In defiance of the norm
‘Gonna Be Alright’ finds itself in the league of Pharrell Williams’ ‘Happy’ and ‘Hall of Fame’ by The Script, and this is considering how they all are artistically and lyrically up-lifting. ‘Gonna Be Alright’ dips into philosophical depths in seeking meaning for the condition of the human in a modern society such as we currently have. It speaks of love, of loyalty and the assurance of a commitment intended to span the existence of two people who, having stuck together against odds, have weathered the storms of life.
Stovaz, songwriter and producer, who has worked for decades in the South African music scene, has put to bear ample artistic and industry experience in the delivery of ‘Gonna Be Alright’. That much is discernible from the instrumental accompaniment of the song. The lyrics tell of informed penmanship. And talking of delivery, one can’t help but notice the presence of global influences on his artistry – it is rhythmic in flow and follows through with the dynamics of the song such as appeals to cultured listening. In terms of vocal quality, ‘Gonna Be Alright’ scores high on originality. The song is further enriched with a memorable chorus.
It may seem as a default setting for African musical exports to often come heavily streaked with cultural markers – it is either Amapiano, Afrobeats or any of those markers that point to the origins or influences that inspire the song. ‘Gonna Be Alright’ appears to be a defiance of the norm, and this might arguably be said to be its strength, its merit – or maybe a quality that should be held up to criticism if one is to argue that a work of art should on its own, and quite effortlessly, introduce its cultural origin to its audience. However one decides to look at it, the general consensus on the matter should not be far from the fact that ‘Gonna Be Alright’ passes a fitness test for global ownership.
