Album Info
| Artist: | Rick James |
| Album: | Street Songs |
| Released: | US, 2015 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Give It To Me Baby | 4:07 |
| A2 | Ghetto Life | 4:20 |
| A3 | Make Love To Me | 4:48 |
| A4 | Mr. Policeman | 4:17 |
| B1 | Super Freak | 3:25 |
| B2 | Fire And Desire | 7:19 |
| B3 | Call Me Up | 3:54 |
| B4 | Below The Funk (Pass The J) | 2:36 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- In stock vinyl is usally shipped next business day, please check the availability field at the top of the product page to see whether the record is currently in stock or if it is available from the supplier as well as estimated shipping times.
- If you order an in stock item together with a pre order or back order (listed as available from supplier rather than in stock) then the order will be shipped together when all items arrive. If you would like the in stock items shipped first please place two separate orders or contact us to arrange shipping items separately.
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
"Street Songs" is the fifth studio album by American musician Rick James, released on April 7, 1981, by Gordy Records, a subsidiary of Motown. This album is widely regarded as James' most successful and influential work, both commercially and artistically. It played a significant role in defining the sound of early 1980s funk and R&B, blending elements of rock, soul, and punk into a cohesive and groundbreaking sound.
The album opens with the iconic track "Give It to Me Baby," which became one of James' signature songs. The song's infectious bassline, catchy chorus, and James' charismatic vocal delivery made it an instant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B charts and crossing over to the pop charts. The success of "Give It to Me Baby" set the tone for the rest of the album, which is filled with similarly energetic and danceable tracks.
One of the standout tracks on "Street Songs" is "Super Freak," which has since become one of the most recognizable songs in popular music. The song's distinctive bassline, provided by James himself, and its memorable lyrics about a wild and uninhibited woman, helped it become a massive hit. "Super Freak" reached number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has been widely sampled and covered by numerous artists, most notably by MC Hammer in his 1990 hit "U Can't Touch This."
Another notable track is "Ghetto Life," which provides a more introspective look at James' upbringing in Buffalo, New York. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of the struggles and challenges faced by those living in urban environments, while the music combines funk grooves with a touch of melancholy. "Ghetto Life" showcases James' ability to blend social commentary with infectious rhythms, making it one of the album's most compelling tracks.
"Street Songs" also features the ballad "Fire and Desire," a duet with singer Teena Marie. The song is a slow-burning, passionate love song that highlights the vocal chemistry between James and Marie. Their performances on this track are both powerful and emotive, making "Fire and Desire" a standout moment on the album.
The album's production is another key element of its success. Rick James served as the primary producer, and his attention to detail is evident throughout. The arrangements are tight and polished, with each instrument given its own space to shine. The use of synthesizers and electronic elements adds a modern touch to the traditional funk sound, helping to create a fresh and innovative sonic landscape.
"Street Songs" was both a critical and commercial success. It peaked at number three on the Billboard 200 and topped the R&B albums chart. The album was certified platinum by the RIAA, signifying over one million copies sold. Critics praised James for his ability to blend different musical styles and for his charismatic and dynamic performances.
In addition to its musical achievements, "Street Songs" also had a significant cultural impact. The album's themes of urban life, love, and desire resonated with a wide audience, and its success helped to pave the way for other funk and R&B artists in the 1980s. Rick James' flamboyant persona and distinctive style also left a lasting impression on the music industry, influencing future generations of artists.
In conclusion, "Street Songs" is a landmark album in Rick James' career and in the history of funk and R&B music. Its blend of infectious grooves, memorable lyrics, and innovative production make it a timeless classic that continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by music fans around the world. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to Rick James' music, "Street Songs" is an essential listen that showcases the best of his talents and his enduring legacy.
