Nothing compares to a teenage-R&B talent. Gifted youngsters have been winning our hearts since the 60s (or even longer, I’m sure). But this debate won’t go that far back. We’ll stop in the 90s. The decade when we saw I’m Ready and Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number by Tevin Campbell and Aaliyah, respectively, hit the shelves. Let’s talk about it.
I’m Ready got to us first. Though Tevin won us over with his 1990-hit, “Round and Round” a few years prior, nothing could compare to the impact “Can We Talk” would have. Penned by Babyface, the album’s first single gave us an unforgettable pick-up line.
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“Can We Talk” found success on the the charts, reaching number 9 on US Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs.
Tevin and Babyface would keep the synergy going with “I’m Ready,” the album’s second single and title track. Like the first single, it reached number 9 on US Billboard Hot 100. However, it felt one spot shy of topping the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs.
Though only being 16 at the time, songs such as “The Halls of Desire” and “Always in My Heart,” among others, proved that Tevin could resonate with teenage lovers as well as a mature love affair.
Aside from Babyface, Prince also lend his pen on this album as well, writing and producing the aforementioned, “The Halls of Desire.” In addition, “Paris1798430,” and “Shhh.”
I’m Ready was a success, peaking at number 3 and number 18 spot on the US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums and US Billboard 200, respectively. The album was certified Double-Platinum by RIAA.
Aaliyah released Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number the following year. “Back and Forth,” a party record featuring and written by R. Kelly, was the album’s first single.
“Back & Forth” found success on the the charts, reaching number 5 on US Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs.
From a musical perspective, Aaliyah and Kelz had chemistry as well. Kelly was responsible for writing and producing the whole album.
One year younger than Tevin at the time of her debut release, Aaliyah proved she could connect with the older crowd with her Isley Brothers cover, “(At Your Best) You Are Love.”
Ironically, Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number matched the same success as I’m Ready, peaking at number 3 and number 18 spot on the US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums and US Billboard 200, respectively. The album was certified Double-Platinum by RIAA.
You had two young artists that sing songs written by some legendary R&B-pens. But if you had to chose a collection of songs (album), which one would it be?
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RIP Aaliyah
Tevin Campbell’s I’m Ready or Aaliyah’s Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number?
[Polls Are Closed!]
Tevin Campbell – I’m Ready – 60%
Aaliyah – Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number – 40%