Meshell Ndegeocello, Cat Power Rework Human League Hit

Meshell Ndegeocello and Cat Power have released a reggae-infused rendition of The Human League's 1981 hit "Don't You Want Me." This collaboration serves as a preview for Ndegeocello's forthcoming covers album, titled "Synonym," which is slated for release on September 27, 2024. The album promises a diverse range of guest artists, including Cynthia Erivo, Chaka Khan, Brandi Carlile, and WILLOW, each contributing their unique vocal stylings to reinterpret classic songs. Ndegeocello, a Grammy-winning artist known for her innovative bass playing and genre-bending musical approach, has curated a collection of songs that hold personal significance, aiming to explore different facets of musical expression through her interpretations and collaborations.

"Synonym" represents an ambitious project for Ndegeocello, who has a career spanning over three decades and has consistently pushed creative boundaries. Her previous work includes critically acclaimed albums such as "Plantation Lullabies" (1993) and "Ventriloquism" (2018), the latter also being a covers album that explored R&B and soul classics. The decision to cover "Don't You Want Me," a synth-pop anthem originally by The Human League, highlights Ndegeocello's willingness to reimagine familiar tracks in unexpected ways. The new version, featuring Cat Power's distinctive vocal delivery alongside Ndegeocello's reggae-influenced arrangement, offers a fresh perspective on the song's narrative of unrequited love and possessiveness.

The inclusion of prominent artists like Cynthia Erivo, known for her powerful vocals and Tony Award-winning performances, Chaka Khan, a legendary funk and R&B singer, Brandi Carlile, a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, and WILLOW, a contemporary artist exploring diverse musical styles, suggests that "Synonym" will be a rich tapestry of musical talent. Each featured artist is expected to bring their individual artistry to the project, potentially leading to a wide array of sonic textures and interpretations across the album's tracklist. The album's concept revolves around Ndegeocello's personal connection to the chosen songs, aiming to infuse them with her own musical identity and explore themes that resonate with her artistic journey. The release of the "Don't You Want Me" cover provides an early indication of the album's direction, blending Ndegeocello's signature sound with the collaborative energy of her chosen guests. The original "Don't You Want Me" was a commercial success for The Human League, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1982 and becoming one of the defining songs of the new wave era. Ndegeocello's reinterpretation aims to honor the original's impact while offering a contemporary and culturally resonant update.