Although some may consider R&B band Mtume as one-hit wonders for their classic song “Juicy Fruit,” true music enthusiasts know that the group had already released two albums before that song, along with some fantastic album cuts and 11 other charting songs. Led by James Mtume and featuring the powerful lead vocals of Tawatha Agee, Mtume’s track “You, Me and He” is the perfect choice for this week’s Slow Jam Saturday.
The lead single from their self-titled fourth album, “You, Me and He,” deals with the complexities of infidelity in a love triangle. Tawatha sings the first verse, introducing the idea that she is in a committed relationship with someone (most likely the male listener) but also has another lover. The chorus repeats the question, “What are we going to do, baby?” suggesting that the situation is causing a lot of tension and confusion.
James Mtume takes on the second verse, where he admits that he was blind to the fact that his partner had another lover and that he never thought infidelity could happen to him. But as he realized his partner was calling out the other lover’s name during their lovemaking, he knew things had changed. The bridge acknowledges that they are living a lie and asks if they can try to make things work. The third verse continues to express the pain and difficulty of the situation and asks if they can find a way to move forward.
The final chorus repeats the question of what they will do, and Mtume pleads with his partner not to leave him, even though he has been unfaithful. Overall, the song portrays the complicated emotions involved in a love triangle and the difficulty of navigating feelings of betrayal and forgiveness. The song’s strength is in the narrative approach that James and Tawatha give it, making it relatable for both male and female listeners. In addition, the production is stone-cold and speaks to Mtume’s talent.
“You Me and He” successfully speaks to the complexities of love and the painful choices that can arise when multiple people are involved. While rapper Eve would later put her spin on the song, thankfully, in the auto tune scandalous modern R&B age, no one has tried to cover the song.
Final Grade: A
“You Me and He” is available on all streaming platforms.
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