By Dione M. Davis
Going from the ‘R&B-Hippie-Neo-Soul-Rock-Star’ to ‘Radio Raheem’ to ‘The Love King,’ singer Raheem DeVaughn knows how to reinvent himself and stay ahead of the game. His latest album, A Place Called LoveLand is his fourth studio album and marks a change not only creatively, but business wise. This is his first independent project under the 368 Music Group/Mass Appeal Entertainment imprint. This time around, listeners are getting a more intimate experience with ‘The Love King’ with what may be his best work thus far.
It was about 3 years ago that the creative genius decided to sing over Lil’ Wayne’s “I’m Single” calling his version “She’s Single” and then making a short film that had women praising the crooner and hitting the internet to see it until they just about lost their minds. I’ll admit I had a short addiction to it myself, but I’m cured now.
This time around he brings “In The Meantime” which gives that 1970s Lenny Williams feel as he pleads with his baby to “hold on and keep her panties on.” This is totally ironic. I thought the object was to sing a woman out of her panties? You will have to listen to the song to get the full picture. Funny how we have all been in these situations wrapped up in love that aren’t so pretty, but someone with a voice like ‘The Love King’ comes along and gives us a dose of just what we need to ease the pain.
“Pink Crush Velvet” (obviously code for the goodies) explores DeVaughn’s range as he makes getting some sound ohh so sweet. My top favorite songs on the album are “Greatest Love” which is the official introduction to LOVELAND, the palace where the ‘Love King’ resides. I listened to it on repeat from New York to Maryland and never got tired of hearing it. “Make A Baby” will do what R. Kelly and Jodeci’s songs did, so ladies beware.
With collaborators Mario Winans and Ne-Yo, it’s no wonder that this album has so many layers. DeVaughn should be well on his way to a Grammy. Here’s what he had to say when he was interviewed by The Breakfast Club recently:
“I think I’m able to straddle the line between making socially conscious music, which is my passion and making love songs, which is my passion. Women want a brother with depth at the end of the day.”
Check out Raheem DeVaughn on Twitter @Raheem_DeVaughn or on his site www.raheemdevaughn.com to check local tour dates in your area.
