The Isley Brothers were reintroduced to a new audience with their 1996-release, Mission To Please. My opinion, the rebirth would’ve been short-lived had they not continue to release high-quality albums. One of those albums was Eternal. Let’s talk about it.
Released in August of 2001, Eternal gave you a variety pack in terms of different styles. “Move Your Body,” the album’s opening track, was funky, up-tempo, and tailored-made for the dance floor.
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“Contagious,” perhaps the more memorable song from the album, featured Ronald Isley as his “Mr. Biggs” persona and the character’s nemesis, R. Kelly being confrontational. Like previous, it was over Mr. Biggs’ main-squeeze.
“You’re contagious,” Ron Isley sings. “Touch me baby give me what you got. And I heard another man said: ‘sexy lady, drive me crazy. Drive me wild.”
The single reached the number 19 spot on Billboard’s Hot 100 and number 3 on the R&B singles chart.
Eternal was a fitting name because a song such as “Secret Lover” has withstood the test of time in terms of sound and subject matter.
Although R. Kelly made a contribution to the album’s production, other producers such as Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Angel Winbush, and Steve Huff, among others, handled the vast majority.
Eternal peaked at the number 3 spot on Billboard Top 200 and it atop the R&B album chart. It was certified double-platinum.
If you ever hear someone say The Isley Brothers are the greatest group of all time. This album is one of the many reasons why.
RIP O’Kelly JR, Vernon, and Marvin Isley.
Also, don’t forget to check out HHAD Activity Books.
The Isley Brothers’ ‘Eternal’; Classic!, Jammin’, Regular, or Not Impressed?
[Polls Are Closed!]
Jammin’ – 50%
Classic! – 38%
Regular – 12%
Not Impressed – 0%