11 Songs From Addams Family Values
“Addams Family Values” (1993) was a brilliant sequel to the 1991 film “The Addams Family.” And its songs deserves its own round of applause. Released on Atlas Records in late 1993, the “Addams Family Values” album is a blend of hip-hop, R&B, and covers of some classic 1970s funk and soul hits.
The album featured artists from the 90s performing some of the most iconic tracks of the 70s:
- Charles & Eddie took on Ben E. King’s “Supernatural Thing”, a song that was originally penned by Haras Fyre.
- H-Town gave us their version of The Isley Brothers’ timeless classic “It’s Your Thing.”
- The trio of Shabba Ranks, Patra, and Terri & Monica tackled Sly & the Family Stone’s “Family Affair.”
- R. Kelly and Mad Cobra took on Isaac Hayes’ “Do Your Thing.”
Speaking of collaborations, the album also featured a remixed version of Tag Team’s hit “Whoomp! (There It Is)”, which was titled “Addams Family (Whoomp!).” This track was the lead single.
Interestingly, Michael Jackson was initially roped in by Paramount Pictures to churn out a horror-themed song for the film. However, due to personal challenges and controversies, Jackson couldn’t complete the project, and his song “Is It Scary” didn’t make it to the film. But the song later found its way to his 1997 album “Blood on the Dance Floor (HIStory in the Mix)”. The intended video for the song was also completed and released as the short film “Ghosts”.
1. “It’s Your Thing” by H-Town
H-Town, the R&B vocal group from Houston, Texas, brings their signature sound to this track. Their version of “It’s Your Thing” is a modern take on The Isley Brothers’ classic. The group, which originally consisted of twin brothers Keven “Dino” Conner, Solomon “Shazam” Conner, and their longtime friend Darryl “G.I.”
2. “Be Thankful for What You Got” by Portrait
Portrait, a R&B and hip hop group, took this classic and added their R&B flair to it. Founded in Los Angeles, California, Portrait became renowned for their harmonious vocals and smooth ballads. The group’s members are Michael Angelo Saulsberry, Irving Washington III, Eric Kirkland, and Philip Johnson.
3. “Express Yourself” by Roger and Fu-Schnickens
Roger Troutman, known for his use of the talk box and his leadership of the funk band Zapp, brings a distinctive electro-funk vibe to the track. His collaboration with Fu-Schnickens, an American hip-hop trio comprised of Chip Fu, Moc Fu, and Poc Fu, results in a track that’s both energetic and lyrically profound.
4. “Whatcha See Is Whatcha Get” by RuPaul
RuPaul is the iconic singer and television personality, known globally as the face of drag, thanks to the hit reality show “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” RuPaul has an impressive musical career that spans decades. This track showcases RuPaul’s versatile vocal range and ability to adapt various musical styles. While the original song by The Dramatics was a soulful number rooted in the sounds of the 70s, RuPaul’s version adds a splash of 90s glam and pop.
5. “Family Affair” by Shabba Ranks, Patra, with Terri & Monica
Shabba Ranks, a Jamaican dancehall musician, known for hits like “Mr. Loverman” and “Ting-a-ling”, brings his distinctive voice and style to this rendition. He’s joined by Patra, the queen of dancehall, who rose to prominence in the 90s with tracks like “Queen of the Pack” and “Romantic Call”.
Adding to the mix are Terri & Monica, an R&B duo who bring a soulful touch to this track. Together, they transform Sly & the Family Stone’s “Family Affair” into a fusion of genres, blending dancehall’s upbeat rhythms with the smoothness of R&B.
6. “Night People” by Brian McKnight
Brian McKnigh is the multi-talented R&B artist. Known for his romantic ballads like “Back at One” and “One Last Cry”, Brian adds depth and emotion to this track.
7. “Supernatural Thing” by Charles & Eddie
Charles & Eddie are the duo known for their global hit “Would I Lie to You?.” Their rendition of Ben E. King’s song is both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.
8. “Do Your Thing (Love On)” by R. Kelly and Mad Cobra
When R&B meets dancehall, you get this electric track. R. Kelly, with his sultry vocals and knack for catchy hooks, pairs brilliantly with Mad Cobra’s reggae-infused verses. The song, originally by Isaac Hayes, is transformed into a rhythmic blend of two genres. It’s a track that makes you want to dance and sing along.
9. “Do It Any Way You Wanna (It’s on You)” by Guru
Guru is a pivotal figure in the hip-hop world and one-half of the legendary group Gang Starr. With its jazzy undertones and Guru’s thought-provoking verses, it’s a song that challenges listeners to think while they groove.
10. “May You Always Drink Bizarre” by P.M. Dawn
P.M. Dawn is known for their ethereal and dreamy soundscapes. “May You Always Drink Bizarre” is a song that transports listeners to another realm, with its poetic lyrics and otherworldly melodies.
11. “Addams Family (Whoomp!)” by Tag Team
Tag Team’s remix of the hit “Whoomp! (There It Is)” is sprinkled with references to the Addams Family, making it both fun and catchy. The song’s energetic beats and memorable chorus make it a favorite among fans of the film and 90s hip-hop enthusiasts alike.
