Maxwell tells the object of his affection that his motives are honorable, not sexual, on “Get to Know Ya.” Several cuts value lifelong romantic commitment. “Symptom Unknown” speaks of growing old together. Proving that divorce leaves emotional scars on children, a man afraid of losing his lady flashes back to the pain he felt as a preschooler when his parents split up (“Changed”). “This Woman’s Work” finds an expectant father in awe of the mother’s role in giving life (this moment is bittersweet for the singer, who expresses relational regrets).
On “Was My Girl,” a guy tries to coax a reluctant girlfriend into bed. Elsewhere he confesses in the midst of a sexual proposition, “I been thinking nasty thoughts about you” (“Temporary Night”). While not explicit, “Silently” eavesdrops on a lovemaking session.
In a genre dominated by rap and hip-hop acts, this 28-year-old, Grammy-nominated R&B artist specializes in more traditional urban soul. His messages follow suit. No obscenities or macho bragging. No pimpin’, smokin’ blunts or sippin’ Henney. In fact, songs on Now support the belief that monogamy is healthy. Were it not for a few inappropriate sexual overtures, this could’ve been a worthwhile pick.
