If I Had My Way

AMG Review of If I Had My Way

Alex Henderson
All Music Guide

The 1990s found Nancy Wilson appealing to what was called the "new adult contemporary" market, as well as the black adult contemporary audience. The veteran singer wasn't embracing straight-ahead jazz (something she hadn't done a lot of anyway), although a few songs on If I Had My Way contain slightly jazzy touches. At 59, Wilson brings a relaxed confidence to "Loving You, Loving Me," "Hello Like Before" (a Bill Withers tune), "Anything for Your Love," and other pleasant pop and pop/R&B allads that would work equally well on an Anita Baker album. In fact, one of the CD's producers, Michael Powell, has often worked with Baker. Wilson's appealing voice had held up well, and she demonstrated that she could still be charming on this collection of enjoyable mood music.