Mimi a.k.a. The Elusive Chanteuse a.k.a. Mariah Carey has a lot to celebrate this week. First, she has a brand new single, “GTFO”. However, I’ll get to that a little later. She is also celebrating the 21 year anniversary of her classic album, Butterfly. Although it’s a bit disturbing how obsessed (pun intended) she became with butterflies after that era, that album was well worth the hype. Who could forget classics like “Honey”, “My All”, “Breakdown” and the lost opportunity album cut, “Babydoll”? 

Despite Butterfly holding a special place in Mariah Carey’s heart as her personal favorite album ever, she hasn’t given up on recording new music. Now, back to “GTFO”. Yes, the acronym stands for exactly what you think it does. “GTFO” follows in the same vein as many Mariah Carey records in recent years. The song has great potential. Oh, but then the whispers creep in. She has one of the best voices in music history, yet she often resorts to a talk-singy-barely-audible melody. This trend has gone on for well over a decade now, minus a few flashes of old Mariah.  

The song speaks about Mariah Carey calmly, yet sternly telling her love to leave immediately. The production and the melody are a nice contrast against the song’s point blank chorus. There are some moments that are reminiscent of 90s Mariah here, but the song really lacks a strong climax. On a brighter note, she looks amazing in the video. So much so that it makes you wonder if the whole point of the song was a secondary motive to flaunt her recent 50lb weight loss. Whatever the case, most artists can only daydream of having the legacy she has built in the music industry. 

What are your thoughts on “GTFO”? What’s your favorite album of hers?

It’s rare to find genuine R&B music these days. This is why (with a few exceptions), I’ve been resorting to some 90s classics lately. However, I have been following Justin Ruff and his music for a couple of years. His brand of music never disappoints. So, I was excited to hear his latest single, “Every Blue Moon,” when it dropped this past Friday. This track quickly became one of my favorites of his. 

The track creeps in with a bluesy, seductive feel that sounds like it could be a throwback, but still current all in one downbeat. I’m usually a fan of  songs with a good guitar riff and “Every Blue Moon” is well produced without overpowering Justin Ruff’s voice. The well placed vocal arrangements here really showcase his great singing ability as well. Thankfully, he doesn’t ruin the listening experience by adding in unnecessary runs and riffs. 

The Cincinnati native croons, “Every blue moon, I just wanna be your lover”. Rick Stevenson swoops in and offers a clean rap verse that complements the song well, giving it a subtle street edge. “Every Blue Moon” follows Justin Ruff’s first single “Diamonds”, lifted from his upcoming EP, Harvey Ave. Justin definitely has some great music on his hands, after hearing these first two singles. 

Learn more about Justin Ruff and his music at www.JustinRuffMusic.com. For now, check out “Every Blue Moon” for yourself below. What are your thoughts on the song and Justin Ruff’s music?