Byron Thomas - What If I
Soul, R&B
California, United States
Overall Impression: A simple beautiful melody, with “What If I” artist Byron Thomas has found a way to blend the genres of R&B and soul for a song that is soothing, spiritual, yet every bit as romantic. You can hear the passion in his voice, a passion that extends to making music with purpose and for the greater good to help others be of service and light in the midst of life’s chaos. Every note and lyric is filled with emotion, Byron's music and songs reflect both the events in his life and those of others around him making him a chill artist with a one-of-a-kind flair.
Strongest Point(s): The song's vocal and melody are where this tune shines, the melody begins with humming almost harmonic and ethereal sound, which then leads the song into beautifully and skillfully played acoustic guitar that gives the song a romantic feel. The guitar is accompanied by lite percussion, and finger-snaps and shaker, and synthesized keyboards. The song has a great beat and timbre. Thomas's voice equally measures up, with a lite raspiness to it, you can certainly hear the influences of R&B and soul within it but it also has a sort of folky quality as well in its delivery. His soulful voice also has ice layers on the harmonies, that seem like there floating into the ether at times slowly disintegrating in a haze.
Target Audience Appeal: For fans of soul, pop, and R&B as well as fans of Otis Redding and Michael Bolton.
Artist target suggestions: Ray Charles, Michael Bolton, Otis Redding, Luther Vandross, Sade, Maxwell, Marvin Gaye, Roberta Flack, R.Kelly, Toni Braxton, Usher, Brandy, En Vogue, Bebe Rexha, Dua Lipa
Interested in having your Song Reviewed by our Professional Staff? Head to your RadioAirplay.com dash and click Song Reviews under the Special Offers menu!
About the Reviewer:
Kristina Mondo is a freelance writer specializing in music journalism. From working as a columnist at various publications to managing PR and press campaigns for a camp music festival, and touring with various artists Kristina is a music lover appreciating all types of music and what they have to offer from Opera to rap, there is always something to appreciate in every song. Interviews, however, are her passion, because it's not just about what the artist lets you see but what you can draw out of them getting to the heart of who they really are.