Mahalia Archives - THE 97

97 Words: “Terms and Conditions” by Mahalia

Vincent Anthony — Sun, 06 Aug 2023 01:23:17 +0000

This song is part of our “THE SUMMER 97 (1998 x 2023)” playlist. Check out the full list.

Reading is fundamental. Online, we often skip reading the “terms and conditions” before using apps and websites. However, IRL they’re a must, just like on the lead single from Mahalia’s sophomore album “IRL.” On the aptly-titled anthem, “Terms and Conditions,” she serves up a manifesto on how she expects to be treated by any potential man. Like her duet with JoJo, it harkens back to early aughts R&B, managing to sound invitingly familiar yet not reductive. On this mid-tempo groove, Mahalia channels the era both lyrically and sonically, delivering an empowering message with an authentic, soulful sound.

Watch the “Terms and Conditions” video, stream it, or order the “IRL” vinyl.

In celebration of summer, the staff at THE 97 has compiled a playlist containing some of our favorite summer songs, from then and now. Each day we will reveal one song, rotating daily between past and present with pairings from 1998 and 2023, for a total of 97 days/songs. Since we love nostalgia, we’re celebrating summer songs from 1998 as they turn 25, alongside new songs that we feel deserve some shine. Pairings could be thematic, sonic, or based connections between the artists.

Check out our full “THE SUMMER 97 (1998 x 2023)” playlist here

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Review: “Cheat” by Mahalia feat. JoJo

Vincent Anthony — Sun, 11 Jun 2023 02:33:49 +0000

Remember the good ole days when labels would commission collaborations between their new and veteran artists? Warner Music hasn’t forgotten: “Cheat” by Mahalia feat. JoJo teams the up-and-coming UK R&B singer with the ever-underrated icon JoJo for the second single off Mahalia’s upcoming sophomore album, “IRL.” Not only does it take sonic inspiration from late 90s and early 00s R&B, but its music video (featuring a bedazzled RAZR phone and MySpace) does too, for what is essentially “The Boy Is Mine” (Female Empowerment Version).

Calling on JoJo to jump on the track was a wise choice. Boasting nearly 20 years in the game, her signature sass and seasoned soulfulness add weight to this vibey anthem. Effortless in their harmony of voice and message, the pairing is perfectly complementary. JoJo manages to serve a subtle reminder of why she’s that girl — but keeps it cute by never attempting to overshadow Mahalia’s shine.

For many, this track will be an introduction to Mahalia, who, with this fresh delivery of a throwback sound and proving she can hang alongside JoJo, proves she’s one to watch. If it were 2003, this definitely would’ve been a summer anthem… and if the people of today have any sense, it’ll prove true for 2023 as well. Once a ~~cheat~~ hit, always a ~~cheat~~ hit.

Watch the video or stream “Cheat” by Mahalia feat. JoJo

The post Review: “Cheat” by Mahalia feat. JoJo appeared first on THE 97.