Search
El DeBarge, El DeBarge_
Picture of Derrick Dunn

Derrick Dunn

Throwback Tuesday Album Review: El DeBarge, El DeBarge

Singer El DeBarge was in the midst of a successful career as the lead singer of DeBarge when the time came for the inevitable solo record. Following the group’s fourth album, Rhythm of the Night, began recording his solo debut.

Gordy Records (a Motown sub-label) released El DeBarge on July 14th, 1986. Expectations were high for the album. El had substantial success with the #1 single “Who’s Jonny” from the film Short Circuit. Written by Peter & Ina Wolf, the song was an infectious summertime song that eighties babies still know the chorus to.

It’s clear that Berry Gordy was looking to turn El into a pop star, sadly the material wasn’t durable enough for a singer of El’s talents. Legendary songwriter contributed four songs, “Secrets of the Night,” “I Wanna Hear It from My Heart,” “Private Line,” and “Don’t Say It’s Over.” Berry Gordy wanted to duplicate the success that Warren and DeBarge had with “Rhythm of the Night.” Still, none of the songs are particularly memorable and come off more as outtakes than actual songs.

El regains his footing with producers Jay Graydon, Mark Mueller, Robbie Nevil on the mid-tempo “Someone.” Where the producers do their best to bring out the lushness of El’s voice. The same can’t be said for Jack Conrad and Larry Henley’s production on “When Love Has Gone Away.” The production just doesn’t land and is beneath El’s vocals, as is “Thrill of the Chase.”

Thankfully iconic songwriter and producer Burt Bacharach arrives to save the album with one of my favorite El DeBarge solo songs, “Love Always.” Co-written with Carole Bayer Sager, is a sentimental ballad that still sounds fresh in 2020. El also has another winner in songwriter Randy Goodrum’s “Lost Without Her Love.” While the song may come across as pop, Debarge’s vocals are top notch. 

Surprisingly, DeBarge, a talented songwriter in his own right, didn’t contribute any songs to his debut solo album. Also, it’s a surprise that Gordy didn’t use his clout to pull big-name R & B producers for the project. For instance, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Babyface, and Leon Sylvers III could’ve all assisted with El’s debut, as they could’ve brought out the best in the singer.

El DeBarge’s debut achieved gold status by September of 1986. DeBarge would release another album Gemini on Motown in 1989 and later depart from the label. Since then, El has released three more albums 1992’s In the Storm, 1994’s Heart, Mind and Soul, and his most energetic release 2010’s Second Chance.

El DeBarge’s debut isn’t a total failure, but considering DeBarge’s talent, it is a letdown. El Debarge’s debut is available to stream on all streaming platforms.

Final Re-Listen Grade: C

Best Songs: “Who’s Johnny,” “Love Always” and “Lost Without Her Love”

Movie Clappers

More reviews to explorer

Slow Jam Saturday : “Everything”, Quincy Jones feat. Tevin Campbell

For this week’s Slow Jam Saturday, I wanted to continue giving flowers to Quincy Jones and highlight one of his album tracks, “Everything.” The lush ballad finds Jones working with Tevin Campbell on a track for the first time since Campbell’s debut album. Andy Hill and Antonina Armato wrote ” Everything ” about grief, yearning, and the desire to reconnect with an ex.

Slow Jam Saturday: Destiny’s Child, “Cater 2 U”

If “Soldier” sets the stage for a woman’s initial attraction to a man, then “Cater 2 U” takes that dynamic to the next level by exploring the deepening desire for intimacy. In this empowering anthem, Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams express their commitment to being ideal partners by genuinely catering to their significant other’s wants and needs.

Second Listen Sunday: The Floacist, “The Floacist presents Floetic Soul.”

Arriving in stores on November 9th, 2010, “The Floacist presents Floetic Soul” was led by the single “Forever” featuring Musiq Soulchild. A sensual slow jam written by Stewart and produced by J.R. Hutson, “Forever” explores the unwavering and enduring nature of love. The lyrics convey a deep connection between two individuals who have overcome challenges and found solace in each other’s presence. Stewart’s voice perfectly complements Musiq as they sing about unconditional love and support, expressing their willingness to meet any needs or desires their loved one may have.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Reddit

© Copyright Reviews & Dunn. All rights reserved

website designed by Red Robin Digital designers