Dearest Tamia, I'm so into you

Published on: 02/15/2007

Tamia,

You don't know how excited I am that you're coming to town this weekend. When I first heard you sing during Oprah's segment on "Q's Jook Joint," you put a move on my heart. Quincy Jones brought an angel into my life in 1995, and my love of your gift has grown over the years.

Few interpret a lyric like you. Here's proof: Before you even released your self-titled debut in '98, you had three Grammy nominations. How fly is that!

We've come a long way together, girl — 2000 ushered in a new day for the both of us: "Stranger in My House" became an R&B chart topper — and my anthem. After I heard "Love Me in a Special Way," I almost forgot that it was DeBarge's hit first, and by the time "More" dropped, I'd been officially missing you for four years. But you delivered, with that CD and last year's underground hit "Between Friends."

When I heard that you have multiple sclerosis, I was beyond alarmed. I hope you're taking care of yourself.

And how's married life treating ya? Some songs — especially "Stranger," "Questions" and "Me" — have me wondering. You always seem so happy when I catch glimpses of you at Orlando Magic games or when you bring husband Grant Hill and your daughter out at concerts. Just know, if it doesn't work out, though I'm no NBA superstar, I would adore you; I wouldn't ignore you. Instead, I'd serenade you every day — and I'm a great cook.

Heck, we could sing "Spend My Life," your duet with Eric Benet, as often as you'd like. No matter what, I aim to be there Friday night, front and center, belting every word you sing.

What can I say? I really like what you've done to me. I'm so into you.

Yours in song,

Lamar Wilson