Description
Family Affair is the third gospel album by the American gospel, soul and R&B singer Philip Bailey (best known as the lead falsetto of ’70s group Earth, Wind & Fire), released on Myrrh Records in 1989, a division of Word. Also distribution by A&M Records. The album was produced by Oliver Wells and Philip Bailey. Featuring a cover of “This Is How The Work Gets Done”, a song written by Charlie Peacock and originally released on Peacocks West Coast Diaries – Volume One.
Philip Bailey’s voice alone should be reason enough to pick up ‘Family Affair’. Bailey possesses one of the finest vocal instruments i R&B or gospel music. His soaring falsetto is legendary, and his creamy smooth lower register is also a delight. Unfortunately, Bailey has chosen only a fair batch of tunes with which to display his prowess.
The set opens with the Charlie Peacock-penned «This Is How The Work Gets Done», which we always suspected would be a burner in the hands of a black artist, and Bailey does not disappoint. Philip also tries his hand with som “new jack swing” beats (ala Bobby Brown) on this session – the title track (with its plea for unity) and «Where Can I Go». Casting Bailey’s timeless voice over modern rhythms is a wise and effective choice. Philip tackles the more traditional «Let’s Talk About Jesus», with the help of The Williams Brothers and Richard Smallwood. Opening with the combined wail of Bailey’s voice and some sanctified B-3 organ, this number ranks with the aforementioned Peacock tune as one of the best. Also of note are the ballad «Love That Lasts», which displays Bailey’s falsetto from start to finish, and the closing «Lord, You Reign», on which the singer is subtly supported by a small orchestra and choir.
It’s always great to hear new material from Philip Bailey, but ‘Family Affair’ has to rank as a minor disappointment, simply because most of the songs are not worthy of his terrific voice. [Bruce A. Brown, CCM, November 1989]
> Apple Music (https://music.apple.com/us/album/family-affair/1231790454)
LP tracklist:
Side One
A1. “This Is How The Work Gets Done”
A2. “Family Affair”
A3. “No Compromise”
A4. “Lonely Broken Hearted People”
A5. “Oasis”
Side Two
B1. “Where Can I Go”
B2. “Let’s Talk About Jesus”
B3. “Love That Lasts”
B4. “Call To War”
B5. “Lord You Reign”
Note: Simultaneously released on cassette, 12-inch vinyl LP, and CD by Myrrh Records.
A full-page advertisement for the Philip Baily’s album Family Affair was featured in the November 1989 issue of CCM Magazine.
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