Coco Jones is having an outstanding year. As the final season of “Bel-Air” recently kicked off, she got engaged and released a new single just in time for the holidays titled “Skip My House.” Co-written by Jones, Avital Margulies, and Sara Diamond, this catchy song continues the trend she started last year with her impressive EP, “Coco By The Fireplace.”
On that project, Jones made a wise choice by avoiding cover songs and standards, instead focusing on original material that highlights her songwriting talent. This decision affirms that, with dedication, R&B artists can create engaging modern holiday music.
In “Skip My House,” produced by Johnny Thomas Jr., Jones finds a rare sense of satisfaction. She sighs with relief as the groove unfolds. The beat flows gently, like a crackling fire, and she moves into it as someone who has finally learned to appreciate happiness right on her porch.
There’s no rushing toward the next miracle or anxiously checking off items on life’s to-do list. Instead, there’s a peaceful acceptance of the idea that this is what she needs, and it is enough. Her voice conveys this message with a light but persistent touch.
Rather than asking the universe for something new and shiny, she embraces gratitude and savors the moment as if it’s the last delicious cup of hot cocoa on a snowy night. “I already counted, and my blessings came pouring in,” she sings, her voice filled with contentment.
She’s not in a hurry to rush through the season: “Hoping I can freeze the time now while it’s snowing.” In a line that feels like a warm hand on your chest, she tells the universe—and Santa—to take a break this year: “You can skip my house this year. I already have everything I need right here.”
“Skip My House” is a song that radiates contentment without losing its sparkle, gently reminding us that sometimes having enough is truly enough.
Final Grade: B+
“Skip My House” is available on all streaming platforms.
I’ve always been a fan of Eric Bellinger. My admiration stems not only from the records he has released under his own name but also from the impressive career he built behind the scenes. Long before casual R&B listeners recognized his face, they were already familiar with his songwriting through tracks he penned for artists like Chris Brown, Usher, Justin Bieber, and Wale.
As many of you know, I had the opportunity to visit Paisley Park earlier this week while vacationing in Minnesota. During the tour, our guide shared that an expanded edition of Prince’s album “Parade” is expected to be released to celebrate its 40th anniversary. After spending the day exploring the Twin Cities, it felt like the perfect excuse to revisit one of the most fascinating and underrated albums in Prince’s legendary catalog.
One of the reasons I’ve always considered Prince to have the edge over Michael Jackson is his remarkable collection of ballads and