Sony Music Australia
Release Date: October 23rd 2020
Reviewed by: Joshua Andre
Samantha Jade– Back 2 Back (Single) (Amazon mp3/iTunes)
Track Listing:
- Back 2 Back
Inspiration, encouragement, joyfulness, happiness, and optimism are all hard to come by in this year of 2020 especially. While we all have been relentlessly knocked down and discouraged by COVID-19, the bushfires, the murder of George Floyd, and the falling away of a number of high profile Christian celebrities from the faith; it seems as if this year is a write-off and something that we all would want to wish to be over- sooner rather than later. However, as I have mentioned many a time, I’ve come to still be encouraged and inspired in the midst of trials, chaos and calamity. I’ve predominately been inspired through the likes of many different genres of music; and while you can read many of our extensive reviews here, outlining albums from artists across many different genres (country, pop, rock, CCM, worship etc), another new song I’ve been blessed to hear is Aussie pop artist Samantha Jade’s new single “Back 2 Back”. Now I haven’t heard much of Samantha’s music at all- given that she is a mainstream artist and I have only recently been listening to mainstream artists on a regular basis since the beginning of 2019. Though I first was introduced to Samantha’s songs last year through YouTube recommending me “Bounce”; since then I’ve enjoyed many of her songs- but I wouldn’t say I’m a fan though. Yet this song is such a joy to listen to; and has me quietly anticipating her brand new album.
Full of hope and comfort, “Back 2 Back” on the surface isn’t my target demographic, as the song speaks about women supporting women. However a deeper listen reveals a melody perfect for these times of uncertainty and stress. As we remember that friendship in all its facets is required and essential to survive, Samantha eloquently relays that having people we trust in our corner is priceless and well worth the struggle and the fight. Having friends is worth any downside- because as we grow as people and share our lives with people; we are presented with a life more satisfied and fulfilled with our friends in it with us. With Samantha crying out that ‘…when you’ve got no fight, and your head don’t feel right, walking on a thin line, don’t forget to breathe, breathe deep, even on dark nights, praying for dry eyes, don’t ever dim your light, you just gotta breathe, believe me, ’cause I got your back, babe (I got your back), I got your back, babe (I got your back), if ever you fall, I’ma stand tall, back to back to back always…’; we are met with one of the underrated gems of the year.
Mainstream pop music and I don’t really mix well. However there’s something about Samantha’s music that is so optimistic and feel-good and just plain enjoyable, that I can’t help but be moved and inspired in almost every song. The same goes for “Back 2 Back”- and as Samantha Jade forges on and readies her next full length album in the midst of COVID-19, we are reminded about the power of friendship and of the goodness of people. Sure, this song isn’t a ‘Christian’ song per se… but God still works through this compelling and confronting gem of a melody. And now, let me ask what are you waiting for? Do you want to dance and be comforted in the confines of a pop song? Well then “Back 2 Back” is your thing- and I’d say listen because you might find your next pick-me-up tune that you turn to when you need encouragement. Well done Samantha, I can’t wait to hear what’s next in store for you.
Score: 4.5/5
RIYL: Kylie Minogue, Jessica Mauboy, Delta Goodrem, Ricki-Lee Coulter, Little Mix, Ellie Goulding