Patrice

Released in 1978, 'Patrice' marks a pivotal turning point in Patrice Rushen's career, representing her transition from a respected jazz fusion keyboardist on the Prestige label to a major R&B/Pop force on Elektra. While her previous works were largely instrumental, this self-titled effort foregrounds her vocals, revealing a charming, breathy delivery that would become her signature. The album is a bridge between the complex fusion of the mid-70s and the polished, chart-topping 'sophisti-funk' she would perfect on later hits like 'Forget Me Nots.' Recorded with a stellar cast of session musicians, the album balances high-energy funk tracks like 'Hang It Up' with socially conscious messages in 'Changes' and delicate ballads like 'Didn't You Know.' It is highly regarded by collectors and hip-hop producers alike for its clean engineering and rich harmonic palette, serving as a foundational text for the 'Quiet Storm' and 'Modern Soul' movements.