Willow
Willow Smith · 2019
22 min · 8 tracks · alternative rock
A kaleidoscopic blend of alternative R&B and dream pop, infused with introspective lyrics and experimental soundscapes.
Top tracks — play these first
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Like a Bird Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Time Machine — This track encapsulates the album's theme of nostalgia through its airy production and reflective lyrics about yearning for simpler times. It stands out as an anthem of youthful contemplation.
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U KNOW — With its infectious groove and conversational tone, this song highlights Willow's ability to blend personal storytelling with catchy melodies, making it relatable and engaging.
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Overthinking IT — The extended length allows for deeper exploration of anxiety and self-doubt, showcasing Willow's lyrical depth and emotional vulnerability in a sonic landscape that feels both intimate and expansive.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends experimental sounds with introspective lyrics, showcasing Willow's artistic evolution.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a soft, ethereal vocal line that gradually layers in instrumentation, creating a lush soundscape.
- Tracks often feature unconventional song structures, with abrupt shifts in tempo and mood, particularly evident in 'Samo Is Now' and 'Overthinking IT'.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- short energetic journey
- ethereal vocals for introspection
- thought-provoking themes throughout
- playful exploration of identity
Maybe skip if you
- prefer longer album experiences
- seek traditional song structures
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Experimental — Marks a shift to an eclectic sound, differing from her earlier pop influences.
- Career context
- When Willow released 'Willow' in July 2019, she was transitioning from her earlier pop influences towards a more eclectic sound. This album marked her first full-length release after a series of singles and showcases her artistic growth since debuting as a child artist. At just 18 years old, she was establishing her identity as a serious musician.
- Stylistic neighbors
- SZA· Jhené Aiko· Frank Ocean
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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U KNOW
The narrator directly addresses their insecurities while expressing a desire for connection amidst uncertainty.
This moment employs conversational language that breaks down barriers between artist and listener, making the emotional experience feel immediate and personal.
Tracklist
- 1 Like a Bird Start here 2:48
- 2 Female Energy, Part 2 2:53
- 3 Time Machine 2:23
- 4 PrettyGirlz 2:48
- 5 Samo Is Now 2:06
- 6 then (interlude) 0:57
- 7 U KNOW 3:06
- 8 Overthinking IT 5:27
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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