Latin Pop and Afrobeats with a twist of creative production and world-music melodies to enchant and engage – J12 collaborates with Merblond, for the unmistakable vocal dynamic and rhythmic embrace of Diva.
Noting instantly likable artistic production, Diva presents an almost tribal set of rhythms and layers of instrumental charm, blending the bounce and optimism of Afrobeats with something a little more nuanced and exotic.
Then we get the songwriting, the vocal dynamic between J12 and Merblond, and the performative energy and distinct sound of Diva proceeds to carve out a lane that’s entirely its own.
Nostalgia and originality walk hand-in-hand for this release, a great bassline and playful, fragmented mixing builds up a floor-filler vibe, but there’s also a clear sense of identity and intention to the writing, to the verses in particular and the back and forth between the two singers. It’s a long-form verse loaded with detail and story, and the bass and beat combination underneath provides a relevant kind of dance, resolving well for the lyric-less vocal adlibs and the naturally catchy nature of this closing moment.
Structurally interesting but effective, a catchy afrobeat track with a clear edge of something different to its style and intentions, Diva is a timeless summer groove on the one hand, but a unique blend of influences and genres on the other. The result is a welcomed modern earworm that’s enchanting, exotic, and passionately committed to the moment.
Single out July 24th – Pre-save Diva. Find J12 on Instagram, TikTok, X, Facebook.
