Multi-Grammy & Emmy nominated recording artist, TV star and activist Jon Batiste has announces a new single “I Need You” from his forthcoming ‘black pop’ album WE ARE. The album is set for worldwide release on March 19 (Verve Records).
On “I Need You” (below) Batiste showcases his vocal range, accompanied by his once-in-a-generation musicianship. Produced and written in collaboration with songwriter Autumn Rowe and producer Kizzo, the song is communal and deceptively sophisticated. It fuses the sound of early 20th century black social music, with modern pop production and a hint of hip-hop storytelling. He expertly alternates between belting high notes in full voice, to singing harmony with himself on the choruses, to delivering the verses in a ‘farm rap’ style. Batiste then dives into two killer instrumental breaks on both piano and saxophone – all in less than three minutes. Says Batiste, “This song is a vibe cleanse. After 2020, this is like a warm hug,” says Batiste. “Let’s bring the vibes back!”
