(December 20, 2022) Amidst the wave of soulful male vocal groups that permeated the airwaves in the 1990s, 4PM (For Positive Music) might not be the first name to come to minds of many listeners. The quartet struck literal gold out of the gate with a 1994 rendition of Kyu Sakamoto’s ballad “Sukiyaki” (incorporating English-language lyrics first introduced on A Taste of Honey’s 1981 cover version), but struggled to keep afloat commercially as its label grappled with financial and distribution issues. Enthusiastic followers, however, ensured their continued artistic relevance, with efforts such as 1997’s “I Gave You Everything” and an independently issued 2000 album securing them an international fan base through the subsequent decade.
(December 20, 2022) Amidst the wave of soulful male vocal groups that permeated the airwaves in the 1990s, 4PM (For Positive Music) might not be the first name to come to minds of many listeners. The quartet struck literal gold out of the gate with a 1994 rendition of Kyu Sakamoto’s ballad “Sukiyaki” (incorporating English-language lyrics first introduced on A Taste of Honey’s 1981 cover version), but struggled to keep afloat commercially as its label grappled with financial and distribution issues. Enthusiastic followers, however, ensured their continued artistic relevance, with efforts such as 1997’s “I Gave You Everything” and an independently issued 2000 album securing them an international fan base through the subsequent decade.
Almost 15 years after their last release, three of the original gents of 4PM have returned with a cool and breezy slice of R&B goodness entitled “Some of the Time.” Narrating the trials of navigating changing moods and conflicting preferences in a relationship, lead vocalist Ray Pena exhibits the natural finesse found on earlier slow jams such as “Lay Down Your Love.” Atop an updated yet nostalgic groove context, the harmonic tones of group mates Roberto Pena, Jr., and Larry McFarland are a sophisticated complement to his performance.
Lifted from the group’s upcoming sixth album, A Song for Everyone, “Some of the Time” is a fine reintroduction of the 4PM sound that has clear potential to appeal to both longtime and new fans. The underlying old-school vibe combined with a decidedly fresh and modern approach is effortlessly authentic. We premiered the song last month and now we have the fun associated video for it. Enjoy 4 PM’s new music video here, and give Ray, Roberto, and Larry a warm welcome back to SoulTracks!
World Premiere
4PM - “Some of the Time”