On January 30, 2021, a musical legend & transgender icon passed away. Sophie Xeon, professionally known as SOPHIE, fell from a rooftop in Athens, Greece, while trying to take a picture of the full moon. She may have passed away that day, but her worldwide musical influence lives on and continues to change the music, entertainment, and production industry. While some may not know much about her, she’s worked with top artists you may know, like Madonna, Charli XCX, and Namie Amuro to name a few. Some call her a producer and others a sound engineer because she meticulously manufactured sounds using different textures, including metallic and glittery percussion. She is an innovative artist who expanded her reach over many different genres, exploring Electronic, Pop, and Deconstructed Club. She is also a pioneer and staple in genres like Hyperpop and Avant-Pop. Today, I want to re-visit and share my thoughts on one of her most infamous bodies of work, an album she titled “PRODUCT.” It features 8 songs. “BIPP”, “Lemonade”, “MSMSMSM”, “L.O.V.E”, “Elle”, “Hard”, “VYZEE”, and “JUST LIKE WE NEVER SAID GOODBYE.” I will specifically analyze, “Lemonade”, “L.O.V.E”, and “JUST LIKE WE NEVER SAID GOODBYE.” Out of the songs on the album, these personally stuck out to me. 

Lemonade

Lemonade, the second track on the album features bubbly sound effects and paints a summer image for the listener. It sounds like having a cold drink on the beach, or by the pool. The beat alone could be considered harsher. However, the synth that cuts into the song and the bubbly, fluid effects lighten the song and create a perfect balance. 

L.O.V.E

L.O.V.E has received mixed feedback on the internet because it features a high-pitched buzzing sound reminiscent of an insect. The song’s cover is also an insect, so we can assume that it is meant to be. However, L.O.V.E is not meant for traditional listening. It is designed to vibrate the walls when played at clubs. I can’t say this is my favorite song on the album, but despite that, it’s still a well-produced song and stays true to Sophie’s brand.

JUST LIKE WE NEVER SAID GOODBYE

This is my favorite song off the “PRODUCT” album. Despite its synth-heavy beat, you can still feel a hint of sadness in the song. The song itself feels bittersweet. It feels like seeing your long-distance partner leave for the airport or leaving something you loved but knew was bad for you. In my opinion, this was the perfect song to close out this album.