Page 9 - You and I: The Very Best of O'Bryan booklet

The lead single, “I’m Freaky,” was an upbeat, synth-funk song that
peaked at No. 15. Album tracks also receiving notice and airplay
were the romantic “Together Always;” the fluid instrumental “Soft
Touch;” and the energetic “Soul Train’s A Comin,’” which became
the theme song for Cornelius’ show from 1983 to 1987. The album
peaked at No. 13.

In May 1984, O’Bryan released “Be My Lover,” which became his
highest charting collection (peaking at No. 3). The first single —
the insistent, chugging “Lovelite” — marched to the top of the
Billboard R&B Singles chart. The success of “Lovelite” prompted
Capitol to release “Breakin’ Together” as the next single.

But it was O’Bryan’s penchant for ballads — the quiet storm staple
“Lady I Love You;” the lovelorn “You’re Always On My Mind;” and
“Go On And Cry,” which was the third single — that shone as the
album’s highlights. Also included on this compilation is the title
track, one of O’Bryan’s better uptempo songs.

Because of a lengthy negotiation with Capitol, a fourth album —
“Surrender” — was not released until December 1986. The single
choices were the up-tempo “Tenderoni” and “Driving Force,” but
arguably the strongest cuts on the album were three ballads —
“You Have Got To Come To Me,” “Maria” and “Is This For Real” —
that displayed O’Bryan’s musical and vocal development.