Big Willie Style

11/18/1997 3:00 AM, LAUNCH
J.R. Reynolds

The charismatic rapper-turned-actor comes home with a project befitting his pop status. It's probably asking too much for a movie box-office draw to record anything too far left of suburban mainstream. Still, using live instruments on various tracks, Big Willie Style manages to sneak in a few morsels of street hip-hop. "I Loved You," is a rubber-neck groove chock-full of soul-struttin' beats and smooth rap vocals. "Chasing Forever" is a dreamy tune reminiscent of "Summer Time," a midtempo smash Will recorded as the Fresh Prince. "Miami" is a saucy giddy-up dance groove that taps Will's trademark rap cadence, while "Yes Yes Y'All" draws from familiar Isley Brothers rhythms as rapper Camp Lo joins the party on a slow jam sure to please. On "Candy," Will issues romantic pleas to prospective lovers atop hooks and choruses by Cameo and its lead vocalist Larry Blackmon. And yes, Will's longtime partner DJ Jazzy Jeff joins the fun scratching and producing.