DeBarge, Motown’s eighties answer to The Jackson 5, was at the top of the music game in the spring of 1985 when their fourth album, “Rhythm of the Night,” and this week’s pick for Second Listen Sunday hit stores. While DeBarge was more than a vocal group (they could play instruments and produce), their management elected to bring outside producers to the project to appeal to the group’s growing pop appeal.
The titular song was the lead single and coincided with the Motown film “The Last Dragon” release, which featured the song as part of its soundtrack. The free publicity from the song’s association with the movie helped boost its popularity. Diane Warren penned the song, while Richard Perry produced it.
An infectious pop tune communicates an attitude of escape, finding music, and dancing. And if the world seems so much, as when everything seems so out of control, it can give you a welcome rebound just by taking to the street and entering the night’s energy. El DeBarge’s modal tenor, flecks of falsetto, was the perfect voice to make listeners forget their anxieties and sink into the vibrancy of the upcoming night.
Debarge returned to ballads with the second single, “Who’s Holding Donna Now,” penned by David Foster, Randy Goodrum, and Jay Graydon. El’s powerful vocals express his longing for his ex, Donna, as he grapples with moving on. The lyrics convey his desire to be with her again, showcasing his willingness to do anything to be in the place of the man who holds her now.
The group returned to the dance floor for the third single, “Your Wear It Well”. El handled production duties this time and co-wrote the song with his younger brother, Chico. At its core, it’s an homage to the beauty of women and celebrates their unique and captivating personalities, which are reflected in their appearance and how they carry themselves. The lyrics suggest that this person effortlessly catches the attention of others as they move through life. They possess a certain charm and confidence that sets them apart.
The mid-tempo ballad and another Warren and Graydon contribution, “The Heart Is Not So Smart,” was the final single. The soulful song captures the essence of romantic vulnerability, exploring the often conflicting relationship between the heart and the mind. The remaining album was either rerecorded versions of previous songs or standard album tracks.
While the group didn’t get a chance to take over the eighties fully, “Rhythm of the Night” is a strong entry in their catalog.
Final Grade: B
“Rhythm of the Night” is available on all streaming platform
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