A memory of Big O Pizza, Vanessa Williams, and why “Dreamin’” still hits.

Some songs don’t just play—they stay with you. They settle in your memory like the breeze off the Bay. For me, that song is “Dreamin’” by Vanessa Williams.

I was about seven years old when it came out. Too young to be vibing alone in my bedroom like a heartbroken teenager, but old enough to know something about this song felt different. It wasn’t just background noise on the radio—it was beautiful. Her voice had this smooth, effortless softness that pulled me in every time. I thought she was stunning, and I loved the way she sang like she meant every word.

I remember being in the car with my mom and siblings, waiting on pizza from Big O in Richmond. The Bay air had that familiar mix of cool breeze and city energy. The radio was playing, and when “Dreamin’” came on, it felt like everything slowed down. That song instantly became one of those moments you don’t forget, even when you’re too young to understand why it matters.

Even now, all these years later, when I hear it, I’m right back there. Sitting in that car, smelling pizza, feeling the Bay air on my face, and falling in love with Vanessa Williams’ voice all over again.

If you’re in the mood for more women who ruled the ’90s R&B scene, check out my ‘90s Queens playlist on RanjiRoo Radio. Vanessa’s on there, right where she should be.