During the 1990s, it was commonplace for numerous hip-hop record labels to have an R&B vocalist who would collaborate with the label’s artists in composing hooks. This week’s edition of Slow Jam Saturday features Danny Boy, a singer who fulfills this category, and his poignant ballad “It’s Over Now.”
Before he could vote, Danny Boy debuted on the DJ Quik- produced “Come When I Call” featured on the Murder Was the Case soundtrack. That song led to numerous collaborations with the late great 2Pac. In the winter of 1997, Danny released “It’s Over Now” as a promo single for the “Gridlock’d” soundtrack. Renowned R&B produced Babyface wrote the song that Keith Anders produced.
Commencing with a lush instrumentation, the lyrics of Babyface articulate a message of empowerment and liberation from a toxic relationship. Despite his underage status, Danny’s vocals convey relatable lyrics that anyone who has experienced an attraction towards someone in a detrimental relationship can connect with. Danny’s vocals do not dumb down the message but encourage women to recognize their self-worth and relinquish partners who have caused them emotional distress. He assures them that the cycle of pain will come to an end. “It’s Over Now” successfully emphasizes the importance of self-respect and moving forward with strength and confidence, ultimately signaling a positive shift toward a life free from mistreatment and sorrow.
“It’s Over Now” is a song that has largely faded from public memory unless one is a devoted enthusiast of R&B music. Perhaps the chief executive officer of the record label, Suge Knight, had intended to steer Danny Boy’s music toward the adult contemporary genre even though he was signed to a label specializing in gangster rap music. This decision may have been misguided, as Danny Boy’s album faced multiple delays, with only intermittent appearances on hooks in the interim. The album was eventually released in 2010. Danny Boy continues to work in the music industry and has recently released his second solo album.
Final Grade: B
“It’s Over Now” is available on all streaming platforms.
Academy Award Nominee Colin Farrell returns his talents to the small screen in “Sugar” from Apple TV. Iconic screenwriter Mark Protosevich served as showrunner and wrote four episodes. Fernando Meirelles directs all episodes of the series. John Sugar (Farrell), an American private investigator, is investigating the mysterious disappearance of Olivia Siegel (Sydney Chandler).
Diarra Kilpatrick, an Emmy Award-winning actress, has partnered with the esteemed executive producer Kenya Barris to showcase her talents in the comedic mystery series “Diarra from Detroit,” exclusively available on the BET+ streaming platform. The narrative follows Diarra (portrayed by Kilpatrick), who is currently undergoing divorce proceedings with Francois, also known as Swa (played by Morris Chestnut). She relocates to her old community after receiving counsel from her confidant, Aja (played by Dominque Perry), and colleague, Mr. Tea (played by Bryan Terrel Clark).
Apple TV has brought to life James L. Swanson’s critically acclaimed non-fiction book “Manhunt” in the form of an enthralling TV series with the same name. The show’s plot revolves around the aftermath of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination and the subsequent hunt for John Wilkes Booth, the culprit behind the heinous crime. The program is directed by Carl Franklin and overseen by Monica Beletsky, who serves as the showrunner, ensuring a well-crafted narrative that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.
Reviews And Dunn is a unique blog showcasing all things cinema, music & theater.
You must be logged in to post a comment.