2023 Grammy's Album Of The Year Review: "Special" - Lizzo

 

With the Grammy nominations announced, its time for my annual review of every album of the year nominee. Track information in this review if courtesy of genius.com.

"Special" - Lizzo

Nice Life/Atlantic Records

1) "The Sign"

This acts as a 'tone-setter' for the album. Lyrically, its a bit lacking.

2) "About Damn Time"

This track deals with resilience; "Oh, I been so down and under pressure, I'm way too fine to be this stressed". This is extremely catchy.

3) "Grrrls"

This acts as an anthem for women showing love & power; "That's my girl, we codependent. If she with it, then I'm with it".

4) "2 Be Loved (Am I Ready)"

As the title says, this deals with whether Lizzo is ready for a relationship; "You found me, I was fed up with the fantasy". There's a nice key change with the last chorus.

5) "I Love You Bitch"

There's a nice piano intro, but this track is let down by a simplistic chorus.

6) "Special"

This deals with self-empowerment in response to some of her online critics; "Could you imagine a world where everybody's the same". She really shows off her vocals.

7) "Break Up Twice"

With a unique sounding intro, this acts as an ultimatum; "I never had nobody with a love like you, It would be a shame not to see this through". The backing instrumentals further enhances this track.

8) "Everybody's Gay"

This is about showing our true-selves; "This costume feels so real, almost scared myself". There's a nice throwback sound.

9) "Naked"

Dealing with acceptance, this track has a nice groove.

10) "Birthday Girl"

This deals with celebration; "We here, we just had to believe on it".

11) "If You Love Me"

This is superb lyrically; "If you love me, you love all of me, or none of me at all".

12) "Coldplay"

With a jazzy sound to it, this is a dedication to her significant other. This samples Coldplay's "Yellow".

There are a few minor hiccups during the 1st half of this album, but there's a consistent sound & tone. The 2nd half "Special" is incredibly solid. (88)

"In These Silent Days" - Brandi Carlile: 96

"Renaissance" - Beyonce: 93 

"30"- Adele: 92 

"Special" - Lizzo: 88

"Good Morning Gorgeous" (Deluxe) - Mary J Blige: 82

"Un Verano Sin Ti" - Bad Bunny: 81

"Music Of The Spheres" - Coldplay: 77