(May 16, 2019) Over five decades into a vastly creative career encompassing a decade with Motown, a universally loved disco evergreen, notable pop crossover successes, and collaborations with greats from the worlds of rock, gospel, and blues, Thelma Houston is still on top of her game. The singer revered for her 1976 dance floor adaptation of Harold Melvin & The Bluenotes’ “Don’t Leave Me This Way” and a rousing 1989 rendition of Bill Withers’ “Lean on Me” (recorded with The Winans) returns with her first new R&B record in a minute via “ISLY (I Still Love You).”
(May 16, 2019) Over five decades into a vastly creative career encompassing a decade with Motown, a universally loved disco evergreen, notable pop crossover successes, and collaborations with greats from the worlds of rock, gospel, and blues, Thelma Houston is still on top of her game. The singer revered for her 1976 dance floor adaptation of Harold Melvin & The Bluenotes’ “Don’t Leave Me This Way” and a rousing 1989 rendition of Bill Withers’ “Lean on Me” (recorded with The Winans) returns with her first new R&B record in a minute via “ISLY (I Still Love You).”
“ISLY” is a feel-good summer groover enveloped by Houston’s rich phrasing and fiery tones. Relaying both the charms and challenges of a romance come to life quickly, she glides gracefully through the verses into an affecting chorus buoyed by a fluid keyboard arrangement and supple beat. It’s the promising first taste of an upcoming EP which will hopefully remind listeners at large of her special way with a song. Take a First Listen to “ISLY” below and let us know what you think!
Thelma Houston
"ISLY (I Still Love You)"