In 1982, after several years as the lead vocalist of the chart-topping band L.T.D., the great Jeffrey Osborne decided to launch his solo career. Tapping the late George Duke as producer, Osborne along with a group of stellar musicians laid down 10 tracks, 8 of which Osborne co-wrote, that would appear on his eponymous debut album. The record peaked at #3 on the Billboard R&B album chart and spawned two charting singles, most notably the adult contemporary crossover hit, “On the Wings of Love,” which reached #29 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a fan favorite.
In 1982, after several years as the lead vocalist of the chart-topping band L.T.D., the great Jeffrey Osborne decided to launch his solo career. Tapping the late George Duke as producer, Osborne along with a group of stellar musicians laid down 10 tracks, 8 of which Osborne co-wrote, that would appear on his eponymous debut album. The record peaked at #3 on the Billboard R&B album chart and spawned two charting singles, most notably the adult contemporary crossover hit, “On the Wings of Love,” which reached #29 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a fan favorite.
With due respect to those hit singles, it’s a deep album cut, “Baby,” that really showcases Osborne’s talents on that record. Co-written by Osborne and Jamaal Franklin, the track’s compelling melody grabs you in the first few bars, and when Osborne drops in on the vocal, he displays all of his skills: His considerable range, deft and dramatic use of dynamics, rich tonality, and above all, his sincerity, soul and authenticity. He completely inhabits the song. So step back in time, and enjoy.
By Robb Patryk
Listen to this track, and all others featured in this series, on the Flashback Soul playlist at Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/user/robb.patryk/playlist/1DDb0sGAD1uAhVVACKWq7M