Deniece Williams | Love, Niecy Style
Born, June Deniece Chandler, in Gary, Indiana (home of The Jackson’s), her career started as a background singer for Stevie Wonder’s “Wonderlove” along side Minnie Riperton. She left “Wonderlove” in 1975 after signing to Columbia records and teamed up with musical genius Maurice White and released the single “Free”. In 1978 she teamed up the Johnny Mathis for the number one song “To Much, To Little, To Late”; since then, Miss Chandler has had a string of number one hits to date. June Deniece Chandler is her real name….we know simply her as Deniece Williams!
Deniece’s latest effort on the Shanachie Label is called “Love, Niecy Style”, which is comprised of classic covers from Earth Wind and Fire, Luther Vandross, George Benson, Kool and the Gang & many more….
Deniece does “Love’s Holiday” a little different, even though she keeps to the true essence of the song….Her voice is still pristine and smooth, and she sings it well!
…”Someday, We’ll All Be Free” – I didn’t understand why Deniece cried while recording this song. This song is an emotional song & Deniece has the vocal ability to interpret the timeless lyrics. Donny would be proud…
On “Cherish”, Deniece sings this song as a ballad, which allows her to put more into it from the heart, “Cheris” has always been a staple in the quiet storm format and now this version will be the same way.
Deniece did a real good job on the late Luther Vandross classic “Never Too Much”. Her vocals are light airy, which is perfect for this type of song – which to me is the standout song.
This a nice CD to listen to when your just relaxing. Her voice, her style, her relevance is still present after a nine year hiatus.
Deniece has 17 albums to her credit from over a 30 year period, and we should come to expect more from Deniece in the near future!
Marvin D.
The Urban Music Scene