Peabo Bryson and Roberta Flack
Roberta Flack, born on February 10, 1937, is an influential American singer and pianist renowned for her significant contributions to R&B, jazz, folk, and pop music. Flack's career began in the 1960s, and she gained immense popularity with hits such as "Killing Me Softly with His Song," which earned her Grammy Awards and critical acclaim. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, she became known for her smooth voice and emotional delivery, solidifying her status as a music legend. Key albums during her career include "First Take" and "Killing Me Softly," showcasing her unique style that blends various musical genres.
In addition to her musical achievements, Flack is recognized for her activism and philanthropic work, particularly regarding education and the arts. She studied music at Howard University, where she became a prominent figure and eventually returned to celebrate her legacy, indicating her strong ties to the institution and its community.
Peabo Bryson, born on April 13, 1951, is a celebrated American singer known for his powerful tenor voice and romantic ballads. He rose to prominence in the late 1970s and 1980s, achieving success across various genres, including R&B, soul, and pop. Bryson is best recognized for his soulful duets and has collaborated with several artists, bringing a smooth texture to each partnership. His notable works include hits like "Beauty and the Beast," performed with Celine Dion, and "A Whole New World" with Regina Belle, which showcased his ability to blend seamlessly with other vocal talents.
Bryson has received numerous awards, including Grammy Awards, recognizing his contributions to music. Over the years, he has maintained a successful career and remains a respected figure in contemporary music.
Roberta Flack and Peabo Bryson first collaborated in the early 1980s, and their partnership yielded significant success. Their duet "Tonight I Celebrate My Love," released in 1983, became a major hit, demonstrating their vocal chemistry and shared artistic vision. This song solidified their status as a duet powerhouse, blending their distinct styles into a memorable listening experience. Flack's emotive delivery complemented Bryson's soulful range, creating a timeless classic in the landscape of American music.
In essence, both artists have carved out remarkable careers independently and collectively, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry through their contributions and artistic achievements.<div hidden>Peabo Bryson & Roberta Flack Roberta Flack and Peabo Bryson Roberta Flack & Peabo Bryson</div>
Born To Love
Producer – Michael Masser
Written-By – Gerry Goffin, Michael Masser
3:29
A2 Blame It On Me
Producer – Burt Bacharach, Carol Bayer Sager
Written-By – Burt Bacharach, Carol Bayer Sager
4:12
A3 Heaven Above Me
Producer – Bob Crewe, Bob Gaudio
Written-By – Bob Crewe, Bob Gaudio
4:34
A4 Born To Love
Producer – Peabo Bryson
Written-By – Peabo Bryson
4:25
B1 Maybe
Producer – Burt Bacharach, Carol Bayer Sager
Written-By – Burt Bacharach, Carol Bayer Sager, Marvin Hamlisch
3:19
B2 I Just Came Here To Dance
Producer – Bob Crewe, Bob Gaudio
Written-By – J. L. Wallace, Ken Bell, Terry Skinner
3:59
B3 Comin' Alive
Producer – Michael Masser
Written-By – Gerry Goffin, Michael Masser
3:34
B4 You're Lookin' Like Love To Me
Producer – Bob Crewe, Bob Gaudio
Written-By – Bob Crewe, Bob Gaudio, Jerry Corbetta
3:59
B5 Can We Find Love Again
Producer – Roberta Flack
Producer [Associate] – Al Johnson
Written-By – Al Johnson, Roberta Flack
4:29
Label: Capitol Records – ST-12284
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1983
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Eighties Soul
Released on July 22, 1983, Born To Love is a classic R&B duet album that solidified the partnership between Peabo Bryson and Roberta Flack. Following their successful 1980 live collaboration, the album achieved Gold status in the United States and remains their most internationally successful project.
Critics and fans generally view the album as a high-quality example of the "Quiet Storm" genre. While AllMusic describes it as "enjoyable" but "not essential," fans frequently praise the "melodious singing" and the undeniable chemistry between the two iconic vocalists.
The album features a mix of lush ballads and mid-tempo tracks, though faster numbers like "Heaven Above Me" are sometimes seen as more disposable compared to the soaring ballads.
Key Tracks:-
"Tonight, I Celebrate My Love": The album's standout global hit, reaching #2 in the UK and #16 on the US Billboard Hot 100. It remains a definitive wedding and easy-listening classic.
"Maybe": A notable track written for the film Romantic Comedy.
"You're Looking Like Love To Me": A moderate hit that performed well on the Adult Contemporary charts.
"Born To Love": Written and produced by Bryson, it is a fan-favorite soulful ballad with a funky, spacious arrangement.
Born to Love is celebrated as a successful, gold-certified album that delivered memorable duets and remains a strong listen for fans of classic R&B and soul, even if its consistent smoothness can make tracks blend for some listeners. Decades after its release, it is celebrated for its sound quality and timeless appeal, often cited as a staple for R&B collections.
Peabo Bryson & Roberta Flack Roberta Flack and Peabo Bryson Roberta Flack & Peabo Bryson