Just in case you missed it

Published: 
YP intern Emily Wong
Listen to this article
YP intern Emily Wong |
Published: 
Comment

Latest Articles

SOTY 2022/23: Linguist (English) first runner-up loves to play devil’s advocate

Hong Kong children are taller and heavier over the last 30 years

Heavy rain in Hong Kong: Observatory issues 4th rainstorm warning in a week

Europe’s longest tunnel for testing hyperloop technology opens in the Netherlands

How customers, eateries are reacting to Hong Kong single-use plastics ban

Usher's latest two-disc album, Raymond V Raymond: Deluxe Edition, is a compilation of his last album Raymond V Raymond and his EP Versus.

Of the 23 tracks on this edition, There Goes My Baby is perhaps the most affecting. Though it is sung gently over a simple melody, it is easy to sense the passion of a man for the girl he loves: "There goes my baby / You don't know how good it feels to call you my girl". The lyrics are concise and direct, and it appears that Usher is explaining what love should be like - people in love should understand each other without complications.

He goes to the opposite extreme in Foolin' Around, effectively conveying his distress. He is begging for his partner's forgiveness, because he has betrayed her. We feel pity as he sings "You deserve more / You deserve so much more / Than what I'll ever be", knowing that he loves her so much but can't stop himself from hurting her.

Somebody to Love features flavour of the year (and Usher's protege) Justin Bieber. The song is a a chance to compare their singing styles. It's clear Bieber has a way to go before he can emote as well as his mentor.

As long-acknowledged R&B royalty, Usher will sell plenty of copies of this deluxe edition. It's just a shame it's nothing more than a money-spinning release.

YP rating: 3/5

Sign up for the YP Teachers Newsletter
Get updates for teachers sent directly to your inbox
By registering, you agree to our T&C and Privacy Policy
Comment