With this review, I feel like I need to re-introduce you to Kalin White…
Even though I am a new fan and have only been listening to him for about the last month or so, I wanted to cry after listening to this new album. I’m already an emotional person, especially when it comes to music, but I just felt so proud and happy for him. This album, Chapter 21 is giving us a piece of him and some of what he has gone through this past year after turning 21 in January. You have to remember, he left his gig with Myles Parrish in March/ April and began his solo journey at some point afterwards.
Here is the trailer he released before the album dropped… Kalin telling his story in his own words…
My Review
As for the album itself, it impressed me so much. I had no idea what to expect. I can’t even tell you how many times I have listened to it since it came out on Friday (October 14th), falling more in love with it every time. I can’t even tell you my favorite song because there’s something I love in each song. Of course I still love his single “Twisted” and “Savage” (check out my MCM post about Kalin from last Monday).
Starting with track 3, “Favorite Thing About You” just has so much swag and bounce to it. In “Pull Up (Aye)” it’s as simple as me loving how he says “Aye” and how hard the beat hits right after for the hook. Also, the way he sings the verse “… Riding round with a couple girls… They show me love… They see me and they wanna touch…”. I love how fun the hook is on “Take Care” and the harmonies on it are unique but dope of course. The melodies in “Teams” are just so smooth.
Now how can I be appropriate in describing his song “Wake Em Up” LOL… It’s such a sexy song and his voice is soft and flows when he gets to the chorus while still having that toughness about him which is perfect for this kind of song. And finally his song “Chapter 21” is the story-telling song. The track itself pulls me in and just puts me in that chill mood. I have been listening to this album while just riding around and it’s the perfect vibe (and yes I have my own little concerts while I’m driving and singing along… Don’t judge me LOL).
And don’t get me started on this boy’s vocal runs …
Becoming a Fan
I did a lot of research and in a short, condensed amount of time I was able to see a little bit of who he is and his journey up until this point. I know that I only got a small glimpse of him and that he’s so much more than what had been shared with fans. So far I have watched him be so appreciative, sweet, and loving to his fans. He even thanked me when I tweeted about how great I thought his singles “Twisted” and “Savage” were.
His fans ride so hard for him and I can definitely see why. I’m not a “Day 1” fan like most of his fan- base. I’m also a bit older, which is the complete opposite of most of his fan base. But I am with them and support Kalin 100%.
Kalin’s excitement for this project made me happy for him. He even released a piece of merchandise over the weekend to promote the album and it sold out in 15 minutes. If that’s not fan love and support then I don’t know what is. Also, all the love his fans showed the second that the album was released late Thursday night was amazing. He ended up #2 on the iTunes R&B chart.
Being a huge fan of R&B, especially Usher and Chris Brown, and Kalin being so young making the music he does, makes me love him and the genre even more. He really is amazing. I even feel the same excitement for Kalin that I normally feel for Chris Brown (pre-drama of course). What I mean by that is, no matter what he comes out with I’m going to buy and support it.
Final Thoughts…
I am so excited to see what Kalin has in store for us since the album is finally out. I do know that he has his first 2 official shows coming up on October 25 & 26th in California (his home). I know he’s going to kill it. When he tours, you can bet I will buy tickets as soon as they go on sale. I hope he brings it to the South but trust that I will travel to see him if I have to.
But until then, I just want to tell you Kalin, CONGRATS and I am so happy for you. I wish you the best of luck on everything and kick ass at those shows. I’ll be waiting to see how the turnout was but I’m sure it’s going to be insane.
Check Out His New Mini-Movie for “Savage” Below 🙂
Much love,
Mimi