Khalid makes his triumphant return with “Sincere.”
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TOP 5 SONGS
5. Heatstroke
Damn, having a heatstroke never sounded so pleasant.
If you told me Post Malone wrote “Heatstroke,” it wouldn’t surprise me in the slightest. The track blends Khalid’s signature vocal cracks with a liberating and sunny production style that aligns perfectly with the free-spirited, hippie aesthetic Post has been leaning into recently. Lyrically, Khalid draws a beautiful parallel between falling in love with someone and the universal joy of summertime vibes. All in all, I love this song’s energy.
In all seriousness, if you suspect you’re having a heatstroke, call 911.
4. Please Don’t Fall In Love With Me
I’ve told a jumpoff not to fall in love with me, but not my main chick.
The title sure packs a punch, right? It takes a certain level of confidence—or maybe toxicity—to openly advise someone not to fall in love with you. Knowing Khalid’s reputation as a nice guy, it raises eyebrows. Anywho, in the track, he finds himself questioning his ex-lover’s new relationship, almost yearning to witness the intimate moments they share. What’s particularly intriguing about the song is its stylistic approach. While the relaxing production and lyrical content are expected, Khalid’s fervent singing style adds a surprising twist. It’s a departure from his usual demeanor, resembling more the delivery of rappers or singers aiming for a rap-like cadence.
3. Breathe (Ft. Arlo Parks)
Why is Khalid rapping better than every rapper signed to Playboi Carti’s label in this track?
Yes, you read it correctly: Khalid raps his ass off in “Breathe.” Backed by soothing production and dreamy vocals by Arlo Parks, the Texas singer uses this Chance The Rapper/Childish Gambino-like rap style to speak on the many thoughts that run through his head when he’s alone. Those thoughts, which are usually negative, revolve around the pressure that comes with being depressed in a world full of toxic individuals.
2. Ground
Khalid is a junkie, and that’s OK.
In “Ground,” Khalid explores how sunny weather, recreational drugs, and a carefree lifestyle affect his and his partner’s mental states. The track is undeniably smooth, featuring a therapeutic beat with a pleasant tempo and hypnotic melodies. However, I do find it a little strange that Khalid sounds like he recorded the track after doing a root canal. Maybe he’s channeling that anesthesia high into his performance!
1. Long Way Home
Negro, use your damn GPS.
If there’s a track from this album that might end up in bars, it’s “Long Way Home.” This song features a smooth trap-pop beat with a lively tempo, Khalid’s more relaxed vocal style, and lyrics about letting go of life’s worries and taking chances. It’s definitely one you’ll find yourself replaying often.
SONG-BY-SONG RATING
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RGM RATING
(B-) (81%)
Khalid is the quintessential end-of-summer artist. His music doesn’t heat things up during the summer months but instead sets the mood for the upcoming cuffing season, making you look forward to cozying up as the weather cools down.
It’s becoming increasingly difficult to tell R&B from pop these days, and artists like Khalid are a big reason why. His music often blends elements from both genres, and Sincere is no exception. The album is filled with soft pop and R&B instrumentals, creating a soothing listening experience. Hip-hop fans will also appreciate the occasional trap elements that harken back to Khalid’s earlier work.
Khalid comes across as such an innocent soul—he probably even uses different rags for his face and ass when he takes a shower (only the most refined do that). In Sincere, Khaled reveals his vulnerable side, reflecting on times when his heart was shattered, when he desperately needed love to get by, and when he had to self-reflect to navigate tough situations. If you’re still figuring out how to be the best lover you can be (unlike me) or down to overanalyze the effects of weed smoke, you’ll likely find a lot to connect with in this project.
Vocally, Khalid maintains a subdued, almost weary tone throughout the album. It feels like he’s coming down from a high, or his buzz from drinking is fading, and now he’s reflecting on a recent breakup. While the consistent mood can be a bit challenging to listen to over the course of an entire album, if you’re in a similar emotional state, this project might resonate deeply with you.
I wouldn’t say I’ve outgrown Khalid’s mindset, but his lyrics don’t quite resonate with my everyday life anymore. That said, they do remind me of a time when discovering one’s purpose and navigating relationships were crucial—those were truly wonderful times. Thanks for the blast to the past, Khalid.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
