"Special Kind of Love" is a song by British singer Dina Carroll. It was released as the second single from her debut album, So Close (1993), in September 1992 and was written and produced by American record producers, songwriters, and remixers Clivillés and Cole. Carroll was approached by them and invited to New York to become the first British artist to work with the producers. The song reached number 16 in the UK Singles Chart, number 26 in the Netherlands and number 60 in Germany. A music video was also produced to promote the single.
Critical reception
The song received positive reviews from music critics. Larry Flick from Billboard described it as a "fun and infectious pop/dance ditty", noting that the cut "bears a slight resemblance to Mariah Carey's hit "Emotions" without sounding like a carbon-copy." He also added that Carroll "struts with the vocal prowess of a diva, while producers David Cole and Robert Clivilles dress her in sunny synths and spine-crawling beats."[2] Dave Sholin from the Gavin Report wrote, "So Close gave American audiences a mere glimpse into the music and talent of Dina Carroll. This track should take her over the top."[3] A reviewer from Lennox Herald viewed it as "classy".[4]
Andy Beevers from Music Week stated that it is a "superb upbeat soulful house track".[5]James Hamilton from the magazine's RM Dance Update compared it to American singer CeCe Peniston.[6] Pop Rescue said that Carroll's vocals "really shine here on this catchy track", adding that "she’s supported by some great warm strings and backing vocalists."[7] Phil Shanklin of ReviewsRevues commented that C&C's "brand of uplifting gospelesque house is an excellent match for Dina’s vocals and a great workout for the backing singers."[8] Rupert Howe from Select described the track as "reasonably sprightly".[9] Tim Southwell from Smash Hits wrote that it is "superb".[10]
