I fell in love with Anthony Hamilton’s music back in 2004. Newly married, new job, first kid on the way…there was a lot going on. And when “Charlene” first came on the radio I could relate to the song right away and was instantly hooked. In this performance, not only does Hamilton give an excellent performance, his band and backup singers are right there with him. Musically, yes, but it’s clear these guys love the music and love performing together. Such a joy to watch and listen to.
When I was growing up, pretty much the only way to hear your favorite song was via the radio. I didn’t have a lot of disposable income to buy any album I wanted, not even those singles that came out on cassette tape. I remember just listening to the radio in hopes of hearing that one song and stopping everything just to listen to the whole thing or belting it out with friends as we cruised around looking for something to do.
I’m a sucker for sappy songs. From my angsty, emotional teenage years, right up until my last road trip with the family this past week, I pretty much can’t get enough of songs about love, loss, and pain. I tried to make a top ten for my life to share with you, and I had to leave out way too many, but I got it down to 11. This list covers a broad range from childhood up to the present.
I can’t exactly explain why I’m such a sucker for R&B, especially old school or in the style of. Is it because I used to drive an ’83 Cadillac Coup DeVille? Is it the laid-back-but-in-the-pocket groove? My friends have always made fun of me for it and my wife still laughs when I put the smooth stuff on, but dammit, I loves it. Here’s some modern dudes covering a classic: D’Angelo & ?uestlove “Tell Me If You Still Care” (Live At Brooklyn Bowl March 4, 2013):