If you were looking for a song to ignite the dance floor in the late 90s, Monifah's "Touch It" was your answer. Released in 1998, this hit came from Monifah's second album, "Mo'hogany," and became a defining track for the R&B scene. Produced by Heavy D, who also featured in the song, "Touch It" peaked at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100, certifying its place in the playlists of not just clubs but living rooms and car rides across the globe.
Monifah, a Harlem-born singer, added a fearless and sensual touch with this song, captivating audiences with her powerful vocals and intriguing lyrics. The track is a vibrant expression of sensuality and empowerment, a testament to the period's penchant for bold declarations of individuality and desire. It wasn't just a pop culture moment; it was a reflection of the shifting landscape of R&B.
In a time when music videos were a crucial part of a song’s identity, "Touch It" didn’t disappoint. Its video was much appreciated for its high energy and aesthetic appeal, adding a visual narrative to the already magnetic lyrics. Music video channels like MTV and BET played it in heavy rotation, introducing new visual styles that influenced the fashion and dance styles of the era.
However, alongside its groove-inducing beat and catchy hook, "Touch It" also sparked conversations around its suggestive nature. Some critics and audiences felt that explicit content in the music might not set the best example, particularly for younger listeners. For others, it was an empowering take on owning one’s sensuality – an important narrative for many women at the time.
Reflecting on Monifah's career, "Touch It" stands out as a pivotal moment. Monifah emerged as a force, with a style that resonated with many who craved fresh voices and themes in a traditionally male-dominated genre. Even today, her courage in giving voice to themes of sexual autonomy and empowerment is recognized as part of the legacy of female artists challenging norms and re-making an industry in their image.
For Gen Z, revisiting tracks like "Touch It" can be a fascinating experience. While the contexts of music and pop culture have shifted considerably, themes of empowerment, the negotiation of desire, and self-expression remain timeless. Listening to the track now offers a glimpse into a different era of music production, yet many will find that the recurring themes echo their own lives today.
As social media has taken the role of a trend-setter, it's intriguing to see older tracks being discovered and given new life through platforms like TikTok. Monifah's music, with its memorable hooks and dynamic rhythms, fits this trend. Who knows? Maybe "Touch It" could be the next track to get a viral dance challenge!
Ultimately, "Touch It" by Monifah is more than a notable single on a chart. It’s a piece of music history that mirrors an era, resonates with timeless themes, and continues to engage new audiences. In its notes and lyrics, it captures a slice of life that has shaped R&B music forever.