Billy Ocean Releases New Album “One World”

Billy Ocean preaches about love and hope on his first CD in seven years, One World

One of the eighties’ most distinguished R&B and pop voices who brought us upbeat jams like “Caribbean Queen (No More Love on the Run)” and tender ballads with “Love Zone” continues earning the love from fans and critics. When not in the studio, Billy Ocean still tours internationally on occasion. But presently there is a joyous studio reunion as the U.K native, Trinidad & Tobago born smooth stylist teams with his hit-making producer back in the day, Barry Eastmond — dropping a soulfully satisfying set of new material called One World (Sony Music).

Within a variety of musical settings, Ocean focuses on a positive mood. There is plenty to dance to throughout One World. The title track meshes a triumphant gospel, world and house music festival, while pleasing Caribbean rhythms carries Daylight. Of course, Eastmond has not forgotten those grooves that propelled Ocean’s hitmaking days, as evidenced on “When I Saw You.” Not to forget the ballads, “Nothing Will Stand in Our Way” bathes in strings, offering hope to stay the romantic course. “Feel the Love humbly asks for a second chance and the R&B crooner comes out on “Missing You Everyday.” What is key in the long run, Ocean’s keen phrasing and rich tone successfully holds One World all together.

Peggy Oliver
The Urban Music Scene