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.
It’s hard to believe that an iconic singing competition like American Idol has produced only two Black male winners in its more than two-and-a-half-decade history. Jamal Roberts made history last year when he won the show, following Ruben Studdard’s well-deserved victory in Season Two.
One wonderful aspect of supporting physical media is that I never run short of albums to choose from when deciding what to cover for Second Listen Sunday. Often, I’ll head to the man cave, browse through my CD collection, and an album will pop out at me. This week’s pick is T-Pain’s fourth album, “Revolver.”
One of my favorite singers, Mr. Eric Roberson, is performing this weekend at America’s legendary music venue, The Birchmere. To show Eric some love, I want to highlight something longtime R&B fans have always known: he’s had remarkable songwriting talent.