Halle Bailey’s Love?… or Something Like It is currently the no. 1 album on iTunes (US) R&B chart. For many reasons, this is well-deserved, because the singer/songwriter and actress creates music she enjoys, fusing her soft voice with bold sounds.
In the album’s description on Apple Music, it says the project “blends R&B elegance and openhearted intimacy.” From the intro to the very first song and ending, Bailey tells the narrative of falling in love (or a feeling close to it), heartbreak, and the bittersweet acceptance of moving on.
For me, I love how cinematic this album is. The lyrics, vocals, and instruments, such as the piano and electric guitar, come together to create a symphony that could serve as the soundtrack for a romance film.
Love?… or Something Like It features the standout singles “Angel,” “In Your Hands,” “Back and Forth,” “Because I Love You,” and “Braveface.” But below are really the best songs.
Overtime
‘This is how a good girl never came back. She was riding on your truth, but you never told that.’
Starting with this song after the intro was *chef’s kiss.* At the 1:52 mark, the moment when the guitar comes in and Halle sings, “I just gotta close the door,” is so rock-coded. I’m supposed to be wearing a leather jacket when I play this.
Heaven
‘Straight to Heaven, now I’m yours, no question. I’ll make sure I’ll bless you.’
A song you can move your body to, “Heaven,” makes me want to dance. I can see myself listening to this song on a beach or somewhere tropical with a coconut in my hand. But until then, I’ll settle for having it on repeat in my car.
Alone featuring Mariah The Scientist
“I don’t like to be alone without you.”
Halle teased this song a while ago on her social media, and from the snippet, I already knew I’d like it. Adding Mariah The Scientist was a nice touch as her voice glides on the beat.
No Warning featuring H.E.R.
“Want to play those twisted games with me, do you?”
Before I even listened to the whole song, the harmonization at the beginning instantly pulled me in. H.E.R. sounds amazing, and her voice blending with Halle’s makes it repeat-worthy.