In 1988, Scottish singer Sheena Easton, who was already known for her smooth pop and adult contemporary hits, made a bold move with “The Lover In Me.” This sleek, R&B-flavored track kicked off her album of the same name and marked a fresh new chapter in her career—one that helped her reconnect with fans on both sides of the Atlantic.
The song came from the powerhouse trio Babyface, L.A. Reid, and Daryl Simmons, who were dominating the late ’80s R&B scene. Their signature sound—think smooth grooves, catchy synths, and soulful melodies—was the perfect fit for Easton as she shifted away from her earlier, more buttoned-up image. “The Lover In Me” brought out a sultrier, more urban vibe, with an infectious bassline, a driving beat, and Easton’s confident, almost whispered vocals that oozed sensuality.
The track was a big hit, breaking into the U.S. Top 10 and climbing all the way to number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also marked Easton’s first Top 20 hit in the UK in seven years, reaching number 15 on the charts there. This success proved she wasn’t just a pop darling from the past—she could evolve and keep up with the changing musical landscape.
The album The Lover In Me continued that reinvention, with even Prince getting involved—under the name “Joey Coco”—on tracks like “101” and “Cool Love,” adding a deeper funk edge to the record. Easton fully embraced the contemporary R&B sound, and it clearly clicked with both fans and critics.
Today, “The Lover In Me” stands out as a highlight in Sheena Easton’s varied career. It’s a perfect example of an artist stepping out of her comfort zone and delivering a polished, memorable R&B hit that captured the sophisticated urban-pop vibe of the late ’80s. The song’s success showed just how talented and adaptable Easton really is, proving she could thrive in whatever musical direction she chose.