Been So Long

Anita Baker hasn’t made a record in eight years but fortunately, now that both her sons are in college, she’s ready to sing again. Her single “Lately” from her forthcoming new CD “Only Forever” was the highest debuting single on the urban adult contemporary music chart on “Billboard” in eight years. It’s also #1 on the smooth jazz chart. Surprisingly, the song is not a remake of the Stevie Wonder hit, but it’s a cover of the song made popular by Tyrese from his self-titled debut album. (He’s certainly happy Baker remade it, because he’s a co-writer on the song.) Listen to “Lately” here.

But that’s not all. Aside from her album, which is due out on October 30, on the legendary jazz imprint Blue Note, Baker will be making several TV and tour appearances this fall. Get your DVR’s ready. Here’s a look at her schedule:

Tuesday, October 9
“Dancing With the Stars” at 8 p.m. performing “Sweet Love”

Tuesday, October 30th
“The Today Show with Kathie Lee and Hoda” at 10 a.m. on NBC

Sunday, November 25
“Kaliedescope On Ice” after NFL on CBS
A performance with Olympic and World Champion figure skaters including Nancy Kwan, Sasha Cohen, Johnny Weir and more hosted by cancer survivors and skaters Dorothy Hamill and Scott Hamilton

Thursday, December 6
“The Late Show With David Letterman” at 11:30 p.m. on CBS
You can also interact with Baker via Twitter @iamanitabaker. She’s on Twitter frequently, especially when her beloved Detroit Lions are playing.