A Memphis singer who defies R&B regionalism, Jon Waltz had a breakthrough earlier this year when his song "Justified" earned over one million plays on SoundCloud. He's been silent for months, until yesterday, when he released "Riot," the lead single from his debut LP.
"Riot" is a reflection on growing up that takes a rather sunny outlook on unwell-ness. Produced by Eric Lynch, Jack Dine, and RNDYSVGE, it blends soft keys, thumping drums, loping bass and organ flourishes with background harmonies reminiscent of Frank Ocean. It's the sort of song begging to be performed live with a bombastic horn section and an extended "Hey Jude"-style refrain.
Quotable Lyrics
My daddy told me good things come and go
Advice don't really help, 'cause I can't help myself
My momma told me good things come in 2
But I don't got 2 girlfriends, 2 friends, 2 chains