Single Review: Mr Big Shot

Whakatane based singer-songwriter (Eve Kelly) released her single Mr Big Shot on February 24th.

Following on from her previous singles Gotta Let Go and Dance With Me, both released in the final months of 2022, Mr Big Shot adds another layer to this up and coming artist’s repertoire, proving that Eve has a talent for writing songs that are a blend of genres, including funk, RnB, gospel, and adult contemporary.

Mr Big Shot was inspired by an encounter Eve had with someone who promised big things career-wise, but turned out to be misleading. The song was co-written with Keagan B. Smith (who plays drums on the track,) with the pair writing the beginnings of the song on a brown paper bag. The result is a funk infused, upbeat track that packs a punch.

The track begins with Eve’s lone vocals, surrounded by luscious harmonies, before diving straight in to the verse. The song does not have a typical verse chorus format, instead opting for multiple verses with the same refrain repeated with variations of ”Mr Big Shot, who do you think you are?” As each verse progresses, another layer of instrumentation is added. A bridge breaks things up, before a return to the familiar refrain. The track ends the same way it begins, slowed down with Eve’s smooth vocals delivering the final line. 

Eve is classically trained, which explains her powerful, soulful vocals. She is pitch perfect and well supported by solid production and strong musicianship on the track. There’s lots going on with the music itself, with each listen revealing more and more layers of musical goodness. From the first listen I was immediately tapping my feet and turning up the volume, and found myself humming along after another listen.

Mr Big Shot proves Eve is a force to be reckoned with. Mature songwriting coupled with impressive vocals make Eve Kelly one to look out for.