Dwele’s 'Subject': A Mesmerizing Melange of R&B, Jazz, and Love Poetry

A lookback on Dwele's Subject. Stop sleeping!

Dwele’s debut album, Subject, released on May 20, 2003, was an impressive introduction to a young artist who refused to be boxed into a singular definition. Twenty years on, its magic remains untarnished - a beacon of sophisticated soul and R&B music with a twist.

Born Andwele Gardner, Dwele emerged from the city of Detroit, famous for its rich musical history. His early contributions to Slum Village's “Tainted” laid the foundation for his career. Dwele’s inclusion on this track showcased his flair for sultry vocals and his ease of blending into the production stylings of the late, revered J Dilla. The collaboration proved to be a stepping stone, leading him toward his independent voyage into the world of music.

Subject paints Dwele as an artist refusing to be limited by genre or industry expectations. His musical influences range is wide, yet integrating these different styles into his work is seamless. He defies categorization in a way that’s not only complex but also highly engaging, presenting his interpretation of soulful music with a touch of eccentricity.

Jay Dee's influence is unmistakable, especially in Dwele's production choices. The album features crisp, clean beats Jay Dee was known for, merged with Dwele's vision and tastes. There's a flavor of Jay Dee's work in the minimalistic, rhythmic drum patterns and the atmospheric layers of instrumentation. Yet Dwele doesn't simply mimic; he adopts and adapts, weaving in his unique artistic threads.

Dwele’s voice proves to be a treasure within Subject. His vocal skills are presented in many ways, showcasing his technical abilities and expansive expressive range. His voice seems to possess an old soul, a seasoned, seductive quality that makes his songs alluring, even intoxicating. This trait is especially apparent in the track “Hold On.” The song features Dwele’s soulful crooning that juxtaposes beautifully against the subtly robust bassline, creating a delightful auditory experience that mesmerizes listeners.

“Find a Way,” another standout track, exhibits Dwele’s talent for infusing classical jazz elements into his music. This track is carried by a sophisticated saxophone line, entwined with Dwele’s passionate vocals, delivering a rich auditory palette that makes the song an engaging listening experience.

A further testament to Dwele's distinctive style is the poetic essence of his songs. His lyrics, laced with the charm of old-school love poetry, become central to his identity as an artist. A prime example is “Truth,” a track that portrays an intimate tale of love and longing, showcasing Dwele’s talent as a wordsmith and storyteller.

Exploring the contours of Dwele’s Subject, it doesn't just fit into the R&B landscape of its time - it reshapes it. The album transgresses boundaries, making Dwele’s music hard to define but easy to appreciate. His prodigious vocal talents, unique take on production, and poetic lyricism have resulted in a timeless, captivating body of work.

An intricate tapestry of R&B, classical jazz, and love poetry, Subject was a testament to the power of Dwele's musical vision. It's a collection of songs highlighting his bold approach to music-making, creating a niche of his own in a crowded industry.

In essence, Dwele’s Subject was, and remains, an intriguing exploration of musical depth and stylistic audacity. Dwele's humble beginnings, stubborn refusal to adhere to a singular genre, and unique approach to music production and performance make this album a compelling listen. The vibrancy and depth of 'Subject' continue to fascinate, establishing Dwele as an enduring figure in the ever-evolving world of R&B music.