Looking back to December 1993, I remember two comedy sequels, Wayne’s World 2 and Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit, hitting theaters. The latter film would perform well at the box office and introduce us to young talents that would succeed in the future. The list of artists includes Lauryn Hill, gospel singer Erica Campbell of the duo Mary Mary, and R&B singer Ryan Toby. Toby later found success as a writer in his own right after leaving the R&B trio City High.
However, for this week’s Slow Jam Saturday, I wanted to give flowers to another cast member from the film, Tanya Blount. Blount and Hill’s performance of “His Eye Is On The Sparrow” is still an audience favorite, so it was only natural that Blount would release an album.
Arriving in stores on March 8th, 1994, Blount’s debut album Natural Thang was led by the song “I’m Gonna Make You Mine,” made for the clubs. However, the album’s second single, “Through The Rain,” caught my attention. Brian Williams, Erik White, and Kevin Jackson penned the song, with White and Jackson also producing.
“Through The Rain” is a beautiful ballad emphasizing the power of enduring love and companionship in adversity. It reminds us that genuine connection is far more valuable than any material possession and that real commitment means standing by each other through the toughest challenges.
Throughout the track, we hear the phrase “through the rain and storms together.” The lyric is a powerful symbol of conquering life’s difficulties with togetherness and unwavering resolve. The lyrics beautifully express a love that endures even in challenging circumstances.
Part of any strong relationship is the acknowledgment from your mate that hard times may come and go. Still, your heart and eyes can reassure them that you are committed to being a source of support and stability throughout the stormy nights. There is a message of resilience and encouragement, assuring the listener that everything will be alright despite the stormy nights.
Blount passionately sings “Through The Rain,” celebrating the power of love, perseverance, and unwavering support through thick and thin. The song beautifully conveys that love can conquer all obstacles when two individuals stand by each other, understand each other, and remain devoted to each other.
Final Grade: B+
“Through The Rain” from Natural Thang is available on all streaming platforms.
For their second single, the group presented a ballad entitled “Feels Like The First Time.” Once again, Greene handles the lyrics, while Neville Hodge is responsible for production duties. Greene begins the song with robust energy, proclaiming his love for the lady. Greene’s group members provide stellar work on the background vocals, and the songs eschew nineties R&B without going into crass vulgarity.
The ballad was composed by Michael Masser and lyricist Gerry Goffin, and it was first recorded by Dionne Warwick in 1981. Eight years later, Natalie Cole covered the song, shortening the title. It became the fourth single from her twelfth album, “Good to Be Back.”
Braxton’s vocal talent is perfect on the standards “Christmas Time Is Here,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and “The Christmas Song.” However, like any good R&B Christmas album, it is the soulful yuletide bops where Braxton truly shines. The album’s first single, “Snowflakes of Love,” is instrumental of Earl Klugh’s “Now We’re One”. Braxton’s lush vocals encapsulate the warmth and joy of romantic love amidst a wintery backdrop.