What makes Level II by Blackstreet notable?

Upon its release, Level II debuted at number 24 on the Billboard 200 chart, showcasing Blackstreet's enduring appeal despite changing musical trends. The album also features collaborations and production from notable figures in the industry, further solidifying its place within the R&B genre during this period. It has been recognized for its contributions to new jack swing and has influenced subsequent artists seeking to blend traditional R&B with contemporary sounds. Level II is Blackstreet's fourth studio album, released in 2003, following their commercial success with Another Level in 1996. At this point in their career, the group was navigating lineup changes and striving to maintain their relevance in the evolving R&B landscape. The album came after a six-year hiatus, marking a significant return for the group as they sought to recapture their earlier magic.

How many songs are on Level II?

Level II has 18 tracks, running approximately 65 minutes.

Level II

Blackstreet · 2003

65 min · 18 tracks · new jack swing

Smooth harmonies intertwine with rhythmic grooves, crafting a polished sound that embodies the essence of early 2000s R&B.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Don't Touch — This track exemplifies the catchy hooks and smooth production that Blackstreet is known for, making it a standout party anthem. Its infectious rhythm and playful lyrics capture the essence of early 2000s R&B.
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Ooh Girl — With its romantic lyrics and lush instrumentation, this song highlights Blackstreet's signature style of blending soulful melodies with modern production techniques. It's a classic example of their ability to evoke emotion through music.
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Friend of Mine — This track showcases poignant storytelling about love and friendship, revealing depth beyond the typical R&B themes. Its emotional weight resonates with listeners, making it one of the album’s most memorable moments.

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 showcases smooth harmonies and rhythmic grooves typical of early 2000s R&B but lacks standout tracks.

What we noticed

The first half of the album maintains a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the second half introduces slower ballads that shift the overall energy.
Several tracks feature call-and-response vocal arrangements, enhancing the interaction between the lead and backing vocals.
Interludes are strategically placed to break up the flow, providing brief pauses that create a sense of continuity across the longer tracklist.

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Ticket to Ride (intro) 3:17
2 Don't Touch 3:30
3 She's Hot 3:24
4 Deep 4:22
5 Ooh Girl 3:27
6 Friend of Mine 3:49
7 Interlude: What's the Fuss? 0:40
8 You Made Me 4:33
9 It's So Hard to Say Goodbye 4:15
10 Why, Why 3:34
11 Look in the Water 4:48
12 Baby You're All I Want 3:55
13 How We Do 3:48
14 Bygones 4:20
15 Interlude: Still Feelin' You 2:05
16 Brown Eyes 3:34
17 Wizzy Wow 3:52
18 Fly 3:51

What to play next

Listen next

No Diggity: The Very Best of Blackstreet

2003

Go back to

Finally

1999

Full Blackstreet discography Artists like Blackstreet

new jack swing

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata