Faith Evans released her second album, Keep the Faith, in 1998, which featured the hit singles “Love Like This” and “All Night Long.” Both songs sampled seventies classics and made audiences want to dance. While the songs are classics, I’ve always preferred Faith’s ballads. Honestly, Keep the Faith is full of romantic gems, such as the 112 duet “Caramel Kisses” and the Diane Warren written, “Lately I.” However, the album’s third single, “Never Gonna Let You Go,” earns the Slow Jam Saturday slot.
Damon Thomas and Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds co-wrote and produced the song, a lovely ballad about agape love for your partner. The moment Evans belts out, “If I had one wish boy, I’d wish you next to me,” the listener knows they are going on a blissful musical journey. Evans’s passion in the song is something any woman who has ever had that kind of love for someone can relate to. While for me as a man, I felt that Evans was singing to me.
The song was Evans second time working with Babyface after their elegant ballad “Kissing You” from the Waiting to Exhale soundtrack three years prior. It’s hard to believe that initially, Faith Evans didn’t think the song was going to be a hit, but now it’s one of her signature ballads. I first heard the song when I purchased the audio cassette of Keep the Faith in my junior year of high school. I instantly knew that the song would be a feature in my wedding when that time came.
Ten years later, when I jumped the broom, I let my fiancée know I wanted her to walk down the aisle to the song. I still remember my family and friends all smiling in unison as my wife was walked down the aisle by her late grandfather to the elegant vocals of Mrs. Evans. Twenty-three years later, “Never Gonna Let You Go” still holds up and will forever remain a timeless song about love.
Final Grade: A
“Never Gonna Let You Go” is available on all streaming platforms.
If “Soldier” sets the stage for a woman’s initial attraction to a man, then “Cater 2 U” takes that dynamic to the next level by exploring the deepening desire for intimacy. In this empowering anthem, Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams express their commitment to being ideal partners by genuinely catering to their significant other’s wants and needs.
Arriving in stores on November 9th, 2010, “The Floacist presents Floetic Soul” was led by the single “Forever” featuring Musiq Soulchild. A sensual slow jam written by Stewart and produced by J.R. Hutson, “Forever” explores the unwavering and enduring nature of love. The lyrics convey a deep connection between two individuals who have overcome challenges and found solace in each other’s presence. Stewart’s voice perfectly complements Musiq as they sing about unconditional love and support, expressing their willingness to meet any needs or desires their loved one may have.
The year was 1987, and in the world of sports, The Giants won the Super Bowl, the Lakers won the NBA, and the Minnesota Twins won baseball. In television, the world would get their introduction to “The Simpsons,” in cinema, Eddie Murphy would appear in his first sequel.