I Like

Released in 1996, I Like served as a key single for Montell Jordan following the massive success of his debut album. The track was produced during a period when R&B and hip-hop collaborations were reaching a commercial peak, bridging Jordan’s smooth vocal style with the distinct, storytelling delivery of veteran rapper Slick Rick. It was issued through Def Jam’s subsidiary, Rush Associated Labels, as part of a push to solidify Jordan’s status as a mainstay in the urban contemporary scene.

The design and production of the single aimed to balance radio-friendly R&B sensibilities with the gritty, rhythmic backbone of 1990s hip-hop. By pairing Jordan with a legendary figure like Slick Rick, the labels sought to capture both younger R&B audiences and hip-hop purists. Upon its release, the song was recognized for its catchy, melodic hooks and the contrast between the two artists, effectively acting as a bridge between the party-oriented sounds of the mid-nineties and the more polished R&B production that defined the era.