Relax With Old School R And B Slow Jams

By Andrew Peterson


While there are many modern recording artists that bring joy to most music fans, their sound cannot compare to the oldies. This is especially true when it comes to mid tempo and ballads that are soothing to the soul. Most people that consider themselves real fans of music will attest that there no music like Old School R and B Slow Jams.

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.

For a lot of people, slow songs from another era communicate on a different level than the music of today. Many of the musical arrangements included a string section, which adds a softness that cannot be duplicated by a computer. Other elements may include bass lines or organ riffs that have a gospel feel to them and complement the passionate vocal performances that were the standard for most r&b records of the day.

However, sampling is not all bad, as many can be heard in a lot of recording from the past decade or so. Although some artists manage to capture a similar essence of the original recording, some may place a spin or the classics. At one time, hip hop diva Mary J. Blige was best known for covering ballads by old school artists like Natalie Cole, Aretha Franklin, and Rufus featuring Chaka Khan.

For those who prefer to have a band or small orchestra perform at their ceremony or reception may choose instrumental versions of old school jams. Popular choices often include songs by Boyz to Men, Atlantic Starr, or even Al Green.

Songs of love will always have their place in music history but old school soul is truly in a category of its own. From the screeching wails that depict pain, passion, or pleasure to telling a story that depicts the rights and wrongs of mankind, it can be hard to choose a favorite. When it comes to that special day, the mood should set the tone for the gathering, which is usually joyous and tranquil.




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