Benson Boone's “Slow It Down” Highlights the Breakout Artist's Still Untapped Depths
Photo: Jonathan Weiner
Though Benson Boone has become an overnight global phenomenon who is making waves with his intimate pop confessions, his latest single “Slow It Down” highlights the vulnerability behind the artist’s music. The single gives listeners a sneak peek into Boone’s debut album, Fireworks & Rollerblades, arriving April 5 via Night Street Records / Warner Records.
Marrying the best parts of an anthem and a piano ballad, “Slow It Down” is a true representation of Boone’s dynamic range, sonically and emotionally. The song opens as a piano and vocal duet, letting Boone’s stirring voice live at the forefront of the sound. Even with just a simple piano accompaniment, there’s a story unfolding in each note of “Slow It Down,” and much of that narrative comes from the rich vocal performance.
The intentionality of Boone’s vocal delivery is consistent no matter the intensity or volume of the song. He swoons through delicate hushed tones with as much emotional depth as the belted highs of “Slow It Down,” where he invites a growl into the edge of his voice. This is the mark of a real performer; Boone isn’t dependent on production intrigue or vocal acrobatics to portray his artistry.
Boone delivers the hook, “I hate that I’m the reason you’re in your head right now / While your world is spinning out / so slow it down.” and proceeds to do the opposite of slowing it down. Just as we’ve settled into the intimacy of this piano ballad, the scene shifts with a newly brightened, rhythmic arrangement. A bouncy drum kit and walking bass line lightly line the track with movement, propelling the song forward. With just a few instruments, “Slow It Down” morphs from a reflective, somber story into a charming march. Now, Boone’s voice can really soar, embracing the sunny soundscape with playful exploration.
We enter a final chorus and the reigns are completely abandoned—new reaches of the track’s atmosphere are filled with orchestral sounds and vocal layers, spanning grander highs and more intricate lows. As Boone pleads to “slow it down,” the track blossoms in response, building with the artist’s vulnerability.
With each new song, listeners learn a new side to Benson Boone, both musically and personally. “Slow It Down” is no different, showcasing an unparalleled vocal performance that portrays his artistic depth, making good on the global sensation he’s quickly become.
Watch the "Slow It Down" video below:
