About.com Rating
The Bottom Line
This is finally the true sequel to the Black Eyed Peas' huge classic "Let's Get It Started." The abrupt change in musical style from the electro of "Boom Boom Pow" may startle some fans, but in recent years musical eclecticism has become a trademark of the Black Eyed Peas. Put this on when you head out Friday night, as suggested by will.i.am, and you just may have found your favorite party song of summer 2009.
Listen
Pros
- Feel-good mood
- Distinct change of pace for the Black Eyed Peas
- Great choice for summer
Cons
- Don't look here for musical or lyrical depth
- Auto-tune is wearing out its welcome
Description
- Written by the Black Eyed Peas
- Produced by David Guetta and will.i.am
- Released May 2009 by Interscope
Guide Review - Black Eyed Peas - "I Gotta Feelin'"
By now any observers of the Black Eyed Peas will realize the group adamantly follows their own muse. However, they have few peers when it comes to creating instantly catchy hits. The first time through "I've Gotta Feelin'," the song is in such a strong pop-rock vein that you may wonder if it really is the Black Eyed Peas. By the time of the last notes you are likely to be singing along with the shouted choruses and getting ready to queue the song up again.
"I Gotta Feelin'" glides along on a juiced up tick tock rhythm perfect for cruising in the car on the way to Friday and Saturday night revelry. Lead vocals shift among the band members just as they did in "Boom Boom Pow." Following a clear trend in recent releases, the Black Eyed Peas are moving away from rap content to focus primarily on singing.
One effect of that choice is that "I Gotta Feelin'" has the aura of classic pop instead of a hip hop fusion. The group just may pick up a significant number of new fans by reaching out so strongly to those who prefer mainstream pop.
Dance producer David Guetta had a hand here. However this is not instant club material. It is more pop with a danceable beat. Both "Boom Boom Pow" and "I Gotta Feelin'" deliver contributions that make it obvious Black Eyed Peas are still a four-person group. For any who had fears that the outside success of Fergie would turn the group into something like a backing band for the stardom of an individual should now rest easy. The Black Eyed Peas are distinctively a group with their own approach and sound. I gotta feelin' this is a hit.