Soul singer October London is steadily making a name for himself in the genre of R&B. By blending classic soul sounds with contemporary R&B, October London is carving out a space for himself in the music industry. A South Bend, Indiana native, he hit the scene in the summer of 2016. The first time I heard his voice was on “Revolution,” the closing song on Snoop Dogg’s Coolaid album.
Since then, he has graced fans with numerous projects. As he embarks on his latest project, The Rebirth of Marvin, he embraces one of the most brilliant singers ever. The lead single from the project is the slow-drag ballad “Back To Your Place.” A romantic ballad expresses a desire to be taken back to a lover’s place. In the lyrics, October has admired the person they are interested in all night. However, he is growing impatient with how long they have waited to advance the relationship.
They ask to be taken back to the person’s place, using the phrase “place of residence” to emphasize their intention. October desires to spend time alone with that person so they can express their love in a way they both desire. The song is a plea for a committed relationship and a physical connection. The Marvin Gaye influence is evident when I hear and see the visuals. Marvin is looking down and smiling.
Final Grade: A-
“Back To Your Place” is available on all streaming platforms.
Songstress Ashanti was experiencing significant success with two platinum albums at the time of the release of her inaugural holiday project, “Ashanti’s Christmas,” on November 18, 2003. Her label head, Irv Gotti, produced most of the album. This project comprises four original songs co-written by Ashanti, in addition to six cover versions of traditional Christmas standards and carols.
Vocal quartet A Few Good Man contributed two songs to the project: a cover of “Silver Bells” and the ballad “Merry Christmas My Dear,” both of which were produced by Daryl Simmons. Demail Burks, David Morris, Aaron Hilliard, and Tony Amey were the members of the group, and after introducing themselves in the festive video for “Silver Bells,” it was only fitting that they delivered a ballad on the album.
R&B legend Luther Vandross had already solidified his place in R&B when he released his first holiday album, “This Is Christmas. Arriving in stores on October 24, 1995, “This Is Christmas” validates Vandross’s ability to sing anything.