Credit: PHOTO CREDIT JOSEPH CALINDA
Amanda Holley is recognized for her incredible five-octave vocal range and her impressive talents as a singer-songwriter and musician. She has an impressive list of performances at top venues and events such as Fashion Week in New York and Los Angeles, the United Nations, Coachella, Carnegie Hall, W Times Square NYC, W Hollywood, The Pacific Design Center, and Sony Hall NYC. Furthermore, Columbia Press acknowledged her poetic skills when she was a teenager, resulting in her work being published for both poetry and prose. Holley’s music has also appeared on various movie soundtracks, such as Showtime Networks’ “SHARON 123.” She has been working on her EP in Los Angeles and New York City, constantly improving her skills and broadening her artistic range.
Amanda Holley’s most recent single, “Seasoning,” which came out on June 28th, 2024, delves deep into her artistic range and versatility. This song stands out in her collection, mixing soul with modern R&B and pop styles. “Seasoning” is a collaborative project produced by Andre Fennell, a Grammy-winning artist also known as GC (GATE CITIZENS), with input from co-writers Emmillienne Bellaire and Holley. From the instant the music starts, it immerses the audience in a complex auditory environment that is eerie yet enthralling. The initial comments establish a mysterious and difficult to grasp atmosphere, quickly sparking interest and expectation for what will come next. This meticulously designed atmosphere creates an ideal backdrop for Holley’s vocal talent, which quickly becomes the main focus.
Holley’s voice captivates listeners immediately it steps in with a unique and profoundly emotional quality. Her five-octave range is fully on display, yet it is her skill in expressing deep emotion that really shines. At the 44-second point, the song hits a crucial moment with a powerful increase in vocal, demonstrating Holley’s remarkable skill and mastery. This moment showcases her vocal talent as she smoothly sings intricate melodies with authentic emotion. The ascent serves not only as a technical exhibition but also as a storytelling tool that enhances the listener’s emotional connection to the music.
The lyrical themes present in “Seasoning” enhance its complexity and substance. Holley’s lyrics show a poetic essence that mirrors her experience as an established poet. The song delves into the concepts of love, desire, and connection by comparing them to seasoning, highlighting the intricate and subtle aspects of these feelings. This metaphor is very successful because it connects the song’s lyrics and music, resulting in a unified and absorbing experience. The concept that seasoning and soul go hand in hand, crossing boundaries of culture and time, is a potent observation that resonate on multiple levels.
The instrumentation in “Seasoning” is intentionally crafted, allowing Holley’s vocal ability to shine. The subtle rhythmic components effectively propel the song forward, while still maintaining focus on the vocal performance. This method fosters an intimate and immediate connection, pulling the listener into the emotional heart of the song. The vocals and instrumentation flow together smoothly, enhancing each other in perfect harmony. This precise equilibrium showcases the talent and foresight of the artists participating in the creation.
In terms of music, “Seasoning” expertly combines traditional and modern elements. The production, overseen by Grammy-winning artist Andre Fennell, also known as GC (GATE CITIZENS), is both advanced and original. Fennell’s skill and knowledge shine through in how he shapes the song’s sound environment, blending detailed instrumental elements with a rhythmic urban pop rhythm. This setting creates a lively base for Holley’s singing, showcasing her vocals and elevating the song’s overall effect. The partnership of Holley, Fennell, and collaborator Emmillienne Bellaire creates a song that blends classic and modern elements.
One of the most standout features of “Seasoning” is its capacity to elicit a variety of emotions in the audience. Holley’s voice is both commanding and compelling, and is able to express strong desire, enthusiasm, and reflection. The compelling nature of her voice catches the attention of the listener, allowing them to experience each note and word fully. The emotional depth is heightened by the song’s honest exploration of love and desire. The outcome is a song that is deeply personal yet universally relatable.
To conclude, Amanda Holley’s “Seasoning” is an impressive accomplishment that highlights her exceptional skill and creative vision. The combination of soulful tunes, poetic words, and sophisticated production in the song results in a strong and captivating listening experience. Holley’s singing is incredibly impressive, seizing the listener’s focus and maintaining it for the duration of the song. The music created by working together with Andre Fennell and Emmillienne Bellaire combines both classic and modern elements, connecting with audiences emotionally. Make sure to give this mesmerizing piece of music a listen.
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