Starting Strong| Posted June 01, 2017
Being an independent artist can be one of the toughest things to do in the music industry. However, if you succeed and find a strong following for your music, it can be extremely beneficial. Jermaine Dolly embodies what happens when you grind it out and never quit in order to fulfill your dreams. This former background singer for Tye Tribbett has even sold one of his old mixtapes out of the back of his trunk. No longer independent, Jermaine is now signed with By Any Means Necessary in partnership with Fred Jerkins III's Darkchild Gospel.
Jermaine sent his single "You" to several media outlets, and his sense of humor, witty videos and outgoing personality served him well. From the success of this one song, Jermaine traveled the country ministering. "You" was his only official single for almost two years before he released his long-awaited full length album, The Dolly Express.
"Waiting" has some hints of Earth, Wind and Fire and Chicago with the build-ups and synth arrangements also heard in a few Prince ballads. Dolly sings in his full voice while incorporating his strong falsetto to sing of being patient to hear the voice of God. Meanwhile, "Serve" features Dolly softly singing of claiming strong allegiance to God through any accolades or hardships he faces. Midway through, the song takes a brief moment to build to a driving ballad, only to return to the easy listening sound it began with.
"Get On the Train" has an old school vibe to it, while Jermaine takes a clear cue from singers like Larry Blackman of Cameo as inspiration behind his singing on the jumping "Yeah, Yeah, Yeah." "I Don't Wanna Be Moses" is one that I cannot get enough of. The message of not giving up before you are able to fulfill some great things clearly resonates. The groove and beat just click, creating an infectious song that is hard to get out of my head.
The Bottom Line: The Dolly Express is a strong debut for Jermaine Dolly, and I am really excited for all of his success. With a tireless work ethic, hilarious personality and a strong trust in God, this is only the beginning.
Song to Download Now:
"I Don't Wanna Be Moses" (Get it on iTunes here.)
to add lyrics if not listed.
