I could go on for hours about the relationship from my point of view, but let's focus instead on what really matters... The music. This disc is an interesting blend of just about every style of music Prince is known for. From funk, to hip hop; pop to soul; gospel to jazz; the ground work is laid down with smart arrangements and flawless production styling. From the opening track, you get the impression this disc is going to be something truly interesting and unique. 'Come 2 My House' is a breezy flowing tune with laid back vocals and a mellow vibe. Even though there's a minor chord progression happening, the song is wrought with anticipation and seduction. Chaka invites the listener into her private world for an intimate experience. She promises a relaxing mood, a soothing sound and the chance to play into a climax unlike any you've ever experienced before. And play she does.
Old Prince collaborator Clare Fischer sweeps in with an orchestral segue between the opening track and 'This Crazy Life Of Mine'. Although written by Prince, it seems like an autobiographical number painting a picture of Chaka's childhood and what drew her to singing as a career. This ballad includes some orchestration from Fischer and not the most interesting or progressive number in the pack, it still holds up compared to other songs in a similar vein. 'Betcha n' is the first number to give you an idea what's really happening on this record. It kicks in with a wicked beat and never really lets you go. Chaka's vocals are highly animated and showcase her versatility. No doubt, one of the stronger numbers here. It's followed up by the equally impressive 'Spoon'. It's also the first non-prince composition on the disc. The beat is provocative and the lyrics are absolutely stunning. "You are just like my favorite spoon, cause you stir me up"... Could you think of a sexier compliment to give a lover?
Queen Latifah guests on 'Pop My Clutch'; another tense funk number that really grinds gears as it rocks your speakers. There's some punctuated horn playing giving the song a hint of jazz. When Latifah starts rapping, the horns become more prominent and a piano is heard up front and center in the mix. It's an exciting blend and the blending of rap, jazz and funk is awe inspiring. The next track is another number I'm excited about. 'Journey 2 The Center Of Your ♥' was an outtake I'd heard many times before, but never with such excellent sound quality. It's one of my favorite Prince songs and although I'd much rather hear him singing it, Khan delivers a powerful but faithful rendition. It's hardly worth scoffing at.
'n'll Never B Another Fool' features a deep bass and rocking rhythm guitar over a heavy drum beat and some improvisational vocalization from Khan. She really cuts loose with this one. Not only are the lyrics different and unusual, they're shocking without being naughty. The song deals with a woman finally facing the truth about her unfaithful lover and vowing never to let herself be used again. 'Democrazy' is a straight up pop effort criticizing government and the illusion of freedom in democracy. Those who listened to Prince at the time and since are well aware of his Jehovah's Witness inspired dislike of government. Surprisingly, it's actually a great tune and the music is really enjoyable. It's the sort of pop Prince rarely makes so when it happens, it's usually fun. The next number is positively heavenly. It's all about recognizing something in someone you've never met before. It's the whole, "Love-at-first-sight" theme but with some pre-existential religion just to make a point. She likens this kind of love to the kind of love a baby feels from its mother. It's just natural and present.
'Reconsider (U Betta)' is another funky number featuring typical Prince lyrics and music. It's got an incredible mid tempo beat and is common for Prince compositions from the mid-90's when he was flirting with some of the changes in Hip Hop sounds. He tried to incorporate it into his sound with varying degrees of success. This song is an example of one that turned out good. It's followed by 'Don't Talk 2 Strangers'; which was originally intended for the "I'll Do Anything" soundtrack. Prince's version has been floating around with collectors for years and he eventually released a version on the "Girl 6" soundtrack. Chaka's version is virtually identical to Prince's except hearing her sing these lines sounds more sincere. She identifies with the tune much more than Prince does.
The record is rounded out by the other two non-Prince compositions, 'Hair' (a cover of Larry Graham's song) and 'The Drama'. Both of the tracks are excellent and take the record out on a high note. They're both extremely enjoyable, with 'Hair' starting off almost on a psychedelic note. 'The Drama' has a deep and heavy drum track with Chaka once again demonstrating some amazing control and range. By the time the CD is over, you're ready for it to start again. Of the three discs NPG Records released that year, this was easily my favorite. Something about the blend between Chaka Khan and Prince just works. They connect and work very well together. I'd love to hear more. Sadly, there's no telling if it will ever happen.
All in all, this is one of the strongest Chaka Khan records to date. It's also one of the strongest side projects Prince has ever produced. It has all the elements you love of both artists and so much more. If you own it, you know what I'm talking about. If you don't, I suggest you find it before it becomes extinct. It's worth the money. My final words: I CAME, I LISTENED, I STAYED FOR MORE. IN FACT, I WANNA MOVE IN.
CHAKA KHAN - COME 2 MY HOUSE
01. Come 2 My House
02. (Intro)
03. This Crazy Life Of Mine
04. Betcha n
05. Spoon
06. Pop My Clutch
07. Journey 2 The Center Of Your ♥
08. n'll Never B Another Fool
09. Democrazy
10. n Remember U
11. Reconsider (U Betta)
12. Don't Talk 2 Strangers
13. Hair
14. The Drama
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