With 333, the experimental R&B, pop, and electronic sounds of 2021’s ace pop singer Tinashe have evolved from the talented new face in the mould of “generic pop” to that of a bona fide genre-bending artist who makes the most out of using that skilled work. The 333 itself describes the angel number that stands for creativity, growth, and alignment in one’s life’s purpose—a most fitting title indeed for the overall testament that this project presents about self-love, empowerment, and embracing one’s authentic self.
From the opening song, Tinashe declares this her private freedom declaration loudly and proudly. She shakes off strings of constraint and pressure that once bound her down to finally emerge pretty solidly standing, being herself as an artist and as a woman. Themes of independence, self-reliance, and finding inner strength from within the individual abound throughout the album, just as in each song that makes the singer celebrate her growing identity. Her tracks, such as “I Can See the Future” and “Bouncin,” are abundant in determination, pride, and unbreakable confidence in herself while narrating her way to self-empowerment.
Conversely, as brashly musical as its message, once Tinashe takes effortless leaps from sultry R&B grooves to futuristic electronic beats, it echoes, in this genre fluidity, the album’s theme: of rejection against borders and labels, for in here lies actual freedom in the structuring. Still fresh and great, this is still a game-changer record, full of layered intricacies as well as moments of reflection allowing the voice and message to work through Tinashe.
Some standout tracks are “X” with Jeremih; just so hot and boldly anthemic, embracing sultriness and empowerment. Tracks like these create an atmosphere for Tinashe to celebrate self-love—not emotional and psychological but physical and spiritual. She’s totally in tune with herself, and another great one is “Small Reminders,” which is a track where she deliberates on how she appreciates just small moments in life and staying grounded during trying times.
333 is a clean, untainted independence celebration in all forms. Tinashe took full creative control over this project by self-releasing it and made sure that everything that had to do with the album represented her in every way. That autonomy has always been part of the message that comes with the album: having the ability to control your narrative and possessing the strength to tell it truthfully.
In 333, Tinashe affirms how self-love and empowerment are things that one continues to be engaged with one’s own self. She believes the strength comes from within, and embracing what makes one different is the real empowerment. It’s a strong statement coming from an artist who continues to redefine herself and encourages other people to be the same.
