The Bottom Line
Jesse McCartney may be one of the most underrated artists in pop music today. "How Do You Sleep?" is another solid example of why pop fans should pay attention to this former child actor. Sweet pop-soul really doesn't get a whole lot better than this. Throw in a great remix featuring Ludacris and "How Do You Sleep?" will warm up your winter listening.
Pros
- Solid R&B influenced vocals
- Infectious beats keep the song from becoming dull
- Strong Ludacris rap on the remix
Cons
- Vocals a bit too sweet for the meaning of the lyrics
Description
- Written by Sean Garrett
- Produced by Sean Garrett and Clubba Langg
- Released January 2009 by Hollywood Records
Guide Review - Jesse McCartney - "How Do You Sleep?"
One of the often overlooked stories of pop music in 2008 was the emergence of Jesse McCartney as a top level pop performer and songwriter. Hot on the heels of his success as a songwriter with "Bleeding Love," the single "Leavin'" gave him his biggest hit single yet peaking at #2 on the pop singles chart. Put aside your prejudices about former child actors and boy band members. "How Do You Sleep?" is another solid track from the Departure album that makes one more argument for seeing Jesse McCartney as an established artist.
The sweet crooning of lyrics conveying a less than sweet message might throw some listeners off here, but it is a minor complaint. The beats here give an insistent atmosphere that will make "How Do You Sleep?" hard to forget. Fans of Ne-Yo will be in familiar musical territory. Catch the remix with raps from Ludacris for a great muscular addition to the song.
"How Do You Sleep?" should easily keep Jesse McCartney on the pop radio airwaves. If you are a fan that enjoyed "Leavin'" and find yourself singing along again here, dive deeper into McCartney's solid Departure album. You won't be disappointed.
