UB Review: Marques Houston Proves Why He’s “Famous” With New Release

Marques Houston
“Famous”
Shanchie Entertainment
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Marques Houston is a veteran (title of his third solo release) in the entertainment industry, 20 years + and still going strong! From TV, Films and of course Music, Marques has constantly shown growth in his projects and that doesn’t change with the release of his 6th solo album “Famous.” The album opens with his current single, the Marvin Gaye influenced “Only You.” A perfect way to start an incredible album.

Songwriter and Producer Immanuel Jordan Rich is the man behind 90% of the album and is co-executive producer along with Chris Stokes. After this release, I expect to see his name in the credits of many up-coming R&B releases. Some of the best R&B music released this year, can be found on “Famous.” Case in point the baby-making “Make it Last Forever” and the title-cut. “You’re going to see your name in lights, while I got you screaming my name,” MH sings on the track. Both songs remind listeners of 90’s R&B where artists like Jagged Edge, Donell Jones, 112 and Usher were banging out some of the best baby-making songs project after project.

On songs like the Eric “Cire” Crawford penned “See You” and “The Way Love Is” as well as the Immanuel Jordan Rich penned “Leaving My Girl,” the mid-tempos all put you in the mind frame of them early Timbaland and Missy Elliott productions. All three are clearly inspired by Prince and Marques doesn’t disappoint when showing homage to the purple one. The smooth ballad “Nothin on You” showcases his falsetto as he assures his girl no matter where his head wanders, she has nothing to worry about.

“Speechless,” leaves you just that, after you listen to the a capella styled song that teased fans with the “Famous” earlier this year. Great vocals and lyrics on that one! “Lifetime” is the song that best showcases Marques’ vocal skills. He sings on the track “don’t ever say goodbye, because your love last a lifetime.” Showing appreciation to the girl that has stood by his side despite of things he’s done in the past. This could easily be the theme song to many relationships.

On the albums final song “Fly Away“,” the only issue with the song is it sounds very reminiscent of Chris Brown’s “Don’t Judge Me.” With that said, after awhile you totally forget and just get into the smooth groove.

Overall the album is full of great ballads and mid-tempos, there is no MH fan that will be disappointed with “Famous” – As well as all fans of real R&B that has been missing for awhile, will also welcome “Famous” to their collection.

– Aries (UrbanBridgez.com)