Love Like This by Faith Evans Song Info
Love Like This stands as a pivotal release in Faith Evans's discography, marking a significant evolution in late 90s R&B. Released in 1998 as the lead single from her sophomore album Keep the Faith, the track showcased Evans' versatility as both a vocalist and songwriter. The song achieved remarkable commercial success, peaking at #7 on the US Billboard Hot 100 - a career milestone that remains her highest-charting solo achievement. Its international appeal was evident in its top 40 performances in markets like New Zealand and the United Kingdom, demonstrating R&B's growing global influence during this period. The song's creation involved an impressive collaboration of industry veterans. While Faith Evans contributed as a primary songwriter, the production team included Bad Boy Records' heavyweight Sean "Puffy" Combs, whose signature sound helped define the era. The track's innovative use of sampling deserves special attention - it cleverly incorporates elements from Chic Cheer (1978), showcasing the disco-R&B fusion that was gaining popularity in the late 90s. This sample choice was particularly significant as it bridged two distinct eras of dance music, with Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards' contribution adding a layer of disco authenticity to the modern R&B production. Musically, "Love Like This" represents a masterclass in production techniques of the era. The track's arrangement balances sophisticated vocal harmonies with a driving rhythm section, while the sampling work demonstrates the art of recontextualizing classic elements for contemporary audiences. Critics particularly praised its production for creating what Billboard termed a "surprisingly bouncy, retro-vibed jam." The song's success lies in its ability to combine contemporary R&B sensibilities with classic disco elements, creating a timeless sound that continues to influence modern productions. The music video, helmed by legendary director Hype Williams, exemplifies the high-budget, visually striking aesthetic of late 90s R&B videos. Williams, known for his innovative use of fish-eye lenses and vibrant color palettes, created a memorable visual experience centered around a roller skating rink - a setting that perfectly complemented the song's retro-modern fusion. The cameo appearances by Countess Vaughn and Marcus T. Paulk from "Moesha" weren't just celebrity features; they represented the strong connection between R&B music and African American television culture of the period. The song's cultural impact extends well beyond its initial release. Its ranking at #43 on Billboard's retrospective list of 1998's greatest songs speaks to its enduring appeal. Perhaps more significantly, its sampling in Fatman Scoop's Be Faithful demonstrates how Love Like This itself became source material for future generations, creating a musical lineage that spans decades. The track's influence can be heard in contemporary R&B productions that blend retro elements with modern production techniques, cementing its place in the evolution of urban music.
