Nicky Lawrence

Nicky Lawrence wows on fresh take ‘Savage’

The Canadian singer-songwriter might not yet be familiar to a British music audience, but it’s fair to say she’s had a busy career. She has created and starred in her own stage show, appeared on TV series like Schitt’s Creek and Anne with an E, and, on top of that, she’s taken the time to release her debut album Ugly Black Woman.

The 2024 LP, which takes its name from the stage show, is what has occasioned Lawrence’s return to the recording studio.
The 18-track project is a mix of music and spoken word. Originally released for Black History Month, the goal was to tell stories from a Black woman’s perspective.

One funky, throbbing 80s-inspired number is ‘Savage’. The dance bop hides a tale not only of heartbreak, but of the pain and emotional toll that, according to Lawrence, is so often placed on women.

In promotion for her latest effort, the songwriter explains:

“When you first listen to ‘Savage’ you think of a sweet dance vibe, but in reality the lyrics reveal a deeper side to the damage and pain caused when you can’t let go of someone you love. Oftentimes as women, we take on the brunt of emotional anguish, blaming ourselves for the failure of romantic relationships, savaging our mental health.”

But the observant among you will now surely be asking — why are we talking about a track from 2024? Well, in short, the track has been given an acoustic makeover in honour of Women’s History Month. And it’s all the better for it.

All of the fun, foot-tapping production? Gone. Replaced by a solitary acoustic guitar and the supreme vocals of Lawrence.

Going back to basics allows the song’s point to shine through. With the sugar rush of the original backing, you could be forgiven for taking this song as a straightforward, bouncy story about a breakup. With this iteration, the artist wants you to hear more than that.

Across the four-minute track, we hear the turmoil of someone who knows the relationship isn’t good for them. Their lover is emotionally absent, the void filled only by suffering. And yet, despite knowing the truth, the temptation to stay is too strong. That is the savage the song is referring to.

The storyteller cries:

“I made every sacrifice, and now I finally realise that you were never on my side.”
Before adding:
“The savage in me loves you sweetly, tell me everything’s alright.”

Nicky’s discography may be light, but her vocal chops bring the heft. Her voice is powerful, rich, and always captivating.

Lawrence displays a deft touch throughout. Whether she cranks things up or dials it back, she owns every second of this raw redo — with passion and angst.

‘Savage’ is a listening highlight not to be missed. If you can’t appreciate this stunning performance, then call your doctor — because you might just need to get your ears tested.