What makes It's Goin' Down by Ralph Tresvant notable?

The album reached No. 10 on the Billboard 200 and showcased Tresvant's vocal prowess in a contemporary R&B landscape that was evolving with new jack swing influences. Its commercial success helped solidify his status as a prominent figure in 90s R&B, influencing later artists in the genre. Released in 1993, It's Goin' Down was Ralph Tresvant's second solo album after his successful self-titled debut in 1990. At this point in his career, Tresvant was transitioning from his role as the lead singer of New Edition to establishing himself as a solo artist, building on the momentum of his earlier work.

How many songs are on It's Goin' Down?

It's Goin' Down has 13 tracks, running approximately 61 minutes.

It's Goin' Down

Ralph Tresvant · 1993

61 min · 13 tracks · pop music

Smooth R&B grooves intertwine with playful lyrics, showcasing a blend of romantic charm and danceable rhythms.

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Top tracks — play these first

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It's Goin' Down — The title track encapsulates the album's energetic vibe, blending catchy hooks with an infectious rhythm that embodies the spirit of early 90s R&B.
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Who's The Mack — This track stands out for its clever lyricism and smooth production, highlighting Tresvant’s ability to blend romance with confidence, making it a fan favorite.
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My Aphrodisiac — With its seductive undertones and sultry melodies, this song showcases Tresvant's vocal range and lyrical flair, perfectly capturing the album's romantic themes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album balances danceable grooves with romantic themes, showcasing Tresvant's vocal skills in a transitional R&B context.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features upbeat tracks that maintain a consistent dance tempo, while the second half shifts to slower, more romantic ballads.
Several tracks utilize layered vocal harmonies, with Tresvant's lead vocals often accompanied by backing singers that enhance the melodic structure.
The production employs smooth R&B grooves with prominent bass lines and rhythmic percussion, characteristic of early 90s new jack swing influences.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Who's The Mack

The moment shifts focus to confidently addressing a romantic rival directly within the verses.

This direct confrontation adds an assertive layer to the narrative, contrasting with the more typical love song tropes present throughout the album.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Graveyard 4:58
2 Shaky Ground 4:27
3 Who's The Mack 4:50
4 It's Goin' Down 5:11
5 You'll Remember Me 4:02
6 My Aphrodisiac 3:48
7 When I Need Somebody 4:44
8 Sex Maniac 4:59
9 The Booty Affair 4:14
10 Love At First Sight 5:04
11 Your Touch 5:37
12 G-Spot 5:30
13 Sex-O 4:05

What to play next

Listen next

Rizz-Wa-Faire

2006

Go back to

Ralph Tresvant

1990

Full Ralph Tresvant discography Artists like Ralph Tresvant

pop music

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata