Four years ago Elle King’s debut hit, “Xs and Os”, a smash in multiple formats, made her a star, but a bout of PTSD and a heartbreaking divorce stalled her creative process, but now she’s back full force with “Shake The Spirit” her newest album, which drops mid-month.
The first single,”Shame,” reflects King’s life long, irresistible attraction to over the top partying with bad boys, and her own inner bad girl.
Trouble, trouble’s what you need … That’s what you get in getting me …
I can make you shake …Right through your bones…
King’s got presence and confidence, a commanding voice, a brash fashion sense, and an in your face attitude. She communicates intensity and conviction. She demands that attention be paid.
Musically, “Shame” is a sassy, sophisticated production, a mix of R&B and Pop/Rock, supported by a full band including horns, strings, and three back-up singers. This week it ranks #2 on the Adult Alternative chart.
Much less cerebral than Elle King’s inner conflicts is “Shame Shame Shame” by Shirley & Co., a #1 hit in the disco era (1975), a feel-good, danceable confection that combines slick production with raw energy.
Trivia
“Shame, Shame, Shame” was written by Sylvia Robinson of Mickey & Sylvia “Love is Strange” fame from 1956.