Meshell Ndegeocello, the acclaimed bassist, singer, and producer, is breathing new life into one of the Eighties’ most iconic break-up anthems. Her latest single, a reimagined version of The Human League’s “Don’t You Want Me,” features Cat Power and transports the synth-pop classic to a warm reggae atmosphere, replacing the original’s icy keyboards with vibrant horns and a relaxed groove. This track serves as a sneak peek into Synonym, Ndegeocello’s upcoming album of collaborative covers, set to release on October 2.
Reviving a Classic
The original 1981 hit’s sharp synthesizers and dramatic quarrel between lovers gave it a captivating edge. Ndegeocello’s rendition offers a more tranquil reggae perspective, allowing the song to feel like a reflective dialogue between two individuals rather than a heated argument.
Exploring Musical Connections
The track is the second release from Synonym, Ndegeocello’s third album for Blue Note Records. This project is designed to celebrate songs that have stood the test of time, pairing each with a diverse collaborator. The resulting sounds span generations and genres, embracing influences from Sixties folk, Seventies soul, country, pop, Eighties R&B, and more.
Ndegeocello explained the essence of the project: “This project is about classic songs that are known and loved. But the album is also about joy, selfhood, individual representation, and universal experience.” The album title, Synonym, encapsulates this sentiment. “We are all different,” she remarked, “But at the core of the human condition, we are the same.”
A Star-Studded Collaboration
Opening the album, Ndegeocello collaborates with Cynthia Erivo on an emotionally soaring interpretation of George Michael and Aretha Franklin’s “I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me).” Other standout collaborations include Chaka Khan on “Islands in the Stream,” Brandi Carlile on “Golden Ring,” and Moses Sumney alongside Destin Conrad on “The Closer I Get to You.” The impressive lineup also features Robert Glasper, Nick Hakim, Madison Cunningham, Laura Lee of Khruangbin, Emily King, Lizz Wright, WILLOW, and more.
Creative Reunion
Additionally, Synonym marks a reunion with producer David Gamson, known for his work on Ndegeocello’s pivotal early albums, Plantation Lullabies and Peace Beyond Passion. Co-produced alongside Gamson and longtime collaborator Abe Rounds, this record traverses the rich landscapes of music, showcasing influences from Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell to Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers.
Track List
Synonym Track List
1. ”I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)” with Cynthia Erivo
2. “Don’t You Want Me” with Cat Power
3. “Don’t Stop The Music” with Nick Hakim, Robert Glasper
4. “Islands In The Stream” with Chaka Khan
5. “It Ain’t Me Babe” with Madison Cunningham
6. “Always on Time” with Laura Lee
7. “Be Real Black For Me” with Emily King, Lizz Wright
8. “Don’t Look Any Further” with Lianne La Havas
9. “The Closer I Get To You” with Destin Conrad, Moses Sumney
10. “Golden Ring” with Brandi Carlile
11. “I Got You Babe” with ANOHNI
12. “Here We Come (Here He Comes)” with Evann McIntosh
13. “Guilty” with Ink
14. “Hunger Strike” with WILLOW
15. “With God On Our Side” with Bill Callahan, Chris Thile
