It’s been a minute since we’ve heard from R&B star Ro James. The singer-songwriter released his last album, MANTIC, back in 2020 and dropped a series of videos from the project throughout 2022. Ever since then, it’s been pretty quiet from his camp. He’s breaking that silence now by releasing his first new music in four years with his song “Platonic.”
Produced by frequent collaborator Brady Watt, “Platonic” finds Ro musing about his relationship with a special someone. But instead of dealing in the carnal like many of his contemporaries, Ro is more interested in making sure that the foundation is solid.
Over a sound bed of piano, synth and bass guitar, he lays out what makes the connection between him and his friend so special. “She keep my garden green / She see the best in me,” he sings on the opening verse. “We just smile and wink but I know we got that synergy.”
“Created this [with] my bro/producer Brady [Watt],” Ro wrote about the song on Facebook. “Wanted to explore the concept of connection without having to be physical. And highlighting the beauty of platonic friendships.”
While it’s quite obvious that this has the makings of a great love story, Ro and his homegirl are keeping things friendly. Judging by the chorus, though, we don’t know how long he’ll hold out. “’Cause we keep it platonic / Could be the one for me / Best part of my day, match my energy,” he sings. “Let’s take over the world, you’re the sun for me.”
It’s nice to have a singer like Ro James back in the fold. It’s even nicer to have him offer an alternate take on a love song that doesn’t just take us to the bedroom. Get into Ro’s latest when you press play below.
