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The story behind the classic R&B hit "" is actually one of creative conflict and unexpected success. The Real Story Behind the Song
: Shanice was a fan of harder-edged rap groups like Salt-N-Pepa and MC Lyte at the time. She worried that "I Love Your Smile" was "too happy" and might make her look corny to the public. I Love Your Smile
: The laughter heard at the end of the track actually belongs to Janet Jackson and her then-partner René Elizondo Jr. The story behind the classic R&B hit ""
When Shanice was recording her 1991 album Inner Child , she didn't actually want "I Love Your Smile" to be the first single. : The laughter heard at the end of
: The song tells a relatable story of a girl "driftin' away" in class or dealing with a "lame" boss at work, only to have her entire world made beautiful by someone's smile.
Today, the song is considered a quintessential 90s anthem, celebrated for its nostalgic, feel-good energy.
: She reportedly sat in the office of Motown executive Jheryl Busby and cried, begging him not to release it. Busby and producer Narada Michael Walden stood their ground, insisting it was a hit.