Just weeks into the new millennium, D’Angelo released his sophomore album Voodoo. His musical origin story is like that of many Black American greats–his theory is rooted in the church but the lure of the secular sphere shaped his artistry.
The influence of Prince is undeniable in D’Angelo’s work, but the impact of Marvin Gaye permeates throughout the album. Both were born to Southern-bred Pentecostal clergymen. Both were blessed with looks that made women lose all reasoning, yet they grieved the art being lost to the image. Both straddled the faith and the flesh, with music that blurred the lines of an altar call and an after-hours romp. D’Angelo revealed that after Marvin’s 1984 death he would have vivid dreams where he believed Marvin was visiting him.
The first song recorded for Voodoo was “Send It On.” What appears to be a love song could just as easily be seen as a cry out to God, especially towards the end when D’Angelo sings, “Sometime/We don't know what else to say/But it's alright.” He is accompanied by churchhouse groans as he sings these lyrics. It is reminiscent of the scripture Romans 8:26-28:
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And He who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. (NIV)
The song captures one of Marvin’s qualities that so few have ever replicated–the ability to convey struggle and strife with beauty and elegance. A song that might not have the answers but still has a resolve.
Voodoo dropped on January 25, 2000, but it sounds so fitting as we navigate this current world. Whatever your feelings may be, “send it up/send it through.”
Below is a stellar performance of “Send It On,” when D’Angelo appeared on VH1’s Men Strike Back. The night was supposed to be eye candy for the ladies, but before the song was over, D’Angelo nearly broke into intercession.
Historic Moments
January 25, 1980: BET launches
Black Entertainment Television, founded by former couple Robert L. Johnson and Sheila Johnson, initially began as a programming block on the USA Network. By 1983, it was a standalone channel.
January 26, 2005: Condoleezza Rice is installed as Secretary of State
A piano prodigy turned politico, she is the only Black woman to have served in the role.
Music Momento
January 25, 1975: “Fire” by the Ohio Players reaches #1 on the Billboard Hot 100
Ohio Players drummer James “Diamond” Williams recently revealed he didn’t even think “Fire” would be known in 50 years, but its perennial presence in media has proven otherwise.
What Has Us Hyped This Week
Australian Open
Taylor Townsend and Ben Shelton have made it to the quarterfinals of the Australian Open. Ben is competing in men’s singles, and Taylor is partnered with Kateřina Siniaková in the women’s doubles.
January 24: New Music from Kevin Ross
R&B faithful Kevin Ross is releasing his newest single “Love in the Middle.”
January 26: Daniels v. Hurts in the NFC Championship game
Washington Commanders rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels pulled off one of the biggest shocks in NFL history by leading his long-suffering franchise to a conference championship, but Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is here to remind people why he has already led his team to a Super Bowl berth. This should be box office.
January 26: Watson premieres
Morris Chestnut stars in a modern-day interpretation of Dr. John H. Watson, the dear friend of Sherlock Holmes. The series will air on CBS.
January 26: Aaliyah doll restock
Fans of Baby Girl sold out the Barbie doll released on what would have been her 46th birthday within hours. Fortunately, Target is doing a release on January 26, but act fast–preorders have already sold out!
Closing Thoughts
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