Album Review: Because We Want To CD 2 by Billie (1998)
Billie’s Because We Want To CD 2 is a quirky little time capsule from the late '90s UK pop scene. Released under the Innocent label in 1998, this album isn’t your typical full-length studio project—it’s more like a remix playground for one catchy tune. With just four versions of the titular track, it’s clear that Billie and her team were banking on this song to leave a mark. Spoiler alert: they kinda did.
The original version of “Because We Want To” was already a bop when it dropped earlier in ’98, but here we get some interesting twists. The Street Mix, for instance, adds a grittier edge with its punchy beats and bassline. It’s got that late-night vibe—like something you’d hear blaring out of a car stereo while cruising through London streets. This mix feels rawer than the polished radio version, giving it a bit more personality. If I’m being honest, it’s probably my favorite take on the track. There’s just something about how the synths swell and dip; it pulls you into its groove without trying too hard.
Then there’s the Radio Mix. It’s slick, safe, and undeniably infectious. You can almost picture it climbing the charts back in the day, nestled between Britney Spears and the Spice Girls. While it doesn’t stray too far from the original formula, it does what it needs to do: hooks you instantly. The chorus still sticks in your head hours later, even if you’re not sure why. Sometimes simplicity works best, right?
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room—the Enhanced Video. In 1998, slapping an interactive video onto a CD felt cutting-edge, didn’t it? Sure, it might feel dated now, but back then, it was a bold move. Watching Billie strut around in her signature style reminds us how much fun pop music used to be before everything got so serious. And hey, props to them for experimenting with multimedia when most artists were just focused on selling singles.
Looking back at Because We Want To CD 2, it’s easy to dismiss it as a cash-grab remix collection. But honestly, it’s kind of charming in its own way. These tracks capture a moment in pop history where experimentation was celebrated, even if it didn’t always make perfect sense. Plus, who doesn’t love hearing different flavors of the same guilty pleasure?
Here’s the thing though—what happened to Billie after this? She had such energy, such charisma. Yet, she faded into obscurity faster than dial-up internet went out of style. Makes you wonder if she ever looks back at these days and smiles—or cringes—at those neon outfits and bubblegum beats. Either way, Because We Want To CD 2 remains a nostalgic gem for anyone who lived through the chaotic brilliance of ‘90s pop.
