One of the most extraordinary things about being a music head is seeing one of your favorite artists succeed. I wanted to highlight a recent single by one of my favorite singers Eric Roberson and his new song “Things Meant for Me.” Erro reunites with frequent collaborator Brett “Bdubb” Bakker for the track, validating the two’ musical kinship.
I’ve always believed that some consumers listen to music while others hear it. During my deployment to Qatar in 2006, I thoroughly enjoyed hearing Jay-Z’s album Kingdom Come. Many listeners wrote the album off and saw it as Jay-Z’s worst, but being around all that and heat gave me a chance to digest everything the Jigga Man was talking about.
Two years later, Usher released his follow-up to Confessions with Here I Stand. When that album dropped, I was less than a month into my now fifteen-year marriage, and my wife was pregnant with our son, so everything that Ush was singing about hit home for me. I say that to allude to “Things Meant for Me,” a song you must genuinely hear.
The main idea behind “Things Meant for Me” is that every event in our lives has a purpose, and some things are destined to occur. It discusses the importance of embracing unexpected opportunities and having faith that the universe has a plan. Erro has always found a way to highlight his struggles in the music industry.
The feelings are relatable to anyone who has ever had a sense of disappointment and questioned why certain things didn’t go as planned. However, the tone quickly shifts to a more optimistic and hopeful one as the song emphasizes the belief that missed opportunities are often blessings in disguise.
Roberson and Bakker’s lyrics emphasize there is a more fantastic plan at work. Sometimes, what we desire or pursue might align differently from what is genuinely meant for us. The song encourages listeners to let go of control and trust that the right things will come into their lives at the right time.
The melody and instrumental arrangement of the song create a soothing and reflective atmosphere. The harmonies and Roberson’s smooth vocals add to the calming effect of the track, helping to convey the message of acceptance and faith in the process of life.
“Things Meant for Me” is a song that encourages listeners to embrace the uncertainties of life, let go of disappointments, and trust that the universe has a plan, reminding them that sometimes the things they desire may not always be what’s best for them.
Final Grade: A
“Things Meant for Me” is available on all streaming platforms.
And if you want to see the magic behind Eric’s process, click: here
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.