Rating:
Genre:
R&B
Release Date: 09/16/1997
Run Time: 40:22
Usher proved that he had a strong, soulful voice with his self-titled debut, but he fulfilled his potential on his second record,
My Way. What makes
Usher distinctive from his
urban loverman peers is the fact that he doesn't oversing; he simply delivers his songs soulfully. Unfortunately, he falls prey to uneven material, just like any of his peers, but there are more strong songs on
My Way than many
contemporary R&B albums from the late '80s. Both
Jermaine Dupri and
Babyface contribute seamless productions and fine songs; respectively,
"You Make Me Wanna..." and
"Bedtime" are their best
ballad contributions. Even if the
ballads are usually seductive and romantic, cuts like the funky
"Just Like Me," which features a cameo from
Lil' Kim, might make you wish
Usher didn't play it cool all of the time. And while it's refreshing to hear a
hip-hop/
urban R&B album clock in at a reasonable running time, it would have been nice if the tenth track was something other than a remix of
"You Make Me Wanna..." Nevertheless, it's a strong second effort that showcases
Usher at his best.
~Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide
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