CANADIAN SPOTLIGHT: DEBORAH COX

Candian singer Deborah Cox released her debut self-titled album on September 12, 1995. The album, on Arista Records, is by far better than most major-label contemporary R&B albums released at that time, as Cox possesses vocal interpretations that are more soulful than her peers. Sadly, she was never a superstar despite releasing numerous hit singles during that time, but her talent was unmistakably infinite.

One of the album's biggest hits was the track “Who Do U Love,” presented in both a bouncy new jack swing style and a vocal house remix by David Morales with rerecorded vocals. The song peaked at number 17 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and was Cox's first number-one hit on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. The album was dominated by contemporary R&B tunes such as the rhythmic tracks like Dallas Austin-penned “Where Do We Go From Here?" plus the jazz-influenced singles like "Sentimental" and "The Sound of My Tears."

Her debut album was easily superior to many other contemporary R&B records of its time. Those searching for a mainstream mid-90’s contemporary R&B record that’s both thoughtfully crafted and nostalgic. "Deborah Cox" is required listening.