Slow Jam Saturday : Omarion, “I’m Tryna”

Twenty years ago, in the spring of 2005, R&B was in a good place. Usher had released what is arguably his magnum opus a year prior, rumors were rampant that Oscar winner Jamie Foxx was going to sign with J. Records, Mario was still basking in the success of his hit “Let Me Love You,” and former B2K frontman Omarion (this week’s Slow Jam Saturday artist) had just dropped his solo debut, O.

Omarion had already succeeded with his sensually charged self-titled first single and followed it up with the dance floor bop “Touch.” For the third single, Omarion showed his vulnerable side with “I’m Tryna.” The song reunited the singer with the in-demand production team The Underdogs and was written by fellow crooner J. Valentine.

This lush ballad delves into O’s emotions and struggles as he attempts to move on from his former relationship. In the first verse, he reflects on the good times he shared with his ex-partner, including trips to shopping malls and vacations together. However, now that she is gone, he finds himself trying to suppress the pain and conceal his true feelings.

The pre-hook highlights O’s inability to overcome the breakup. He feels sick and unable to let go, experiencing the aftermath of lies and games that led to their relationship’s demise. O acknowledges his role in the situation, feeling guilty for being the reason things turned out this way.

The chorus reflects his conflicting emotions and attempts to act like he doesn’t want to be with his ex. O pretends to be okay with their ex walking away and acts as if their ex is easily forgettable. The lyrics mention finding someone else to replace their ex’s affection, but despite their efforts, they admit they are still addicted to their ex and unable to move on.

One of the good things about “I’m Tryna” is the production team never tries to task Omarion with going above his vocal register. Omarion sings well enough to make the song relatable to anyone who knows the struggle of moving on from a failed relationship.

While Omarion’s later solo offerings never matched his debut, “I’m Tryna” validates that the former boy band member can deliver a slow jam bop with the proper production.

Final Grade: B

“I’m Tryna” is available on all streaming platforms.