Some artists slip into the spotlight, while others arrive with a glow so undeniable, it feels like they were always meant to be here. Al Kenizo belongs to the latter. With a voice that cradles emotion and a delivery soaked in sincerity, she’s the kind of artist who breathes life into her music. Today, March 3rd, she unveils “Don’t Lock Me Out,” a groovy, feel-good track that pulses with soul, nostalgia, and an undeniable warmth. This is a song about second chances, about proving one’s worth, about standing at love’s door and asking—no, pleading—to be let back in. And oh, what a way to ask. Keep reading my thoughts on this gem.
Right from the start, “Don’t Lock Me Out” arrives with lush arrangement, setting the stage for a vulnerable and hopeful journey. The groove kicks in like an old friend with a new story, effortlessly drawing you in. Kenizo’s voice enters with the opening lines: “Running, running out of love. You gave me everything I’ve got…” Right from these first words, we feel the urgency, the longing as listeners. There’s an ache wrapped in the melody, a sense that something precious is slipping away. The way she delivers this line is storytelling at its finest.
Kenizo’s vocals are buttery smooth, with a richness that carries desperation and determination. She moves between gentle, almost pleading tones and powerful, soaring moments, effortlessly balancing vulnerability with strength. Her voice has an almost Michael Jackson-esque quality—soulful, controlled, yet bursting with raw emotion. The way she repeats, “You’re the one who makes me come around,” is a masterclass in making simplicity feel profound. It’s hypnotic, almost trance-like, as if she’s trying to convince us and herself that love is still within reach.
Thematically, “Don’t Lock Me Out” is a song about redemption—about proving that change is real and love is worth risking. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who has faltered but is trying, someone who knows the weight of their past mistakes but is desperate for a chance to make things right: “Don’t lock me out, give just a little time. I know you got your doubts, I will make it…” It’s a plea wrapped in melody, a heart laid bare in the rhythm of the music. The contrast in the verses—between seeking forgiveness and confronting someone else’s broken promises—adds layers to the storytelling. It’s not just about asking for trust; it’s about recognizing the pain that mistrust leaves behind.
On the other hand, the production of “Don’t Lock Me Out” is a dance between old-school soul and contemporary flair. The rhythm section is tight, with a groovy bassline effortlessly lending the song a classic R&B feel. There’s a bounce to the beat that keeps your head nodding, while the warm, layered harmonies wrap around Kenizo’s lead vocal like a reassuring embrace. The instrumentation is lush and gives Kenizo’s voice the space it deserves. Synth flourishes and crisp percussion add depth, while subtle guitar licks weave in and out, adding a touch of finesse. There’s a vintage-meets-modern charm to the entire soundscape—think Quincy Jones production with a 2024 glow.
Overall, “Don’t Lock Me Out” is a feeling. A groove that lingers, a melody that stays with you long after the final note fades. Al Kenizo has delivered something special, something warm and deeply human. With a voice that embraces and a message that resonates, she proves that sometimes, all we need is a second chance—and the perfect song to ask for it. This isn’t just an introduction to Al Kenizo. This is a moment. And trust me, you don’t want to lock yourself out of it.
Listen to “Don’t Lock Me Out” on Spotify or SoundCloud
Follow Al Kenizo here for more information
