"On The Wings of Love" by Jeffrey Osborne

Song#:  1188
Date:  09/25/1982
Debut:  83
Peak:  29
Weeks:  19
Genre:  R&B, Pop, Adult Contemporary



Pop Bits:  Osborne's debut album got off to a great start with the #3 R&B hit "I Really Don't Need No Light." It also became his first pop Top 40 entry reaching #39. This follow-up single didn't do quite as well at R&B, hitting #13, but the ballad increased his exposure on pop radio and went Top 30 while reaching #7 at AC. Although it would not end up being his biggest hit, it would arguable be his most well-known recording and serve as his signature song.

ReduxReview:  Although significantly cheezy, this is one sappy ballad that just works. The big chorus, the strings, the harp, and Osborne's voice all merge to make this treacly tune enjoyable. A lot of times these things tend to make my eyes roll, but I'd have to say that this one kind of makes me a little starry-eyed. It's not too sugary and avoids becoming saccharine, so I'll split the difference and consider it Splenda-rific.

ReduxRating:  7/10

Trivia:  Osborne's voice graced the opening credits of the ABC soap opera "Loving." From 1992-1995, the song "L-O-V-I-N-G," sung by Osborne, was used over the opening credits of the daytime drama. The short tune appears to never have been expanded into a full song and released.

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