I was involved in a recent discussion(in a bar, of course) in which some comparisons were being drawn between Keyshia Cole & Rihanna. In my opinion, the only comparison that applies, is that both are young women. It should really end there.
I am a huge, lifelong fan of R & B, & classic soul music, with its incredible history. After the release of her 1st 2 albums, I feel that Keyshia Cole has the potential to rank among the all-time greats. She is a prodigious talent, with a unique, powerful, & soulful voice, that comes around only occassionally, in a generation. She writes & produces much of her own material(which further seprates her from other comtemporary songbird divas), & her heart can be heard bellowing, in so many of her songs. I find myself captivated by her voice, like few others have ever done.
Rihanna on the other hand, is a typical fly-by-night, pop princess, whose best qualities are displayed on the cover of teen magazines. She is known more because she has a "look" that sells, as opposed to any true musical talent. She's nothing more than a young model, with a few connections, who gave her some catchy songs, that have received commercial airplay.
Keyshia's look is very raw, & hardcore street(although she seems to be working on that). She's certainly not built like a model, & her neck & arm tattoos make her appear somewhat intimidating & unapproachable, for the "average" fan to embrace. She is not the girl next door, & that image(as the music industry places so much emphasis on image) may be currently holding her potential super-stardom back, somewhat. However, she is so young & clearly has a great deal of personal growth ahead. As she will no doubt continue to make amazing music with her astonishing gifts, her star will continue to grow, & carve a place for her name, among the greats in R &B/soul history.
In recognition of Valentine's Day, below please find the simple, yet brilliant lyrics of John Lennon, on what I believe is one of his most underrated, & great songs. It surely captures the essence of what everyone seems to want, & wait for, in their lives. If you've found that person, great... if you haven't, don't give up or despair, as love may be just around the corner. Happy Valentine's Day everyone!
All my little plans and schemes
Lost like some forgotten dreams
Seems that all I really was doing
Was waiting for you
Just like little girls and boys,
playing with their little toys.
Seems like all we really were doing
was waitin' for love.
lonely to be alone,
no need to be alone.
It's real love, it's real,
Yes it's real love, it's real.
From this moment on I know,
exactly where my life will go.
Seems that all I really was doing
was waitin' for love.
No need to be afraid,
no need to be afraid.
It's real love, it's real,
Yes it's real love, it's real.
Thought I'd been in love before,
but in my heart I wanted more.
Seems like all I really was doing
was waitin' for you.
lonely to be alone,
No need to be alone.
It's real love, yeah it's real,
It's real love, it's real,
Yes, it's real love, it's real,
It's real love, it's real,
Yes it's real love, it's real,
It's real love, it's real,
Yes it's real love, it's real,
It's real love, it's real,
Yes it's real love....
