Like the rest of New Edition, R&B balladeer Johnny Gill had seen ups and downs as a solo artist. While Mr. Gill had enough hits to tour off, his fans clamored for music. In 2011 after fifteen years, he returned to music with his sixth solo album, “Still Winning,” this week’s pick for Second Listen Sunday.

For the album’s first single, “In the Mood,” Gill presented a ballad, a genre in which he excels. Collaborating with producer Ralph B. Stacy, Gill proffered a composition that encapsulates the yearning and desire for intimacy within a romantic partnership. The song’s central theme revolves around the anticipation and enthusiasm for an emotional bond, as evidenced by the spirited exchange between the protagonist and their counterpart. Through lighthearted banter and forthright ardor, the lyrics vividly portray a scene ripe with expectation and romantic tension, unmistakably conveying the protagonist’s readiness to elevate their affection to a deeper level.

Troy Taylor was the creative force behind the album’s second single, “It Would Be You.” This poignant ballad echoes Gill’s previous collaborative work with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, eloquently conveying Gill’s deep love and admiration for his significant other. The lyrics artfully express a profound gratitude for their partner, underscoring that their love occupies the foremost place in their lives. The central theme of “It Would Be You” revolves around profound love and appreciation for a partner. The lyrics convey that authentic happiness emanates from a profound emotional connection rather than material possessions or external influences. The song exalts the potency of love and underscores the necessity of a genuine connection in a relationship.

The album’s final single, ‘Just the Way You Are,’ was a collaborative effort with Johnta Austin. This mid-tempo ballad commemorates unconditional love and acceptance. The song’s central theme underscores the significance of cherishing a partner for their authentic self without necessitating change or enhancement. It communicates profound admiration and commitment, emphasizing the essential nature of authenticity in interpersonal connections. The lyrics express a profound gratitude for a beloved individual’s internal and external beauty, reinforcing that love thrives when embraced unreservedly.

The subsequent tracks on the album epitomize the quintessential elements of Urban AC R&B. The title track portrays Gill’s resilience in overcoming negativity. At the same time, ‘Let’s Stay Together’ underscores the album’s commitment to the theme of relationships. Additionally, ‘Black Box’ delves into the complexities of faltering relationships, and ‘2nd Place’ conveys the significance of truthfulness. Despite Gill’s consistently remarkable vocal delivery, the recurrence of thematic elements may be repetitive. Nonetheless, ‘Long, Long Time,’ a collaborative effort featuring LSG members Keith Sweat and Eddie LeVert and production by the late Static Major, offsets the album’s noted deficiencies.

While it can be argued that “Still Winning” is a bit safe, Gill is still vocally in top form on the album.

Final Grade: B

“Still Winning” is available on all streaming platforms.