Regal Anton-Chavez Francis Bragg recorded under the name Regal the Rare, and his single “Blue Goo” was recorded with his stepfather, Jellybean Johnson. Johnson is most famous for his role in the Minneapolis band The Time, which also included producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. Of course, all of these musicians were also a part of Prince’s musical empire. Regal The Rare makes a name for himself, however, with this dance single, which features Johnson, as well as Ty Prophecy and Dalè. What these artists have done together is a frothy pop song.
The track begins with ‘80s inspired keyboard echoes, before the vocalist enters in. This singing is placed over a throbbing bass part. After commenting on someone that needs to try extra hard to smile, the song goes into its first chorus, which states: “I’ve got blue goo in my head.” Just what this goo with a blue tint is, isn’t entirely clear. Whatever it is, whether this be chemical or natural, it sure feels good. After these sung parts, the track incorporates a rap part. This latter part only accentuates the good vibes created by, well, what is creating these good feelings.
Although the song’s beginnings lead one to believe ‘blue goo’ is a pleasuring thing, the lyrics eventually take a turn toward darker feelings. As the song goes on, one begins to be convinced that this ‘blue goo’ may just might be another way of talking about that age-old romantic dilemma, the blues.
Even though the lyrics suggest some sort of break up, the song’s music suggests otherwise. It’s a bouncy groove that will probably make you feel pretty good while listening to it, even though the words appear to tell an entirely different story. Then about halfway into the track, there’s an electric guitar solo. This guitar part may make you reflect fondly about Prince-related music in all the best ways. Prince was a Midwest young man, and grew up as much with classic rock, as he did with soul, R&B and funk. For him, it was not at all out of place to insert a rocking guitar solo into a dance piece. This song does just that, and it’s one nice, nostalgic reminder of the Paisley Park heyday. It’s a long and satisfying guitar solo, too.
The song finishes up with multiple repeats of the song title, as well as – yep – more electric guitar soloing. As with Prince, this hefty guitar-ing makes the recording hold appeal to fans of both R&B and rock. It just has so many appealing elements.
How someone can sing somewhat sad words to such a butt-shaking track is truly an art. It’s as if, even though there’s someone who may be breaking his heart, this is not ever going to stop him from dancing. Sometimes, dancing is a really good way to survive the blues. He may not be able to resolve a romantic conflict, but at least he can get out on the floor and do something constructive – which is dance.
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It’s a short track, but it sure makes its point in a hurry. Whatever “Blue Goo” actually is it sure is powerful.
-Dan MacIntosh
