Earlier this week, fans were excited when the trailer for Netflix’s upcoming sequel series, “A Different World”, was released. In response, I thought it would be fitting to pay tribute to Jasmine Guy’s self-titled album from 1990 for this week’s Second Listen Sunday.
Long before Jasmine Guy became known as the sophisticated and Southern-accented Whitley Gilbert on A Different World, she had already established a strong foundation in music and dance. At 17, Guy moved to New York to study at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center. She later showcased her training on the television show Fame before breaking out in A Different World.
This wasn’t just an actress waking up one morning and randomly deciding to make an album.
Released in October 1990, Jasmine Guy collaborated with accomplished producers including Full Force, Timmy Gatling, Oliver Leiber, Rex Salas, and Mic Murphy. The result is a distinctly early ’90s mix of R&B, dance-pop, and new jack swing.
While Guy may not outshine artists like Whitney Houston, Stephanie Mills, or Regina Belle vocally, her light, sometimes thin voice fits within the realm of R&B, where stylistic interpretations have always been valued. Guy brings attitude, rhythm, theatricality, and a keen understanding of how to deliver a lyric. If some listeners hear a hint of Paula Abdul in her delivery, it shouldn’t necessarily be seen as a criticism.
The album opens with “Try Me,” produced by Full Force, which captures plenty of new jack swing energy. Guy sounds playful, confident, and completely at ease within its dynamic production. The song reached No. 14 on Billboard’s R&B chart.
Timmy Gatling-produced “Another Like My Lover” is even stronger. Its groove complements Guy’s dance instincts, allowing her personality to shine through the melody. This track became her biggest R&B hit, reaching No. 9 while also crossing over to No. 66 on the Hot 100.
Guy slows the pace with “Just Want to Hold You,” featuring the late James Ingram. This ballad reveals a warmer and more vulnerable side of her voice and became her most significant pop crossover, reaching No. 34 on the Hot 100 and No. 27 on the R&B chart. The funk-rock track “Don’t Want Money” closes the album’s single releases with independence and attitude.
In addition to the singles, “More Love,” “Tuff Boy,” and “Everybody Knows My Name” keep the album engaging, while the reflective “I Wish You Well” showcases one of Guy’s most convincing vocal performances.
Is Jasmine Guy a forgotten masterpiece? No. While some production elements may feel dated and Guy’s vocal limitations occasionally become evident, dismissing the album as merely a celebrity vanity project overlooks how polished, enjoyable, and successful various parts of it are.
Acting may be Jasmine Guy’s greatest talent, but upon a second listen, it is clear that singing was also a significant part of her artistry.
Final Grade: B
“Jasmine Guy” is available on all streaming platforms
