We all remember the hype surrounding Gotye and Kimbra’s co-creation “Somebody That I Used to Know” as it thrust both artists into a huge spotlight of music fame. Now, it seems Kimbra has taken up a new project on one of her newer song; this time with American singer and songwriter Dawn for a simple and dreamy musical style that is supported by the coolest vocal harmonies to date. Titled “Version of Me,” the new song features a minimalist synth melody that rolls over a holy sounding cluster from a synth pad. As the song continues in an almost golden somber, a beat kicks in at the last minute and picks up the pace without rushing the music, sounding almost similar to that of James Blake’s older work.
Alongside the release of this new single “Version of Me” comes a music video featuring Kimbra and Dawn singing intimately and exposed as their bodies in a way that follows the theme of their song, accepting oneself as one is as well as living with the idea and the people who decide to not be as accepting. Amidst our new era of body positivity and self-love, this song has never rang more true as both singers make themselves completely vulnerable for the entirety of the video without ever giving off fear. Their confidence exudes through the screen and rubs off on its listeners. Check out the whole video below.
When talking about the vulnerability this video has brought Dawn comments: “To be fully exposed as a woman is a vulnerability many of us are afraid to show, because of judgment. Society says they want to see the real you, but when you actually show them, they aren’t quite ready for it. The track is a mirror. When I heard it, I understood every word to my core. I realized every woman has a different battle of finding the best versions of themselves. For me, I find strength in my imperfection. To me, this song meant self-acceptance. It meant freedom to be naked in every day and be enough. I saw a mirror of two women, two different races, and two different lives connecting organically and honestly. We are at our best when we can face each other without barriers.
When reviewing the album that “Version of Me” stems from (Primal Heart), the new single has remained one of the media’s favorites across the board, brining in cheers from the likes of Pitchfork,, Brooklyn Vegan, Consequence of Sound, and more. Sometimes all music lovers need is a simple yet extremely honest piece that causes one to think rather than to just listen.
Photo credit: Owen Ela
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