Jermaine Jackson — Cassette

Intro

Jermaine Jackson delivers a sound that is the musical equivalent of silk. It is deeply rooted in the Motown tradition of impeccable craftsmanship but updated with the shimmering synthesizers and crisp drum machines of the 1980s. His music occupies a space between the high-energy funk of his brothers and the quiet storm balladry that would define the decade, offering a sophisticated take on pop-soul.

What truly sets him apart is his dual identity as a world-class bassist and a velvet-voiced crooner. Unlike many pop stars of his era, his tracks are often anchored by melodic, inventive bass lines that provide a sturdy foundation for his smooth, sometimes breathy vocal delivery. There is a specific kind of 'expensive' polish to his production, particularly in his mid-80s work, that feels both aspirational and intimate.

To understand his range, start with the 1984 self-titled album (often referred to as Dynamite). It captures him at his commercial and creative peak, balancing massive synth-pop hits with tender R&B ballads. From there, explore his earlier Motown solo work to hear the transition from the Jackson 5 sound into a more mature, independent artist.

Jermaine LaJuane Jacksun (né Jackson; born December 11, 1954) is an American retired singer, songwriter, bass player, and member of the Jackson family. From 1964 to 1975, Jermaine was second vocalist after his brother Michael of the Jackson 5, and played bass guitar. In 1983, he rejoined the group, which had been renamed the Jacksons; he then consistently played in the group's performances and recordings until he left the group again in 2020. While Jermaine did not usually sing the lead vocal on the Jackson Five's biggest hits, he is featured on "I'll Be There" and "I Want You Back", among others. When four of the brothers left Motown Records for Epic Records in 1976 (having to rename the family act "the Jacksons" in the process), Jermaine, who had just married Motown founder Berry Gordy's daughter Hazel, stayed at Motown. He was replaced in the Jacksons by his youngest brother, Randy. Jermaine had a solo career concurrent with his brother Michael's, including some top-30 hits, until the 1980s. He produced and recorded duets with Whitney Houston on her debut album in 1985, and was a producer for the band Switch. After seven years outside the group he rejoined the Jacksons, and remained until 2020 through various breakups and reunions.

From Wikipedia, CC BY-SA →

Our Catalog14 Albums · 1972 · 2012