The three original members of Brownstone were Nicole "Nicci" Gilbert, Charmayne "Maxee" Maxwell and Monica "Mimi" Doby. The group was founded in Los Angeles after the three singers met each other after going to different auditions around the city. They formed the group, and less than a year later were signed to Michael Jackson's MJJ Music Record Label. They recorded their debut album, From the Bottom Up which spawned the hit "If You Love Me". In 1995 the band was rewarded with a Grammy nomination and a Billboard Music Award.
After extensive touring around the globe, Doby left the group after what was released in the media. In an interview with BET Video Soul host Donnie Simpson Doby cited a medical problem of bronchitis, but was later revealed to be because of internal strife with the other two members of the group[citation needed]. She was replaced by Kina Cosper and after a difficult transition period where their audience was not very receptive to the change, Brownstone had a brief showing with "5 Miles to Empty". However, the group never regained their popularity, and their subsequent albums were considered commercial failures.
Since the group broke up Nicole "Nicci" Gilbert has acted in the 1998 film Woo, staring Jada Pinkett Smith and Dave Chappelle, as well as television shows Living Single, Sister, Sister, New York Undercover, and Martin and the 2004 Tyler Perry play Meet the Browns as Aunt Vera.
If You Love Me
Brownstone Lyrics
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But I'm starting to question the love that was made
I'm not looking for just an affair
Want a love that is based on truth, not just dare
You will not hurt my pride if right now you decide
That you are not ready to settle down
But if you want my heart then it's time that you start
If you love me, say it
If you trust me, do it
If you want me, show it
If you need me, prove it
If you love me, say it
If you trust me, do it
If you want me, show it
If you need me, prove it
You see now actions speak louder than words
So don't just say things that I've already heard
Don't want your body without your soul
I don't want a love who will come here and go
You will not hurt my pride if right now you decide
That you are not ready to settle down
But if you want my heart then it's time that you start
To act like you're mine in the light and the dark
If you love me, say it
If you trust me, do it
If you want me, show it
If you need me, prove it
If you love me, say it
If you trust me, do it
If you want me, show it
Prove it
If you love me, say it
If you want me, baby, do it
I will do what (show it) you want me to do
Yes, I (prove it)
Say it (baby)
Do it, show it, prove it
Oh I, oh I, I want to touch you, baby
And spread my love all around you, honey
And if you come, you gotta show it, baby
True love to share
(Show it, prove it)
Say it, do it
Show it, prove it (oh, babe)
Say it, do it (oh, baby, my sweet, baby)
Show it, prove it (my sweet, baby)
Say it, do it (my sweet, baby)
Show it, prove it (my sweet, baby, oh, baby)
Say it, do it (say it, baby, oh, baby)
Show it, prove it (you better say, better say)
Say it, do it (oh, that you love me only)
Show it, prove it (Mimi, say it, say it to, Brownstone is here for you)
Oh, baby, sing, baby
Oh, baby, oh, baby, baby
The funky, funky can't lose
The funky, funky can't lose
Lots of flavor for the fever
Strong like stone
Earthy color brown (oh, like stone)
Strong like stone
Earthy color brown
Strong like stone
Earthy color brown
Strong like stone
Earthy color brown
(Strong like stone)
Say it (guess it's time that we out)
(Earthy color brown) do it
(Strong like stone) show it
(Earthy color brown) prove it
Say it (babe), do it (babe)
Show it, prove it
The lyrics of Brownstone's song "If You Love Me" express the desire for a love that is based on truth and commitment, rather than just physical attraction. The singer admits to questioning the authenticity of the love that has been made and is yearning for a love that is not just a casual affair. The chorus is a plea for the partner to show their love through their actions, and not just with words, by saying, doing, showing and proving their love. The singer emphasizes that actions speak louder than words and that they do not want a love that is temporary and fleeting.
The lyrics of the song are relatable to anyone who has been in a relationship where they were unsure about the other person's intentions and commitment. The song encourages open and honest communication in relationships, where partners should not be afraid to express their love and commitment to each other. The song has a classic R&B sound and its catchy chorus makes it an enduring hit.
Line by Line Meaning
I don't want to rain on this parade
I do not want to spoil the moment or bring negativity to this situation.
But I'm starting to question the love that was made
I am beginning to doubt the authenticity of our love and connection.
I'm not looking for just an affair
I am seeking a deep and genuine love, not just a temporary romantic fling.
I want a love that is based on truth not just dare
I am looking for a love that has a strong foundation of honesty and authenticity, not just a fleeting game or challenge.
If you love me, say it
If you truly have feelings of love for me, then express them verbally.
If you trust me, do it
If you have faith in me and our relationship, then take actions that reflect that trust.
If you want me, show it
If you have a strong desire to be with me, then demonstrate that through your behavior and actions.
If you need me, prove it
If you truly rely on me and see me as a significant person in your life, then demonstrate that importance through your actions.
You see now actions speak louder than words
It is not enough to simply say something, it is more important to demonstrate that through actions.
So don't just say things that I've already heard
Repeating the same words and promises is not enough to build a strong and genuine love.
Don't want your body without your soul
I am looking for a deeper emotional connection and relationship, not just physical intimacy.
I don't want a love who will come here and go
I am not interested in a temporary or fleeting love that will quickly come and go.
Oh I, oh I, I want to touch you, baby
I have a strong desire to physically connect and be intimate with you.
And spread my love all around you, honey
I want to express and share my genuine love for you with you.
And if you come, you gotta show, baby
If you want to truly connect with me, you need to demonstrate your feelings and commitment through your actions.
True love to share
I am looking for a genuine and authentic love that we can both share and cultivate together.
Lyrics © CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Dave Hall, Erick S Sermon, Gordon Anthony Chambers, Kevin Madison, Nicole Gilbert
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind