Ester Dean has publicly accepted ownership of the Beyoncé diss at the center of the remix of Keri Hilson’s 2009 Janet Jackson-redux smash, “Turnin Me On.” Dean dropped the low-key bombshell on Wednesday in a bold but brief comment on her Instagram account, answering a fan who offered speculation about her involvement in writing the song. “Co-wrote but yes,” Dean replied with a new twist on a story that’s been a subject of contention for more than a decade. Dean’s confession comes on the heels of Keri Hilson’s revealing new interview on The Breakfast Club, in which the singer discussed the behind the scenes pressure that led to her infamous lyrical jab.

Hilson did not name names but clarified that the diss was not fully her idea. Instead, she said she was offered the lyrics by Polow da Don and “another writer in our camp” a detail that now seems to point squarely at Ester Dean. “I’m not saying that,” Hilson said she thought upon hearing those words for the first time. Her competitive spirit was not one of vengeance, and it frankly put her in a bind when she was told that her debut album would likely never be released if she didn’t record the remix. “I was super young. I didn’t have a choice,” Hilson said. “I’ve been eating for years.” Dean’s confirmation adds prestige to the ongoing discussion around artist autonomy versus industry pressure, particularly for young female artists finding their way through major label deals.

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It also reignites the conversation around ghostwriting, credit, and how some of the industry’s biggest lyrical moments come from voices behind the curtain. While Hilson bears the brunt of that decision a decade-plus later, Dean’s comment indicates a collective culpability with the infamous track that fueled rumors, fan wars, and ongoing debate in the pop-R&B realm. In an industry where silence is often the order of the day, Dean’s line may be short, but its impact is long overdue. Sometimes, it’s just one comment that fills in the final piece of the story, and this particular one has taken more than 15 years to come out.

Have you ever found yourself navigating the chaotic aftermath of a devastating breakup, where your wardrobe and heart have suffered significant damage? The song “Bonfire,” Empty Pinata’s latest single, captures this tumultuous experience, exemplifying the art of transforming a personal calamity into an infectious auditory experience. It effectively juxtaposes a narrative of heartbreak with an upbeat sonic palette, empowering listeners to find joy amidst the emotional wreckage.

Musically, “Bonfire” is anchored in an authentic, albeit painful, narrative. It explores the remnants of a relationship as the protagonist’s former partner incinerates a collection of meaningful belongings. Instead of succumbing to melancholic introspection, the song propels listeners into an infectious groove. Co-produced with Gamal, the composition skillfully merges indie pop sensibilities with the heartfelt authenticity characteristic of bedroom pop while infusing a bit of soft rock grit. This fusion is complemented by engaging vocals and dynamic chord progressions, culminating in a vigorous rhythmic surge that evokes the volatile nature of fire.

The composition shifts from a somber recollection to an invigorating indie anthem, featuring nostalgic yet catchy lyrics that reflect on past experiences and reclaim them. It conjures the image of standing before a fire, prioritizing the warmth of roasted marshmallows instead of drowning in tears. The song’s conclusion is punctuated by Gamal’s incisive lead line, which emphasizes the outro and parallels the symbolic rise of a phoenix against the backdrop of twilight.

“Bonfire” is far from placid; it ignites a profoundly personal exploration rich with emotional complexity and stylistic flair. This track is poised to resonate powerfully with anyone who has witnessed love in its literal and metaphorical forms being systematically dismantled or has faced the loss of cherished possessions.

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CLICK HERE TO STREAM Empty Pinata’s “Bonfire“ on Spotify.
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