Second Listen Sunday : Brian McKnight , “Gemini ”
For the first Second Listen Sunday of 2025, I wanted to return to 2005 and highlight “Gemini,” the eighth album from iconic singer & balladeer Brian McKnight. The album hit stores on February 8th, 2005, and would serve as the singer’s last release on the legendary Motown label. The album’s title pays homage to the singer’s astrological sign.
Slow Jam Saturday : Isley Jasper Isley, “Insatiable Woman”
When discussing families in R&B music, three names are usually at the top: Jackson, Debarge, and Isley. For the first Slow Jam Saturday of 2025, I wanted to show love to Isley Jasper Isley and their hit “Insatiable Woman” from their 1985 album “Caravan of Love.”
Second Listen Sunday : Intro, “New Life”
For their second single, the group presented a ballad entitled “Feels Like The First Time.” Once again, Greene handles the lyrics, while Neville Hodge is responsible for production duties. Greene begins the song with robust energy, proclaiming his love for the lady. Greene’s group members provide stellar work on the background vocals, and the songs eschew nineties R&B without going into crass vulgarity.
Slow Jam Saturday : Natalie Cole, “Starting Over Again”
The ballad was composed by Michael Masser and lyricist Gerry Goffin, and it was first recorded by Dionne Warwick in 1981. Eight years later, Natalie Cole covered the song, shortening the title. It became the fourth single from her twelfth album, “Good to Be Back.”
Second Listen Sunday : Toni Braxton, Snowflakes
Braxton’s vocal talent is perfect on the standards “Christmas Time Is Here,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and “The Christmas Song.” However, like any good R&B Christmas album, it is the soulful yuletide bops where Braxton truly shines. The album’s first single, “Snowflakes of Love,” is instrumental of Earl Klugh’s “Now We’re One”. Braxton’s lush vocals encapsulate the warmth and joy of romantic love amidst a wintery backdrop.
Slow Jam Saturday : The Isley Bros, “What Can I Buy You”
Iconic R&B group The Isley Brothers had already solidified their pleasure in R&B when they released their first Christmas album, “I’ ‘ll Be Home for Christmas,” in 2007. Group member Ron has always had one of those voices that can sing anything, so it makes sense that the group’s first Christmas album would feature the usual standards with an R&B interpretation.
Second Listen Sunday : John Legend, A Legendary Christmas
Christmas Day is ten days away, and this week’s pick for Second Listen Sunday is John Legend. The twelve-time Grammy winner was over a decade into his career when he released his first Christmas album, “A Legendary Christmas,” on October 26, 2018. When one thinks about Legend’s piano skills, it’s surprising that it took him so long to do a Christmas project; however, perhaps the singer was waiting for the right time. Music fans will be delighted that the legendary Raphael Saadiq produces all the songs for the project.
Second Listen Sunday : Ashanti, Christmas With Ashanti
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.
Slow Jam Saturday : A Few Good Men, “Merry Christmas My Dear”
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.
Second Listen Sunday : Luther Vandross, “This Is Christmas”
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.
Slow Jam Saturday : Jagged Edge, “This Is Christmas”
As the 2024 holiday season kicks off, I wanted to highlight R&B tunes with a festive feel for Slow Jam Saturday in December. First is Jagged Edge and their contribution to the compilation album “Jermaine Dupri Presents 12 Soulful Nights Of Christmas.”
Second Listen Sunday : Qunicy Jones, “The Dude”
Released on March 26, 1981, the album features the prominent track “Ai No Corrida,” which immerses listeners in a novel sonic environment characterized by an impactful opening and memorable melodic hooks. This record is a compelling amalgamation of rhythmic nuance and musical appeal, underscored by sophisticated production that showcases Quincy Jones’s exceptional abilities as a producer. It is a significant artistic statement that lays the groundwork for an extraordinary auditory journey.