Billy Crawford

by David GonzalesOn June 15, 1999, 17-year-old Billy Crawford released his self-titled American debut. The U.S. version of the album contains two songs, "Come into My Life" and "Supernatural," recorded in Sweden after being initially released in the fall of 1998 in France, Scandinavia, Indonesia, Japan, and Thailand, and Taiwan in June of 1999. Crawford was born in 1982 in Manila, the Philippines, to an American father and a Filipino mother, and moved to Texas in 1994. In 1997, he signed with the American affiliate of the London-based V2 Music. As a fan of old-school rhythm & blues, he cites influences such as soul legends Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and Al Green. Crawford's debut reflects his interests; it's a mature blend of pop and R&B, leaning heavily toward the soul/R&B side of things. "Urgently in Love" is an upbeat, exciting number featuring, in addition to Crawford's urgent vocals, singer Nona Hendryx. Crawford has a strikingly soulful voice and reaches a sweet falsetto as well. He puts these talents to use on "Come into My Life," a catchy, thrilling piece that presents a strong, penetrating melody. His singing on "Our Night" reminds one of the vocal intonations of the Artist Formerly Known as Prince. The album drags a bit on "You Got It" and "Higher than High," but overall, the release is quite effective.