Cuba Gooding
Cuba Gooding Sr., born on April 27, 1944, in New York City, was an influential American singer and actor best known for being the lead vocalist of the soul group The Main Ingredient. He emerged as a prominent figure in the music industry during the 1970s, particularly noted for the group's hit song "Everybody Plays the Fool," which remains a classic in the soul genre.
Gooding began his professional career in 1964, and his major breakthrough came in 1971 when he joined The Main Ingredient. Under his leadership, the group enjoyed considerable success, releasing several albums and singles that contributed to their lasting legacy in the music world. His work with the group was characterized by smooth vocals and heartfelt performances, traits that resonated with audiences and helped the group gain popularity on the RCA Records label.
Beyond his music career, Cuba Gooding Sr. was also the father of Academy Award-winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr., further intertwining his legacy within the entertainment industry. Gooding Sr. continued to perform and engage with fans until his death on April 20, 2017, leaving behind a rich musical heritage and a significant impact on the soul music landscape.
Meant To Be In Love
2 If Your Were Mine
3 Hold Me In Your Arms
4 Tell Me
5 I'd Rather Leave When I'm In Love
6 My One And Only Love
7 Love After Love
8 Try Me
9 Won't You Come And Fly
Label: Triune Records – TRI 4162
Format: CD, Album
Country: US
Released: 1993
Genre: R&B Soul, Pop
Style: Soul
Cuba Gooding Sr.'s 1993 album, Meant to Be in Love, followed his successful run with The Main Ingredient and featured smooth, late-80s/early-90s R&B/soul, but garnered limited mainstream attention, with critics and fans highlighting its decent production and solid vocal performances, especially compared to his earlier hits, showcasing a continued focus on romantic themes and polished arrangements without producing major chart-toppers, though some tracks, like those produced by Michael Lovesmith, offered standout moments.
Genre & Style: Classic R&B, Soul, with hints of Quiet Storm, typical of early 90s production.
Production: Polished, often with contemporary arrangements, though some found it less distinctive than his work with The Main Ingredient.
Notable Tracks/Producers: Included contributions from Michael Lovesmith (formerly Michael L. Smith), who produced tracks like "Love Dancer" and "I'm Yours Now" on his earlier album, with similar polished efforts on Meant to Be in Love.
Reception: Considered a decent effort, an "underrated gem" by some fans, but not a major commercial breakout, a common fate for established artists in a changing R&B landscape.
In essence: Meant to Be in Love was a respectable, well-crafted solo album from the veteran singer, a continuation of his smooth R&B sound, but it served more as a pleasant addition to his discography rather than a landmark release.