Among Tevin Campbell’s early hits, “Can We Talk” stands out as a tender, soulful expression of teenage yearning and smooth vocal finesse. Released as the lead single from his sophomore album I’m Ready in September 1993, it topped the R&B charts and reached the top 10 on the pop charts.
About Tevin Campbell
Tevin Campbell, born in Waxahachie, Texas, was discovered singing in church and signed by Quincy Jones in his early teens. His debut album T.E.V.I.N. introduced hits like “Tell Me What You Want Me To Do,” but it was his follow-up I’m Ready that catapulted him to superstardom under the production of Babyface and Daryl Simmons.
Song Background & Significance
Written and produced by Babyface and Daryl Simmons, “Can We Talk” premiered in September 1993 as the lead single from I’m Ready. The track peaked at #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and held the #1 spot on Billboard’s R&B chart for three weeks, earning Gold certification in the U.S. It was nominated for a Grammy and later won the Soul Train Music Award for Best R&B/Soul Single – Male.
Music Video Insight
Directed by Marcus Nispel, the video was shot on location in New York City’s Central Park. It features Tevin Campbell confidently strolling through the park, serenading his love interest in cinematic close-ups and reflective shots that match the song’s romantic tone.
Legacy
Nearly three decades later, “Can We Talk” remains Tevin Campbell’s most enduring hit—a staple of ’90s R&B playlists. Its heartfelt delivery and Babyface’s production helped elevate Campbell’s reputation. The song still resonates on nostalgia stations and continues to appear in R&B retrospectives and tribute sets.
What’s your favorite Tevin Campbell song from the ’90s? Let us know in the comments below.
