The Bottom Line: I recommend this single because it proves that 112 is a legit R&B vocal group. They can sing, even though now they hide behind flashy beats and over production
The song Cupid by the R&B group 112 was one of the group’s greatest hits. I’ve written this review years after it was released on 112’s Self titled debut album to examine what direction 112 is headed in now.
How We Got Here.
112 were considered the babies of Sean “Puffy” Combs’ Bad Boy Record label. They were under his control and he kept a close eye on his employees. From their first album 𣺨” to their current “Hot and Wet” Puffy’s influence is all over 112 tracks. Well now 112 (Q, Mike, Slim, Daron) has decided to break away from Bad Boy. They are on their own, but they still made their last album with Puff Daddy. This last album was horrendous, and maybe I’m writing this review out of spite because I wasted $17. “Cupid” by 112 is the type of songs 112 SHOULD try to get back too. The song was released in 1997, and produced by Arnold Hennings. This song had staying power on the charts as it stayed at #2 on the Top 40 Singles chart. By the end of the year it was overall #8 (Billboard). Yes, it was a classic form this group.
The Song.
“Cupid” cannot be overlooked, because it was a commercial success. 112 has had a plethora of success with all four albums. Some find it a little too “pop-ish,” but the song had a lot of sentiment. Personally I love to hear the vocals in a song, as oppose to the instruments drowning out a singer’s voice out. “Cupid” is accompanied by a strong beat, piano, and guitar. The softness of of the song makes it an easy listen. 112 has had more fast=paced club hits then they did slow songs. I love their club hits, but it is no where near the level of their romance songs they spit out. In response to another reviewer’s opinion that the singer’s (Slim’s) voice is not comprehendible, I beg to differ. Slim has one of the most unique voices in R&B. He’s the lead singer of 112, and without his voice they would just be another OK group. This song is the perfect showcase for him as a performer vocally. This song delineates the talents of the whole group in general, I would love to hear an a cappella version of it.
The Lyrics.
I wanted to share some of my favorite lines form the song, and compare it to 112’s latest hit.
Cupid.
Baby I’m So tired of the way you turn my words into
Deception and lies
Don’t misunderstand me when I try to speak my mind
I’m only saying what in my heart.
These kind of lyrics hit me I guess as oppose to 112’s new songs I know I’m sucker for lines, but aren’t we all on some level.
Hot and Wet.
You don’t know what
You do to me
The way you touch baby
([Slim:] Girl I’m tired of playing games are you ready)
I love it when you’re on top of it
So spread it
([Slim:] Won’t u just give it to me, girl we can do it).
See my point? A lot has changed from the first album. Now 112 produce only club music a.k.a no soul music, because of the enormous commercial success of albums like Room 112 and Part III. Commercial success comes with a price, the lyrical quality goes down as well.
Comparisons.
I’m a big fan of Boyz II Men, so I want to say that 112 is similar to them, but they aren’t really. I say this because; “Cupid” reminds me of old Boyz II Men songs. Songs with soul. I acknowledge however, 112 is far better then boyband R&B groups that are out now, like B2K. 112’s most fierce competition probably comes from the group Jagged Edge.
Cons of “Cupid”.
Honestly I can’t think of any. Of course the song is very TYPICAL slow song. However, I like the spin and vocals 112 puts on it.
Lost Soul.
I am still a fan of 112, but I feel they have lost their way. Song like Hot and Wet seems really out of touch with a group that has roots in gospel. The public seems to share the same opinion, because the single didn’t have the success no where near of “Cupid” I highly recommend the single “Cupid” to those who just want an easy listen. It defiantly is a reflection song. Those who never even heard of this song by 112, and only know them for their “booty-shaking” hits, download this single. At least then you’ll know they’re capable of vocally terrific songs.
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