In the 1990s, R&B music was dominated by vocal groups known for their captivating lead singers and smooth harmonies. This week, I wanted to highlight IV Xample and their single “I’d Rather Be Alone” for Slow Jam Saturday.
IV Xample, a talented R&B group hailing from Los Angeles, comprises Andre “Dre” Allen, Robert “Bobby C” Chevis (also known as Athemus Chevis), Raymond “Runni Rae” Chevis, and Bryant “Lucious” Woo. Their debut single, “I’d Rather Be Alone,” captures the raw emotions of heartbreak often expressed in R&B music, showcasing their soulful vocal harmonies over poignant lyrics.
“I’d Rather Be Alone,” written by Hershel Boone and Lovell Moorer II and produced by Steve Dublin, delves into themes of heartbreak, betrayal, and the struggle to move on from a failed relationship. The group takes turns sharing the lead vocals as they express their love for their partner while admitting a preference for solitude over staying in a relationship filled with lies and deceit.
The lyrics vividly portray the pain of realizing love was not returned and the challenge of letting go. Lines like “Girl, you made me a fool” and “There was no need to lie” emphasize the protagonist’s sense of betrayal and hurtmention of being the “only man” and hint at unfaithfulness, causing deep emotional scars.
The song accurately captures the bittersweet feelings of longing for the past while recognizing the need to move forward for personal well-being. “I’d Rather Be Alone” effectively conveys the complex emotions one experiences at the end of a relationship, underscoring the importance of self-respect and the courage required to let go for one’s own sake.
While only diehard R&B fans may remember this song, it’s easily a testament to the staying power of Nineties R&B.
Final Grade: B
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.