Dance Now Explained

Dance Now
Type:single
Artist:JID and Kenny Mason
Album:The Forever Story
Released:August 9, 2022
Genre:Hip hop
Length:3:47
Chronology:JID
Prev Title:Talk About Me
Prev Year:2022
Next Title:2007
Next Year:2022

"Dance Now" is a song by American rappers JID and Kenny Mason, released on August 9, 2022 as the second single from the former's third studio album The Forever Story (2022). Produced by Christo and Aviad, it contains additional vocals from American singer-songwriter Fousheé and a sample of "Yoel's Niggun" by Zusha.

Background

The song was first mentioned by JID's manager Barry Hefner via Twitter on June 7, 2022.[1] On August 8, JID announced that the song would be released the following day.[2]

Composition

"Dance Now" features a looped melody,[3] over which JID raps in a quick but controlled manner[4] accompanied with wordplay.[5] Lyrically, he discusses the expectations placed on him,[6] as well as the "allures and pitfalls of dancing with the devil".[7] JID also makes a reference to Memphis Grizzlies player Ja Morant. The chorus is performed by Kenny Mason, with backing vocals from Fousheé.[8]

Critical reception

Tom Breihan of Stereogum wrote the song is "a nice indicator of what JID can do. JID recorded the track with longtime collaborator Christo, and it’s got a big, clomping beat with a weirdly catchy looped melody. JID raps all over it, his flow reaching unstable speed-levels but never tripping over his own complicated patterns. He sounds playful and energized." Erika Marie of HotNewHipHop stated "You'll find JID beasting through bars over a beat that will make listeners bounce, and it's poised for any mood as you kick back and listen to the rapper showcase the art of Hip Hop storytelling."

Music video

The music video was released alongside the single. Directed by Trey Leons, it finds JID rapping as he appears in a suburban area where violence occurs in some corners, with scenes of "riot police, disgruntled citizens, and twerking exotic dancers."[9] The cover art of The Forever Story is captured by Naskademini from a late scene in the video.

Charts

Chart (2022)! scope="col"
Peak
position
New Zealand Hot Singles (RMNZ)[10] 16

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Dance Now ‍♂️ . . 14 October 2023 . June 7, 2022.
  2. Web site: new single tonight . Twitter . 14 October 2023 . August 8, 2022.
  3. Web site: Breihan . Tom . JID – "Dance Now" (Feat. Kenny Mason & Foushée) . . 14 October 2023 . August 9, 2022.
  4. Web site: Saponara . Michael . JID Shares New Single 'Dance Now' & 'The Forever Story' Album Cover Art . . 14 October 2023 . August 9, 2022.
  5. Web site: Helfand . Raphael . J.I.D shares "Dance Now," reveals upcoming album art and release date . . 14 October 2023 . August 9, 2023.
  6. Web site: Cho . Regina . JID returns with brand new "Dance Now" single . . 14 October 2023 . August 9, 2022.
  7. Web site: Wicker . Jewel . Atlanta Rapper J.I.D on New Album, Working With Doja Cat, and Why He Keeps a Low Profile . . 14 October 2023 . August 10, 2022.
  8. Web site: Marie . Erika . JID & Kenny Mason Impress On "Dance Now" Single . . 14 October 2023 . August 9, 2022.
  9. Web site: Williams . Aaron . JID Stands Firm In The Chaotic ‘Dance Now’ Video . . 14 October 2023 . August 9, 2022.
  10. Web site: NZ Hot Singles Chart. Recorded Music NZ. August 22, 2022. October 14, 2023.