Giveon’s ‘When It’s All Said and Done’ EP: A Cinematic R&B Journey Through Heartbreak and Self-Discovery

With the release of his poignant new extended play, Giveon solidifies his reputation as a formidable storyteller in the contemporary R&B landscape. Titled “When It’s All Said and Done,” this four-track project serves as a compelling conclusion to a significant chapter in the artist’s life, echoing themes first explored in his earlier EP, “Take Time.” The Long Beach native has crafted an experience that transcends typical musical releases, inviting listeners into a deeply personal narrative, likened by Giveon himself to “scoring a film.” This cinematic approach, infused with raw emotion and intricate production, positions the EP as a pivotal moment in his burgeoning career.

The Cinematic Vision: Crafting a Film Score for Life’s Chapters

The concept of “When It’s All Said and Done” as a musical film score is not merely a metaphor; it’s a testament to Giveon’s meticulous approach to songwriting and sonic architecture. From the very first note, the EP unfolds with an intentional narrative arc, guiding the listener through the tumultuous landscape of a crumbling relationship and the eventual journey towards acceptance. Giveon emphasizes his deliberate choices, telling HollywoodLife, “I want everyone to know this project has a story being told from start to finish and I was very particular with the sonics, as if I was scoring a film.” This commitment to a cohesive narrative structure, coupled with his signature baritone voice, creates an immersive experience that feels both grand and intimately personal. Each track acts as a scene, building upon the emotional tension and character development, culminating in a profound sense of closure.

The depth of this cinematic vision is evident in the carefully curated soundscapes and the raw honesty of the lyrics. Giveon uses subtle instrumental arrangements and vocal delivery to convey the weight of his emotions, painting vivid pictures without needing excessive lyrical exposition. This nuanced artistry allows the listener to fill in the blanks, connecting with the universal themes of love, loss, and the search for validation. It’s a masterclass in emotional storytelling through music, reflecting a maturity and artistic vision far beyond what one might expect from an artist relatively early in his solo career. The blend of classic R&B sensibilities with modern production techniques ensures the EP feels both timeless and perfectly attuned to today’s soundscape, appealing to a broad audience who appreciate thoughtful, heartfelt music.

A Narrative of Love, Loss, and Reflection Across Four Tracks

“When It’s All Said and Done” is a tightly woven tapestry of emotions, expertly spread across its four tracks, each contributing a vital piece to the overarching story of heartbreak and eventual resolution. The EP picks up where “Take Time” left off, providing a powerful, “spiritual sequel” that delves deeper into the complexities of a love that has run its course.

• “When It’s All Said and Done” (Title Track): The EP opens dramatically with its title track, immediately immersing the listener in the emotional turmoil of a relationship’s aftermath. It sets a somber yet reflective tone, posing questions about the validity of past experiences and the echoes of what once was. The raw vulnerability in Giveon’s voice instantly connects, making it clear that this isn’t just a collection of songs, but an intimate confession.

• “Still Your Best”: This track delves into the lingering desire for validation post-breakup. Giveon masterfully articulates the struggle of a scorned lover who, despite the pain, still yearns for acknowledgment that their presence held significant value. The lyrics explore the internal conflict between moving on and holding onto the idea of being irreplaceable, a common human experience rendered beautifully through his soulful delivery.

• “Last Time” Featuring Snoh Aalegra: Offering a glimmer of hope and the complexity of a potential reconciliation, “Last Time” stands out with its compelling duet. The collaboration with fellow R&B luminary Snoh Aalegra adds another layer of dynamic storytelling, as both artists exchange perspectives on a relationship hanging by a thread. Their voices intertwine, creating a poignant conversation about the push and pull of love, capturing the fragile dance between wanting to let go and longing to hold on. The track beautifully portrays the emotional seesaw inherent in trying to make amends or facing the finality of goodbye.

• “Stuck On You”: The EP concludes with a sobering revelation, as “Stuck On You” brings a sense of finality to the emotional journey. This track embodies the difficult realization that despite efforts or hopes, some things are simply not meant to be, and the attachment to a person can linger even after the relationship has ended. It’s a powerful anthem of moving forward while acknowledging the imprints left behind, providing the listener with a sense of closure, much like the artist himself finds peace in concluding this chapter.

Collectively, these four songs form a cohesive narrative arc, demonstrating Giveon’s prowess as a songwriter capable of constructing intricate emotional landscapes. They tell a story that is at once deeply personal and universally relatable, resonating with anyone who has navigated the painful complexities of love and loss.

Giveon’s Unique Artistic Journey: From Short Stories to Soulful Soundscapes

Giveon’s path to becoming one of R&B’s most distinct voices is as fascinating as his music. His early inclinations weren’t initially towards singing, but storytelling. In an interview with DJBooth, he revealed, “I have always been a fan of writing stories in general, so I would write little short stories first.” This foundational love for narrative laid the groundwork for his lyrical depth and his ability to craft songs that truly resonate as mini-epics. The transition from written prose to musical verse was a natural evolution, born from a practical realization: “the stories were taking too long, so I figured I’d write these stories in the form of songs.”

Initially, Giveon’s musical identity was somewhat overshadowed by the titans he admired. He admitted, “Because I listened to Frank Ocean and Miguel, I thought that that’s how people were supposed to sound, and if you didn’t sound like them, you probably sounded weird.” This perception, common among aspiring artists, led to a period of uncertainty about his own unique instrument – his voice. His deep, resonant baritone, now celebrated for its distinctiveness and emotional power, was something he initially didn’t perceive as an asset. It took the perceptive ear of his mother to point out its flattering qualities, an encouragement that proved pivotal. “I wasn’t aware people would find my voice flattering until my mom pointed it out. Before that, I was just writing. But then I started to think I could make my own songs,” he shared. This discovery marked a turning point, allowing him to embrace his individuality and forge a sound that stands apart in a crowded genre. His ability to convey profound emotion with such understated power is a direct result of embracing his authentic vocal identity, a journey that underscores the importance of self-belief and recognizing one’s unique gifts.

The Ascent of an R&B Star: A Year of Milestones for Giveon

The year leading up to “When It’s All Said and Done” has been nothing short of transformative for Giveon, proving that his mother’s early belief in his voice was profoundly accurate. Despite the global challenges of the year, he has carved out an impressive trajectory, transitioning from humble beginnings as a former Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. mascot and dog walker to an undeniable R&B phenomenon. His breakthrough moment arrived in February with “Like I Want You,” a track that quickly garnered over a million streams, signaling his potent appeal and ability to connect with a wide audience. This achievement was a clear indicator that Giveon’s soulful sound and poignant lyrics were resonating deeply with listeners.

The momentum continued with the release of his debut EP, “Take Time,” which followed hot on the heels of his viral success. “Take Time” was not just a critical darling; it earned significant praise from prominent publications like UPROXX, which hailed it as one of the “Best Albums of the Year.” This widespread critical acclaim underscored his artistic integrity and capacity to deliver a project of sustained quality. Beyond critical recognition, Giveon also received the coveted “seal of approval” from some of the biggest names in music and entertainment. Superstar artists such as Issa Rae, Brandy, and SZA publicly championed his work, amplifying his reach and credibility within the industry. Perhaps the most significant endorsement came from none other than Drake, who featured Giveon on his highly anticipated track “Chicago Freestyle” earlier in 2020. This high-profile collaboration propelled Giveon into the mainstream consciousness, introducing his distinctive voice to millions of new listeners and solidifying his status as a serious artist to watch. These milestones collectively illustrate a remarkable ascent, powered by authentic talent and a rapidly growing, dedicated fanbase.

Looking Ahead: The Promise of Giveon’s Debut Album

As 2020 draws to a close, Giveon’s journey continues its upward trajectory. While fans are encouraged to savor the cinematic narrative of “When It’s All Said and Done” for a few months, the anticipation for his next major move is already palpable. The artist himself has hinted at what’s next, promising to grace 2021 with his highly anticipated debut album. This full-length project is poised to start an entirely new chapter in his life and career, taking his artistic endeavors to an unprecedented level. The debut album is expected to build upon the emotional depth, lyrical sophistication, and distinct vocal delivery that have become hallmarks of his EPs.

Listeners can anticipate a project that further explores the complexities of relationships, self-discovery, and the human condition, all delivered through his signature baritone and evocative storytelling. The seamless blend of classic R&B influences with modern sensibilities that defined his earlier work will undoubtedly be expanded upon, showcasing an even broader range of his musicality. With the groundwork laid by the critical and commercial success of “Take Time” and “When It’s All Said and Done,” Giveon’s debut album is positioned to be a monumental release, solidifying his place as a defining voice in contemporary R&B. It will be an opportunity for him to demonstrate continued growth as an artist, potentially exploring new sonic territories while maintaining the raw authenticity that has garnered him such widespread adoration. The future is exceptionally bright for Giveon, and his upcoming debut promises to be a powerful testament to his undeniable talent and lasting impact on the music industry.

Indeed, “When It’s All Said And Done” is more than just an EP; it’s a testament to Giveon’s storytelling prowess and his unique ability to turn personal experiences into universally resonant art. It’s a project that demands repeated listens, each time revealing new layers of emotion and musical intricacy, affirming his position as an R&B star who is not just on the rise, but already shining brightly.

When It’s All Said And Done is out now.