Artist: Annie J Single: Gotta Give It Up Genre: Disco, Funk, Retro Soul Release Date: September 20th, 2024
Seattle-based artist Annie J’s latest single, “Gotta Give It Up,” from her upcoming EP “Been Loving You,” is a disco-infused gem that blends funky rhythms with modern pop sensibility. It’s a track that bursts with energy, designed to make you move, with a groove that’s infectious from the first note. Filled with personality and sass, the song has a huge, polished sound that still feels playful and organic—a nod to Annie’s love for blending retro soul with contemporary vibes.
The song’s production is tight, featuring a vibrant ensemble that includes a full live horn section, Brad Gibson’s driving drums, and David Dawda’s solid bass lines. Emily Westman’s lush string arrangement and RL Heyer’s slick guitar riffs add layers of richness, while guest musicians Brennan Carter, Peter Daniel, and Jason Cressey bring the horns to life with style and flair. The collective energy of these musicians elevates “Gotta Give It Up” to a celebratory anthem that feels tailor-made for a dance floor.
Annie J, a Seattle-based artist, is stepping into the city’s budding instrument-based dance music scene with a sound that feels both fresh and nostalgic. Seattle has seen a resurgence of funk and groove-driven acts like Funky 2 Death, The True Loves, and other local groups who are bringing the spirit of funk back to the city. With “Gotta Give It Up,” Annie J joins this movement, contributing her own spin to Seattle’s evolving musical landscape. Her track fits perfectly within the city’s renewed love for danceable beats and vibrant live performances.
Annie’s vocal performance shines with confidence and joy, reminiscent of a young girl singing into the mirror with abandon, but now with the finesse of a seasoned artist. There’s a delightful sense of freedom in her delivery, making it impossible not to want to dance along. It’s the kind of track that feels like it belongs on RuPaul’s Drag Race—full of life, fun, and unapologetically fierce.
As she gears up for her EP release show at Southgate Roller Rink, “Gotta Give It Up” sets the stage for an electrifying live performance. It’s a track that’s bound to come alive even more in a live setting, with its funky beats and undeniable groove. Whether you’re a fan of classic disco vibes or modern pop, this song is a perfect reminder to let loose, move your body, and fully embrace the moment.
Keep an eye out for the full EP, “Been Loving You” – set to release 10/18.
“Gotta Give It Up” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating DA DA DA - Best New Music
