The half century of chart domination of soul singer Jeffrey Osborne has come in several acts. It all began during his tenure as lead singer and major songwriter for the 70s funk band Love, Togetherness and Devotion, aka LTD. But then in 1982, Osborne began his second act, releasing a debut album that would take his career to a new level.
Released on the A&M label that had been Osborne’s home with LTD, his eponymous debut album was terrific, combining quirky dance tunes such as “I Really Don’t Need No Light” along with radio-friendly ballads like “On The Wings of Love.” But those who went deeper in the album found an Osborne-penned ballad masterpiece. “Congratulations” was a melancholic song in which the singer comes to a sad realization that his lost love was now moving forward in matrimony with someone else.
Baby, here I am
I told you I’d return in search of your love
But what I’ve come to find
Is not exactly easy to accept
You say your love is taken
For you got tired of waiting
And you will soon be joined forever
Osborne sings the beautiful ballad such conviction that it became a fan favorite — but one that never made it to radio. This week “Congratulations” is our SoulTracks Lost Gem. Check it out below.
By Chris Rizik
