Album: I Love to Sing the Songs I Sing

Album Background
" I Love to Sing the Songs I Sing" is a renowned 1979 album by legendary American vocalist, songwriter, and manufacturer Barry White. Released on April 8, 1979, under the 20th Century-Fox Records label, the album boasts 9 memorable tracks that showcase White's special bass-baritone voice and remarkable skill. Stepping into a brand-new era, White ventured to try out different upbeat tempos and funk-driven styles while maintaining his soulful essence. Though not as commercially successful as his previous albums, "I Love to Sing the Songs I Sing" got favorable crucial honor and further solidified Barry White's legacy in the R&B and soul categories.

Track List and Notable Songs
The album includes the following tracks:
1. I Love to Sing the Songs I Sing
2. Girl, What's Your Name
3. Once Upon a Time (You Were a Friend of Mine).
4. Oh Me, Oh My (I'm Such a Lucky Guy).
5. I Can't Leave You Alone.
6. Call Me, Baby.
7. How Did You Know It Was Me?

The album discovers White, ever the romantic crooner, delivering his signature smooth, emotional vocals, combined with R&B and funk elements. The title track, "I Love to Sing the Songs I Sing", is an upbeat number with an appealing hook that lures listeners in. The tune sets the tone for the whole album with its energetic arrangement and White's captivating baritone.

" Girl, What's Your Name" includes a classic soul melody and portrays a love-struck guy attempting to be familiar with a lady. The tune records White's proficiency in storytelling through his songwriting abilities. "Oh Me, Oh My (I'm Such a Lucky Guy)" showcases White's gratitude for his love and life. The tune is driven by a funky bassline and lavish orchestral arrangements, perfectly complementing White's deep, sensuous vocals.

" How Did You Know It Was Me?" closes the album on a high note. The seven-minutes-long funk-tinged track tells the tale of an undercover rendezvous, mixing soulful melodies with a compelling dance ambiance.

Production and Instrumentation
Barry White is understood for his extraordinary talent as a singer, songwriter, and manufacturer. For this album, White was both an entertainer and producer, working along with partners Gene Page, Frank Kejmar, and Paul Elmore to create a noise that was real to his musical identity. The abundant, multi-layered orchestration and top quality production contribute to the distinctive Barry White noise, leaving an unforgettable impression on listeners.

The instrumentation features a complete orchestra, a brass area, smooth string arrangements, and the directing presence of an effective rhythm section. The beautiful orchestration combined with White's distinct baritone creates an environment of heat and love that permeates the entire album.

Important Reception and Legacy
While "I Love to Sing the Songs I Sing" didn't receive the same business success as White's previous albums, it was still well gotten by fans and critics alike. The album reached No. 40 on the Billboard R&B Albums chart and No. 150 on the Billboard 200 chart. The title track even peaked at No. 27 on the R&B Singles chart.

Regardless of not being his most popular work, "I Love to Sing the Songs I Sing" stays an essential part of Barry White's discography. The album showcases White's indisputable skill and special style, giving fans a snapshot of the singer's flexibility within the R&B and soul genres. The album is a testimony to White's timeless appeal and the lasting impact of his music, as he continues to be celebrated and remembered as a famous artist in the hearts of his fans.