Justin Timberlake & Chris Stapleton’s “Say Something” Is The Best ‘Man Of The Woods’ Single Yet

Mike Nied | January 25, 2018 1:31 pm

Justin Timberlake teamed up with Chris Stapleton to roll out his new buzz track, “Say Something.” Released today (January 25), it is easily the best song we have heard from Man Of The Woods yet. The 36-year-old has turned up the heat since announcing his forthcoming LP at the beginning of the month. Since then we have heard three songs from the tracklist. The lead single, “Filthy,” felt out of place with its bombastic production. “Supplies” was easier on the ears, but “Say Something” is the first to truly deliver on his promise of “Americana with 808s.”

The track is the second from Danja and Timbaland to make the tracklist. On it, Justin (who is listed as a co-producer) incorporates growling bass and shimmering synths over earnest strings. The end result is a simmering midtempo, on which he opens up about the difficulties of taking a stand. “Everybody says ‘say something,'” Justin admits on the chorus. However, he cautions against making quick decisions in the heat of the moment. “I don’t wanna get caught up in the rhythm of it. When I can’t help myself, no I can’t help myself,” he sings. Chris comes in for a verse of his own, and the pair find striking harmonies afterward.

The accompanying video was directed by Arturo Perez and was shot as a one-take. Justin opens the visual in a basement. Standing at a soundboard, he is seen adding some of the electronic elements to the track before grabbing his guitar and taking an elevator to the upper levels of a beautiful building. He and Chris perform to each other from opposite sides of a mezzanine before joining forces. Together they are joined by a choir of voices from above that adds to the power of the track.

Lush and evocative, “Say Something” is the first song that truly feels on brand with the more organic styling of Man Of The Woods. It feels like a bit of a risk for JT, but it is one that should pay off. Although “Filthy” made its debut in the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 it was quick to drop down the charts. His latest is the organic hit that could really jumpstart a new era for the crooner. Give the track a spin up top!

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