Kevon Edmonds, 1/3 of legendary R&B trio After 7, was already a household name when he released his solo debut 24/7 in the fall of 1999. I was a senior in high school and living in El Paso, Texas when Kevon broke through with his solo single “24/7”. Working with writers Angelo Ray / David Scott, Edmonds did not stray that far from the After 7 formula, which was smooth vocal harmony and heartfelt lyrics.
Edmonds’s next single, “No Love (I’m Not Used to),” arrived from the pen of Daryl Simmons and showcased his vocals over a song that anyone who ever got too comfortable in a relationship can relate to. We have all been there where we take someone for granted and when we lose them, it’s hell on your heart. I am a firm believer that sometimes you have to learn to be alone to prepare yourself for the right person.
For the last single, Kevon linked up with his brother Babyface for the beautiful ballad “Love Will Be Waiting at Home.” Marc Harris and Tommy Sims also provided their talents to the song. The opening song “Never Love You” is another Babyface written gem that could serve as a sequel to “No Love (I’m Not Used to)” with the pleading Kevon is doing to get his girl back. Quite honestly, “Never Love You” is a better song than some albums coming out today. Kevon could have easily relied on his younger brother for every song on the CD. While Babyface does provide his usual trademark to songs like “A Girl Like You” and “How Often,” Kevon has excellent chemistry with the other producers on the album as well.
Tim & Bob provide Kevon with two up-tempo bangers in “When I’m With You” and “I Want You”, while Gregory Curtis contributes the lush “Sensitive Mood.” 24/7 does lose a bit of steam towards the album’s end as the last few songs come across as filler. Nevertheless, this was a strong debut overall that I often revisit.
Final Grade: B+
Top Tracks: The singles and “Never Love You.”
24/7 is available on all streaming platforms
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.
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.”
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.
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