‘Shaped Like You’ by Caplin & Massiah

‘Shaped Like You’ by Caplin & Massiah opens with infectious dancehall beats, immediately drawing listeners onto the dance floor. However, beneath its vibrant surface, the single carries a poignant message of heartbreak and emotional loss, revealing the duo’s skill at fusing conflicting themes into a cohesive and compelling sound.

The song’s origins lie in a period of personal hardship for Zeeteah Massiah, during which she experienced difficult moments with her daughter. This pain initially inspired the reggae track ‘Baby Girl’, with the unforgettable chorus, “Everybody sees this hole in my heart, and everybody knows it’s shaped like you.” The duo loved this chorus and decided to rework it, transforming the original reflection of maternal heartbreak into a narrative about the end of a romantic relationship. What started as a song about grief evolved into an uplifting dance anthem that juxtaposes the weight of heartbreak with the liberating energy of dancehall pop.

Caplin & Massiah’s musical prowess shines through in their ability to seamlessly blend diverse genres. Their sound, rooted in dancehall, blues, and soul, is a testament to their rich musical history while embracing contemporary influences. Zeeteah’s soulful vocals, honed through collaborations with legends like Tom Jones, Phil Collins, and Sting, provide an emotional depth to the track. Meanwhile, Paul Caplin’s seasoned production, shaped by his time with Haysi Fantayzee and his extensive work as a producer and songwriter, ensures the track is both dynamic and genre-defying.