The journey to Coco Jones' debut album, Why Not More? is one that has been years in the making. The anticipation has been at an all-time high for the R&B singer, who has been entertaining audiences for the better part of a decade. After the release of her 2022 GRAMMY nominated EP What I Didn't Tell You, which introduced us to a grown-up Coco who delivered across the 11-track project of solid quality R&B and cemented her as another one of the new school of R&B artists delivering top-tier music that is no doubt bringing a fresh wave of talent, vocals, lyrics and music for a new generation of R&B talent across the board.
The album's announcement, alongside the release of the Britney Spears sample lead single "Taste," brought excitement and intrigue to her long-awaited debut album. The use of the Britney Spears sample was a bold and experimental move, adding a unique twist to the track. This unexpected element led to mixed reviews from fans. Some didn't understand the use of the sample, while others praised the song's vibe, which was more experimental and sensual. Despite the reactions, the song undoubtedly showed that Coco is once again pushing herself and doing something different than what might be expected, keeping everyone on their toes about what to expect from her music.
As you press play on the 14-track album, this is further displayed, showing a range of what Coco can bring to the party and what she has crafted for her debut album. The album displays Coco in all that she has to offer through the various melodies, musical styles and lyrical moments on the album. With R&B at its core, the album incorporates various musical elements that showcase the diverse influences shaping Coco's music. 'Taste' brings the Britney Spears pop-infused influence, whereas 'Hit You Where It Hurts' has a more gentle acoustic vibe. The title track, "Why Not More?" is a reggae-influenced song featuring YG Marley. "Most Beautiful Design" brings a trap edge to the album, with London On The Track and Future joining her. “You”, a slower-tempo love song, is a perfect showcase of Coco's ability to convey deep emotions through her music.
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One thing that is present and evident across the album is Coco's lyricism, which has been showcased very well throughout her music. What I Didn't Tell You showed her ability to really put storytelling into her songs, and she has continued to do so, elevating it on the album by infusing it with production and melodies that bring each track together in its unique way. Her growth in lyricism from her previous work to her debut album is a testament to her artistic development and her commitment to storytelling through her music.
While love and relationships are a central part of the album, Coco shares her experiences of the good, the bad and the complexities in between. She also brings self-love and empowerment to the album. Embracing her sexuality and sensuality, and touching on other aspects of her femininity, she is embracing all parts of herself and her experiences. “Tast” is a teasingly sensual offering from Coco and is perfectly laced with the production by StarGate, Jasper Harris, and Aaron Shadow. “AEOMG” interpolates Luther Vandross's 'Never Too Much' and has an edgier, much sultrier tone, thanks to Cirkut and M-Phazes, which reflects the song's nature. There is also “Nobody Exists” is a standout moment of the album, solely written by Coco and produced by London On Da Track, Boobie, Phil The Keys, Hero, and Ikey encapsulates the feeling of letting go and the feeling of being deeply connected with another “Hit You Where It Hurts” blends a guitar/string-laced production. “By Myself” is a beautiful moment of accepting and embracing the independence that one has on their own and celebrating that within oneself.
Coco is anything but fearless in how she has navigated her career despite the obstacles that have arisen at various points. And when you listen to the album, you can tell that she was not afraid to allow herself to open up and explore the depths of what she can do musically. Although the album itself has been four years in the making, the journey to get to this point has allowed for the experiences that have brought Coco to this point, and she poses the question: Why Not More? The album will undoubtedly mark a significant chapter in Coco's musical journey and will continue to prove that she is never one to be underestimated.
