Valentine Day Mix
Holidays are a big deal for my family. As is the case with many families, we are all so busy and spread out geographically that it’s tough to get everyone together in one place. I especially love spending time with my nieces and nephews, despite the fact that each year they get bigger and bigger making me feel older and older. And nothing makes me feel older than listening to their music with them. Full disclosure – I’ve started spending more time tuned into the “Oldies” stations because, well, they’re starting to play more and more of the music I grew up with.
This year was no different. I sat down with my niece and let her choose the music for a while. Since I’d vetoed Bieber and One Direction before we even started (much to her chagrin), she played Jason Derulo’s “Marry Me,” and quickly followed it up with one of my personal favorites, Bruno Mars’ “Just the Way You Are.”
In keeping with the theme of love songs, I played Brian Mcknight’s “One Last Cry,” and was appalled when she did not know it. I followed it up with Vanessa Williams’ “Save the Best for Last.” Sadly, she’d never heard that song either.
From the sad melodies of the lover’s lament songs to the suggestive lyrics of the smooth seduction songs, there’s nothing that showcases the many complexities of love quite like old-school R&B. This is the stuff middle and high school dances were made of.
When I sat down to record this mix, I just had to play out these songs in their entirety, because I felt that if I cut out the bridge, I’d often be cutting out the best (not to mention the most emotional) parts of the songs. Also, I wanted to record something that would remind my older listeners of the mixtapes we used to put together using a cassette and the radio to give to that special someone. Regardless of whether you know all of the songs or none of them, I hope everyone enjoys listening to this mix. One suggestion if I may – the mix is a lot better when you share it with someone you love. 😉
-9Volt
Track Listing:
Uncle Sam – When I See You Smile
Surface – The First Time
AZ Yet – Hard to Say I’m Sorry
Mariah Carey & Boyz II Men – One Sweet Day
KC & JoJo – All My Life
Tevin Campbell – Tell Me What You Want
Atlantic Starr – Always
3T – Anything
New Edition – Still In Love
Joe – I Wanna Know
Jon B & Babyface – Someone To Love
Babyface Featuring Mariah Carey, Shiella E, and Kenny G – Everytime I Close My Eyes
Blessed Union of Souls – I Believe
Shai – Baby I’m Yours
AZ Yet – Last Night
Blackstreet – Don’t Leave Me
112 – Cupid
South Border – Rainbow
Tony Toni Tone – Anniversary
Boyz II Men – Water Runs Dry
All 4 One – I Can Love you Like That
(Bonus) Boyz II Men – I’ll Make Love to You
