The year was 1997 and Soul Food came out. It was one of the rare movies that felt distinctly black and authentic in a sea of movies and shows that portrayed black life as problematic. The cast read like hall of fame with Vivica A. Fox, Nia Long, Vanessa Williams, and Mekhi Phifer to just name a few. But the soundtrack was what really resonated with me.
Housing one of the GREATEST Mother’s Day songs of all time, A Song For Mama ended up being a song aching to be learned. I went out and bought Boyz II Men’s Evolution album with my leftover birthday money, proceeded to read the lyrics in the liner’s notes, and play the song nonstop for two weeks. By the time actual Thanksgiving came around, I had memorized the entire song, harmonies and all.
Boyz II Men – A Song For Mama
While the video is hard to find and the quality is low, this is quintessential 90s R&B. The Babyface composition, potent lyrics, and occasionally nonsensical shots of random CGI objects made for a classic at that time. I ended up having to sing this over the phone and whenever guests arrived until late February, but it was worth it. My Moms deserved it.
Moms, no matter who you are and your story with your family is. Today is for you. Thank you. Because without you, there wouldn’t be any of us. We love you!
Turn Your Brightness Up!
Everything you’ve given me
I’ll always keep it inside
You’re the driving force in my life, yeah
There isn’t anything
Or anyone that I could be
And it just wouldn’t feel right
If I didn’t have you by my side
You were there for me to love and care for me
When skies were gray
Whenever I was down
You were always there to comfort me
And no one else can be
What you have been to me you will always be
You will always be the girl
In my life for all times
Oh you know I love you
Mama, Mama you’re the queen of my heart
Your love is like tears from the stars
Mama I just want you to know lovin’ you is like food to my soul
Have always been around for me even when I was bad
You showed me right from my wrong
Yes you did
And you took up for me
When everyone was downin’ me
You always did understand
You gave me strength to go on
There was so many times
Looking back when I was so afraid
And then you come to me and say to me
I can face anything
And no one else can do
What you have done for me
You’ll always be, you will always be
The girl in my life, ooh oh
Oh you know I love you
Mama, Mama you’re the queen of my heart
Your love is like tears from the stars
Mama I just want you to know lovin’ you is like food to my soul
Fills me up just thinkin’ about you
I’ll never go a day
Without my mama
Oh you know I love you
Mama, Mama you’re the queen of my heart
Your love is like tears from the stars
Mama I just want you to know lovin’ you is like food to my soul
Ohhhh yeah yeah
You are the food to my soul
Yes you are
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