R&B is usually that category that is, surprisingly, lacking in a sense. Many of the artists that are notable are either highly sexualized or heavily pop influenced. This leaves out some of the “soul” of R&B hanging out the window. The ones that do keep their R&B music more “authentic” (songs of love, sex, and social commentary) are heralded yet ignored. People may love their music, but they don’t sell as much. With Pineapple Now Laters being released with little fanfare, BJ The Chicago Kid may become one of those ignored. The saddest part is that his music should get as much attention as possible.
     BJ shows initial proficiency when it comes to making songs about love and sex. “Sex Is the Best Breakfast” would easily make most women become undressed for a tryst of midnight (or early morning) loving. With “Other Side”, he takes the time to observe why the grass isn’t always greener on the opposite side of the fence. Even the interlude “White Picket Fence” is so efficient in its amorous feelings that his talent is hard to ignore. With these examples, BJ shows his ability to make the songs necessary to express adoration and carnal desires.

     In addition to the love songs, this album would not be complete without the necessary social references to render it even more effective. “His Pain II” is a prime example of how impressive his ability is to shed light to social issues in his music. Kendrick Lamar rhymes with conviction while BJ ends off the song with ad libs and singing that enhance the entire feel of the song. “The World Is A Ghetto” is quite soulful and instrumental with its rendition of understanding urban pain. In self-explanatory fashion, “Hood Stories Vol. 1” gives light on the background story of hood situations. With the previous understanding, BJ The Chicago Kid proved that he could be a qualified orator of his observations.

     Pineapple Now Laters is both nostalgic and modern at the same time. The music hearkens on a time when the artist poured their entire soul into their art. Yet, it still speaks on issues that are highly significant today. Whether people catch on to this music is not something that can be predicted. In the end, BJ made sure he constructed a project reminiscent to the candy he named it after: sweet, urban, and indelibly distinctive in all its glory.

 

 

 

Article submitted by contributing writer, Mark A. Harris.