From The Vault: Keri Hilson – ‘Pretty Girl Rock’

“My name is Keri, I’m so very
Fly, oh my, it’s a lil’ bit scary.”

Today’s From The Vault pick is Keri Hilson’s 2010 hit, ‘Pretty Girl Rock.’

Dive below….

Issued as the launching single from Hilson’s sophomore album ‘No Boys Allowed,’ ‘Rock’ was penned by wordsmith Ne-Yo and produced by Chuck Harmony. It’s built on a sample of Bill Withers’ ‘Just The Two Of Us.’

On this empowering ego-trip about self-love, the singer advises listeners to embrace her rather than hate on her.

The single was a true success for ATL act, peaking at #4 on the Billboard Hot Hip-Hop/R&B chart and #24 on the Hot 100. It was also a Top 20 hit in New Zealand and Germany.

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Often, artists are accused of not paying homage to the one who paved the way before them. Well, Keri is not one of said acts, for the music video for the tune was a true visual love letter and “thank you” note to some of the names who’ve inspired her.

Josephine Baker, Dorothy Dandridge, Donna Summer, Diana Ross, TLC and Janet Jackson are all saluted with Hilson rocking iconic outfits, choreography and all!

The clip was nominated for Video Of The Year at the 2011 BET Awards.

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Hilson’s on-going hiatus (8 years and counting) continues to grate, but instead we’ll positively reflect on the numerous bops she has delivered during her active years.

With the likes of H.E.R., SZA and Janelle Monae now waving the flag for R&B and the masses seemingly responding well, maybe Miss Hilson will find the time ripe for her comeback.

Until then, we’ll be doing the “pretty girl rock.”