(February 24, 2024) Long before he ruled the New Jack Swing radio waves, Keith Sweat balanced a day job with New York City nightclub engagements and performances with a regional R&B band. Once he signed on the dotted line to launch his solo career, Sweat cranked out the unapologetic sexy on crossover R&B/pop hits like “I Want Her,” “Keep It Comin’” and “Twisted.”
Through the post New Jack years, Sweat continues leaning a lot on the familiar “making out” storylines with little artistic risk and dwindling chart action. However, First Listen keeps the Sweat factory open, featuring duets with soul favorites Raheem DeVaughn and K-Ci. And Sweat's imprint on the overall R&B industry as a #1 Syndicated Radio host, record producer and entrepreneur earned him a Soul Train Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013.
(February 24, 2024) Long before he ruled the New Jack Swing radio waves, Keith Sweat balanced a day job with New York City nightclub engagements and performances with a regional R&B band. Once he signed on the dotted line to launch his solo career, Sweat cranked out the unapologetic sexy on crossover R&B/pop hits like “I Want Her,” “Keep It Comin’” and “Twisted.”
Through the post New Jack years, Sweat continues leaning a lot on the familiar “making out” storylines with little artistic risk and dwindling chart action. However, First Listen keeps the Sweat factory open, featuring duets with soul favorites Raheem DeVaughn and K-Ci. And Sweat's imprint on the overall R&B industry as a #1 Syndicated Radio host, record producer and entrepreneur earned him a Soul Train Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013.
Coming into 2024, Keith Sweat returns to First Listen in yet another bedroom suite, “Lay You Down.” The production, courtesy of Wirlie Morris, sets the tone with a Quiet Storm R&B score that compliments Sweat’s old school nineties music zone. As for the storyline, well, let a few of these lyrics tell it all: “Want you to just hold me baby/With all your might/’Cause what we are about to do/Is so emotional.” While Sweat’s voice still holds up, “Lay You Down” lacks the passionate vibe of his earlier material. But it will still be a pleasant find for Sweat’s forever fans, who are still listening with full intent.
By Peggy Oliver
Keith Sweat - "Lay You Down"