Although classic vocal harmony groups were radio staples in the ‘90s, the current decade hasn’t been so kind to either the male or female variety. One group that has stood the test of time, however, is All-4-One, who made their international splash with a rousing cover of John Michael Montgomery’s country hit, “I Swear.”
Lovingly dubbed as “the Dukes of R&B,” the GRAMMY-winning quartet has released six albums over the course of their fifteen-year career. Their latest effort, No Regrets, features their best work yet – marking the return of their timeless sound to mainstream radio.
Upon the release of No Regrets, Tony Borowiak, Jamie Jones, Delious Kennedy, and Alfred Nevarez managed to squeeze some time out of their busy schedules and settle down for an interview with Clayton Perry — reflecting on “My Child,” their strong Asian following, and the roots of R&B.
While listening to No Regrets, I was instantly drawn to “My Child.” As a former teacher, I know that a lot of fathers and children have to undergo similar situations. Why do you think that song was so important to introduce your latest album?
Delious Kennedy: I don’t think that we knew that that would be the first single. It was one of those things. Jamie has this track to “My Child” and he gave me a few songs to listen to in the car. I want to believe that sometimes the music speaks to you. Sometimes you don’t know why you’re writing about something. I don’t have any kids but when I first started the song, it just sort of came out of nowhere. The music was kind of dictating what the song was about. I didn’t know why. I know I had friends in similar situations, but it was just weird. When I brought it to Jamie, you know they sort of understood what the significance of a song like “My Child” could have. I think Jamie said the one thing we love about “My Child” – besides the old-school sound of really strict R&B – is the fact that it’s causing conversation. People are talking about it. It could be one of those songs that could actually help heal situations, which is awesome.
Another one of my favorite songs on the album happens to be “Ol’ Fashion Lovin’.” You begin the song, interestingly enough, with this quote: "When did chivalry become such a crime?" When you look at the current musical landscape, most male R&B artists tend to have songs that revolve around sex or, at the very least, the prelude to sex. What classical elements of R&B do you wish to hold on to?
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