Az Yet

Az Yet's self-titled debut album, released in 1996, is a fascinating entry in the world of 90s R&B. The group, known for their smooth harmonies and emotive ballads, was greatly influenced by the genre's giants, and they were discovered by the renowned Babyface and his then-wife Tracey Edmonds.

One of the standout aspects of this album is the iconic single "Last Night," which became a major hit, reaching number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number one on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. The song is celebrated for its lush harmonies and compelling storytelling about a romantic evening, showcasing the group's vocal prowess.

Interestingly, the album also includes a cover of Chicago's "Hard to Say I'm Sorry," which was reimagined in a contemporary R&B style and featured Peter Cetera himself. This track further cemented their popularity and was noted for its cross-genre appeal, as it captured fans from both the R&B and pop/rock spheres.

Az Yet's debut album is a perfect expression of the 90s R&B sound, driven by emotional expression, polished production, and vocal sophistication, which helped the group carve out their place in music history. Babyface's production influence is evident throughout, lending the album a polished sheen that was quite characteristic of his work during that era.