Review: “Play My Guitar” by Rex & The Rhythm—Rap Soul To Heal The Romantics

Rex & The Rhythm’s latest single, “Play My Guitar,” is a refreshing blend of soul and rap that masterfully balances humor, introspection, and top-tier musicianship. The song immediately captures attention with its organic instrumentation and witty opening lines:
Dear God, uh, can I be candid with you?
Hey, it’s been a minute, sorry I’ve been sinning
I’ve been making lemonade while dating a lemon
I’ve been practicing turning my other cheek
Been on my zen, Jay Shetty would hire me, uh
Cute gifts, nice trips, good d*ck, uh
Got me seasick, make me want to jump ships.

The humorous yet candid lyrics set the tone for a track that’s both entertaining and deeply relatable. The mention of Jay Shetty is particularly noteworthy, subtly referencing recent discussions surrounding the self-acclaimed guru. This timely nod showcases Rex & The Rhythm not just as musicians but as contemporary chroniclers who weave current events into their storytelling.

Musically, the song is expertly crafted. The production is masterfully mixed, allowing each element to shine. The waddling flow fits the narrative seamlessly, and the electric guitar adds a rich texture that elevates the overall sound. The chorus is especially striking, reminiscent of early 2000s radio hits like those from Maroon 5’s debut album, “Songs About Jane.” This nostalgic touch bridges the gap between classic and modern, appealing to a wide range of listeners.
Why is she so hard to please?
Every day something’s wrong
Through the wire and I’m tired
I let her play my guitar
But she’s playing with me
Oh na na na na na
That won’t work.

This chorus lays bare the frustrations and emotional exhaustion of dealing with a complicated partner. It’s refreshing to hear a man vocalize these sentiments, adding a layer of vulnerability and authenticity to the track. The supporting choir voices contribute a vintage, classic quality, giving the performance a timeless feel. It’s a testament to the effectiveness of blending old techniques with modern expectations—when done wisely, it creates music that stands out in today’s landscape.

One of the most compelling aspects of Play My Guitar is Rex’s vocal performance. His delivery is incredibly organic, mirroring the authenticity of the instrumentation. He demonstrates outstanding vocal prowess, revealing depths that might not be immediately apparent from the song’s playful opening. This unexpected shift is the song’s shock factor—you begin thinking it’s a fun, comedic rap song, but it transforms into a complex, soulful performance of the highest quality.

We highly recommend Play My Guitar to all the lads and ladies navigating relationships with challenging partners—those who might benefit from therapy and a comforting gesture, like a tall cup of hot chocolate, especially in the spirit of the holiday season. Rex & The Rhythm have created a song that not only entertains but also resonates on a personal level, making it a standout addition to the soul rap genre.

Make sure you stream the song on Spotify and follow the artist on Instagram.

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