Forty-two year old Rafael Saadiq grew up in the musical era of Run-D.M.C., the Sugarhill Gang, Kris Kross, Kool & The Gang, Naughty By Nature, etc., etc.  For some reason he was always fascinated with the music of the Fifty's and Sixty's. He particularly loved the Motown Sound.  He says he had not planned to produce his current, some refer to it as old school, hit CD, The Way I See It.  The songs just started coming to him about three years ago.  When he approached record labels about recording his collection of traditional/contemporary r&b love songs, he was told there was no market for a black man singing this genre of music today.  Whaaat!!!  Wisdom kicked in and Saadiq ignored such limited thinking.  His highly acclaimed CD received three 2009 Grammy nominations, including Best R&B Album, a first for an independent release.
 
Not only is his CD doing extraordinarily well, but he is traveling the world with his concert tour.  He recently appeared at the Rams Head Live!  in Baltimore, Maryland.  The large club was packed with fans of all ages.  There were 20 and 30 year olds, large numbers of 40 & 50 years old, and even a few 60 year olds.  From the moment Saadiq stepped on stage, it was obvious he was in the presence of true fans (many from his Tony! Toni! Tone! days).  They knew the words to every song - 100 Yard Dash, Love That Girl, it didn't matter, the audience knew them all.  They yelled, screamed and cheered as he and his backup singers performed their Temptation style movements to the music of a live band.
 
At the end of the concert the audience wouldn't allow him to leave the stage.  It was obvious he didn't want to leave.  Saadiq was truly enjoying himself.  His eyes, his smile, his body language revealed a genuine love for his music as well as for his audience.  He wasn't performing just for fame and fortune.  He appeared to be doing what he truly loved.  Before reluctantly leaving the stage he took the time to sign autographs and shake hands with those fortunate enough to get to the front of the stage.  He looked as though he finally left only because he had to. 
 
Rafael Saadiq recorded this album simply because this is the music he heard in his soul.  He followed his passion.  He stayed true to his heart. He did not listen to any naysayers.   
 
Let's learn the lesson, the still small voice on the inside never misleads. 

 
 Diane Brenda Williams, D.Min