That chick. That girl. It girl. Princess of R&B. Those are just a few of the monikers fans have bestowed upon Coco Jones in recent months. The singer/actress has had a breakout year and made major waves from starring in Bel-Air (as the iconic character Hilary Banks) to working with Babyface (on their duet "Simple" from his Girls Night Out album). Perhaps her greatest achievement, though, is the release of her Def Jam Recordings debut with her EP What I Didn't Tell You.
The seven-song collection dives deep into a more personal side of Coco's life, giving us a peek behind the curtain of stardom as she details what happens after everyone leaves and the lights go out.
The EP opens with the sassy bop “Crazy For Me,” where Coco describes the lengths a man is willing to go to get and keep her attention. It sets up the lead single “Caliber,” in which Coco instructs romantic interests on how to shoot their shot with her. The enticing track unveiled a grown and sexy version of Jones fans hadn’t seen prior to its release.
Throughout the project, Jones brilliantly bridges R&B's generation gap with her sound, style and fresh takes on beloved classics. On “Double Back,” producer London On Da Track tactfully samples SWV’s “Rain,” including lead singer Coko's distinctive vocals in the background. The song is a standout moment on the EP, showcasing the strength of both Coco’s vocals and songwriting ability, conveying the rollercoaster of emotions that arise when attempting to rekindle an old flame.
We next get Jones at perhaps her most vulnerable on the EP's second single “ICU.” A stripped-down version of the leading lady appears as she reflects on the difficulties of growing apart from someone you deeply love but honestly aren't ready to move on from yet.
An allusive side of the singer-songwriter emerges over an upbeat track on “No Chaser.” The lyrics, production and vocals are deliciously crafted as Coco gives flirtatious femme fatale while flipping Ginuwine’s “Pony,” tucking in another Easter egg for listeners.
The next song, “Headlines,” is a warning call. Coco cautions her no-good man that she's on to his games and lies, and she's not the one, the two or the three to be played with.
Babyface repays the favor of Coco Jones blessing "Simple" by lending his genius pen to the song “Spend It,” which closes the EP and ends it with a sweet sentiment. Coco may not have a lot of time or money to spend, but she is willing to go the distance for what – or rather, who – she wants.
- Advertisement -What I Didn’t Tell You confirms what we knew all along: Coco Jones is the ONE. Having already earned respect for her acting chops, this dazzling project puts her at the head of R&B's current class. One of the most talented artists of her generation, Coco Jones is the total package, making it impossible to want anything but to see her win.
Coco Jones What I Didn't Tell You [Amazon][Apple Music][TIDAL]
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