Normani’s eagerly anticipated debut album DOPAMINE has now been officially released by RCA Records. With this album, the 28-year-old singer embarks on a transformative journey, fully embracing her sexuality and celebrating her evolution into divine womanhood.
“DOPAMINE” represents liberation and freedom and sums up Normani’s development to this crucial juncture. Motivated by the chemical in the brain that makes people happy, the album is happy and blissful. James Blake and Gunna are special guests, with Brandy providing background vocals.
The album opens with the powerful lead tune “Big Boy,” in which Normani displays self-assurance while bragging about her Billboard achievements and platinum hits. She announces, “Pimpin’ like C I was brought up on it,” giving a tribute to her Texan heritage and establishing the tone for an audacious and reflective record. Normani’s voice oozes with confidence as she promises, “I hold it down for my city,” in the song “Still,” which samples the Houston rapper Mike Jones’ “Still Tippin’.” This song further strengthens Normani’s connection to her hometown.
Normani’s seductiveness is emphasized with seductive songs like “All Yours” and “Lights On,” which include thought-provoking lyrics. While “Insomnia” delves into grief with poignant lines like “I wish you didn’t call me, cause so much shit reminds me of, cause every time you call me, it’s giving me insomnia,” “Take My Time” brings a joyful, dance-pop electronic atmosphere that’s tough to ignore.
The album features two previously released singles: “Candy Paint,” which Paper Mag referred to as “a certified trunk-rattler,” and “1:59,” which features Gunna and was hailed by Billboard as “another reminder of the project’s promise.”
The skillful fusion of sounds and genres in “DOPAMINE” showcases Normani’s diverse range of abilities. Years of work and attention have gone into this project, which showcases her talent and commitment to creating a body of work that is both universal and personal.
