However, beneath its upbeat exterior, the song carries a deeper message: heartbreak. Inspired by a difficult period in Zeeteah Massiah’s life involving her daughter, ‘Shaped Like You’ draws from their earlier reggae track Baby Girl. The chorus, “Everybody sees this hole in my heart, and everybody knows it’s shaped like you,” became the emotional core of both songs. While Baby Girl reflected Zeeteah’s personal grief, ‘Shaped Like You’ evolves into a dancehall-pop anthem about the end of a romantic relationship. The duo’s ability to transform a deeply personal, painful story into an uplifting dance track is a testament to their artistic versatility.
Caplin & Massiah’s signature sound continues to push musical boundaries, blending influences from dancehall, blues, and soul, while staying rooted in their rich musical heritage and embracing contemporary trends. ‘Shaped Like You’ further refines this fusion, offering a glimpse of the duo’s continued creative evolution.
Zeeteah Massiah’s celebrated vocal legacy includes collaborations with icons like Tom Jones, Phil Collins, and Sting, lending her a soulful depth that shines through in every track. Meanwhile, Paul Caplin’s journey through the 80s with the innovative trio Haysi Fantayzee and his successful career as a producer and songwriter brings a wealth of experience that fuels the duo’s genre-defying productions. Their music draws inspiration from an eclectic mix of influences—ranging from the smooth elegance of Ella Fitzgerald to the experimental sounds of Billie Eilish—creating a timeless yet forward-thinking sound that resonates across generations.
‘Shaped Like You’ is a powerful step forward for Caplin & Massiah, setting the stage for their upcoming album, due in February 2025. Be sure to stream ‘Shaped Like You’ now on all major platforms.
