(August 20, 2024) Don’t hate the player. Hate the game.
And there’s absolutely no hate for Dee Dee Simon’s new single, “The Player.” It’s a stunning display of groovy funk and dancey R&B crafted around a bevy of talented musicians. With music and production handled by Neo along with lyrics by R&B songwriting veteran Tony Haynes (Earth, Wind & Fire, Robert Palmer, Bobby Brown), this three-minute offering struts like a cool ‘80’s hybrid mix of Cheryl Lynn and Change with combustible grooves reminiscent of Incognito.
And of course, Simon is nothing to play with. Recently crowned Apollo’s Amateur Night Grand Finale winner in 2023, the Oakland-based singer belts out her frustrations over game-playing “same ole” drama and blazes the entire set with soulful lead and backing vocals. “Don’t play me/Leave it alone, leave it alone,” she sings on the mighty chorus while parading around Roger Troutman-influenced talk box exercises.
This is Simon’s first venture with Disco Soul Gold (DSG), Gary Van den Bussche’s thriving UK radio promotion label. And hopefully there’s more tracks, maybe an album, to come.
Press “play” on this First Listen and let us know your thoughts.
By J Matthew Cobb
