"Baby I'm Yours," Shai, ... If I Ever Fall in Love, MCA Records, 1992
THE DEAL: Raise your hands if you remember R&B group Shai. They were out around the same time as Intro and Silk, but had that harmony that made you stop and pay attention. With songs like "Comforter" and the a capella track "If I Ever Fall in Love" putting them on the map, it was this song that kept the flavor coming. One time for Shai on this Thursday. Enjoy!
"Baby, It's Cold Outside," Ray Charles & Betty Carter, Dedicated to You, Rhino Records, 1998 (reissue)
THE DEAL: How's this for a Hump Day song? Just a gorgeous duet between two phenomenal artists. It feels like we're barging in on a conversation between lovers. Ray always brought out the best in his musical partners, all the way up to "Genius Loves Company." Most people think it's Nina Simone on this track, but it's actually Betty Carter, a great singer in her own right. Sit back, get some hot chocolate, sit back on the couch and absorb this greatness. Enjoy!
"Baby, Be Mine," Miki Howard, The Very Best of Miki Howard, Atlantic Records, 2001
THE DEAL: I originally wanted to play "Baby Come Back" today, but suddenly, after looking up the artist who sang it, couldn't find the details. Very, very frustrating. So I decided to just scrap it for today and put some Miki on instead. Just a wonderful song by a wonderful artist. Enjoy.
"Baby," Brandy, Brandy, Atlantic Records, 1994
THE DEAL: It's gonna be Baby week here, with every song this week having the word in its title. First up is Ms. Norwood, who should forever have the title of having the best "Baby" video. Always liked this one as a follow up to "I Wanna Be Down" from her debut album. It's back when she was still perceived to be innocent. Go Brandy. Go Barack. Happy Monday!
"Killing Me Softly," The Jackson 5ive, Bill Cosby Show, 1971
THE DEAL: Found this clip on YouTube and thought it was appropriate for this week's Slam. It's the Jacksons appearing on Bill Cosby's short-lived talk show, singing "Killing Me Softly." Trust me, I tried to find a complete clip of the performance, but to no avail. Enjoy the two minutes of Mike and his crew doing the Roberta Flack tune justice, though. I love finding old clips. Love that I found that one. Happy Sunday!
"Knockin' Da Boots," H Town, Fever for Da Flavor, Relativity Records, 1993
THE DEAL: So even though it's Saturday and we usually rock out, I chose this song so that those that want to "sleep in" have a soundtrack to "sleep" to. Shout out to Houston and R.I.P. to lead singer Dino. That's all I've got today. "Sleep" on to everyone so inclined. Keep knockin'. :)
"Kissing You," Total (remix feat. Puff Daddy), Total, Bad Boy Records, 1996
THE DEAL: It's Friday, and since bad boys do bad things, I declare today Total Day here at WILL FM. Kima, Keisha and Pam were never the most talented girls, but thanks to Puff and the Hit Men, they always came with the hotness. This remix is no exception. I even love Did's verse on it. So go on out and find somebody to kiss today as you rock to the beat. Enjoy!
"Keep Risin' to the Top," Doug E. Fresh and the Get Fresh Crew, The World's Greatest Entertainer, Import, 1988
THE DEAL: This is going to be my anthem for the day. Is there a Doug E. Fresh song that doesn't get you hype? It's that type of week for me. Gotta keep it moving. Gotta keep it light. Gotta keep it fresh. So I keep risin'. With Doug E. Rise with me, peoples. LOL Enjoy.
"Keep It Comin'," Keith Sweat, Keep It Comin', Elektra Records, 1991
THE DEAL: This is one of the few Keith Sweat uptempo joints that actually worked. The others were "I Want Her" and the "Why Me Baby" remix with LL Cool J. This one is just a fun song for a Wednesday. Pump it up at your desk if you can. It'll make you want to do the "running man" and the "wop". Believe me. I just did both while listening this morning. :) Happy Hump Day.
"Kiss Is On My List," Darryl Hall & John Oates, The Essential Darryl Hall & John Oates, RCA Records, 2005
THE DEAL: It's Tuesday and back to work after a wonderful, cold weekend in Washington, DC. Shout to my friend Robbie on her retirement. The party was great, the food was delicious and the atmosphere was very, very loving. Thanks for the invite. Here's some Hall & Oates to get us going on what promises to be a great day.