The Bottom Line
Akon has honed his sweet hip-hop edged sound to such a fine point it's not a big surprise he is now introducing a protege to the mainstream pop music world. 20-year-old Colby O'Donis is something of a prodigy, having begun performing before age 10. "What You Got" is a solid debut for any artist, and let's hope there is much more to come from this singer-songwriter.
Pros
- O'Donis' sweet, smooth vocals
- Unabashedly romantic feel
- Akon's masterful break
Cons
- No major negatives
Description
- Written by Colby O'Donis
- Produced by Akon
- Released April 2008 by Konvict Music
Guide Review - Colby O'Donis featuring Akon - "What You Got"
20-year-old Colby O'Donis has been looking for his big breakthrough opportunity for over a decade. Hooking up with Akon seems to be the step that will take him over the threshold. This first single is rolling up the charts and will fit comfortably on pop radio, in dance clubs, and cruising in the car throughout the summer of 2008.
Colby O'Donis' vocals are nearly as smooth and sweet as those of his mentor. Set against a romantic blend of synths, strings, and gently insistent beats, his voice goes down like a soft evening breeze. O'Donis has a similar romantic touch to that of Akon. When the mentor kicks in near the end with his own verses, it is obvious how symbiotic the studio relationship is between the pair.
The debut album from Colby O'Donis is still on its way, but this first single has generated significant interest in the industry. Look for O'Donis at the end of 2008 on lists of top new artists.
