Members of the group Ready for The World are preparing to release a new album titled “READY SONIQUE.” The group now consists of founding members Willie Triplett and Gerald Valentine, along with newcomer David Lyve. The lead single from the album is “Feelin U,” which was written by Gerald Valentine, Tiffanie Porter, and David Watkins, with production handled by Willie Triplett and Gerald Valentine.
Joining the group on the track is P.ILY and Kharisma with their sultry slice of R&B that thrives on both sonic polish and narrative intrigue. Built on a sensuous, hip-hop-inspired groove, the track leans into an upbeat yet velvety swing that immediately sets the mood. The layered harmonies and sleek production choices create a lush backdrop, ideally suited for late nights, intimate spaces, and stolen glances.
Lyrically, “Feelin U” elevates the standard love song framework by exploring the blurred line between friendship and passion. The story unfolds as two best friends surrender to desire, caught up in the magic of an electrifying night. What sets the song apart is its ability to capture the vulnerability and awe of that moment—the afterglow where emotions are as overwhelming as the physical connection.
A twist occurs with the reintroduction of a former lover, a captivating bisexual woman, who reclaims her place in their dynamic. Rather than derailing the narrative, her presence adds depth, tension, and a sense of daring to the track, transforming it into more than just a simple ballad.
“Feling U” succeeds because it embraces sensual storytelling, pairing it with infectious melodies and rich production. The result is an R&B cut that feels both contemporary and timeless, addressing the complexities of love, desire, and connection in ways that are as thought-provoking as they are undeniably seductive.
Final Grade: B
“Feelin U” is available on all streaming platforms.
For this week’s Second Listen Sunday, I want to revisit 2004 and highlight Romeo’s debut solo album, formerly of Immature. Titled “Food for Thought” and released on June 22nd, this project marked the singer’s change of name to Young Rome in an effort to distance himself from the youthful sound of his group, much like his bandmate Marques Houston had done a year earlier.
In the nineties, Hip-Hop reigned supreme, and every label CEO wanted a share of the lucrative R&B market. One strategy was to keep singers on their roster who could deliver catchy hooks, keeping everything in-house and saving money. Bad Boy had Carl Thomas, Death Row had Danny Boy, and Roc-A-Fella had Rell, our featured artist for this week’s Slow Jam Saturday
Growing up in the eighties, I was surrounded by incredibly talented male R&B singers who could deliver unforgettable love songs. Artists like Luther Vandross, Jeffrey Osborne, and Peabo Bryson dominated the airwaves, but Freddie Jackson was another voice that truly deserved recognition.