Friday, May 18, 2018

Old School R And B Slow Jams Can Bring Back Fond Memories

By Andrew Peterson


Most will say that music of yesteryear was probably the best in recording history. Whatever the decade, it is often agreed that many of the love songs of that period were filled with more passion and meaning that the majority of popular music today. This is why many like to listen to Old School R and B Slow Jams when winding down or spending time with that special someone.

A common staple at most weddings, most people would say that Always and Forever by Heatwave is probably the most played song at modern wedding ceremonies. At some weddings, it replaces the traditional bridal song Here Comes the Bride. Many choose this 1978 classic because the lyrics best express how the couple feels about one another.

Sexy songs, or those describing intimate encounters, are a favorite in the bedroom as well as the dance floor. From the sensual crooning of Marvin Gaye to the intense wails of Teddy Pendergrass, sometimes the simplest lyrics can sound like an erotic love letter. While some tunes may set the mood with soft moans or explicit lyrics, it seems that songs that hint at sex or use metaphors get the most radio airplay.

Early in this genre, songs talked about many topics involving relationships but lyrics were metaphorical. Radio could not play anything with explicit words, no matter how true to life the recording depicted. Listeners often got the idea of the lyrics but began to change over time. Not only did the song length gradually increase but the lyrical content began to reflect the times. There are still some rules about context on terrestrial radio but this is why some like to hear the album version of their favorite songs.

One thing that is not found in many modern love songs today is a string section. The presence of a baby grand piano or wind instrument can also help a tune to stand out. Sometimes when recording artists of today want to capture a retro sound, they may use an acoustic guitar or pipe organ instead of sampling the work of another artist.

One way that old school jams have changed greatly is the inclusion of rap. While some artists, like the late Barry White, may have added a couple of short lines of him speaking in his trademark baritone, love songs without singing were unheard of. However, artists like Tupac Shakur, LL Cool J, and Biggie Smalls have created the most sincere lyrics that define love in a number of realistic situations.

Many old school vocalists and hip hop artists have done collaborations using a sample of the aforementioned, or even a remix that introduces the classic sounds to a new generation. These can be enjoyed by a new generation, as some things seldom change in romantic relationships. Sometimes lyrics may change slightly but often the message of love is the same.

Everyone has their favorite bass line or wailing sound that depicts a moment of passion, pain, or something in between. Mix in a few meaningful lyrics and maybe soft background music that set the tone for what people feel from time to time. These sounds are meant for feeling good, sad, or just setting the mood for fun.




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