^{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.}

^{“Gemini’s” first single was “Everytime You Go Away,” McKnight wrote and produced. Following his usual ballad formula in the song over a lush arrangement, he expresses his deep connection and longing for his significant other whenever they are apart. The lyrics portray a sense of vulnerability and a strong emotional bond.}

^{In the remaining verses of the song, McKnight describes his overwhelming love and how being with his partner makes his world feel absolute and complete. The lyrics convey how being close to their partner evokes a sense of eternity and makes them crave more.}

^{“What We Do Here” was the album’s second single, which finds McKnight in a situationship as he explores the concept of keeping a romantic encounter discreet and confidential. The lyrics suggest that McKnight and his partner are engaging in a secret relationship and want to maintain the privacy of their intimate moments.   One of the most surprising things about this particular song is that McKnight avoids crass lyrics despite the subject material.}

^{“Gemini” didn’t get a third single, and the rest of the album follows the typical template of an R&B album.  There are two collabos for the Hip Hop crowd in the form of “She” (featuring Talib Kweli) and Watcha Gonna Do?” (featuring Akon, Juvenile, and Skip), neither of which have aged remarkably well. However, despite those two missteps, the album finds its footing when McKnight keeps the vibe romantic with a sprinkle of grown-man R&B.}

^{The aptly titled “Grown Man Business” samples Jay-Z’s “Can’t Knock the Hustle” and features the production talents of Poke & Tone. On this bop, McKnight crafts a smooth tale of mature younger dealing with younger guys who don’t know the art of romance, so they need to deal with a grown man. “Here With You” samples the Bee Gees “Love You Inside Out” and is one for the steppers, while “Everything I Do” is a ballad that gives him a chance to show off his falsetto range as he expresses everything he will do for his lady.}

^{The remainder of the album is textbook McKnight, which is fine because he still knows how to craft a ballad. While the album didn’t reach the sales point of McKnight’s heyday, it’s still a worthy addition to his collection.}

^{Final Grade: B+}

^{“Gemini” is available on all streaming platforms.}