It's been out for less than 24 hours, but already, Donald Glover's Swarm series is the talk of the internet. All seven episodes are currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video, and have earned both an 80% audience and critics score so far on Rotten Tomatoes. Viewers obviously can't stop reacting to the wild sex scene between Chloe Bailey and Damson Idris in the first episode, but the show's soundtrack is gaining plenty of attention in its own right as well.
Those who have already watched Swarm know it centres around a young woman with a serious obsession for Ni'jah, her favourite pop star. It reflects some of the lengths stans currently go to for artists like Nicki Minaj and Cardi B online, though our lead character, Dre (played by Dominique Fishback) takes things further than most people would ever dare. The singer's presence is notably similar to Beyoncé's, though she's actually voiced by independent artist KIRBY.
KIRBY and Childish Gambino Bring Ni'jah to Life with "Sticky"
Before working on Swarm, the Memphis-born songwriter worked with stars like Jennifer Lopez, Timbaland, and Brandy. She helped write "FourFiveSeconds" by Rihanna, Kanye West, and Paul McCartney, as well as Queen B's "Die with You." Her first solo album, titled Sis, arrived in February 2020 and had two tracks featured on the fourth season of Issa Rae's Insecure.
KIRBY's name was kept relatively quiet within the industry before, but after this new project, she's certainly going to be high in demand. It remains unclear if we'll see Glover's new TV series return for a second season, though fans are already expressing their desire to hear more from him and the rising female star. Other songs emerging as favourites on their new EP so far are "Something Like That" and "Agatha."
Stream Childish Gambino and KIRBY's "Sticky" on YouTube above. Afterward, read more about Swarm's infectious soundtrack here. Make sure to check back later this weekend for more release recommendations on our R&B Season playlist update.
Quotable Lyrics:
Out in my country, you're on your own
Porch and the palm trees, you're all alone
Sunlight is watching, so watch your back (Your back)
Don't look back
I'll come and find you, stay on track
[Via]