"There won't be any controversy about the vocals on this one. The only question is how long until it scales the charts (if word of mouth is any indication, minutes after its midnight premier it was already trending #1 on Twitter around the world). "Hold My Hand" is a simple, but powerful song that embodies so much of what fans loved about Michael Jackson. Like U2's "One" it is a "love song" that expands outward, making the personal something more profound and universal..."
"Critics will undoubtedly point to the song's excessive flourishes and sentimentalism. Clearly, in his updated production, Akon was aiming bigger than the 2008 version that leaked online. It works, however, among other reasons, because of the context. This is a catharsis song for many listeners. And that's what the soaring gospel-infused ending provides. There will always be a place (and need) for songs that bring people together, reminding us to love..."
