Music Review // Teon Gibbs "Holding On"

The sound of Teon Gibbs is interesting because it can combine older R&B, from that Boyz II Men era, with newer sounds of hip hop and pop.   There was a time back in the 1990's when artists like Boyz II Men were in the mainstream and other artists had similar sounds.   If someone like The Weeknd was around back then, making songs with Brian McKnight and Babyface, it might sound something like this.

It's always funny to me how when we aren't ready or when we make a phone call we can be told to "hold on", but then the lyrics for "Holding On" turn into something different, as it's more about survival and just loyalty.  Yes, I guess some of that comes with staying on the phone line but it just doesn't feel as important as the way this song makes "Holding On" feel like something you're doing to make it to the next day.

There is a line in here that says: "You're the reason why I'm working / Cause I know that you're worth it".  Far too often in all aspects of music I feel like songs don't have that way about them where they sing about being selfless and just putting others first.  I think we need more of that in music.  And even if it isn't about another person in a romantic relationship sense, it would be nice to hear in a tribute to a relative like a mother or a child.

Even with those elements of jazz and soul, "Holding On" is a layered song that should have a strong appeal.   What's more so than the music though- which in and of itself is unique- is the simple fact that this song is positive.  It's not just about hope, but it's hopeful.  I think people need that in their lives more and this song could be a great way of spreading that positivity.