Rick James
Street Songs
2002 - Universal
Coming off the heels of, Garden of Love, a disappointing 1980 release, Rick James entered the studio determined to give the world his ‘special soul blend. When he emerged in 1981, he released his most successful, beloved, and influential album – Street Songs. To help shore up the success of the project, James’ enlisted the help of many friends, including Stevie Wonder (harmonica), Teena Marie (vocals), Gerald Albright (saxophone), and Narada Michael Walden (drums).
Street Songs, is the ultimate James’ album. There are only eight songs, but they skillfully display his mastery of the groove. Regardless of the song or album, James’ always delivered a groove. Take Give It to Me Baby, the track with a very bold request. When that unmistakable opening bass line starts, a wry smile appears and soon you are nodding your head in anticipation of the funk. Originally recorded as a joke, Super Freak morphed into a soul/funk classic. Complete with The Temptations backing vocals (Melvin Franklin was Rick’s uncle), a great hook, and an awesome sax solo – Super Freak was a super hit. Another massive hit was the duet Fire and Desire, with Teena Marie. Hands- down this is the best ballad from James’ illustrious career. The song is a narrative of sorts. I believe most listeners miss the time signature change. He and Marie use call and response vocal styling to solidify the intimacy of this soulful ballad. This is the master and his student at their best.
Again, there were eight tracks on this album and all of them are worth a listen. James’ takes a personal trip down memory lane with Ghetto Life. Mr. Policeman speaks to violence by law enforcement and features Stevie Wonder on harmonica. As you listen you can faintly hear Stevie’s Master Blaster. James’ enjoyed career resurgence, in large part due to The Chappelle Show and the now infamous Rick James skit. He was much more than. He was a musician, a true lover of music – soul music. He penned Street Songs, a triple-platinum effort that held so much importance to him that its image is carved into his headstone.
Millicent Goodwin
