They say music feeds the soul.  Linked inextricably to our memories, feelings, moods and rhythms, music is such an integral part of our lives and the human experience in general.

I remember when my children were babies.  One of the first things I learned from the parenting classes I was attending and the books that I was reading was that if I sang to my children, no matter how terribly or off-pitch, it would soothe them.  Add a clumsy ballroom waltz to that singing and you’re golden - your baby will gurgle in your arms lovingly almost instantly.  Because music feeds the soul.

Most of us love to listen to music when we drive.  I’m not sure there is anything better than blaring tunes and singing like no one is watching - until you notice someone in the next car is ;-).  Though that rarely stops me once I’m grooving and feeling good.  Because music feeds my soul.

I think I can say I’ve always really loved music.  I don’t know if I’ve loved it more or less than other people - I just know I’ve been borderline obsessed with listening to music.  I’m not tied to genres or artists.  My taste in music spans a vast spectrum, from classical music to pop and a lot of things in between. 

Growing up, I used to love to tape songs off the radio and play the cassettes over and over again (yes, that’s how old I am!).  As I got older, cassette tapes were replaced by CDs and I became the proud owner of mountains of shiny disks in square plastic covers. 

To this day, I can often be found playing music in whatever room I’m in, doing whatever I’m doing.  I think my kids are growing up with a love of music as a result - either that, or they’re just putting up with me!

As the years have gone on, one of my favourite hobbies has become listening to music while I’m enjoying a glass of wine.  Something about pairing the two brings me great joy.  It’s like a pairing of two great passions.  I don’t really think it matters what wine and/or what music - just put them together and enjoy!  

I actually think music has a profound effect on how much you enjoy wine and vice versa. There is actually quite a bit of research suggesting that music has a definitive impact on how people perceive wine. For me, it is a particularly potent pairing in quiet moments when you are relaxing on your own or with loved ones, lost in contemplation or exploring creative pursuits.  These days, there seem to be a lot more quiet moments in all of our lives to enjoy…..  

Over the past few months, one of the genres I’ve personally really been drawn to and listening to a lot of is old school R&B.  By “old school”, I’m talking specifically about 90’s R&B.  Out of nowhere, I seem to have re-discovered the musical gems of this time and they really light me up.

The 90’s is when I came into my own, entering and graduating from high school and then university.  I went from being a child to an adult during this decade, experiencing my first love, living on my own, partying like a rock star and working in my first grown-up job.  Perhaps this is why the draw of the music of this decade is so strong these days, reminding me of my younger years.  

Or, more likely, it might just be that 90’s R&B is incredible!  Seriously, R&B from the 90’s is everything as far as I’m concerned.  I think I’m not alone when I say 90’s R&B was an era in and of itself full of amazing songs, soulful beats and incredible artists.  For those of us who love this music, it can light up a dull, boring or sad moment or day like nothing else.  

It’s therefore no small wonder that I love pairing my wine with 90’s R&B.  And because I love it so much, I want to share my current Top 10 list with readers of this blog.  If for some reason, 90’s R&B isn’t a genre you really know, give the songs below a try and I think you’ll change your mind!

While there is no shortage of amazing songs to choose from, there are a few that I have been more or less playing on repeat in the past months.  My list might change tomorrow, or whenever I re-discover new old songs, but for now, here’s my current rocket fuel mix. Watch the videos below, download these songs from your chosen music provider, or just listen...any way you slice it, I guarantee you’ll love something on this list!  

And don’t forget to wine it up a notch by pairing this with whatever wine you wish. It really doesn’t matter what you choose - so long as you choose what makes you happy :)  

Enjoy, Friends! 

MY TOP 10 SONGS

I Wanna Luv U Artist: Donell Jones

Donell Jones released his debut album in 1996 and had a string of hits through the late 1990s and early 2000s. With a voice that is as smooth as butter and incredibly soulful lyrics, I like all of his music. His songs make my Top 10 list twice (see below).

I Wanna Luv U was released in 1999 and is pure magic! I remember it as a popular slow jam back in my clubbing days!

Knocks Me Off My Feet Artist: Donell Jones

Released as the second song off his debut album, Knocks Me Off My Feet is a cover of a song by the incredible Stevie Wonder. I love how Donell Jones sounds in this song and I find myself liking the song more the more I listen to it.

This song hit the #49 on the Billboard 100 chart.

Why I Love You So Much Artist: Monica

Who in their late 30s and onwards doesn’t remember Monica? She was HUGE! Both a singer-songwriter and an actor, Monica was a complete class act and female ingenue in the 1990s. Lots of accolades and awards that have been bestowed upon Monica show that I’m not alone in my admiration of her music!

Why I Love You So Much has a magical tune and will surely make you think of someone you love and inspire you to let them know how you feel!

Candy Rain Artist: Soul for Real

Do you ever dream of candy coated raindrops? You will, after listening to this song! Sweet as candy, and catchy enough to make you feel like dancing, this song is a classic. A multi-time chart topper that is clean wholesome fun that everyone can enjoy!

No Ordinary Love Artist: Sade

Sade Adu is one of my favourite artists of all time. Period. Her voice is one of a kind, her lyrics and melodies are unparalleled and she is so incredibly beautiful to look at that it’s hard to look away. I was introduced to Sade and her band by my little sister (also a bona fide music addict in her younger years!) when I was in my mid-teens and I am still as captivated now by her music as I was back then.

No Ordinary Love is one of my favourite songs ever. Listen, and fall in love with the capitvating, mesmerizing charm of Sade.

Cupid Artist: 112

Released in 1997, Cupid was 112’s third and final release from their debut album 112.

I guarantee that there is nobody who is in their 40s who does not know and like this song (or at least anybody that I know!). Listen to the lead singer Slim’s voice - it’s so angelic. And the snap-clap of this track is beyond incredible. But you won’t know unless you give it a try…. ;-)

Sensitivity Artist: Ralph Tresvant

I need a man with sensitivity - don’t you, ladies??! And if you’re a man, listen to this song and learn because you can’t go wrong if you express yourself this way. Being sensitive is cool!

If my sister is reading this, she’s laughing her head off because the story behind me and this song is epic….and it stays only between me and her! Blare this song and DANCE!!! You’ll feel epic.

If I Ever Fall In Love Again Artist: Shai

This is absolutely the ultimate slow jam. Listen to this radio version, or better still, listen to the acapella rendition….you’ll be forever changed. With the most beautiful vocals and melody, this song is simply stunning!

Released in 1992, this song spent 8 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 chart when it was released. It still sounds amazing, almost 30 years later, just like a fine wine!

I Gotta Be Artist: Jagged Edge

The R&B group called Jagged Edge was on fire for most of the 90s and early 2000s, and for good reason. Their music had the je ne sais quoi factor that is pure gold. I love this song because it makes me think of my love. This song is deep. They just don’t make songs like this anymore.