As fans anxiously await the Antione Fuqua-directed biopic on the King of Pop to hit theaters next year, I wanted to pay homage to one of my favorite ballads in his group’s catalog for this week’s Slow Jam Saturday. That particular song is “One More Chance” from the group’s fifteenth studio album and the only one to feature all six brothers, Victory.
The album was mainly composed of solo songs by each brother rather than collaborative tracks. I think the youngest brother, Randy Jackson, offered the best song on the album, “One More Chance.” Randy had showcased his balladry skills six years prior on “Love Song For Kids.” Furthermore, his pen game was highlighted in “Lovely One.” “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground),” “and Walk Right Now. ” However, “One More Chance” was the first time he dabbled in balladry as a writer.
Randy composed the lyrics and handled production duties; the lush song is a plea for forgiveness and a desire to make amends in a relationship. The lyrics convey a sense of regret and remorse for past mistakes, acknowledging the pain caused to the other person. The song reflects a deep longing for another opportunity to make things right.
In a tender retrospective, Randy shares the ample guidance and ongoing support he once received in his time of need. He confesses an inability to have reciprocated with those same levels of dedication or effort. His statement, “I don’t know whatever came over me,” points towards a dawning awareness of personal shortfalls and no discernable rationale for past behaviors. The chorus pleads repeatedly for another shot, underscoring the depth and gravity of the bond they forged and their shared dreams. This recurrent refrain further illuminates his heartfelt sincerity and burgeoning desperation in seeking forgiveness for their past errors.
Amidst external forces generating false narratives, Randy recognizes how challenging it is to sift fact from fiction. The phrase “You know it takes the pressure for me to see,” underlines a newfound insight – that severe relationship strains were necessary catalysts leading him toward understanding his missteps. Beneath tones suggesting love’s complexity lies an articulated longing for deeper connection in Randy’s confessional journey.
Instrumental interludes in this moving musical narration provide space for contemplation, which eases listeners into comprehending the complex emotions conveyed throughout the piece. “One More Chance” profoundly and sincerely portrays sorrow, guilt, and an intense longing for a reunion in love. It serves as a heartfelt reminder of the significance of clear communication, empathetic understanding, and mutual efforts to build a lasting relationship.
Randy released a solo project called “Randy & the Gypsys” five years later, which was highly underrated. However, Randy could have a successful career as a sought-after songwriter. “One More Chance” is proof of his talent.
Final Grade: A
“One More Chance” from Victory is available on all streaming platforms.
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.