One of the nicest, outspoken people in the world is tapped for the special section of T.U.M.S. & she deserves it. The album released from A&M Records in 1988, "4U" was a monumental project by all means. Vesta brings all her cards to the table & had launched a significant place into R&B when she came out with articulate material that generated mainstream interest for the fan at heart. From the 1st track on, you couldn't help but to sit back & listen to the creativity Vesta & producer Attala Zane Giles laid out on the floor. Especially after catching her short stints on BET back in the day (Remember that?) & displaying her outgoing personality wherever she goes. I'm elated to still see her in the game with her latest project from Shanachie, "Distant Lover" & having her previous collectibles available through various online services. However, "4U" has to be the best album to date. So much so, that I placed her harmonious slow jam, "Sweet, Sweet Love"  onto our Top Ten Old School Slow Jams list! Talking about great memories!!

Track Listing:
~ Here/Say
~ All On You
~ 4 U
~ Sweet, Sweet Love
~ How You Feel
~ Best I Ever Had
~ Hunger
~ Congratulations
~ Running Into Memories

As soon as the vinyl started spinning, the opening lines to "Here/Say" had me laughing. Because she related a particular issue of cheating on your spouse & ran with it on the composition. As vibrant as she can be!; "All On You" kept the eccentric groove going, showcasing the hypnotic talents of Mr. Giles. (producer); "4 U" definitely was the one, as shared to you by video below! Check it out!

Again, "Sweet, Sweet Love", to me, was underrated. I thought that track was the ultimate slow jam. There was something mystic about it. Possibly the video was warm, romantic & expressive. But it could be the way Vesta sang her heart into the track. So beautiful, at times, I can't stop playing it.

Side Two would just make you throw your hands up in the air & say "Bump It". No different from Side one, the melodies matched the flavor of its other side with continuous cuts like "How You Feel", "Best I Ever Had" & the slow jammin' hit single "Congratulations".

The songs had displayed an open book of emotions & dabbled with ongoing issues in relationships. Vesta didn't waste anytime sharing her feelings or touch. Which is why when you listen to this album, you are listening to someone who takes her craft very seriously. She is indeed blessed with a remarkable, projective voice & yes....She has it goin' on!! Also, Attala Zane Giles should be recognized for the major effort he gave back to y'all!

Play this one back if you have it.

Terrill J. Hanna
The Urban Music Scene

Here's "4 U"!!



Vesta Williams . 4U .1988
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