Tiana Hudson’s latest release, ‘Olive Skin’ is a slow-burning, soulful pop opus that will leave you breathless.
We learn that this talented artist recorded the entire track from the confines of her bedroom studio in a single take! That is truly remarkable considering just how intricate and intimate this sounds.
‘Olive Skin’ opens with soulful, bluesy guitars, layered gently, reminding the listener of Hermanos Guitterez’s intricacy. It immediately puts the mind at ease, creating comfort and intrigue in equal measure. A steady beat sets the tempo as Tiana’s angelic, commanding vocals enter. She sings with a deep, sincere emotionality and vulnerability. Her tone feels just right here, tender yet restrained.
Her vocal delivery twists and turns gracefully, never feeling rushed but in complete control of what she wants to convey. A lot like some of the great R&B female voices like Whitney Houston & Alicia Keys. There’s a very subtle crackle to her voice, showing us her authentic side, and it’s beautiful in every way.
The lyrics speak deeply to themes of self-love, acceptance, and healing. It doesn’t speak in riddles; instead, it conveys its point conversationally, as if Tiana’s speaking directly to you. Tiana expresses how good she feels to be by herself, to be finally rid of the heartbreak and disappointment.
But when she delivers –
‘You think you’re so smart / you don’t shit but I’ll tell you you’ve got you’ve got under my tender olive skin”
It shows just how deeply she cared, and letting go of that has been one of the hardest things she’s had to do. It’s a beautiful contrast of emotions she displays. From self-sufficiency to vulnerability to hurt to bitterness and soft surrender. In just over 3 minutes, Tiana takes us through a highly emotional rollercoaster ride before softly fading into silence.
‘Tiana Hudson – Olive Skin’ is a truly remarkable, powerful track and is worth a repeated listen to truly appreciate its depth. One of the standout indie pop and R&B tracks of the year for sure!
Stream it on Spotify here:
