“before you” by angelbaby is one of the most well-put-together R&B tracks you’ll ever hear. Every little aspect is incredibly gratifying. The vocals are gymnastic in their control and soul. The production is full, warm, and dynamic. The songwriting is flawless. You’ll be left in love with the feeling this track gives you.
It begins with a reverb-drenched acoustic guitar and some melodic vocal ad-libs. With a crisp drum fill and a choir-like burst of background vocals, the verse sets in: “Tell me, do you ever think about it? / Are we living on two different timelines? / I only jump without a parachute / ‘Cause I thought that you would be my lifeline.” Already, the lyricism hits that perfect intersection between poetic and relatable. The vocal timbre is also so clean and flexible it’s easy to melt into the ambiance of the track. The pre-chorus brings a breakdown in percussion, allowing the synths and vocals to create something dreamy just before the anthemic, rhythmic chorus. This section really shows off the dexterity of angelbaby’s voice, as each swift run tumbles downward with ease.
The harmony-laden hook welcomes the chorus: “I can’t remember who I was before you.” Every instrument and texture takes on a high-energy ambiance. The groove is in full swing. The mix is overflowing with this delightful fullness. The vocals dominate the sound. It’s undoubtedly a chorus to write home about. As the climax of the song, this moment satisfies any and every hope you could’ve had.
Be sure to give angelbaby a follow and a listen! You’ll be glad you did.
Written by Alyce Lindberg
