The Meaning Behind The Song: Lately by Anita Baker

As a filmmaker, I have always been fascinated by the power of music to evoke emotions and tell stories. There are certain songs that have left a lasting impression on me, and one such song is “Lately” by Anita Baker. I first discovered this song during a pivotal moment in my life, and its lyrics resonated with me deeply.

I remember stumbling upon this song at a friend’s house. We were sitting in his living room, discussing our dreams and aspirations. The atmosphere was filled with uncertainty and anticipation, as we both were on the brink of embarking on our respective filmmaking journeys. Little did I know that “Lately” would become a soundtrack to those moments and would hold a much deeper meaning for me.

Anita Baker’s soulful voice and the heartfelt lyrics of “Lately” instantly captivated me. While the song was originally written and performed by Tyrese, Baker’s rendition brought a whole new level of emotion and vulnerability to the table. The way she sang about love and the complexities of relationships struck a chord within me.

The lyrics of “Lately” express a sense of self-reflection and a desire to express love more openly. It talks about the importance of not taking someone’s love for granted and the need to constantly remind them of our affection. The lines “Have I told you I love you lately? Have I told you that you mean the world to me lately?” remind us not to let our busy lives overshadow the importance of expressing our love and appreciation to those who matter most.

Furthermore, the song delves into the challenges we face in expressing our emotions. Sometimes, we may find it difficult to communicate our feelings, even though we deeply love someone. Baker’s interpretation of the lyrics beautifully captures this struggle, and her exceptional vocal talent truly shines in conveying the raw emotions embedded within the words.

For me, “Lately” serves as a reminder to cherish the people we love and to make a conscious effort to express our feelings. Life can be chaotic and demanding, often causing us to take our loved ones for granted. However, through this song, Anita Baker reminds us of the importance of love, communication, and vulnerability.

Listening to “Lately” by Anita Baker not only brings back memories of that pivotal moment in my life but also reminds me of the power of music to touch our hearts and souls. It serves as a constant reminder to be present in our relationships and to appreciate the love that surrounds us.

So, the next time you hear “Lately” playing on your favorite playlist, take a moment to reflect on the meaning behind the lyrics. Let Anita Baker’s soul-stirring voice and heartfelt rendition inspire you to express your love and appreciation to those who matter most in your life.

About the Song:

Anita Baker’s version of “Lately” is a cover of the original song by Tyrese, released in 1999. It was included in Baker’s 2012 album titled “Lately.” The song was produced by The Underdogs and was written by Tyrese and Derek Allen.

Tags:

R&B, Ballad, Cover, Jazz, Soul Jazz, Soul

Credits:

Produced By The Underdogs (Producers)

Written By Tyrese & Derek “D.O.A.” Allen

Release Date: August 3, 2012