Male R&B groups ruled the airwaves in the early to mid-nineties, but as the 20th century started to close out, while groups were still around, they no longer dominated the charts. While we still had mainstays like Dru Hill, 112, Jagged Edge, and four guys from Philly, newer groups would come and go.
For this week’s Slow Jam Saturday, I wanted to give some flowers to the group Profyle and their single “Whispers in the Dark”. A quartet from Shreveport, LA, Profyle’s members were Ljai, Baby Boy, Face, and Hershey. Signed to legendary Motown, the group’s debut album was blessed by a bevy of heavy hitter producers, including Jon-John, Teddy Bishop, Soulshock & Karlin, and one of Bad Boy’s Hitmen, Mr. Anthony Dent.
“Whispers in the Dark” was penned by R&B lover man JOE and his frequent collaborator Joshua Thompson. In the simplest of terms, “Whispers in the Dark” depicts a narrative of desire, longing, and fantasy. The song discusses a passionate and intense relationship as the group is haunted by whispers in the dark, symbolizing their lover’s lingering memories and thoughts even when physically apart.
Sensuous language and imagery reflect a tradition of JOE’S and Thompson’s pen game, expressing deep emotions and desires through seductive and evocative lyrics. “I hear whispers in the dark, sayin’ baby don’t you stop / Making love to you, but you’re not in my bed.” This stanza establishes the central theme of desire and yearning for the absent lover, with the whispers symbolizing the intimate connection shared between the two individuals.
Ljai sings the lead vocals on the song, while the rest of the group provides solid background vocals and beautiful harmonies in three parts. Although “Whispers in the Dark” did not become a pop hit, it effortlessly captures the intense and passionate yearning of anyone missing their absent lover. It evokes a sense of intimacy and longing that transcends physical distance.
Final Grade : B+
“Whispers in the Dark” by Profyle is available on all streaming platforms.
Director David Tedeschi collaborates with esteemed producer Martin Scorsese to examine the significant impact of The Beatles’ inaugural visit to the United States in the documentary “Beatles ’64,” available on Disney+.
Director Nate Edwards transitions from short films to narrative features with the compelling black love story “She Taught Love,” available on Hulu. Darrell Britt-Gibson, who also occupies the leading role, authored the screenplay.
Director and writer Coralie Fargeat has partnered with the esteemed actress Demi Moore for her second feature film, “The Substance,” which has been released by Mubi.