15 Captivating Songs That Ask a Question

Reading Time: 20 min read

15 Captivating Songs That Ask a Question features songs by David Archuleta, LaBelle, Lorde, RYANN, Teddy Swims, and Ylvis.

Ihave a few questions to ask, if you’d oblige. Question number one: “What Was That”? Like, geez, Louise! Ugh! Question number two: “Boy, Why Don’t You Touch Me?”. C’mon, I need to feel those hands on me 😈! Also, besides touching, boo, how about question number three: “Can I Call You”? Give me those digits, boy! Oh, and one final question: “Have You Been Tried In The Fire”? I mean, after that lust, we need some spirituality in the mix, right? The common thread amongst the four songs referenced is that the song titles are in the form of a question. It’s giving Jeopardy… well, sort of. It’s simple. Every song on 15 Captivating Songs That Ask a Question must ask a question. The question mark itself is optional, as you can see from the hyperlinked examples above and within the playlist. 15 Captivating Songs That Ask a Question features songs by David Archuleta, LaBelle, Lorde, RYANN, Teddy Swims, and Ylvis. So, without any further questions, let’s explore the questions captured in 15 Captivating Songs That Ask a Question!

~ Table of Contents ~

1. Lorde, “What Was That”	2. Haddaway, “What Is Love?”	3. Rihanna, “Where Have You Been”	4. Teddy Swims, “Are You Even Real” (Ft. Giveon)
5. Snow Wife, “What Do Girls Do?”	6. RYANN, “Boy, Why Don’t You Touch Me?”	7. Kim Petras, “Can we fuck?”	8. Shawn Mendes, “Why Why Why”
9. Josie Cotton, “Johnny, Are You Queer?”	10. LYNKS, “(WHAT DID YOU EXPECT FROM) SEX WITH A STRANGER”	11. David Archuleta, “Can I Call You”	12. Ylvis, “What Does the Fox Say?”
13. The Clash, “Should I Stay or Should I Go”	14. LaBelle, “Are You Lonely?”	15. Florida Mass Choir, “Have You Been Tried In The Fire”

1. Lorde, “What Was That”

Virgin // Universal Music New Zealand Limited // 2025

“I cover up all the mirrors / Can’t see myself yet / I wear smoke like a wedding veil.” Grammy-winning alternative pop singer/songwriter Lorde (Ella Marija Lani Yelich-O’Connor) is in the aftermath of a breakup. There is no wedding veil, which might have been her expectation with her ex before they went their separate ways. The Kiwi musician shares her grief, introspection, and reflection beautifully on her comeback single, “What Was That”. Lorde co-wrote the second track from her fourth studio album, Virgin, with Jim-E Stack. Yelich-O’Connor, Jim-E Stack, and Dan Nigro produced it.

Initially, “What Was That” is minimalist in sound. The keys and synths catch the ear. Lorde wows with those signature, raspy vocals. She thrives in her middle and lower registers. In the first pre-chorus, she shares her feelings regarding their end: “Oh, I’m missing you.” In the chorus, she recollects their relationship, which includes drug use (“MDMA in the back garden, blow our pupils up / We kissed for hours straight, well, baby, what was that?”). During the chorus, “What Was That” begins to pick up more steam instrumentally. Likewise, Lorde brings it more by exploring a range of emotions regarding their now defunct relationship (“Since I was seventeen, I gave you everything / Now we wake from a dream, well, baby, what was that”). The second verse is more developed, featuring more instrumentation. Even so, it never sounds overdone. It is well-produced. Like the first, Yelich-O’Connor tries to process everything, informing him, “Don’t you know you’re still with me / When I’m out with my friends?” She acknowledges, “You weren’t feeling my heat.” Oh, snap! It’s giving unrequited love! One of the best lyrics from the fabulous “What Was That” is “When I’m in the blue light, I can make it alright.” Lorde shines on this one.

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2. Haddaway, “What Is Love?”

The Album // BMG Rights Management GmbH // 1993

“What is love? / Oh, baby, don’t hurt me / Don’t hurt me, no more.” Iconic. Trinidad-born, German-bred singer Haddaway (Nestor Alexander Haddaway) dropped a dance bop for the ages with “What Is Love”. The most memorable section is excerpted above: the timeless chorus! The lyrics aren’t deep, but they are relatable to the nth degree. “What Is Love” is the opener from The Album (titled Haddaway elsewhere), released in 1993. Dee Dee Halligan (Tony Hendrik) and Junior Torello (Karin Hartmann) wrote and produced this enduring ‘90s bop, which reached number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100. It was certified gold by the RIAA. But this was Haddaway’s only top 40 hit in the United States.

The chorus is the crème de la crème of “What is Love.” Undoubtedly, it is the section to beat – the part everyone remembers! But, there are plenty of reasons beyond the chorus why this song is the sugar honey iced tea. Halligan and Torello put in work behind the boards. The production is colorful, catching the ears from the onset with its slick, driving synths. The beat is sick, the perfect catalyst for the dance floor. Haddaway brings ample energy with his vocals. He possesses a lovely instrument that was tailor-made for this song. Not only is the melody tuneful during the chorus, but it shines in the verses, too. “No, I don’t know why you’re not there / I give you my love, but you don’t care,” he sings in the first verse, continuing, “So, what is right and what is wrong? / Give me a sign.” The second verse is penned simply as well, finding Haddaway hurt. Oh, the plight of love, particularly unrequited love! Haddaway is the star but shout out Lisa Noya for her stellar vocal ad-libs. Those runs are sweet! More than three decades later, “What Is Love” by Haddaway still slaps. It is a dance bop for the ages. It has been sampled many times.

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3. Rihanna, “Where Have You Been”

Talk That Talk // The Island Def Jam Music Group // 2011

“I’ve been everywhere, man, looking for someone / Someone who can please me, love me all night long.” Ooh-wee, it’s getting steamy, Rihanna! “Where Have You Been” is the second track from the Grammy-winning R&B/pop artist’s 2011 album, Talk That Talk. “Where” embraces a dance-pop sound that is a far cry from some of Ri’s more R&B-centric work. Dr. Luke, Cirkut, and Calvin Harris produced the highlight that features a kick-ass backdrop with some utterly fierce sounds. “Where” performed superbly on the pop charts, peaking at no. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. It was certified multiplatinum by the RIAA. It was nominated for the Grammy for Best Pop Solo Performance.

“Where Have You Been” samples vocals and lyrics from “I’ve Been Everywhere” by Lucky Starr. The introductory chorus, excerpted above, sets the tone. The song begins tamely but quickly evolves beyond a thumping, four-on-the-floor beat. I did mention the production kicks ass, right? Rihanna delivers confident, commanding lead vocals from the start. Her distinct instrument was tailor-made for this record. The vocal production is marvelous. A song with a nontraditional form, in the post-chorus, she asks, “Where have you been / ‘Cause I never see you out / Are you hiding from me, yeah? / Somewhere in the crowd.” Following the instrumental drop, the production during the chorus benefits from variations, growing bolder and more dynamic. Rihanna makes it crystal clear, “You can have me all you want / Any way, any day / Just show me where you are tonight.” Oh, snap! “Where Have You Been” has its fair share of gimmicky moments (“Li-i-i-i-fe” and “Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah”), but that’s characteristic of Rihanna and the dance-pop music of the 2010s. “Where” is nothing short of a bop, PERIOD!

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4. Teddy Swims, “Are You Even Real” (Ft. Giveon)

I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2) // SWIMS Int. / Warner // 2025

“Are you even real / Or did I make you up?” Teddy Swims (Jaten Dimsdale) asks in the first verse of “Are You Even Real”, a single from I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2). “How could someone like you / Wanna give me love?” Word. Dimsdale taps Grammy-nominated R&B artist GIVĒON (Giveon Evans) for the assist on this soulful ballad. Set in a lilting, compound duple meter, the aesthetic is old-school. The drum groove and big bass line are big boosts on this Peter Thomas and Julian Bunetta-produced gem. Swims delivers marvelous, smooth vocals. He ‘draws first blood,’ showing off the magnificence of his instrument. This includes ripe falsetto and top-notch ad-libs. GIVĒON is a force too, contrasting Sims with his deeper voice in the second verse: “I can feel the rush / Even when you slow-dance for me / Lookin’ at you layin’ right there / Are you from this world? I swear.” There is more punch instrumentally during Giveon’s verse, upping the energy level. Like Swims, his vocal ad-libs are glorious. The section to beat is the chorus:

“Tell me

Are you? Are you?

…Made up in my head, or are you in my bedroom

Questions that I ask ever since I met you

…Questions that I ask every time that I wake up.”

“Are You Even Real” is a bop.

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5. Snow Wife, “What Do Girls Do?”

“What Do Girls Do?” // SNOWGLOBE // 2025

“Girls / What do girls do? / I like girls who / Look like you.” Woo! Snow Wife (Emily Leann Snow) isn’t shy about her preferences for girls in “What Do Girls Do?”. Jesse saint john, JBACH, STINT, and producers Danna Davell and Slush Puppy penned the brief cut. As always, Snow brings ample personality. Sex is the modus operandi. “I could be the appetizer, then I’m gonna make you dinner,” she sings in the first verse, “Have you ever thought about having a girlfriend for the summer?” Ooh-wee! In the second verse, she names specific girls – Stassi, Tati, and Bobbi – who catch her eye. Well, Tati touches her waist… The centerpiece is the chorus, where, like Mötley Crue, Snow Wife is digging these girls!

“You got the moves

Make me, ‘Ooh’

You like girls and girls like

You, smokin’ blue

Mötley Crüe

You like girls and girls like.”

Girls like girls, of course! “What Do Girls Do?” is intriguing from start to finish. Beyond an engaging performance from Snow Wife, the musical backdrop is sleekly produced – it’s on-point. The songwriting is compelling and, dare I say, girl-centric. Snow delivers the goods!

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6. RYANN, “Boy, Why Don’t You Touch Me?”

“Boy, Why Don’t You Touch Me?” // RYANN // 2025

“Boy, why don’t you touch me? / Tell me, are you afraid?” Queer Netherlands pop singer/songwriter RYANN has a legitimate question. Dude, what gives? What’s the problem? Feeling fiery (and horny) on “Boy, Why Don’t You Touch Me?”, RYANN continues singing, “Bitch, don’t be lazy / I also want to get laid.” His brutal honesty is part of the charm of a bop, released in April 2025, that has summery vibes written all over it. Well-produced, “Boy, Why Don’t You Touch Me?” is groovy from the get-go. Trying to resist dancing to this one is impossible.

@ryannsounds

#makingmusic #colors #artist

♬ original sound – RYANN

As sickening as the instrumental is, it is our young, horny young man, RYANN, who is the star of the show. Don’t deny the handsome fella – he needs and wants some! As always, RYANN serves up sweet vocals, longing for some good, S-E-X! The boy he desires is anonymous – “I don’t even know your name, but I don’t care.” Risky, mind you, but not far-fetched in gay hookup culture. Also, later, he reveals the guy who won’t touch him, though it’s censored. Anyways, RYANN has made up his mind that he will sleep with him, but he won’t touch him, hence why RYANN must prompt him! The chorus is the section to beat. It is super fun – one of the biggest selling points of this queer little bop. Of course, all of the lyrics are fun, though less so for RYANN, who keeps striking out with this cutie, at least him receiving pleasure: “Still, every time we get home / And the heat starts to rise / Oh, you think about yourself / I’m sorry but I’m forced to stop and ask.” RYANN even gives us a story time about this selfish sex – whatever it is. “And every time we had sex or fooled around / He just didn’t touch me.” Wow – what a dick! Sadly, our hot Dutch boy doesn’t get the quality lay he deserves, but he drops another surefire bop with “Boy, Why Don’t You Touch Me?”.

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7. Kim Petras, “Can we fuck?”

Slut Pop Miami // Amigo Records, LLC / Republic // 2024

“Can we fuck? / Let me see what you got danglin’.” Damn, Kim Petras! The brutally honest “Can we fuck?” is the 12^th track on Petras’ second ‘sex-positive overdrive’ album, Slut Pop Miami, released in 2024. Is Petras a size queen? The slang is often associated with gay men who prefer larger penises, but, women can have preferences too! In the chorus, where the inquiry into fucking first appears, the Grammy-winning pop adds, “Bend me over, watch me handle it / Watch me handle it, watch me handle it.” Woo! Dr. Luke produced this sub-two-minute NSFW dance-pop banger. The track sounds like sex with its hard-hitting, danceable beat and infectious synth bass line. Petras sings about his ‘dangler’ in the chorus. In the verse, she raps! The sex can occur anywhere – the park, car, or beach. Kim wants him to be aggressive, too. “Come and feed me, sweet dessert / In a circ, I’ll make it jerk,” she spits, adding, “We can play dirty games / Tie me up, dicks and chains / Call your friends, run a train.” No, Kim is not talking about an innocent choo-choo train 😳! There is nothing emotional about “Can we fuck?”. This song is what it is – an empty but utterly satisfying sex song.

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8. Shawn Mendes, “Why Why Why”

Shawn // Island // 2024

“Opened up my journal to a page / Everything that hurts me’s still the same / Feels like there’s nothin’ new for me to say / Why, why, why?” The handsome and talented, Grammy-nominated Canadian singer/songwriter Shawn Mendes returned in 2024 with his fifth studio album, Shawn. He ‘brought down the house’ with the promo single, “Why Why Why”, penned and produced by Mendes, Eddie Benjamin, Mike Sabath, and Scott Harris. Mendes excels in the vocal department, as always. His tone is ‘simply beautiful.’ He sings authentically and expressively making some personal revelations. He discusses breaking off a relationship (“But I went off and chose myself instead”), taking a hiatus from touring (“All the lights were fuckin’ with my head”), and not being ready for fatherhood (“I thought I was about to be a father / Shook me to the core, I’m still a kid”). Even as Shawn reignites his music career after a breakup and mental health issues, he still questions, why, why, why? “Why Why Why” is respectable and well-rounded. It’s authentic, rhythmic, and tuneful. Stylistically, it plays to Mendes’ strengths and throws a cool country element into the mix. It’s not a dramatic change of pace for Shawn, but what’s clear is he remains a gifted vocalist (and easy on the eyes).

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9. Josie Cotton, “Johnny, Are You Queer?”

Convertible Music // Kitten Robot // 1982

“And I saw you today, boy / Walking with them gay 🌈 boys.” Hmm, what is your point, Josie Cotton? How do you know that the boys are gay, and what is wrong with Johnny hanging out with them? It’s giving homophobia, girl, depending on who you ask. “Now you hurt me so / Now I gotta know / Johnny, are you queer?” Oh, boy! It should come as no surprise why “Johnny, Are You Queer?” is controversial. The eyebrow-raising pop/ New Wave song appears on Cotton’s 1982 debut album, Convertible Music. Larson Paine and Robert Paine penned this sus classic. It was first recorded by the Go-Go’s [hear the live recording here], but Cotton was the first to release it. To provide even more context as to why Josie asks about Johnny’s sexuality: “When the lights are low / You never hold me close.”

Songs about sexuality lend themselves to controversy. Such songs can be more controversial when there is a lack or perceived lack of nuance. That is the problem with “Johnny, Are you Queer.” Musically, this is a bop and a half! The driving instrumental ‘kicks ass and takes names.’ Cotton’s vocal performance is playful, and she brings plenty of attitude. But the lyrics are problematic. If Johnny is in a ‘committed’ relationship with Josie (or her character) and is not being open about his sexuality, he is wrong. However, the way that she judges him assumes his friends are gay and tries to force a romance that is a non-starter, that is nothing short of a hot mess. I mean, if he is gay, it is unlikely he will embrace a relationship with you… Interestingly, gays and conservatives cried foul about this song. The gays thought she was homophobic. Conservatives thought she was promoting homosexuality. Go figure! Sadly, per RETROPOP, the song was used in conversion therapy. Yikes. Ultimately, while “Johnny, Are You Queer” is problematic lyrically, it is a song that should be taken with a grain of salt. It gives a heaping dose of camp.

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10. LYNKS, “(WHAT DID YOU EXPECT FROM) SEX WITH A STRANGER”

ABOMINATION // Heavenly Recordings / [PIAS] // 2024

“I’m on the DLR, on my way to fuck a stranger / Know his age, know his height, don’t know his name,” Lynks asserts in the first verse of the colorful “(WHAT DID YOU EXPECT FROM) SEX WITH A STRANGER”. They acknowledge the risks in the highlight from their 2024 album, ABOMINATION: “Should be ashamed, all the danger I put myself in in the name of a shag, and a bad one at that / It’s a matter of fact, to fuck a stranger is rarely a positive act for me / But I still go back ‘cause who’s keeping track.” Lynks penned and produced the unique electro-tinged alternative joint. It is nothing short of an exhilarating ride.

“(WHAT DID YOU EXPECT FROM) SEX WITH A STRANGER” features intense, noisy-sounding musical accompaniment. This establishes a high-energy, intense vibe. Lynks’ vocals are unapologetic, often rapped and talked, using a distortion effect at times. He narrativizes an imminent hookup bringing ample personality to the table.“Oh, the wonders of technology when you’re horny / Ordering a man like you’d order a curry,” they sing in the second verse, continuing, “Call me up, babe, I’ll be there in a hurry / I’m free delivery and all I really need is you to fuck my brains out.” Holy cannoli! Lynks, being young and horny, isn’t picky regarding his sexual rendezvous. Grindr overdrive! Even though Lynks is receiving pleasure, the satisfaction or deeper connection is missing, which they highlight in the talk-sung chorus:

“Romance isn’t dead, it’s in a coma

Me? I’m just a dog out, tryna get a boner

I don’t wanna spend my night alone (No)

So, I don’t think about how I’ll feel when it’s over

‘Cause honestly, I’ll probably feel the same

No miracle, no epiphanies

And disappointment always is the danger

But what did you expect from sex with a stranger?”

“(WHAT DID YOU EXPECT FROM) SEX WITH A STRANGER” is a sex-positive song but simultaneously acknowledges the unfulfillment of empty sex.

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11. David Archuleta, “Can I Call You”

“Can I Call You” // Archie Music // 2025

“Saw you standing there in a crowded room / I didn’t see anyone but you,” the handsome and talented David Archuleta asserts on “Can I Call You”. Archie is ‘taking action’: “I can see my shot and I’m gonna take it,” he asserts in the first verse. He is optimistic that “it’s more than a crush, maybe it’s love.” Our favorite American Idol runner-up makes our ears perk up with “Can I Call You,” which he co-wrote with Michael Blum and Noah Davis. Blum produced it.

“Can I call you? We don’t even need to talk

Don’t need no volume, you can listen to my heart

Boy, you’re the sweetest like peaches

Even if it’s just you breathing that’ll do, oh

Can I, can I, can I call you?

Can I call you?”

The first verse sets the tone. The chorus, the centerpiece, lays it out there. It’s giving a dedicated relationship and monogamy. Even as Archie notes, “‘Cause I’m missing your body” in the second verse, it’s in the context that they are exclusive and separated by distance (“Now you’re back in Atlanta, and I’m home in LA”). If that’s not enough, you should hear Archie in the post-chorus: “In the morning, in the evening, in the middle of the night / ‘Cause I want you, no I need you (I need you, baby).” Ooh-wee, child! The longing! “Can I Call You” continues the liberation and maturation of Archuleta. He sings authentically and beautifully – you buy what he’s selling on this sleekly-produced, groovy pop ballad. It’s sexy without being explicit.

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12. Ylvis, “What Does the Fox Say?”

“The Fox (What Does the Fox Say?)” // Urheim / 45^th & 3rd Music LLC / Warner Music Norway AS// 2013

Five words: What does the fox say? Oh, snap! In 2013, Norwegian comedy duo Ylvis (brothers Bård Ylvisåker and Vegard Ylvisåker) unveiled a viral song for the ages with “The Fox (What Does the Fox Say?)”. Comedic, funny, and irreverent, “What Does the Fox Say?” gained steam because it is infectious to the nth degree. Corny? Yes. Catchy? Yes. Irresistible? 100% yes! Ylvis composed this novel, wacky dance-pop cut with producers M4sonic and Stargate (Tor Erik Hermansen and Mikkel Storleer Eriksen). The single, which peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100, was certified gold by the RIAA.

So, what makes “The Fox (What Does the Fox Say?)” so special? The musical backdrop is sweet, helping to fuel Ylvis’ fire. The sound is characteristic of dance-pop and electro-pop with its keys, synths, and programming. As, if not more intriguing, are the lyrics, sung by both Bård and Vegard. In the first verse and pre-chorus, Bård teaches us about the sounds that various animals make. “Dog goes ‘woof’, cat goes ‘meow,’” he sings, adding, “Ducks say ‘quack’ and fish go ‘blub’ / And the seal goes ‘ow ow ow.’” Word. But, this song is about only one animal, in all of its glory – the fox! In both choruses, the fox makes some unusual sounds:

“Ring-ding-ding-ding-dingeringeding!

… Wa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pow!

…Jacha-chacha-chacha-chow!

Fraka-kaka-kaka-kaka-kow!

What does the fox say?”

In the second verse, Vegard describes the fox in all of its glory: “Big blue eyes, pointy noise / Chasing mice and digging holes / Tiny paws up the hill / Suddenly you’re standing still.” In the bridge, which is more legato, the bros continue to characterize this mysterious animal: “What is your sound? Will we ever know? / Will always be a mystery / What do you say?” Unusual, “The Fox (What Does the Fox Say?)” is a classic from the 2010s. It is a novel song that never grows old.

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13. The Clash, “Should I Stay or Should I Go”

Combat Rock // Sony Music Entertainment UK Limited // 1982

“Should I stay, or should I go now?” That is a key question for The Clash, an English rock band comprised of the late Joe Strummer (1952 – 2002), Mick Jones (1955 – ), Paul Simonon (1955 – ), and Topper Headon (1955 – ). Among the band’s most beloved songs is “Should I Stay or Should I Go”, the third track on their 1982 multiplatinum, fifth studio album, Combat Rock. In the chorus, Jones, who sings lead on this particular track, continues, “If I go, there will be trouble / And if I stay, it will be double / So come on and let me know.” “Should I Stay or Should I Go” was written by Jones and Strummer. Notably, it peaked at number 45 on the Billboard Hot 100.

So, what makes “Should I Stay or Should I Go” kick ass and take names? It begins with heavy, hard-rocking guitar and bass riffs. The spirit of rock and roll is written all over it 🤘! It is anchored by a superb groove carried by Topper’s mean drumming. Headon provides a signature groove contrast with the double time feel during the chorus. The songwriting is infectious, with Jones bringing the memorable lyrics and tuneful melodies to life. Matters of the heart drive the narrative. “Darling, you got to let me know / Should I stay, or should I go?” Jones asks, continuing in the first verse, “If you say that you are mine / I’ll be here till the end of time.” In the second verse, he asserts, “It’s always tease, tease, tease / You’re happy when I’m on my knees.” The third includes Spanish! “This indecision’s bugging me (Esta indecisión me molesta) / If you don’t want me, set me free (Si no me quieres, librarme).” A rock classic, the brilliance and timelessness of “Should I Stay or Should I Go” speaks for itself.

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14. LaBelle, “Are You Lonely?”

Nightbirds // Sony Music Entertainment Inc. // 1974

“Are you lonely? (Lonely) Are you lonely? (Lonely) / Are you lonely, living in a city without a heart?” Those inquiring lyrics hail from one-of-a-kind funk/soul collective, LaBelle, which most famously comprised Patti LaBelle (Patricia Louise Holte, 1944 – ), Nona Hendryx (1944 – ), and Sarah Dash (1945 – 2021). The song at hand, “Are You Lonely?”, is the third track from the dynamic trio’s 1974 album, Nightbirds. The Nona Hendryx-penned song is a solid album cut. The late, great Allen Toussaint (1938 – 2015) produced it.

“Are You Lonely?” funkifizes from the beginning. The bass line is sick – one of the best you’ll hear from the funk/soul catalog! The groove ‘grooves hard’ and is potent to the nth degree. Adding to the musical excellence are bluesy, soulful piano riffs and the articulated, exuberant horns. The backdrop is ample fuel for the ladies’ fire. Patti LaBelle delivers a dynamic, powerful vocal performance. Her skills bring the melodies to life, adding extra punch with her vocal ad-libs and riffs. She gets awesome backing vocals from LaBelle, including sensational harmonies. Hendryx put her foot into the songwriting in this minor-key joint. “You’ve been runnin’ around counting teardrops / They said it was rain falling from the sky,” Patti sings, authentically, continuing, “You’ve been wondering why the rain never stops / Only tears your people cry.” Word. The socially conscious lyrics are pronounced: “See the well-dressed preacher, living like a king / Hold the unwed mother, who’s afraid to scream / See the hungry children, posing for a shot / Hear their mothers tell them, that’s all we’ve got.” The centerpiece of the underrated “Are You Lonely?” is undoubtedly the chorus, in all of its lonely glory. LaBelle shines on this unforgettable album track that deserves more recognition.

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LaBelle, Are You Lonely?: Throwback Vibez 🕶️🎶 73 (2025)

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15. Florida Mass Choir, “Have You Been Tried In The Fire”

***Lord, You Keep On Proving Yourself to Me* // Savoy // 1982**

Milton Biggham asks a thought-provoking question: “Have you been tried in the fire?” The response, by the Florida Mass Choir is a resounding, spirited, “YES!” “Have You Been Tried in the Fire” appears on the 1982 album, Lord, You Keep On Proving Yourself to Me. That album title alone deserves an AMEN! In the 7:20 album version, it commences with a thoughtful introduction which references Job, specifically, the adversity he faced. The intro (Biggham) is a marvelous preface to the simple but meaningful, potent chorus from this super slow, minor-key, traditional gospel record. Biggham not only sings lead on this amazing, faith-based cut, but he also composed it. Paul Gainer is responsible for the piano and vocal arrangement, which are also incredible.

The chorus on “Have You Been Tried in the Fire” is perfect execution of call and response form (“Have you been tried in the fire (Yes) /… Did you come through as pure gold”). Biggham delivers a commanding, spirited lead, with the choir keeping the same energy. Biggham follows up with three verses, which speak to being a faithful Christian. In the first verse, Milton calls out the faux Christians, asserting, “But tell me how can you say you know it / When you never bow down to pray?” Essentially, Biggham highlights the importance of actions as a Christian. Notably, in the second verse, he ministers that Christians should be unashamed of being saved, but also adds, “But you really don’t have to tell it, If you live it, the world will know.” Continuing in the same manner, in the third verse, he characterizes Christians as “belong(ing) to the noisy crew / We should when we get happy / That’s the way we Christians do.” All told, “Have You Been Tried in the Fire” is a powerful, gospel record that provides reminders – a checklist, if you will – for Christians. Notably, Killer Mike samples the gospel classic on “YES!” from his Grammy-winning album, MICHAEL.

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15 Captivating Songs That Ask a Question (2025) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; 45^th & 3rd Music LLC, Amigo Records, LLC, Archie Music, BMG Rights Management GmbH, Island, Heavenly Recordings, Kitten Robot, [PIAS], Republic, RYANN, Savoy, SNOWGLOBE, Sony Music Entertainment Inc., Sony Music Entertainment UK Limited, SWIMS Int., The Island Def Jam Music Group, Universal Music New Zealand Limited, Urheim, Warner, Warner Music Norway AS; AcatXIo, Gordon Johnson, Marcin from Pixabay; Photo by KÜRŞAT GÜNEY on Unsplash]

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Published by the musical hype on June 4, 2025June 4, 2025