What makes Other Voices by Paul Young notable?

The album features the single 'Heaven Can Wait,' which reached the top 20 in several countries, showcasing Young's continued appeal. Additionally, it received positive reviews for its production quality and vocal arrangements, solidifying Young's reputation as a skilled interpreter of classic soul influences. Released in 1990, Other Voices marked Paul Young's fourth studio album during a period of transition following his commercial peak in the late 1980s. After achieving significant success with hit singles like 'Everytime You Go Away,' this album sought to re-establish his presence in the evolving pop landscape of the early '90s.

Who is Other Voices for?

Other Voices works well if you're into steady melodic journeys, heartfelt emotional storytelling and reflective late-night listening.

How many songs are on Other Voices?

Other Voices has 10 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

Other Voices

Paul Young · 1990

45 min · 10 tracks · rhythm and blues

A smooth blend of soul and R&B infused with heartfelt melodies and evocative vocal performances.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Heaven Can Wait — This track stands out not only for its catchy melody but also for its reflective lyrics that explore themes of love and longing, encapsulating the album's emotional core.
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Softly Whispering I Love You — Young's interpretation of this classic song showcases his vocal range and emotional delivery, making it a highlight that resonates with the album's romantic undertones.
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It’s What She Didn’t Say — This song features intricate songwriting that delves into unspoken emotions, highlighting Young's ability to convey depth in relationships through music.

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 features solid vocal performances and arrangements but lacks standout compositions that elevate it beyond its genre.

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 emotional tone.
Vocal harmonies are layered throughout, often featuring call-and-response sections that enhance the soulful feel of the tracks.
Several tracks incorporate lush instrumental arrangements, including strings and horns, which contribute to the overall smoothness of the sound.

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 3/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady melodic journeys
heartfelt emotional storytelling
reflective late-night listening
romantic intimate moments

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1990, Other Voices marked Paul Young's fourth studio album during a period of transition following his commercial peak in the late 1980s. After achieving significant success with hit singles like 'Everytime You Go Away,' this album sought to re-establish his presence in the evolving pop landscape of the early '90s.
Stylistic neighbors: Simply Red· Seal· Billy Ocean