OneRepublic is back with their new single, “Tell Me,” released on Feb. 27. The song is a collaboration with Indian rapper and singer Karan Aujla and famous Punjabi producer Ikky.
OneRepublic accounted for a lot of my childhood music taste, and seeing them live was one of the best concerts I have been to — so when I heard news of a new single I was excited to listen.
Unfortunately, I did not feel particularly wowed by this single and it did not live up to my high standards for the music group.
The song is an upbeat blend of English and Punjabi styles, mixing in a modern sound with a more cultural musical style. As a concept it is very appealing, but it was just honestly boring to listen to. It speaks to the uncertainty of love and relationships with lyrics such as “I know love ain’t always free / Got a mind that I just can’t read / So you gotta-gotta-gotta tell me.”
The vulnerability of the song is something that I appreciate as a recognizable trait of many OneRepublic songs. In that aspect, they did not let listeners down.
I think this collaboration could have been something very special and showcased a blend of unique sounds, but it lacked liveliness and did not stand out.
I am eager to get more music from OneRepublic, and even more collaborations in the future, but unfortunately for now this single won’t be added to my playlist.
2/5 stars
oparisi@ramapo.edu
Featured photo courtesy of @TrapLyrics13, X
