1. “Coffee”

Kelly Rowland made quarantine way sexier with the release of the gorgeous visual for her sexy and sassy new bop, “Coffee.” Kelendria delivers her best lead single since 2011’s “Motivation” and arguably her best visual ever. In front of the camera, Kelly reminds us that shy is something she is not. Heavy on the word play and innuendo and light on fucks to give, “Coffee” is an uncensored ode to morning sex. What better way to kick off a sensual quarantine playlist?

“I know we just woke up
I know you gotta go but-
Breakfast isn’t over
I see the way rose up, ha
They say morning wood do a body good, babe
Clearly you agreed, don’t be tryna leave
Stay here with me”

2. “Put Your Name on It”

An underrated gem from Ms. Rowland, “Put Your Name On It” drips sensuality and evokes the heat that all good R&B does. On this bedroom bop, Kelly delivers an evocative and phenomenal vocal performance to match the intensity of her words.

“Come put your name on it
Yes it got your name on it
Any time, any place
You just gotta say you want it
Come put your name on it”

3. “See Me”

This playful slow jam certainly sets the mood. On “See Me,” Kelly teasingly sings, “or if you like, we can keep the lights on… I want you to see me.” We can only hear her in this case, but the “Coffee” video certainly served as a reminder that her beauty is a sight not to be missed.

“Feels so good when you leave it all over me
Love it all over me
You know how to come for me
Baby, don’t fail me now
Keep the same energy
I know you gon’ like it when you see me with the lights on”

4. “Red Wine”

Titled not because it is a lyric in the song, but because it was flowing during the writing sessions, “Red Wine” is a fan-favorite, and rightfully so. This lush groove embodies its title because of the effect it has on its listener. “Red Wine” is the perfect song to play while you kick back and cuddle up, and is sure to warm you up.

“What you know about lovin’ me ’til the sun comes up
Then the sun goes down
Can you give me that kinda love that won’t give up?
Never let me down”

5. “Every Thought is You”

An infectious mid tempo from her sophomore set, “Every Thought of You” is a slinky jam that is more romantic than anything. About the start of a relationship and budding romance, “Every Thought is You” is the perfect love note.

“Because of you, I’ll never feel alone
Because of you my house is now a home again
You’re my inner peace, fill my mind with ease
You’re everything I want my man to be”

6. “Obsession”

Continuing the theme of infatuation, “Obsession” is a slow jam from Kelly’s debut solo album, co-penned by a young Solange Knowles. Sensual and romantic, “Obsession” is an addictive anthem for the insatiable.

“Your sensual touch
It’s all too much
Unbearing love
My obsession”

7. “Keep It Between Us”

Its video evokes better times when we could travel and explore new settings with our partners on romantic getaways, but “Keep It Between Us” is perfect for quiet moments at home, too.

“Can’t see myself with no one else
No never, no never
I can make it through the worst with you”

8. “Heaven”

This divinely sensual ballad certainly lives up to its title. “Heaven” can be described simply. It is a song about falling in love, the realization that in their arms, you’ve found heaven. It’s a perfect cuddle tune.

“Love, when I’m in your arms
Feels like I’m melting into you
You keep me so warm”

9. “The Show,” duet with Tank

Kelly and Tank trade verses as they sing about trading positions on this steamy duet between two of R&B’s sexiest sangers. It may all be a fantasy, but there’s something for everyone on “The Show.”

“I’m thinking about getting you tickets
Front row and center so you can see the show
I’m thinking about getting you backstage passes
All access granted because I know you wanna know”

10. “Each Other”

On this no strings attached recounting of a rendezvous, Kelly details an encounter with destiny. “Each Other” is a sensual bop that exudes lust, with an unabated urge for more.

“Because the two of us
We’re meant to love
Love each other
And I know the two of us
We’re meant to touch
Touch each other”

11. “Kisses Down Low”

On the lead single from 2013’s Talk a Good Game, Kelly told the world where she likes her kisses. This hard hitting anthem celebrates pleasure, and, well, we’ve all got a little more time for that these days. As Kelly advises, “put in overtime, overnight.”

“You put in overtime, overnight
Doing everything I like, go so right, yeah
You hold me close, please me tight, look me deep inside my eyes
Baby, you know I love it
But nothing can compare to when you kiss me there
And I can’t lie when I lie in your arms
Baby, I feel so sexy”

12. “Motivation”

“Motivation” marked the start of Kelly’s sexual awakening, and cemented her status as an R&B heavyweight in her own right. With “Motivation” she delivered the perfect combination of infectious R&B melodies, hard-hitting hip-hop attitude, and not-so-subtle sensual songwriting. It’s no wonder the song  It’s only right to close this list with a song that encourages its listener to “go longer, you can last more rounds,” as Kelly begs to be your “Motivation.” So, go forth and let Kelly’s music play in the background.

“You can’t stop there, music still playin’ in the background
And you’re almost there
You can do it, I believe in you, baby
So close from here
Baby, I’mma be your motivation”

The post 12 Songs by Kelly Rowland to Set the Mood appeared first on THE 97.

12 Songs to Heal Your Heart by Janet Jackson Playlist

1. “Better Days”

From Janet’s 2001, post-divorce album All For You, “Better Days” starts off melancholic, but transforms into a bubbly and optimistic bop. Singing of mental health challenges that surely many people are similarly experience during these uncertain times, here, Janet encourages herself and her listeners to believe that better days are ahead.

“I’m ’bout to change my vibe
Today the sun’s gonna shine
‘Cause I made up my mind
That today will be the start of better days”

2. “R&B Junkie”

What better way to kick off a positive vibe than with some good ole throwback R&B jams? Across social media, superstars and regular fans alike have been sharing their favorite throwback R&B cuts, so this jam is fitting for those #quarantunes house parties (you know, with, only the people you live with!) – set it off right with Janet, be your own DJ, and dance with your quarantine buddies.

“I feel like bumpin’ to some old school
I feel like dancin’ all night with you”

3. “The Best Things in Life Are Free,” with Luther Vandross

This quintessential 90s R&B classic not only features the legendary Luther Vandross singing alongside Janet, but also Bell Biv Devoe and Ralph Tresvant. It’s a total New Jack Swing moment, and its message of appreciating the love that we are fortunate to have in our lives, is fitting during these trying times.

“Now that I’ve discovered
What you mean to me
The best things in life are free
Now that we’ve got each other
The best things in life are free”

4. “Miss You Much”

Not everyone is fortunate enough to be quarantined with their loved ones, though. Janet has an anthem for those folks, too, with this funky groove. “Miss You Much” is a song to dedicate to someone special who you can’t spend these quarantined times with.

“I’ll tell your mama
I’ll tell your friends
I’ll tell anyone whose heart can comprehend
Send it in a letter baby
Tell you on the phone
I’m not the kinda girl
Who likes to be alone
I miss ya much
I really miss you much”

5. “When I Think of You”

Continuing with that idea, on “When I Think of You” Janet suggests a way for us to calm the craziness in the world: thing of the love you share with someone special, and let that be an escapism for you. Or, just, dance this iconic 80s bop.

“Ooh, baby
Anytime my world gets crazy
All I have to do to calm it
Is just think of you
It’s when I think of you, baby
Nothing else seems to matter
It’s when I think of you, baby
All I think about is our love”

6. “Because of Love”

For those of us who are lucky enough to be quarantined with loved ones, then “Because of You” is an anthem of gratitude for the ones we love who are helping us through these tough times. Just keep singing along with Janet!

“There’s only you on my mind
And I never wanna leave your side
It feels right, so let’s stay together
Never feel alone again, boy
‘Cause your love makes me feel so secure
You got me singin’…”

7. “Spending Time With You”

On this sultry and smooth tropical mid-tempo, Janet once again appreciates the simple things and actually relishes in the pleasures of spending time at home. For those of us longing for a getaway, she opens the track with a lush imagined island vacation. Let this breezy bop soothe your spirit.

“It’s always fun to chill at home
Monday through Friday
Sexy Saturday, easy Sunday
‘Cause every day’s a special one, just like a holiday
Vacation getaway after the foreplay
Go room to room making sweet love”

8. “Together Again”

Whether you’ve lost someone during these tragic times, or simply long to see your family who are far away, “Together Again” is a celebration of life and love that is sure to uplift. This upbeat track has been an anthem in times of loss for over two decades, and it remains relevant today.

“Dream about us together again
What I want: us together again, baby
I know we’ll be together again, ’cause
Everywhere I go, every smile I see
I know you are there smilin’ back at me
Dancin’ in moonlight, I know you are free
‘Cause I can see your star shinin’ down on me”

9. “Unbreakable”

No matter who it may be with, we all have unbreakable bonds with our loved ones. These bonds provide us with strength through the darkest of times. Here, Janet sings directly to her fans, friends, and family with whom a connection has been forged that allows her to stand tall through it all.

“And what I share with you
Ever sacred, everlasting
The greatest love for me
I love you
And it’s pure
And it will endure
The world can’t break down
The connection
Cause our love is divine
And it’s unbreakable“

10. “Enjoy”

With so much uncertainty, this simple yet joyous ode to life is a great way to revel in gratitude the simple pleasure of waking up each day. Janet urges us once again to enjoy the simple things in life, and to be grateful for it all. “Enjoy” is sure lift your spirit.

“So just enjoy the simple things,
Enjoy the day life brings
Enjoy the song love sings, enjoy
Just keep on doing it ’til your heart’s content
And enjoy the gift of life, enjoy”

11. “Gon’ B Alright”

The energetic and soulful album closer from 2015’s Unbreakable delivers a message of strength and hope. With a promise that “we gon’ be alright,” Janet offers another important reminder: “if you love somebody, you better tell ’em now.” She recommends a “love intervention” to make it through.

“We all need a little love
When we get down in the dumps
Because we
We gon’ be alright
‘Cause a love intervention
Gonna help us make it through
Ya know we
We gon’ be alright”

12. “Rhythm Nation”

This list wouldn’t be complete without one of Janet’s signature classics, “Rhythm Nation.” An anthem of unity, “strength in numbers,” and the power of music, “Rhythm Nation” reminds us that although we may be miles apart, we still must “work together to improve our way of life.” Joining voices in song, despite the distance, is certainly one way to do it. In the case of this playlists, Janet’s songs.

“This is the test, no struggle, no progress
Lend a hand to help your brother do his best
Things are getting worse, we have to make them better
It’s time to give a damn, let’s work together
Come on now”

Listen to our healing Janet Jackson playlist

The post 12 Songs by Janet Jackson to Heal Your Heart appeared first on THE 97.

1. “Purpose in Your Storm”

This uptempo kicks off the playlist with “Purpose in Your Storm” from Michelle’s 2004 sophomore album, Do You Know. This bop acknowledges life’s challenges, but motivates the listener to press on and push through it all.

“It’s temporary, it’s gonna get better
Yes it will…
There is a light that’s shinin’
And soon the dawn will come
You’ll find purpose
Purpose in your storm”

2. “If We Had Your Eyes”

Similar to “Purpose,” the lead single from her 2014 album Journey to Freedom, “If We Had Your Eyes” tells about the clarity that would come if we had the foresight to understand the purpose behind our hard times. In these times of panic and confusion, stuck staying at home with no end in sight, patience is key. The duet version with Fantasia also adds a certain strength in numbers to its message.

“God, if I had Your eyes
I could love better and
Have more compassion and
I could understand what I’m going through
While I’m going through
I’d be more patient
God help me to see things the way that you see things
Did I already say help me to be patient?
Say that again…”

3. “Everything” (2002)

This encouraging song from Michelle’s debut solo album, Heart to Yours, delivers a message to reassure the listener that no matter what you are going through, you just need a little faith to remain strong and persevere through it all.

“‘Cause everbody’s done passed you by and,
You’re left alone to thing about it.
Well I just wanted to encourage you,
And let you know that He will bring you through”

4. “Fearless”

Michelle’s most recent single, “Fearless,” is an anthemic celebration of self. The song finds Michelle reaffirming that she herself is “fearless,” and has the strength to overcome her fears. It is a powerful song for a time when many of us feel so helpless.

“Every nation
Standin’ side by side
That don’t mind givin’
Givin’ the best of life
‘Cause I’m fearless”

5. “The Greatest”

While sometimes we feel like we are going through hard times alone, most of us have someone to turn to for comfort and reassurance, whether it’s God or a loved one. “The Greatest,” from her 2008 pop album, Unexpected, is a purposefully ambiguous love song that exudes gratitude.

“Thought everything had changed
Until the day you came
And took away the pain
Baby you’re the greatest
I always wore a frown
I never used to smile
Until you showed me how
Baby you’re the greatest”

6. “Sun Will Shine Again”

Another anthem of encouragement from her debut album, “Sun Will Shine Again” serves as a reminder that the darkness we are facing will not last forever, and we, like the sun, will rise again.

“The situation don’t look good
I know you’d change it if you could
The sun will shine again
The trouble’s all in your mind
Don’t run away, give it time
The sun will shine again…
This is not the way it will end.”

7. “In the Morning”

Echoing the sentiments of the previous song, “In the Morning” is a metaphoric song from 2014’s Journey to Freedom that lets the listener know they are not alone. Michelle makes it personal, letting us know that she’s been through hard times, but knows you’ll make it through, because she has.

“It’s all in your face
I see you think that I’m crazy
There’s no way I could know
But I only talk about what I know about
I’ve been there before
When you know you’re alive
Because it kills inside
And you wish you could go numb
And even my day dreams were a bad scene
Please God wake me up”

8. “Heard a Word”

With her debut solo single “Heard a Word,” Michelle let the world know that her mission was to lift us all up and inspire the world with her words and her voice. “Heard a Word” was the first of many healing hymns that she’s delivered throughout her career.

“I heard a word
Saying, Girl you’ll be fine
I heard a word
That would ease my troubled mind
Took all the hurt away
Warmed me up inside like a summer day
So glad You said You’d never break your promises”

9. “Do You Know” (Live in Atlanta, 2005)

For anyone who was previously unaware, Michelle let it be known with her 2005 performance of “Do You Know” that she could move the masses with her phenomenal voice. On Destiny’s Child’s 2005 tour, Michelle used her solo spot to shine the light on her inspirational anthem, “Do You Know,” from her 2004 album of the same title. Night after night, she tore the house down with her powerful voice and, thankfully, the performance was recorded to be relived again and again by fans.

“I hate to see you cry,
It’s like your world is torn apart
Just know that God is faithful
He’ll heal your wounded heart”

10. “Say Yes,” featuring Kelly Rowland & Beyoncé (Live at the Stellar Awards, 2015)

Reunited with her sisters in song, Kelly and Beyoncé, Michelle took the world by storm with her 2014 hit single, “Say Yes.” This infectious anthem of praise was heard around the world, and the world rejoiced along with their favorite trio, with Michelle at the helm. Their 2015 live performance of the song at the Stellar Awards further elevated its greatness. Watch below.

“I’m not worried ‘bout a thing
Cause I know you are guiding me
Where you lead me, Lord I will go
I have no fear cause I know who’s in control”

11. “It’s Good to Be Here”

Another uplifting uptempo, “It’s Good to Be Here” is perhaps the song that feels most appropriate in these troubled times. A song of gratitude, “It’s Good to Be Here” finds Michelle giving thanks for life, for health, for friends and family. It’s a message we all could use reminding of in the face of a pandemic.

“Just another day’s journey
And I’m glad about it
I got my health and my strenght
I can shout about it
Somebody didn’t make it
They can’t testify the day
That’s why I’m so grateful
And I’m mighty glad to say
It’s good to be here”

12. “We Break the Dawn”

While we all may be confined to our homes right now (hopefully), soon enough we will be able to go out, get together, and dance the night away once more. Whether that be at a club, bar, or your own backyard house party, this dance floor ready groove from Michelle’s 2008 dance pop album, Unexpected, is sure to move you to, well, “break the dawn”.

“Oh there’s somethin’ bout the skylight tonight
Something that makes me know everythin’s gon’ be alright
There’s somethin’ in the way that the stars align
There’s not a single moment I’m a pass by

The hour’s now, the bass is loud
The disco lights, shinin’ through the crowd
We’re holdin’ time in our hands
And it stops when we say, we say
And we ain’t stoppin’ ’til the morning light”

The post 12 Songs by Michelle Williams to Lift Your Spirit appeared first on THE 97.

1. Rainbow (Interlude)

The “Rainbow (Interlude)” was placed toward the end of Mariah’s 1999 album of the same title, but here, it kicks off the playlist with a hopeful message before launching into another Rainbow track, remixed.

“I know there is a rainbow
For me to follow
To get beyond my sorrow
Thunder precedes the sunlight
So I’ll be alright
If I can find that
Rainbow’s end

I will be alright
If I can find that
Rainbow’s end”

2. “Can’t Take That Away (Mariah’s Theme),” Morales Revival Triumphant Mix

This dance mix is just under 11 minutes and is an anthemic celebration of “the light that shines inside” of us all. Despite all the darkness in the world right now, let this track revive your spirits.

“They can’t take that way from me
No… they can’t take this
Precious love I’ll always have inside me
And certainly the Lord
Will guide me where I need to go”

3. “Triumphant,” (Vintage Throwback Mix)

Written in 2012, inspired by Mariah’s former husband Nick’s health battles at the time, “Triumphant” is and was literally an anthem of survival in the face of life’s challenges. During these uncertain times, “Triumphant” serves as an anthem to fight, and survive, against this pandemic.

“Even when clouds surround you
And everyone seems to doubt you
Baby, still know who you are
So you got to keep on climbing
In spite of the chains that bind you
You can see the mountain top
It’s not too far”

4. “There’s Got to Be a Way”

Written in the late 1980s for Mariah’s debut album, “There’s Got to Be a Way” is an inspiring and hopeful (albeit, dated) bop about uniting as a people against adversity.

“There’s got to be a way
To connect this world today
Come together to relieve the pain
There’s got to be a way
To unite this human race
And together we’ll bring on a change”

5. “Anytime You Need a Friend” (C&C Club Version)

This gospel-tinged club mix delivers a message of love and friendship, one that is especially appropriate as we are all feel so far apart. It’s always good to know that you have friends and family who love you, no matter how far away they may be.

“Anytime you need a friend
I will be here
You’ll never be alone again
So don’t you fear
Even if you’re miles away
I’m by your side
So don’t you ever be lonely
Love will make it alright”

6. “Fly Like a Bird”

Another gospel song, this ballad, from her 2005 comeback album The Emancipation of Mimi, is yet another reflection on the state of the world, but this time, she asks for God’s support to make it through.

“If we loved each other
We would find victory
But in this harsh reality
Sometimes I’m so despondent that I feel the need to

Fly like a bird, take to the sky
I need you now Lord, carry me high
Don’t let the world break me tonight
I need the strength of you by my side
Sometimes this life can be so cold
I pray you’ll come and carry me home”

7. “Through the Rain” Remix, featuring Joe & Kelly Price

The remix to her 2002 single “Through the Rain” is a more mellow, R&B take on the power ballad original version. While sonically different, the message remains the same: strength and survival are guaranteed, if you just have faith.

“I’ll make it through the rain
I’ll stand up once again
On my own and I know
That I’m strong and in time
I can mend
When I’m afraid
I hold tighter to my faith
Live another day longer
And I make it through the rain”

8. “Whenever You Call”

While technically a love song, this ballad from 1997’s Butterfly still provides a powerful promise of love. A lot of us are suffering through pain and loss, whether its a job or a loved one. Now more than ever, we need to love one another. This song has just the message. While the video version features Brian McKnight, I personally recommend the solo version.

“And I will breathe for you each day
Comfort you through all the pain
Gently kiss your fears away,
You can turn to me and cry
Always understand that I
Give you all I am inside”

9. “I’ll Be There,” (Live from MTV Unplugged) featuring Trey Lorenz

A cover of the Jackson 5 classic, Mariah’s live rendition with her friend and background singer Trey Lorenz became a #1 hit in its own right. Its message of mutual support, both in its lyrics and the fact that it was sung by Mariah and one of her best friends, is one that is very much needed in these tough times.

Let me fill your heart with joy and laughter
Togetherness, well that’s all I’m after
Whenever you need me, I’ll be there
I’ll be there to protect you,
With an unselfish love I respect you
Just call my name and I’ll be there

10. “One Sweet Day,” duet with Boyz II Men

For anyone who may have lost a loved one during these times, Mariah’s 1995 duet with Boyz II Men has become a comforting classic for those in mourning. On this occasion, some of us may unfortunately need to turn to it yet again.

“Although the sun will never shine the same again
I’ll always look to a brighter day
Lord, I know when I lay me down to sleep
You will always listen as I pray”

11. “When You Believe,” duet with Whitney Houston

From the 1998 Prince of Egypt soundtrack, “When You Believe” is a moving ballad that was written to inspire. It urges us all to have hope, and faith, that miracles can indeed be achieved.

“They don’t always happen when you ask
And it’s easy to give in to your fears
But when you’re blinded by your pain
Can’t see your way clear through the rain
A small but still resilient voice says, ‘Help is very near!'”

12. “Hero”

One of Mariah’s signature songs, “Hero” has been an anthem and inspiration for people worldwide since its release in 1993. Ever since, in times of crisis and times of joy, the world has turned to Mariah Carey’s “Hero” to be uplifted. Whether it be the tragedy of 9/11, the inauguration of President Barack Obama, Mariah was there, with “Hero.”  In the context of this pandemic, we dedicate “Hero” to all of the healthcare and “essential” workers who are keeping the world moving.

“And then a hero comes along
With the strength to carry on
And you cast your fears aside
And you know you can survive
So when you feel like hope is gone
Look inside you and be strong
And you’ll finally see the truth
That a hero lies in you”

The post 12 Mariah Carey Songs to Soothe Your Soul appeared first on THE 97.