Certain songs are just perfect for a summer bonfire. Shakira’s fiery 1998 classic “Inevitable” is just that. This quintessential Latin rock ballad was the perfect bridge between Shakira’s acoustic beginnings and her more impassioned pivot to moody rock chick. The track starts off acoustic, but quickly builds in intensity as the guitar and drums layer up, and Shakira’s signature voice amplifies it from a ballad to an anthem. While her first foray into English-language music was never officially released (and is way better in Spanish), like the love she sings about, Shakira becoming a global superstar was inevitable.

En español: Hay algunas canciones que son perfectas para escuchar alrededor de una fogata en verano. La clásica ardiente de Shakira, “Inevitable,” es una de ellas. Esta balada por excelencia de rock Latino fue el puente perfecto entre sus comienzos acústicos y su pivote apasionado a una chica rockera malhumorada. La canción comienza con un tono acústico y rápidamente cambian su intensidad cuando la guitarra y la batería aumentan y la voz, característica de Shakira, la amplifica transformándola de una balada a un himno. Aunque, siendo esta su primera canción para incursionar en inglés, nunca fue lanzada oficialmente (y por supuesto, es mucho mejor en español), el convertirse en una super estrella mundial era inevitable.

Watch the music video below, stream “Inevitable” or grab some Shakira 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.

The post 97 Words: “Inevitable” by Shakira appeared first on THE 97.

Whether your thing is Hip-Hop, R&B, Pop, or something else, the music world delivered several albums that we found to be worthy of being called the top albums of 2017, or as we like to call them, “97s.” We saw the long-awaited return of several of our favorites, and debut albums from a number of notable new talents, such as SZA, AlanMichael, and Declan McKenna. But, how did they all rank in our list?

Deliberated by our team of writers, we’ve ranked the top albums of 2017 that we loved. If you’re familiar with the way we review songs/albums then you know that “97” is our top score. We love every album on this list, ranked them according to how much and weighed in with a few thoughts about each. Please feel free to comment with your thoughts, as well! We’d love to hear from you and engage in any discussion. Now, without any further ado…

THE 97’s Top Albums of 2017:
The 19 “97” Albums

19. Entrancing, AlanMichael

AlanMichael is an up-and-coming independent artist that you need to know. Our readers might recall his 1997 mix of Beyoncé’s “Pray You Catch Me” with Janet and Mariah. He’s a multi-threat: singer-songwriter-rapper-producer-dancer … and probably more. Entrancing is his first official release after a series of EPs and mixtapes. The set is short, but striking nonetheless — striking enough to stand worthily alongside a list of his big-named, mainstreamed, soon-to-be peers. On Entrancing, AlanMichael showcases his versatility, vanity and vulnerabilities. The album is an introductory journey that takes the listener through this captivating new artist. Not only that, it is also a journey through a multitude of fresh and varied musical landscapes, innovative vocal intricacies and subtleties, and dynamic lyrical themes. However, the Entrancing experience doesn’t stop at your ears: it has a visual component available now on YouTube. Highlights: “Vanity,” “The Lux” and “Is This Where We Are?” -Vincent

18. DROGAS Light, Lupe Fiasco

A mix of new material and refined older recordings, Lupe Fiasco‘s sixth studio album DROGAS Light is a prequel to the coming DROGAS Wave. While not his most profound or innovative work, DROGAS Light is a solid set packed with several bops and that signature Lupe flow. The unique storytelling is there (“Jump”), alongside a heartfelt dedication to his mom (“More Than My Heart”), thought-provoking moments (“NGL”), and even a little romance (“Pick Up the Phone”). One of my favorites, though, is “Promise,” where Lupe cleverly makes a very simple, sing-songy rap track to show, “yeah I could do that too… but I’m above it.” When I first heard the song, I thought it was a guest artist rapping. But it’s Lupe being messy, as per usual. Highlights: “Promise,” “It’s Not Design,” “Wild Child” -Vincent

17. ?VOLVE, Imagine Dragons

16. El Dorado, Shakira

Shakira’s El Dorado is almost like a greatest hits compilation of her year prior to its release. Of the album’s 12 tracks, 5 had been released prior to the album. Three of those were duets with other artists, while the other two were her own promotional singles. It was an interesting but effective strategy. The album’s highlights are in fact its duets, notably the new additions “Chantaje” and “Trap” with Maluma and “Perro Fiel” with Nicky Jam. On El Dorado, the 40-year-old Shakira proved she can still hang with los jovenes and churn out the hits. Highlights: “Chantaje,” “Trap,” “Me Enamoré,” “Perro Fiel” -Vincent

15. What Do You Think About The Car?, Declan McKenna

There was a LOT of hype around Declan McKenna and his debut album. Multiple times, by multiple outlets, he’s been called ‘the voice of his/a generation’. While he may not have proven (or accepted) that title, his debut alum is a solid body of work. He showcases his covers a unique group of topics such as LGBT teen suicide and corruption in FIFA. He accomplishes this over a surprisingly welcoming indie-rock-themed body of work (with some clear inspiration from Bowie and Dylan). Highlights: “Why Do You Feel So Down?”, “Humungous”, “Brazil”, “Paracetamol” -Andrew

14. More Life, Drake

Many people probably don’t really consider this a Drake album, but why not? It has all the elements that make a Drake album: the mellow R&B-ish undertones, the ear to the streets to know what’s hot and the tropical bops. And speaking of bops, More Life gave us a couple of Pop crossovers that rank up there with the likes of “Hotling Bling” and “Hold On, We’re Going Home.” Drake is maybe still trying to find a balance between the street cred and the Pop superstar life, and he may get a little repetitive, but since this isn’t really an album, maybe he will explore new ground on the next chapter. Hopefully. Highlights: “Passionfruit,” “Blem,” “Glow.” -Mario

13. Double Dutchess, Fergie

12. The Autobiography (As Told By), Vic Mensa

I saw Vic Mensa live twice this year. First, at the Tidal charity concert, and most recently at Jay-Z’s 4:44 Tour. His live performances left me so impressed that I decided to listen to his album. I was even more impressed. The set is aptly titled. Autobiography plays like a confessional. Mensa is no-holds-barred in his honesty and emotional delivery. He cascades subject matters, ranging from relationships to race in America. It’s not perfect, but its imperfections add to its character. He is a raw, unfiltered artist whose voice and artistry are only going to become more refined and defining. Highlights: “Say I Didn’t,” “Homewrecker,” “We Could Be Free” -Vincent

11. Ctrl, SZA

The plight of black women and the pursuit of love and happiness is something that I’ve written about extensively, and the narrative is often one of despair and heartache. In Ctrl, SZA not only changes that narrative, she completely turns it on its head, leaving little to the imagination, and changes the conventions entirely. In songs like “Supermodel”, “Love Galore”, the Kendrick Lamar assisted track “Doves in the Wind”, and most notably, “The Weekend”, SZA frankly discusses her need for unattached, no strings, relationships, matters of the heart, and one’s almost self-destructive need for sex.

There have been people I’ve discussed album’s subject matter in great detail, and some find her messages unappealing, for it is “unladylike” for a woman to speak so candidly about sex in such a “vulgar” manner. However, SZA does nothing more than speaking to the same things that have been the status quo for men for centuries. Feminist teas for the win! In reality, the album’s content is what for the most part, represents our generation’s attitude towards love and sex, and truthfully, unabashedly takes full ownership of that attitude. Highlights: “The Weekend” “Love Galore” “Doves in the Wind” “Go Gina” “20 Something” -Jordan

10. CollXtion II, Allie X

Allie X affected me this year. This album captivated me from the very first listen. Allie already demonstrated her songwriting abilities contributing to Troye Sivan‘s stellar Blue Neighbourhood. Now she showcases the full picture on her debut LP. CollXtion II combines dark, synth-driven pop with clever lyrics, catchy melodies with Allie’s haunting vocals. At times it’s dreamy and effervescent. Other times it’s nightmarish and downtrodden. One thing’s for sure: This isn’t the picture-perfect love created in a Disney cartoon. Highlights: “Old Habits Die Hard”, “Casanova”, “True Love Is Violent”, “Vintage” – Andrew

9. Bluebird of Happiness, Tamar Braxton

On her fourth album, Tamar Braxton decided that she was not going to highlight the cons of a relationship, but instead, she focused primarily on what made her feel happy. This was probably just an effort to mask the difficulties and the struggle she was going through while making this record: just after the release of the album she and Vince decided to announce their separation. Nonetheless, Bluebird of Happiness showcases Tamar’s qualities as an R&B songstress and her ability to put emotions on wax-like very few can do in the current music landscape. Highlights: “Wanna Love You Boy,” “The Makings of You” “Pick Me Up.” -Mario

8. Evolution, Anastacia

Anastacia is a veteran in the industry, with hits under her belt, in Europe that is. In her native USA though, she’s fairly unknown beyond “I’m Outta Love”. This year’s Evolution was her 7th studio effort, and one of her best to date. More than a decade after she discovered her Sprock (soul-pop-rock) sound, she grows beyond it to a unique mix of pop and rock. She’s not chasing trends here, nor is she going retro. Despite a tragic lack of push from her label, Evolution sounds fresh, expansive, and contemporary. Highlights: “Redlight”, “Before”, “Higher Livin'” -Andrew

7. Grateful, DJ Khaled

I’ll be the first one to admit that I’ve never been a huge fan of DJ Khaled. While I’ve always respected his hustle, some of his productions never really caught my eye. Amidst his massively popular social media presence and his involvement with one of last summer’s anthems, “All The Way Up”, Khaled absolutely won with this year’s LP, Grateful. Enlisting the help of Drake, Rihanna, Migos, Alicia Keys, Nicki Minaj, and of course, Beyoncé and JAY-Z, Khaled really crafted a work that full of simple good vibes. Not every album needs to evoke deep thought; sometimes, especially in this day and age, it helps to just bop. His inclusion of his son Asahd on the final track “Asahd Talk (Thank You Asahd), as well as on the album cover, is icing on the cake. Highlights: “I’m The One”, “Shining”, “Wild Thoughts”, “Billy Ocean” -Jordan

6. Beautiful Trauma, P!NK

It’s been five long years since P!NK released her last solo effort, The Truth About Love, and she returned this fall with Beautiful Trauma. A pensive collection of reflections, the album is an emotional rollercoaster that plays like the lyrics might have just fallen out of P!NK, in a stream-of-consciousness style. Never one to hold back, she once again does not disappoint in that regard. Whether it’s by delivering a subtle political message (“What About Us”), an honest take on her relationship (“Beautiful Trauma”), vindictive hurling of insults (“Revenge”), or a battle with her own insecurities (“Better Life”) she always takes it there.

There are more touching moments, too, such as the nostalgic ballad “Barbies,” emotionally and vocally raw “You Get My Love,” and the anthemic “I Am Here.” The title perfectly encapsulates the album, indeed it is beautiful, yet slightly traumatic. Highlights: “Secret,” “But We Lost It,” “Barbies,” “I Am Here” -Vincent

5. Strength of a Woman, Mary J. Blige

The Queen of Hip-Hop/Soul‘s 13th studio album comes at a time in her life when she’s facing the struggle of a failed marriage. The name of the record, however, shows that Mary’s not about to let this drama sink her heart. Instead, she’s taking the opportunity to remind us that she’s a survivor. Strength of a Woman is the work of a scorned woman who’s found her inner light to shine, an artist who’s adding one more block to an already solidified legacy. This album is ultimately also a reminder that Mary’s ability to bare her soul to us is something that’s always set her apart. Highlights: “U + Me (Love Lesson),” “Set Me Free,” “Love Yourself.” -Mario

4. Meaning of Life, Kelly Clarkson

I have wanted Kelly Clarkson to release an R&B album since I heard her half-baked, directionless debut set. From there, as we all know, she rebelled with pop-rock via Breakaway, My December and other solid, but predictably pop cuts. Along the way, there were hints of soul, such as “What’s Up Lonely” from Thankful, “Why Don’t You Try?” from Stronger, and “Bad Reputation” from Piece By Piece. However, on Meaning of Life, Clarkson went full-throttle. Sure, the album still has pop sensibilities, but there’s no rock flair or country twang on any of these songs. There’s slinky R&B (“A Minute”), supersonic throwback soul moments (“Love So Soft”), and even some clear Mariah inspiration (“Medicine”). Then, of course, there is “Whole Lotta Woman,” on which Kelly must’ve been channeling Beyoncé’s role as Foxxy Cleopatra as she announces: “You ain’t know!? Texas women do it bigger!”

The vocals are glorious. The album is full of life. I don’t know that I know the Meaning of Life after hearing it (I don’t) but Ms. Clarkson certainly solidified her status among the New School of Divas and gave me my whole life in the process. Highlights: “Whole Lotta Woman,” “Would You Call That Love,” “Cruel,” “Medicine” -Vincent

3. DAMN., Kendrick Lamar

The mumble-rap sub-genre continues to dominate mainstream culture. However, Kendrick Lamar compiled his third solid body of work in a row, relying on strong lyrics backed by strong beats. Kendrick isn’t afraid to take risks, speak his mind, and do so in a manner that’s digestible and prophetic to the masses. DAMN. was a cultural phenomenon: the album cover meme, its ubiquitous lead single, and the viral moments that followed with “DNA.” and “LOYALTY.” Highlights: “DNA.,” “PRIDE.,” “FEAR.” -Andrew

2. War & Leisure, Miguel

Highlights: “Pineapple Skies”, “Banana Clip” “Told You So”, “Anointed”, “Come Through and Chill”

Of all the albums on our countdown, this one is among the newest. After a shaky third album, Miguel came back this year with War & Leisure and dare we say it, it’s a return to form. It’s not like Wildheart was a bad effort, but it was at points too daring and too much – and sometimes less is more.

In his fourth studio effort, Miguel created what is in my opinion, the most consistent work of his catalog, as he really strove to mix the sounds that he is most well known for, as well as those more aligned with his Mexican heritage, which all blend to create a really full-bodied album. With this album, Miguel was able to capture the essence of what we’ve come to expect from him as an artist: the writing is great, the melodies are punching and the productions are stellar.

What can be found across all of Miguel’s albums is his endless adoration of love. The album’s content is as carefree, (“Pineapple Skies”) as it is lovestruck, (“Banana Clip”), and seductive (“Come Through and Chill”). The work’s instrumentation is at a lot of points very reminiscent of some of Prince’s mid-1990’s catalog, and with some appearances from Rick Ross, J. Cole, Travis Scott, and Kali Uchis, the result is an extremely solid, albeit quirky album. He’s once again managed to create an atmosphere with his music that just wraps your ears and never lets you go until the music’s over.

Finally, Miguel is perhaps the voice of our generation that we didn’t know we needed, and might not even realize that we have. With the embodiment of the millennial penchant for Netflix and Chill (because we can’t afford to go out), the self-love party anthem that is “Pineapple Skies,” the culture melding Spanglish of “Caramelo Duro,” or his critical letter-in-song to the “CEO of the Free World” on “Now,” Miguel speaks for our generation whether we asked him to or not – whether he realized it or not. -Jordan, Mario & Vincent

1. 4:44, Jay-Z

Highlights: “The Story of OJ”, “Smile,” “Caught Their Eyes,” “4:44,” “Family Feud,” “Moonlight”

Ohhhhhhhhh Jay. We was waitin’ on you at da doe! You found a magical way to make your epic fuck up a learning moment. The world waited in utter anticipation for a response to all of the allegations of his supposed infidelities, and those were all but confirmed in the track of the same name. 4:44 references the time he wrote the title track. “4:44” is about doing the unthinkable: cheating on Beyoncé. But to merely write this work off as a response to LEMONADE would not only discredit this album but Bey’s as well.

4:44 is our album of the year this year, and LEMONADE was just that for 2016. The two are companions not just for their marriage-related subject matter, but for much more. Jay-Z’s 4:44 is for Black men what LEMONADE was for Black women. Both delve into subject matters related to the Black experience in America and try to make sense of it all. In the case of 4:44, Jay explores why and how he got to where he is today in many facets. And all of it is glorious.

The album is probably the most socially conscious of Hov’s career, as it touches on a wealth of topics, such as embracing his mother’s homosexuality (a rarity in the hip hop community), capitalism, greed, race relations, and of course, fidelity. In a long and storied career that at times has fixated on the superficial and materialistic, it’s really dope to see the full breadth of Jay’s creativity in full force.

What is equally important, is the actual musicality it the album. The production value is insane, as Chicago’s very own No I.D. skillfully samples varied artists such as the pioneering Nina Simone, (“The Story of O.J.”), Stevie Wonder (“Smile”), and Hannah Willams & The Affirmations (“4:44”). Then, of course, there is the epic freestyle from Miss Blue Ivy Carter herself. -Jordan, Vincent & Andrew.

The post The 19 “97” Albums of 2017 appeared first on THE 97.

Hot off the heels of her Latin pop hit “Chantaje” featuring fellow Colombian sensation Maluma, Shakira has released the next single to tease her upcoming 11th studio album, “Me Enamoré,” just in time for Spring Break. The poppy bop has reggaeton undertones similar to “Chantaje,” but is more breezy and tropical. For sure, it sounds tailor-made to be the next summer anthem, at least for the Latin pop market. It’s pre-Semana Santa (Spring Break) release is perfect timing.

If she’s wise, she’ll offer a Spanglish version for the mainstream American market. The chorus, where she sings, “Me gusta esa barbita” and “Nos enamoramos/Un mojito, dos mojitos” are catchy and perfect for los Gringos that so desperately want to pretend to be cultured by eating burritos, drinking mojitos and wearing a sombrero on Cinco de Mayo. She’s already released a colorful lyric video to accompany the song, but for sure a sexy, dance-filled video is on the way as we speak. If it’s anywhere near as good as “Chantaje,” Shakira can expect yet another video with over a billion views VEVO, a la “Chantaje.” Be ready for Shaki to slay us this summer, and go loca, loca, loca for her all over again.

Watch Shakira’s “Me Enamoré” lyric video:

Grade:

90/97

The post Single Review: Shakira drops new bop, “Me Enamoré” appeared first on THE 97.

February 12, 2007.

In 2007, America’s “Shakira” teamed up with Latin America’s “Beyoncé” to gyrate their way into the top of the charts. Naturally, they stepped on a useless man — err, a “Beautiful Liar,” in the process. But how did such a perfect pairing come about?

The Colombian Meets America

In 2001, Colombian sensation Shakira released her first English language album, Laundry Service, and had her breakthrough single with “Whenever, Wherever,” becoming one of the only female artists from South America to take America by storm in such a way. That same year, Destiny’s Child announced they would pursue solo projects, and the media and music world put lead singer Beyoncé Knowles on a pedestal from which she has never left.

The American Goes Caribbean

Shakira’s next album did not come until 2005, and while she was away, Beyoncé rose to superstardom as a result of her 2003 debut solo album, Dangerously In Love. On the album’s second and fourth singles, “Baby Boy” and “Naughty Girl,” Beyoncé displayed a new penchant for Caribbean and Middle Eastern inspired sounds, looks, and dances in her music and videos (belly dancing in “Baby Boy,” anyone?). Her 2003 MTV VMA performance seemed particularly Shakira-esque. Perhaps a coincidence, or perhaps she was indeed inspired by her peer, Shakira (who is of Caribbean and Middle Eastern descent), the comparisons began to form between the two dyed-golden-haired artists.

The Stars Align in 2006

Shakira returned to prominence in America with her second English language album, Oral Fixation, Vol. 2, released in November 2005, and the massive hit single “Hips Don’t Lie,” featuring Wyclef Jean, in early 2006. (Side note: Beyoncé got her first hit, with Destiny’s Child, via a Wyclef Jean production, “No, No, No Part 2”). It was Shakira’s biggest hit to date and, naturally, she became a hot commodity once again. Later that same year, Beyoncé released her second album, B’Day, with which she seemed to be targeting the Latin American market. Beyoncé recorded Spanish language versions of her singles, “Listen” and “Irreplaceable,” with unreleased Spanish language demos of “Ring the Alarm” and “Deja Vu” surfacing on the internet as well. In 2006, Beyoncé and Shakira were two of music’s hottest names.

The Rumors, The Demo

At the end of that year, rumors began to swirl that the pair were planning a duet. Then, a demo of would-be duet, “Beautiful Liar” leaked onto the internet. In the leaked demo, Beyoncé sang the entire song solo. The parts Shakira would eventually sing in the final version were sung by Beyoncé in Spanish, playing the character of “Sasha.” Based on this, it was assumed the final version of the song would be sung by Beyoncé in English and Shakira in Spanish.

“Beautiful Liar,” The Final Product

That, however, was not the case, and, the final product was rather disappointing. “Beautiful Liar,” the lead single from Beyoncé’s reissue of B’Day, was poised to become an iconic collaboration, but fell short. Duets between two big name artists often do – especially, for whatever reason, when both artists are of the same sex. Yes, it had everything that everyone expected from Beyoncé and Shakira: a dance floor ready beat, sassy drama, a girl-power message, Latin flavor, and a touch of Middle Eastern flair. Still, the song felt a bit chintzy and simply could have been so much better. Fans felt a bit let down.

And then the video dropped.

“Beautiful Liar,” The Video

While the song was lackluster, the video rendered the song’s shortcomings irrelevant. Perfectly, the two budding divas owned the similarities and comparisons between their styles and appearances and appeared to be two best friends playing dress up from the same closet. They rocked similar outfits, hairstyles, and slayed their complimentary choreography. Not only did they reinforce the girls vs. boy message of the song, but they showed us how damn amazing it would be if Beyoncé and Shakira actually were twins. Belly dancing and twirling in the rain, America and Latin America’s biggest female stars united not in competition but in unison. With so much talent and beauty, they were an undeniable force together on camera. We only wish they performed the song together.

“Beautiful Liar,” The Legacy

While the song itself may be forgettable, the video for “Beautiful Liar” will live on as iconic piece of pop culture. The VEVO version of the video, uploaded two and a half years after its February 2007 release, in October 2009, has amassed over 236 million views, and sits as the #9 most viewed video on Beyoncé’s VEVO account. For comparison’s sake, “Irreplaceable” is from the same album, has been uploaded for the same amount of time, was #1 on the Hot 100 for 11 weeks, and is 12 million views behind “Beautiful Liar,” which spent just one week at #2 on the Hot 100. “Beautiful Liar” is the highest ranking song from B’Day on VEVO.

So, “Beyoncé, Beyoncé… Shakira, Shakira” — we’ve waited 10 years, and can’t wait any longer. When will you two collaborate again?

The post Perfect Pairing: Beyoncé & Shakira’s “Beautiful Liar” turns 10 appeared first on THE 97.