Various Artists - Smooth Grooves: Soulful Duets (2002)

From the back cover: "the music on this package creates a hip, smooth, groove-oriented tapestry, offering the very best in the sophisticated-soul experience." Long form, late night mood-setters in full force. When I finished spinning this compilation, my CD player asked for a cigarette and the rest of the day off.

Peak on the US Billboard Top 200 chart: Did not chart

Tracks, with my top picks checked:

Song	Artists	Year	R&B	Pop
Fire And Desire	Rick James (feat. Teena Marie)	1981
Nothing Has Ever Felt Like This	Rachelle Ferrell (feat. Will Downing)	1994	72		✔
If This World Were Mine	Cheryl Lynn (with Luther Vandross)	1982	4		✔
Is It Still Good To Ya	Ashford & Simpson	1978	12
You Don't Have To Cry	René & Angela	1985	2	75
Feel The Fire	Teddy Pendergrass & Stephanie Mills	1980
Can't We Fall In Love Again	Phyllis Hyman & Michael Henderson	1981	9		✔
Hope That We Can Be Together Soon	Sharon Paige & Harold Melvin/Blue Notes	1975	1	42	✔
Love Changes	Kashif & Meli'sa Morgan	1987	2
Between You Baby And Me	Curtis Mayfield & Linda Clifford	1979	14		✔
That's What Love Is	Miki Howard (with Gerald Levert)	1988	4
Tonight, I Celebrate My Love	Peabo Bryson & Roberta Flack	1983	5	16	✔

Personal Memory Associated with this CD: Ask me tomorrow.

Previously revisited for the blog:

A Sensual Collection, Volume 1 (1995)	Smooth Grooves Live (2001)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 3 (1995)	Smooth Grooves: After Hours (2000)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 4 (1995)	Smooth Jazz, Vol. 1 (2000)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 6 (1996)	Smooth Jazz, Vol. 2 (2000)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 8 (1996)	Smooth Jazz, Vol. 3 (2000)
Smooth Grooves: Steppin' Out (2001)

Various Artists - Smooth Grooves: A Sensual Collection, Volume 8 (1996)

A collection of old school slow jams released in the mid-'90s by Rhino Records. Songs on this volume are from the years 1974-1986. A solid compilation.

Album chart peaks:

• US Billboard 200:Did not chart
• Billboard R&B: #64

Tracks:

• Who Can I Run To - The Jones Girls (1979)
  This quiet storm staple was previously heard on disc 8 of the wonderful Philadelphia International Records: The 40th Anniversary Box Set, but a welcome inclusion here.
• Don't Ask My Neighbors - Emotions (1977, #7 R&B, #44 pop)
  Possibly the best cut on the disc, written by Skip Scarborough, produced by Maurice White, and backed by White and the rest of Earth, Wind & Fire. So dadgum smooth! I'm thinking the pleading vocals are the best part, but then the orchestration kicks in underneath it all and it all just floats directly to my soul. I'll be listening to this again several more times today then saving it for play again later tonight ifyaknowwhatImean. 
• Magic Man - Robert Winters & Fall (1980, #11 R&B, #101 pop)
  A nice slow-shuffle ballad. I was previously unfamiliar with Winters, but he certainly proves here that he's got some range.
• Let's Get Closer - Atlantic Starr (1982)
  Not a single from the group; this is a sexy, late night, deep album cut from the group's 1982 LP, Brilliance. A large ensemble with several vocalists, the group was led by guitarist David Lewis on this slow burner.
• Come Share My Love - Miki Howard (1986, #5 R&B)
  Howard has a great voice and the song is pleasant enough, but my relationship with this type of R&B had lessened in the late eighties as synths entered the game. Maybe it's just me, but when the production distracts from the music, my mind wanders.
• (Pop, Pop, Pop, Pop) Goes My Mind - Levert (1986, #1 R&B)
  See above (particularly the drums in verse two). Shame because the hook is catchy and the singing is fantastic.
• When We Get Married - Larry Graham (1980, #9 R&B, #76 pop)
  The follow-up to the wonderful One In A Million You (on Volume 1 of this series), this tune doesn't quite measure up, but its a nice enough cover of a 1961 tune, first released by The Dreamlovers, then covered by in 1970 by The Intruders.
• Country Girl (You're My Everything) - The Nights (1977)
  Mid-'70s soul tune with a soaring falsetto vocal and a pleading, spoken word section in the middle? Sign me up! If you thought this being performed by The Stylistics, no one could fault you.
• (If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don't Want To Be Right/Rap/(If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don't Want To Be Right (Reprise) - Millie Jackson (1974, #42 R&B, #42 pop)
  A Stax staple for sure, but I'm fairly sure that I first come to this tune through Barbra Mandrell's version. Jackson's powerhouse performance here was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance (losing out to Aretha Franklin's recording of Ain't Nothing Like the Real Thing). Highs and lows, raw emotion - this thing tells a complete three act story arc in just over eleven minutes.
• If You Don't Know Me By Now - Patti LaBelle (1985, #79 R&B)
  Originally written by the legendary Gamble & Huff for LaBelle, the trio passed and it went to Harold & The Blue Notes with lead vocals by Teddy Pendergrass. Teddy crushes it, but this passionate 8 minute live version from Patti's 1985 album, Patti, gives The Blue Notes a run for their money. But, if this photo from the CD liner notes is any indication, no one is even in the same league with Patti as far as hair is concerned. (Her sweet potato pie is damn good, too.)
  
  
• Blind Over You - Black Ice (1976)
  I was previously unfamiliar with the group Black Ice, but this smooth ballad is right in my wheelhouse. Those background harmonies! 
• Stars In Your Eyes - Herbie Hancock (1980, #33 R&B)
  People often completely dismiss Hancock's pop/disco/R&B work between Headhunters (1973) and Future Shock (1983), but I like those efforts and this funky mid-tempo tune, with vocals from Gavin Christopher, is great stuff.

Personal Memory Associated with this CD: None.

Previously revisited for the blog:

A Sensual Collection, Volume 1 (1995)	Smooth Grooves Live (2001)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 3 (1995)	Smooth Grooves: After Hours (2000)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 4 (1995)	Smooth Jazz, Vol. 1 (2000)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 6 (1996)	Smooth Jazz, Vol. 2 (2000)
Smooth Grooves: Steppin' Out (2001)	Smooth Jazz, Vol. 3 (2000)

Various Artists - Smooth Grooves: Steppin' Out (2001)

"No, this is not fraternity stepping. Instead, this collection is the soundtrack to a dance craze that originated in Chicago and has been tearing up the Midwest, taking other cities by storm for the last ten years or so. These songs have become 'cult dance classics,' if you may. Enjoy!"

And, according to one Amazon reviewer, "In Chicago and St. Louis, 'Steppin'' is a classy dance that is immensely popular with the '25 and over' crowd. Most of the songs here became cult dance classics and are from the late 1970s and early 80s." Did someone mention the 25 and over crowd? That's me! But enough about my smooth moves, this compilation is an incredible mix of slick, mid-tempo, jazzy R&B tunes with lots of deep album cuts included. I've got the Phil Collins and Down To The Bone cuts on other CDs, but the other ten tracks are new to me and all are welcome additions to my shelves. Not bad for a $1 pickup from a used bin.

Peak on the US Billboard Top 200 chart: Did not chart

Tracks, with my top picks checked:

Song	Artist	Year
Be Thankful For What You Got	William DeVaughn	1974	✔
The Fruit Song	Jeannie Reynolds	1976	✔
This Feeling's Killing Me	The Jones Girls	1979	✔
In the Air Tonight ('88 Remix)	Phil Collins	1988	✔
Staten Island Groove	Down To The Bone	1997	✔
Teach Me (It's Something About Love)	Blue Magic	1976	✔
Life In The Country	The Ebonys	1974	✔
Key To The World	L.J. Reynolds	1981	✔
In & Out Of Love	Patti Austin	1998	✔
Soft And Easy	The Blackbyrds	1977	✔
Sweet Summer Days	Ray Obiedo fest. Peabo Bryson	1997	✔
Mr. Smooth	Michael Franks	1999	✔

Granted, the Collins track may seem out of place here, but I've seen line dancing on a packed floor in a country/western road house while Genius Of Love by Tom Tom Club played on the jukebox, so you just never know. I'm not sure if I could pick a favorite, but...that Blackbyrds tune is quite tasty and I just ordered a copy of their Action album (appearing soon on a CD blog near you).

Personal Memory Associated with this CD: None, but I'll soon be watching some "how to" videos so my wife and I can try some smooth, romantic steppin'.

Previously revisited for the blog:
A Sensual Collection, Volume 1 (1995)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 3 (1995)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 4 (1995)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 6 (1996)
Smooth Grooves Live (2001)
Smooth Grooves: After Hours (2000)
Smooth Jazz, Vol. 1 (2000)
Smooth Jazz, Vol. 2 (2000)
Smooth Jazz, Vol. 3 (2000)

Various Artists - Smooth Grooves: After Hours (2000)

If you like your sensual, pleading, late-night, champagne-drenched, mid-tempo jams direct from the R&B charts of the '80s à la Marvin Gaye's Sexual Healing, have I got a 78 minute compilation for you.

Before purchasing this disc, I was familiar with artists' names but not these particular tunes. However, they all have their intended effect, ifyouknowwhatImean. Great Rhino liner notes.

Peak on the US Billboard Top 200 chart: Did not chart

Tracks, with my top picks checked:

Song	Artist	Year	R&B	Pop
Risin' To The Top	Keni Burke	1982	63		✔
Sugar Free	Juicy	1985	13
Firestarter	Tease	1986	11
Silver Shadow	Atlantic Starr	1985
Slow Down	Loose Ends	1986	1
Curious	Midnight Star	1984			✔
Who Do You Love	Bernard Wright	1985	6		✔
Come Into My Life	Joyce Sims	1987	10
Gotta Get You Home Tonight	Eugene Wilde	1984	1	83
Don't Look Any Further	Dennis Edwards feat. Siedah Garrett	1984	2	72
Inside Out	Odyssey	1982	12	104	✔
Don't Say No (Tonight)	Eugene Wilde	1985	1	76	✔
Can You Treat Me Like She Does?	Real To Reel	1983
Lollipop Luv	Bryan Loren	1984	23	105
I Want To Be Your Man	Roger	1987	1	3

Personal Memory Associated with this CD: I'll get back to you.

Previously revisited for the blog:
A Sensual Collection, Volume 1 (1995)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 3 (1995)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 4 (1995)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 6 (1996)
Smooth Grooves Live (2001)
Smooth Jazz, Vol. 1 (2000)
Smooth Jazz, Vol. 2 (2000)
Smooth Jazz, Vol. 3 (2000)

Various Artists - Smooth Grooves Live (2001)

From the Rhino label, 12 live versions of 11 sweet slow jams and one classic funk tune, complete with fake crowd noise and unrealistic fade-outs.

Peak on the US Billboard Top 200 chart: Did not chart

Tracks: 12 tracks clocking in at a remarkable 78:29.

1. Reasons - Earth, Wind & Fire. From the 1975 album Gratitude.
   The spectacular Don Myrick sax solo on this tune is the best thing on this compilation and second place isn't even close. Considering Philip Bailey's performance here, that's quite the bold statement.
2. Happy Feelin's - Maze featuring Frankie Beverly. From the 1986 album Live In Los Angeles.
   How is it that a group can hit the top 40 of the R&B chart 25 times but never crack the pop top 40? This is but one example of the band's smooth goodness; there's really no excuse for that sort of chart discrimination.
3. If I Ever Lose This Heaven - Average White Band. From the 1976 album Person To Person.
   Not a bad groove but the vocalist is having some real problems.
4. Me And Mrs. Jones - Billy Paul. From the 1974 album Live in Europe.
   I love this tune and while this live version doesn't stray too much from the familiar studio version, Paul brings the goods. So very laid back.
5. I'm Catching Hell (Living Here Alone) - Natalie Cole. From the 1978 album Natalie...Live!
   Once you get through a two-minute spoken intro, Cole and the band are doing their best with the material.
6. In The Rain - The Dramatics. From the 1988 album Live
   Again, not too far removed from the earlier studio version (complete with sound effects), but while listening I can "see" the choreography that surely accompanied every live performance. 
7. Tell Me Something Good - Rufus & Chaka Khan. From the 1983 album Stompin' at the Savoy – Live
   Such a great Stevie Wonder tune performed flawlessly. Chaka delivers plus I love the talk box.
8. Just To Be Close To You - Commodores. From the 1977 album Commodores Live!
   What sets this song apart from a typical Lionel Richie ballad is the spoken word part and that plays better live where Lionel had someone to talk to. Vocal harmonies are great and I love how they ratchet up the tension only to suddenly bring it back down and start all over again.
9. A Song For You - Donny Hathaway. From the 1980 album In Performance
   A wonderful, restrained rendition of this Leon Russell tune, just Hathaway and his piano.
10. Wildflower - The O'Jays. From the 1974 album Live In London.
    Don't get me wrong - the O'Jays are great - but I prefer the structure of the Skylark original.
11. Turn Off The Lights - Teddy Pendergrass. From the 1979 album Teddy Live!
    Classic bedroom ballad. Teddy tellin' his lady to "Turn 'em off!" In this live version, we get female audience members shouting those three words back at Teddy. Then he whips the audience into what was surely a panty-throwing frenzy when he says "I got what you want! Right here!" I would say 'game respects game' but my game ain't anywhere near that league. When this track ended, my speakers asked for a cigarette.
12. Let's Get It On - Marvin Gaye. From the 1974 album Marvin Gaye Live!
    Marvin and the band take this classic a bit too fast and, sadly, something gets lost in that translation.

Personal Memory Associated with this CD: None, but I'm reminded of how big live releases were in the '60s, '70s and '80s ('90s if you want to include MTV Unplugged). They fulfilled a lot of contract obligations and provided a lot of label executives with year-end bonuses. They were also easy to make: no new material required and the shows are happening anyway. But if live albums are still around, I never hear of them. My guess would be that VHS→DVD→BluRay→streaming made them somewhat obsolete. Now how am I supposed to get my ya-ya's out?

Previously revisited for the blog:
A Sensual Collection, Volume 1 (1995)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 3 (1995)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 4 (1995)
A Sensual Collection, Volume 6 (1996)

Smooth Jazz, Vol. 1 (2000)
Smooth Jazz, Vol. 2 (2000)
Smooth Jazz, Vol. 3 (2000)

Various Artists - Smooth Grooves: Smooth Jazz, Vol. 1 (2000)

"...the music on the package creates a tapestry of hip, smooth, groove-oriented music, offering the very best in the sophisticated smooth jazz experience."

The first of three discs in this smooth jazz series from the Rhino label. With one outlier from 1991, the tunes selected are from the years 1976-85, which is my sweet spot as that's when I was discovering the genre, often through the very albums represented here. Selections mainly from the Blue Note, CBS, and Warner Bros. families of labels. This three volume series may be the best smooth jazz primer ever put to compact disc. Shame it's out of print. As with all Rhino releases, buy 'em when ya see 'em.

Peak on the US Billboard Top 200 chart: Did not chart

Tracks: 12 tracks, 62 minutes. Included with the title and artist below is the album and it's peak on the Billboard Jazz LP chart. And if you have an interest in those jazz charts, you might enjoy this Whitburnesque aggregate I put together a few years back: Billboard Best Selling Jazz LPs 1976-85. Other charts available here: albumcharts.wordpress.com

1. Friends and Strangers by Ronnie Laws from the 1977 album Friends and Strangers (#2).
2. The Lady in My Life by Stanley Jordan from the 1985 album Magic Touch (#1).
3. Bali Run by Fourplay from the 1991 album Fourplay (#1).
4. Angela (Theme from "Taxi") by Bob James from the 1978 album Touchdown (#1).
5. It's Almost Gone by Yellowjackets from the 1981 album Yellowjackets (#18).
6. Song For You by Rodney Franklin from the 1985 album Skydance (#31).
7. Wanderlust by Mike Mainieri from the 1981 album Wanderlust (#32).
8. Straight To The Heart by David Sanborn from the 1982 album As We Speak (#1).
9. Funk In A Mason Jar by Harvey Mason from the 1977 album Funk In A Mason Jar (#9).
10. May I Have This Dance? (Concede-Me Esta Dança?) by Azymuth from the 1981 album Telecommunication (#9).
11. Priscilla by Yellowjackets from the 1981 album Yellowjackets.
12. Twinkle by Earl Klugh from the 1981 album Crazy For You (#2).

Today, my top picks are tracks 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 10, 11, & 12 (yes, I know that's 2/3 of the tracks) but they're all enjoyable. The "new to me" surprise was the solo vibraphone piece by Mike Mainieri - I'll now look for a copy of that Wanderlust album (update - found and ordered. Look for it soon on a CD blog near you.)

Personal Memory Associated with this CD: None.

Previously revisited for the blog:
Volume 2
Volume 3

Artists making multiple appearances in the series:
David Sanborn (3)
Yellowjackets (3)
Bob James (2)
John Klemmer (2)
Steps Ahead (2)
Dexter Wansel (2)

Various Artists - Smooth Grooves: Smooth Jazz, Vol. 3 (2000)

"...the music on the package creates a tapestry of hip, smooth, groove-oriented music, offering the very best in the sophisticated smooth jazz experience."

The third of three discs in this smooth jazz series from the Rhino label. With one outlier from 1990, the tunes selected are from the years 1976-85, which is my sweet spot as that's when I was discovering the genre, often through the very albums represented here. This volume is a little more adventurous than volume 2; it includes selections from albums that never charted, which means more variety and new adventures. And while this CD can't quite match the quality of the previous volume, I'm all in.

The liner notes lack insight and I found at least one error in the booklet - very un-Rhino-ish.

 
Peak on the US Billboard Top 200 chart: Did not chart

Tracks: 12 tracks, 63 minutes. Included with the title and artist  below is the album and it's peak on the Billboard Jazz LP chart (if you have an interest in those and other jazz charts, you might enjoy the charts I compiled and posted over at albumcharts.wordpress.com).

1. Freetime by Spyro Gyra from the 1981 album Freetime (#1).
2. Tokyo Blue by Najee from the 1990 album Tokyo Blue (#1).
3. Give It All You Got by Chuck Mangione from the 1980 album Fun And Games (#1).
4. Wizard Island by The Jeff Lorber Fusion from the 1980 album Wizard Island (#1).
5. Water Children by Roy Haynes from the 1977 Vistalite  (did not chart).
6. One Wish by Hiroshima from the 1985 album Another Place (#8).
7. Out Of The Blue by Caldera from the 1976 album Caldera (did not chart).
8. Take It To The Sky by Billy Cobham's Glass Menagerie from the 1982 album Observations & (#23).
9. Let's Just Say Goodbye by David Sanborn from the 1981 album Voyeur (#1).
10. Theme From The Planets by Dexter Wansel from the 1976 album Life On Mars (did not chart).
11. Now You Know by Steps Ahead from the 1984 album Modern Times (#11).
12. Rain Dancer by John Klemmer from the 1976 album Barefoot Ballet (#3).

I like 'em all, but it was great to be introduced to the tracks from Roy Haynes, Caldera, and Dexter Wansel tracks. And man-oh-man, it's always good to hear stuff from that Steps Ahead album.

Personal Memory Associated with this CD: None.

Previously revisited for the blog:
Volume 2

Various Artists - Smooth Grooves: Smooth Jazz, Vol. 2 (2000)

Holy smokes! If this isn't the best smooth jazz compilation ever produced, I haven't heard a better one yet. Heck, I've listened to the thing four times just this weekend. From Rhino, naturally, this disc mainly delves into the catalogs of the Elektra and Warner Bros. labels which were all a part of Time Warner when this CD was produced. Tunes selected are from the years 1975-85, which is my sweet spot as that's when I was discovering the genre, often through the very albums represented here.

Peak on the US Billboard Top 200 chart: Did not chart

Tracks: Tracks!!! 12 tracks over almost 70 minutes. Included with the title and artist  below is the album and it's peak on the Billboard Jazz LP chart (if you have an interest in those jazz charts, you might enjoy this Whitburnesque aggregate I put together a few years back: Billboard Best Selling Jazz LPs 1976-85) .

1. Come Morning by Grover Washington, Jr. from the 1981 album Come Morning (#1).
2. Love Will Find A Way by George Howard from the 1985 album Dancing In The Sun (#1).
3. As We Speak by David Sanborn from the 1982 album As We Speak (#1).
4. Westchester Lady by Bob James from the 1976 album Three (#2).
5. First Light Of Morning by Dexter Wansel from the 1977 album What The World Is Coming To (#24).
6. Old Town by Steps Ahead from the 1984 album Modern Times (#11).
7. Standing Tall by The Crusaders from the 1981 album Standing Tall (#2).
8. Touch by John Klemmer from the 1975 album Touch (#6).
9. Modern Times Blues by Jean-Luc Ponty from the 1984 album Open Mind (#5).
10. Countdown (Captain Fingers) by Lee Ritenour from the 1981 album "Rit" (#4).
11. Claire's Song by Yellowjackets from the 1983 album Mirage à Trois (#7).
12. Sometimes Bubba Gets Down by Stuff from the 1977 album More Stuff (#7).

I'd rank 'em for ya, but it would be a 7 or 8 way tie for first place and those sorts of lists are pretty much useless.

Personal Memory Associated with this CD: None, but I ga-ron-tee I'll find the other two volumes quick like Liam Neesons finds kidnappers (or wolves. or robot boats). Look for them shortly. 🤞

Note: If you like the tracks on this compilation, the following blog should appeal to you: JAZZ LPS - Digging deep into Jazz LPs and charts from the 1970's & 1980's

Various Artists - Smooth Grooves: A Sensual Collection, Volume 6 (1996)

A collection of R&B tunes, released in the mid-'90s by Rhino Records. Songs on this volume are from the years 1971-88. None of the tracks saw the pop Top 40, so I have no memory of hearing any of these tunes before buying this CD (admittedly, I've lived a sheltered life). Not surprisingly, it's hit-or-miss and I prefer the '70s soulful vocal harmonies over the drum machines of the '80s.

Album chart peaks:

• US Billboard 200: Did not chart
• Billboard R&B: #71

Tracks:

For a change of pace, I'll rank the tunes in order of personal preference:

1. Be My Girl - The Dramatics (1976), #3 R&B, #53 Pop
2. Tear It Down - Blue Magic (1974)
3. Does Your Mama Know About Me? - The 21st Century (1975)
4. Be Yourself - Debra Laws (1981), #31 R&B
5. It's Different - LeRoy Hutson (1975)
6. Can't We Fall In Love Again - Phyllis Hyman & Michael Henderson (1981), #9 R&B
7. It's All Over - The Independents (1973), #12 R&B, #65 Pop
8. I Wish He Didn't Trust Me So Much - Bobby Womack (1985), #2 R&B
9. What Am I Waiting For - The O'Jays (1975)
10. Love Gonna Pack Up (And Walk Out) - The Persuaders (1971), #8 R&B, #64 Pop
11. You, Me And He - Mtume (1984), #2 R&B, #83 Pop
12. Husband - Shirley Murdock (1988), #5 R&B

Personal Memory Associated with this CD: None. But do check out The Greatest Slow Jam Mix Ever. Guaranteed smooth and sensual.

Previously revisited for the blog:
Volume 1
Volume 3
Volume 4

Various Artists - Smooth Grooves: A Sensual Collection, Volume 4 (1995)

A collection of R&B tunes, released in the mid-'90s by Rhino Records. Liner notes are exceptional, which was par for the course for Rhino at the time. Songs on this volume are from the years 1977-83. There's some good songs on here, but very few that I'd consider smooth although they are sensual (some of 'em downright nasty - which greatly appealed to teenage Mark). It finishes strong, but of the three volumes I own, this is by far the weakest.

Album chart peaks:

• US Billboard 200: Did not chart
• Billboard R&B: #39

Tracks:

• Very Special - Debra Laws (1981), #11 R&B, #90 Pop
  A nice quiet storm single with tasty sax work from Debra's brother Ronnie. Unfortunately, Ronnie also sings on this one and the thought of siblings singing a love song duet is creepy, to say the least.
• Outstanding (12" Single Version) - The Gap Band (1982), #1 R&B for 1 week, #51 Pop
  I'd describe this groove as funky, not smooth, but whatever you call it, the bass line is catchy as hell and I find my head bobbing along to the Stevie Wonder knock-off vocals.  Since 1982, it's been heavily sampled and I can see why.
• Juicy Fruit (12" Single Version) - Mtume (1983), #1 R&B for 8 weeks, #45 Pop
  Even though writer/producer James Mtume has excellent credentials (he worked with Miles Davis, for chrissakes), I never cared much for this tune, turned off by the electronic drums.
• Between the Sheets - The Isley Brothers (1983), #3 R&B, #101 Pop
  Not exactly subtle lyrically, I love this quiet storm groove and, of course, Isley vocals are first-rate. Fantastic smooth ballad.
• Sexual Healing - Marvin Gaye (1982), #1 R&B for 10 weeks, #3 Pop
  Unlike most people, I think this song is just okay (the best part to me is the percussion loop). Give me any of Gaye's earlier Motown singles over this one.
• Forget Me Nots - Patrice Rushen (1982), #4 R&B, #23 Pop
  I've always liked this tune, but it is oddly out of place here - more of a dance groove (it reached #2 on the disco charts) than smooth groove. Great bass line from Freddie Washington and memorable sax solo from Gerald Albright. I had to secretly enjoy this one in '82 as it didn't exactly jive with the New Waver image I was trying (and failing) to cultivate back then.
• Betcha She Don't Love You - Evelyn King (1982), #2 R&B, #49 Pop
  Never heard this one before buying this compilation. It is neither smooth nor sensual. Although the bass line really tries, I can't muster much more than a meh.
• You Gonna Make Me Love Somebody Else - The Jones Girls (1979), #5 R&B, #38 Pop
  Another out-of-place dance tune, but since it was written/produced by Gamble & Huff, it's welcome addition. Great groove, just don't play it to get your sweetie in the mood.
• All Night Long - Mary Jane Girls (1983), #11 R&B, #101 Pop
  Now we're back to smooth grooves. Unfortunately, this Rick James joint never seems to go anywhere, so I tire of it rather quickly until it's brought back to life by the sax solo at the end.
• Tonight is the Night (Live Version) - Betty Wright (1978), #11 R&B
  Musically, it reminds me more than a little of the Young Rascals' Groovin. But the lyrics - oh, my. It's enough to make a middle-age man blush. But now things are gettin' good. The liner notes call it "as down-to-earth as an order of rib-ends and red soda pop." I'll have some of that.
• Hollywood - Rufus, featuring Chaka Khan (1977), #3 R&B, #32 Pop
  Man, I'm glad they put this song on here. I hadn't heard it in years but immediately found myself singing along with Chaka again. Not too sensual (the previous track has enough of that for the whole album), but a smooth groove, for sure. The arrangement, the smooth jazz-ish chord progressions, the backing groove - it all fits.
• Send for Me - Atlantic Starr (1981), #16 R&B
  We end with the only true slow jam on the disc. And probably Atlantic Starr's best song. Wish the whole album had been this smooth. As wineys (wine snobs) are wont to say: this selection has a long, balanced finish.

Personal Memory Associated with this CD:  None. But do check out The Greatest Slow Jam Mix Ever. Guaranteed smooth and sensual.

Previously revisited for the blog:
Volume 1
Volume 3

Various Artists - Smooth Grooves: A Sensual Collection, Volume 3 (1995)

A collection of old school slow jams released in the mid-'90s by the always wonderful Rhino Records. Liner notes are exceptional, which was par for the course for Rhino in the '90s. Songs on this volume are from the years 1971-1986. Man-oh-man, I loves me some slow jams.

Album chart peaks:

• US Billboard 200: Did not chart
• Billboard R&B: #38

Tracks:

• Float On - The Floaters (1977), #1 R&B for 6 consecutive weeks, #2 Pop
  To start off, we're treated to the full 11+ minute album version of this classic. A groove so good that nobody cares that we don't even get vocals until three minutes in and the first verse doesn't start until 6:56. "Aquarius, and my name is Ralph/Now, I like a woman who loves her freedom." Preach on, Ralph. With astrological signs and video dating references, this could only have happened in the late '70s. The shortest 11 minutes I've spent today; over all too soon.
• You Are My Starship - Norman Connors (1976), #4 R&B, #27 Pop
  Drummer/producer Connors sure could put together a solid group of musicians for his jazz/R&B albums. With vocals by Michael Henderson and a soprano sax solo by Gary Bartz, this is good, sultry stuff regardless of the title.
• Voyage to Atlantis - The Isley Brothers (1977), #50 R&B
  A fair-to-middlin' track almost ruined by the abrasive guitar tone which doesn't seem to fit the song.
• 'Cause I Love You - Lenny Williams (1978)
  I'm more familiar with Williams' work with Tower Of Power than his solo work, but he brings his fine falsetto to this slow jam. The song has a bumpy start, but gets cookin' about 2 minutes in. Worth the wait. Bonus points for the brokenhearted spoken word interlude.
• It's Been a Long Time - The New Birth (1973), #9 R&B, #66 Pop
  This was off my radar in '73, but I'm not sure I'd remember it anyway. I guess what I'm saying is that this song is forgettable.
• Hey! Love - The Delfonics (1971), #17 R&B, #52 Pop
  Previously appeared on La-La Means I Love You: The Definitive Collection. Here's what I wrote then: "While their minor hit Hey! Love is a favorite of the group's hardcore fans, it doesn't do anything for me." Still feel the same way.
• Stop To Start - Blue Magic (1973), #14 R&B, #74 Pop
  This, too, was off my radar in '73 and that's a tragedy. Great writing with even better vocals. Got it now, though - better late than never.
• Break Up To Make Up - The Stylistics (1972), #5 R&B, #5 Pop
  More classic Philly soul. A smooth waltz with a chorus so good it won't leave your mind the rest of the day. Great sequencing idea to have this follow that Blue Magic tune.
• Willing To Learn - Tower of Power (1975), #77 R&B
  Standard ToP with the horns being featured. Lenny Williams, making his second appearance on the disc, brings another great performance. The screaming trumpets keep it from being very romantic, but I love the chord progressions around the chorus. Bonus points for the classic breakdown at 3:15.
• Something He Can Feel - Aretha Franklin (1976), #1 R&B for 4 consecutive weeks, #28 Pop
  Queen of Soul.  'Nuff said.
• Special Lady - Ray, Goodman & Brown (1979), #1 R&B for 1 week, #5 Pop
  My favorite song on the CD. I didn't buy many 45 singles in my youth, but I bought this one while surviving 8th grade. I remember liking it for two reasons: the a capella intro and the fact that it sounded like it could have been released 6 or 7 years earlier - proving I was already nostalgic for my misspent youth at age 13!
• You Don't Have To Cry - René & Angela (1986), #2 R&B, #75 Pop
  I don't remember this song or group, but this song doesn't fit here. Not that it's gawd-awful (I'd give the song a 5 on a typical 1-10 scale), but it illustrates how much the R&B genre changed in the mid-'80s. Like the vocals, hate the sterile rhythm tracks.

Personal Memory Associated with this CD:  None

Previously revisited for the blog:
Volume 1

Various Artists - Smooth Grooves: A Sensual Collection, Volume 1 (1995)

A collection of old school slow jams released in the mid-'90s by Rhino Records. Songs on this volume are from the years 1975-1985. Purchased solely for the second track; it turns out to be a spectacular compilation, full of songs from my youth.

Album chart peaks:

• US Billboard 200: Did not chart
• Billboard R&B: #52

Tracks:

• Reasons (Live Version) - Earth, Wind & Fire (1975)
  This live version doesn't stray far from the studio original, but they add a nice extended alto solo from Don Myrick.
• Always And Forever - Heatwave (1977, #2 R&B, #18 pop)
  THE BEST SLOW JAM OF ALL TIME! Here we're treated to the full 6+ minute version instead of the truncated 4.5 minute edit. Music by Rod Temperton (who would go on to write some hit songs on a little album called Thriller) and exquisite vocals by Johnnie Wilder, Jr. Did I mention that this ballad is THE BEST SLOW JAM OF ALL TIME?
• Forever Mine - The O'Jays (1979, #4 R&B, #28 pop)
  Classic Gamble and Huff Philly soul. I don't remember this song from 1979, but glad I came across it here.
• One In A Million You - Larry Graham: I loved this song back in the summer of 1980 and it's great to hear it again. Graham was the bass player for Sly And The Family Stone and has a great voice that has similarities to Barry White.
• Shining Star - Manhattans (1980, #4 R&B, #5 pop)
  Not as good as Kiss And Say Goodbye, but a big hit for them. This song reminds me of going to swim meets in the summer of 1980.
• How 'Bout Us - Champaign (1981, #4 R&B, #12 pop)
  Wow, this is a great compilation. This a great song, too bad the band never really followed it up with anything worth mentioning. The harmony vocals by Rena Jones get me every time.
• Love's Train - Con Funk Shun (1982)
  I read that this is a fan favorite, but it sounds fairly average to me. Maybe that's because it is surrounded on this disc by much better tunes.
• Love T.K.O. - Teddy Pendergrass (1980, #2 R&B, #44 pop)
  A slow jam classic that surprisingly never cracked the Top 40 when it was released in 1980. Since then, however, this song has been covered and sampled many, many times.
• A Love Of Your Own - Average White Band (1976, #35 R&B, #101 pop)
  The weakest cut on the disc, this thing never goes anywhere.
• If You Only Knew - Patti LaBelle (1983, #1 R&B, #46 pop)
  Here's another one I don't recall hearing before, but am glad to have discovered it here. Great Fender Rhodes part.
• Out On A Limb (12" Single Version) - Teena Marie (1984, #56 R&B)
  What a voice. Teena Marie was always underrated in my book. She could teach Brittney and Christina a few things, fo sho. Plus, she wrote most of her own material. Teena Marie died in December, 2010. What a loss.
• Silly - Deniece Williams (1981, #11 R&B, #53 pop)
  A nice waltz to close the album. When this song was released in 1981, I thought it was sung by Diana Ross. I wasn't really aware of Williams until Let's Hear It For The Boy from the Footloose soundtrack.

Personal Memory Associated with this CD: When I was 13 years old and trying desperately to figure out how to woo women, I would imagine myself singing One In A Million You to a girl in attempts to gain favor. I never tried it for reals, but I think it might have worked except for the fact that, at the time, I couldn't sing as low as Larry Graham. It's funny that I chose One In A Million You over Always And Forever since the latter is THE BEST SLOW JAM OF ALL TIME.