Jennifer Lopez’s new single ‘In The Morning’ makes use of a familiar chord to take us through a touch-starved, ecstasy-filled ride through the artist’s deepest desires. The piece will immediately remind you of the early 2000s. The sharp acoustic guitar chords, the hypnotizing percussion arrangement, and J-Lo’s affective vocals come together to set up a moody, romantic atmosphere that’s brimming with a vulnerable sensuality. A sensuality that J-Lo has cultivated and mastered to perfection over the years. What really bolsters the composition is the central melody — it’s passionate, it’s infectious, and it perfectly encapsulates J-Lo’s strengths. She doesn’t dabble in vocal runs or wild soaring notes; however, she is adept at infusing each and every word with her sass, with her feminine energy, with the glamour and glitz that have made her a household name. 

Apart from the catchy chorus, there’s a refrain that not only plays post-chorus but takes over the bridge. It’s fairly standard and a little forgettable “Na, Na, Na,” but it certainly heightens the early 2000s’ groove, complete with the R&B-flavoured uptempo and the backing vocals that just capture the feeling of desire and need to the tee. What’s unique about this composition is the provocativeness of the lyrics. Like any typical 2020 number, the lyrics don’t shy away from tackling the carnal and the sexual impulses, but J-Lo has always been a trendsetter in this department. However, the overall takeaway from the lyrics is that J-Lo isn’t just looking for fulfillment in the bedroom — she wishes for commitment and consistency from her man. An overarching theme in J-Lo’s discography, if one were to take a closer look. 

Though she hasn’t announced a new album to go with the song, the artist went all out for the single by being photographed in the nude for the cover. It once again reinforces her propensity to push boundaries no matter what. The level of comfort she has within herself is reflected in the composition itself, where she expresses herself in syncopation with a refreshing hook and a familiarly juicy chorus. All in all, it’s a tremendous showcase of the triple-threat artist at her very best. 

Author: Shaoni Das

Shaoni Das is a writer/editor currently based in Edmonton, Canada. She remains eager to inspect how the changing culture of music impacts upon the greater world.