B-Side Guys

“Salutations” emerges as a masterful convergence of Chicago’s musical heritage, bringing together the multifaceted talents of filmmaker-turned-producer Cam Be, collaborator Neak, and vocalist Oliv Blu. The fifth release from their project “a film called black” demonstrates how deeply embedded musical storytelling runs in the city’s creative DNA.

The production showcases a sophisticated understanding of hip-hop’s roots, with Sam Thousand’s bluesy trumpet work serving as a golden thread that weaves through the track’s sonic tapestry. The boom-bap foundation provides a sturdy framework for more experimental elements, while maintaining the warmth and organic quality characteristic of classic soul recordings. This careful balance between traditional and contemporary approaches creates a sound that feels both timeless and thoroughly modern.

Oliv Blu’s presence adds a crucial layer of neo-soul authenticity to the composition. Her vocal contributions, informed by both her time on “The Voice” and her deep connection to Chicago’s music scene, bridge the gap between the track’s hip-hop framework and its soulful aspirations. The interplay between vocals and instrumentation creates moments of pure musical synergy that recall the golden age of conscious hip-hop.

The track serves as more than just a song – it’s a carefully crafted homage to the full spectrum of Black musical expression. From gospel’s spiritual elevation to funk’s rhythmic innovation, from blues’ emotional depth to hip-hop’s narrative power, “Salutations” acknowledges and celebrates these traditions while pushing them forward. Cam Be’s background in visual storytelling is evident in how the track builds and evolves, creating a sonic journey that feels cinematically structured.

“Salutations” stands as a testament to Chicago’s continuing role in the evolution of Black music, demonstrating how three distinct artistic voices can come together to create something that honors the past while remaining firmly rooted in the present. It’s a track that rewards both casual listeners and those well-versed in the traditions it celebrates.