Critics praised the album as a testament to the group's longevity. While some noted it occasionally lapsed into "contemporary black pop," many agreed that Ronald’s inimitable falsetto and Ernie’s "lava-seam" guitar work proved the group was still at the top of their game.
: Certified Platinum on September 10, 2001, just over a month after its release.
: This track provided a dedicated space for Ernie Isley to showcase his legendary guitar skills, often compared to the style of Jimi Hendrix. Move Your Body (produced by Raphael Saadiq) Contagious (produced by R. Kelly) the isley brothers eternal zip exclusive
(produced by Angela Winbush & Ronald Isley) You Deserve Better (produced by Steve Huff) Just Like This (produced by Steve Huff) Secret Lover (produced by Steve Huff) You’re All I Need (produced by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis) Settle Down (produced by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis) Eternal (produced by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis) If You Leave Me Now (produced by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis) Said Enough (featuring Jill Scott) You Didn’t See Me (produced by Raphael Saadiq) Ernie’s Jam (produced by Raphael Saadiq) Think (produced by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis) Critical and Commercial Impact
The album's success was fueled by high-profile collaborations with leading producers and artists of the early 2000s: Critics praised the album as a testament to
: Eternal was the first album in over a decade to feature the group as a duo consisting of Ronald Isley and Ernie Isley . The transition occurred after Marvin Isley left the group due to complications from diabetes.
: The album heavily leaned into Ronald Isley’s popular " Mr. Biggs " persona, which resonated with a new generation of listeners. : This track provided a dedicated space for
: A standout collaboration featuring Jill Scott , written by Scott and Vidal Davis, which critics noted for its evocative artistry.
The released their multi-platinum studio album, Eternal , on August 7, 2001, through DreamWorks Records. This project marked a significant career resurgence for the legendary R&B group, debuting at number 3 on the Billboard 200 —their highest chart position since 1975—and eventually selling over 1.2 million copies in the United States. A New Era for a Legendary Duo
: Topped the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart at number 1.