Freddie Jackson

Unfairly referred to as "the poor man's Luther Vandross," Harlem's biggest quiet storm/R&B holdover, Freddie Jackson, never really crossed-over into the mainstream. Although 1985 debut Rock Me Tonight contained some bona fide adult contemporary hits, Jackson, unlike his peers, he refused to change with the times, quickly fading from the public eye. Re-teaming with Rock Me songwriter/producer Barry Eastmond for his first album of original material in six years, Jackson is looking to move more laterally than literally. Keeping things simple, soulful and within the script, songs like "After All This Time" and "Slow Dance" complement his ripened delivery much better than "Rumours" and top 20 U.S. adult contemporary hit "I Don't Wanna Go," which tried to incorporate new-ish (circa 1996) R&B modes into his distinguished sound. When you've reached the point in your career where you're name-dropping Dr. Phil in your songs, you know it's time to hang 'em up. Time to put this quiet storm to rest, Fred.