The Allure of Ama Lou
If you’ve never listened to Ama Lou, this is your polite indicator to please do so. There are singers out there with the strength to reach deep into listeners’ souls and absorb all of their attention. With the music she’s released so far, Ama Lou is one of them.
The R&B singer from North London has been releasing music since the age of 11. In 2016, she released her debut single, “TBC,” which impressed listeners not only by being a well-produced song but with its lyrical content. “TBC” discusses both past and current issues that minorities have faced due to prejudice. It also depicts the fight activists have courageously been engaged in to bring about change. Ama Lou’s deep and expressive voice interlaced with the lyrics left a big impact on those who listened to the song.
Since her debut, Ama Lou has released two single albums, one EP, and several singles. Last year, she released a deluxe version of her 2021 EP, At Least We Have This, which offered beautiful live renditions of each song on the original EP. Aside from this, there wasn’t any new content. To the relief of fans, Ama Lou returned with “Caught Me Running,” on May 19th.
Produced by Shlohmo, Jeff Kleinman, and Ama Lou, “Caught Me Running” is a smooth track that builds in a natural, yet compelling way. Elements of pop are utilized tastefully throughout the track, giving it further momentum. The small segment of vocals in between the first chorus and second verse is ethereal, but also tints the song with melancholy. Aside from being very clean and intriguing, the production skillfully creates a somber atmosphere for the song. These qualities combined with Ama Lou’s gorgeous voice make the song riveting.
Of course, Ama Lou’s voice must be mentioned when discussing any of her songs. Having received classical training, Ama Lou has applied considerable time and practice to her singing. This not only contributes to her vocal skill but also to her ability to tell a story and express whatever emotions are bottled within the lyrics.
To continue, “Caught Me Running” was written by Jeff Kleinman, Ama Lou, and Henry Laufer. Although the song’s message or whom it’s addressing isn’t confirmed, at parts, Ama Lou seems to attempt to comfort someone with lyrics such as, “I feel your pain when you sleep at night. Tell me some things that will make you tired.” Those lines are laced with kindness, showing that there is understanding and a desire to bring peace to this person.
However, there are lines that display that there is more to the story such as, “I'm caught in a writing spell, lost on my own, don't interrupt it. And I don't need a babysitter.” These lines may indicate that Ama Lou, or whoever the song’s perspective is from, needs time to be alone. Periods of time when she isn’t being hovered over. This song unveils personal trials. Even though there is a want to help, and the capacity of understanding others, there is also the want to keep the battle confined to yourself and run away from the curious eyes of others with lines including, “There's no need, don't make me say it. I tried to tell you, don't make me.” Overall, it seems there’s an immense desire for independence and escape. In addition, the music video further reveals the desire to break away, whether it’s from sadness, fear, monotony, or whatever else. Life is exhausting and at times, everyone needs to slip away from daily life and prying eyes.
Despite Ama Lou’s music being modern, it is soulful and entirely captivating. At only 25 years old, Ama Lou’s voice has an enduring and sophisticated quality that is proficient at connecting with listeners. Ama Lou’s lyrics tell vivid, relevant, and often personal, stories. With the single, “Caught Me Running,” fans are very excited to see what Ama Lou will do next.