Back in 2001, Bilal released one of the best neo-soul debuts ever, (1st Born Second). His haunting, passionate, emotion-filled delivery and unearthly vocal range, combined with slick production from Dr. Dre (among others) and guest spots featuring the Soulquarians, 1st Born made a huge impact on me musically. I hadn’t heard such an album since discovering Nina Simone or Tom Waits some years earlier. Actual, real, solid, soul records with conviction are hard to find. The modern music world is encrusted with hollow lyrics and over-produced beats that form something totally devoid of conviction.
From the moment, For You starts, you know you’re in for something special. Bilal was a chance encounter for me. In 2001, I use to frequent a local Circuit City (of all places) because some friends worked there and usually recommended quality music. Well, I kept eyeing 1st Born Second, on the shelves when I would browse aimlessly looking for something to waste my minimum-wage on. One day I gave in and it is perhaps the best “chance” purchase I’ve ever made.