto, better known as Blackbear,is an R&B and pop singer and producer from Florida. ‘1 SIDED LOVE’ is Blackbear’s first single in anticipation for his new album, Anonymous, which is being released April 26th. You’ve probably heard his Billboard chart-topper “do re mi” that was released back in 2017. It made it to #2 on the Hot R&B Chart and #40 on the Hot 100 Chart.
After releasing two albums back in 2017, each with two very distinct sounds, fans could only wonder about the next thing he’d bring to the table. With this new track, we get a taste of Blackbear’s older sound similar to that of tracks such as “90210” and “Ain’t Trippin”; both of which are songs from his album Deadroses (a personal favorite of mine). On his most recent album, Blackbear strayed a bit far from the sound his fans have come to love. It wasn’t his best work, and I, as well as most other fans, were waiting for him to redeem himself.
My favorite thing about this track is the hook. It’s gloriously fun to sing along to. To add to that, the light and atmospheric has a nice, spring-time feel to it. The instrumental style is familiar enough to make fans of his older work happy, yet still brings fresh elements to make it a more intriguing listen. It has a less aggressive beat and themes than his previous work.
Because the production remains minimal with very light hi-hats, kicks drums, and synths, the result is a very airy and warm tone that makes it a feel-good song. The effects on his vocals make his voice sound very dreamy.
His lyrics here seem to focus more on the analysis of a romantic relationship, rather than the songs on his album digital druglord that had lyrics focused a lot more on drugs, sex, and fame.
You’re too busy talking over me to hear what I’m saying
You’re too high to realize I see
Through the smile that you’re faking
He’s definitely getting poppier recently, stepping away from the darker R&B and hiphop work that he started out with. It’s nice to see him stepping out of his comfort zone and experimenting with new sounds! Stay tuned for the review of his upcoming album within the coming weeks. He’s one of my favorite artists recently; I’m excited to see the direction he takes the rest of this album.
OVERVIEW
Rating: 4/5
Best line:
Think you loved the idea of us more than the real thing
– Blackbear, 1 SIDED LOVE
Lend Me Your Ears 