Iconology (EP)
Iconology is the first extended play (EP) by American hip hop artist Missy Elliott, released on August 23, 2019. It is her first body of work since her 2005 album The Cookbook and her first release since Respect M.E.[8] The EP features a variety of musical genres that cover the breadth of her career as an artist and has received favorable reviews from critics.[9] It was released at a time when Elliott returned to music following a lengthy hiatus.
Composition[edit]
Musically, Iconology is a pop,[2][15] hip hop and R&B EP reminiscent of Elliott's previous work.[15][16] The opening track, "Throw It Back" contains "trap snares and a serpentine bassline",[15] which along with the second track, "Cool Off", were described as "woozy, futuristic romps" containing "distorted bass lines and frenetic production".[16] Lyrically, "Throw It Back" contains references to Elliott's history, as well as previous collaborators Tweet and Heavy D.[15] Maura Johnson of Entertainment Weekly described "Cool Off" as calling "back to hip-hop’s two-turntables-and-a-mic early days".[15] "DripDemeanor" has been described as a slow jam that explores Elliott's "sensuous side".[15][16] Musically, it contains "plush synths [that] skip-step underneath" the song's beat.[15] "Why I Still Love You" is a doo-wop song with gospel influences[16] and jazz influence[17] that lyrically chronicles the singer's "conflicted emotions about holding on to a cheating lover". The EP closes with an a cappella version of "Why I Still Love You".
Elliott was motivated to write uplifting music to counter mainstream trends and encourage more dance music to feel good.[18]
Promotion[edit]
Elliott announced the album via social media as a surprise release several hours prior to the album release.[8] Additionally, Elliott was set to be honored at the MTV Video Music Awards as well as performing at the ceremony for the first time in 16 years.[19][20] Upon release of the album, Elliott also released the lead single, "Throw It Back", with a music video[3][4] featuring Teyana Taylor.[21] "DripDemeanor" was released as the album's second single on October 22.[22][5] "Why I Still Love You" was released as the third single on January 17, 2020.[6] "Cool Off" was released as the fourth single from the EP on April 21, 2020.[7]