The Denver-based electro-soul phenomenon, Maddy O’Neal, is back and bolder than ever. Known for her magnetic stage presence and genre-defying sound, O’Neal is gearing up for the release of her highly anticipated LP, “VITAL SIGNS.” This album promises to be a journey through personal evolution, navigating the complex emotions of an ever-changing world. The first single, “Locked In,” featuring rapper ProbCause, already gave us a taste of O’Neal’s musical prowess, seamlessly blending old-school dubstep with smooth rap verses. But it’s the second single, “Run It Back,” that has everyone talking.
1. A Collaboration For the Ages: O’Neal, DJ Paul, and Jason Leech
“Run It Back” is not your typical electronic track. It’s a unique collaboration between three musical powerhouses: Maddy O’Neal, Three 6 Mafia’s legendary DJ Paul, and the incredibly talented jamtronica keyboardist/producer Jason Leech. This unexpected trio delivers a sonic explosion that transcends genres, fusing O’Neal’s signature futuristic soundscapes with DJ Paul’s iconic Memphis hip-hop swagger, all tied together by Leech’s mesmerizing keyboard melodies. According to industry insider, Sarah Collins, “This track is a prime example of what happens when artists break down genre barriers and embrace collaboration. The result is pure magic.”
maddy o'neal run it back
The seed for this collaboration was planted back in 2018 when O’Neal and DJ Paul toured together with electronic duo Cherub. O’Neal knew she had to work with the hip-hop legend, waiting for the perfect track to send his way. Enter Jason Leech, who began working on a track with O’Neal that started as a beautiful piano piece. As the track evolved, so did its energy, morphing into the gritty trap banger that caught DJ Paul’s attention. “I was floored when Maddy told me that DJ Paul was going to be on the song,” Leech shared in a recent interview. “This is the first time I’ve shared a project with an artist that I’ve listened to since I was a kid.”
2. A Sonic Journey From Start to Finish: Deconstructing “Run It Back”
“Run It Back” is a masterclass in musical arrangement. The track opens with lush piano chords, sprinkled with DJ Paul’s unmistakable vocal inflections, immediately setting the tone for a sonic adventure. As the track progresses, orchestral drum patterns, deep bass, and inspiring vocal refrains build anticipation. Then, the drop hits – a blend of thumping trap beats, brass stabs, syncopated synth pads, and DJ Paul’s smooth flow, showcasing the perfect marriage of their distinct styles.
The journey continues with a kaleidoscopic breakdown, filled with swirling percussion, vocal chops, and haunting piano melodies, only to strip back again to its core: motivational chord progressions, acid-tinged synth lines, and a wave of symphonic strings. The track builds once more, culminating in an epic finale. Music critic, James Miller, describes this final section as “a sonic explosion, blending O’Neal’s signature future bass wubs with high-speed violin and backing gospel vocals, leaving listeners breathless.”
3. Catch “Run It Back” Live: Maddy O’Neal Hits the Road
“Run It Back” is just a glimpse into the creative universe Maddy O’Neal has crafted with “VITAL SIGNS.” The LP promises a diverse soundscape, exploring a wide range of genres while staying true to O’Neal’s signature sound.
Want to experience “Run It Back” and other tracks from “VITAL SIGNS” live? Catch Maddy O’Neal on tour at the following dates:
- 9/5/24: 45 East (Cascade Equinox pre-party) – Portland, OR
- 9/26/24 – 9/29/24: Wakaan Music Festival – Ozark, Arkansas
- 10/5/24: Offbeat Festival – Reno, NV
- 10/25/24: Suwannee Hulaween – Live Oak, FL
Don’t miss your chance to witness the magic of Maddy O’Neal live!
FAQ:
- When will “VITAL SIGNS” be released?
- The official release date is yet to be announced, but stay tuned for updates.
- Where can I listen to “Run It Back”?
- The single is available on all major streaming platforms.
- Who else will be featured on “VITAL SIGNS”?
- While the full tracklist is under wraps, expect more exciting collaborations.
Stay connected with Maddy O’Neal on social media for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, tour updates, and more! What are your thoughts on Maddy O’Neal’s genre-bending sound and the “Run It Back” collaboration? Share your comments below and join the conversation.
