We're doing things a little differently with this week's instalment of 'The Best You Never Heard'. Little known gems by Beyonce, Whitney, Janet and Mariah all feature in this special Diva Edition. Have any suggestions for future instalments? Drop me an email at sam@thatgrapejuice.net Beyonce - Back Up
The Darkchild produced 'Back Up' served as a bonus track on select versions Beyonce's sophomore LP 'B'Day'. One of the best club-destined cuts the singer has done to-date IMO, I was initially surprised why it was left off the album - after all, it was better than most of the album's material. However considering its thumping bass-line, and 'in your face' lyrics, the song didn't really fit the overall Tina Turner-esque sound of record. Still, one hell of song.
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Whitney Houston - Love That Man
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It would appear Janet's 2006 '20 Y.O' project wasn't just marred by poor single choices; judging by the fact 'RollWitChu' was reduced to a Japanese-only bonus track, it seems the choosing of album tracks was also mishandled. The Jermaine Dupri produced cut, with its lush harmonies and trademark 'knock', is arguably one of Janet's most solid slower offerings in years.
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Despite achieving Platinum success, Mariah Carey's 2002 Def Jam debut 'Charmbracelet' (ironically the start of her return to prominence) largely went ignored by the masses. Though released in the US (to little response), 'Bringing On The Heartbreak' never hit this side of the globe. Unfortunate as Mimi's take on the Def Leppard original, is awesome. Well composed and inclusive of 'The Voice' we used to know and love, this is hands-down one of my favourite Mariah tracks from recent years.
Listen: Bringing On The Heartbreak
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Your thoughts: Hit(s) or Miss(es)?
Labels: The Best You Never Heard
