As we continue to celebrate the month of love, I chose “Valentine by Ryan Leslie as the second song with the word valentine for February’s Slow Jam Saturday. Leslie broke into the music industry in 2003, writing hits for Beyoncé and New Edition. Leslie released the singles “The Way That U Move Girl” and “Used 2 Be” featuring Fabolous. However, his debut album was never officially released due to creative differences with his record label. In late 2007, Leslie finally broke through with the bop “Diamond Girl,” and his self-titled album would finally hit record stores on February 10, 2009. Leslie also succeeded with the follow-up singles “Addiction” and “How It Was Supposed to Be.” Surprisingly, though, Leslie didn’t drop “Valentine” as the fourth single, which would have timed perfectly with the album release date.
“Valentine” is a love song written and produced by Ryan Leslie. The song explores his intense emotions and unwavering commitment to a woman not officially his girlfriend. Leslie uses his songwriting talents to emphasize his genuine and sincere feelings for her even though they are not in a romantic relationship. The song delves into the concept of unrequited love and highlights the love jones that he has for this woman. The first verse’s lyrics suggest that the person being sung about is highly desired and receives compliments from many other suitors. However, Leslie wants to express his feelings and reassure the person that he sees their true beauty beyond what others may say. The lyrics state, “I don’t have to say you’re beautiful / You’ve got plenty of other guys to say those words for you.”
The song’s chorus conveys the central sentiment of the song. In the second verse, the lyrics express the narrator’s willingness to give everything they have to the person they love.
The song’s bridge emphasizes the long-lasting nature of the couple’s love, highlighting the challenges they’ve faced together. The lyrics “Even through all the ups and downs, you can’t stop the way I feel now” demonstrate their unbreakable commitment, reaffirming that their love remains constant despite any obstacles they encounter. The recurring line, “I know you’re not my girlfriend, but I swear that I love you. Baby, I do,” reminds the song’s central message and the singer’s dedication to his feelings. The word “Valentine” used in the bridge symbolizes Leslie’s desire to formalize their relationship and become a genuine romantic couple.
Ryan Leslie released four more albums before taking a break from music. However, “Valentine” remains one of my favorite ballads in Leslie’s catalog and stays in rotation throughout the year.
Final Grade: B+
“Valentine” from Ryan Leslie is available on all streaming platforms.
Songstress Ashanti was experiencing significant success with two platinum albums at the time of the release of her inaugural holiday project, “Ashanti’s Christmas,” on November 18, 2003. Her label head, Irv Gotti, produced most of the album. This project comprises four original songs co-written by Ashanti, in addition to six cover versions of traditional Christmas standards and carols.
Vocal quartet A Few Good Man contributed two songs to the project: a cover of “Silver Bells” and the ballad “Merry Christmas My Dear,” both of which were produced by Daryl Simmons. Demail Burks, David Morris, Aaron Hilliard, and Tony Amey were the members of the group, and after introducing themselves in the festive video for “Silver Bells,” it was only fitting that they delivered a ballad on the album.
R&B legend Luther Vandross had already solidified his place in R&B when he released his first holiday album, “This Is Christmas. Arriving in stores on October 24, 1995, “This Is Christmas” validates Vandross’s ability to sing anything.