We continue our look back at the music of 50 years ago…..
Word is, the 1972 release “Got To Be There” was supposed to be a Jackson Five album until Berry Gordy decided to capitalize on Michael’s popularity before his voice changed and make it his first solo record.
He brought all the power of Motown to bear to make this a success. The songs were strong, the musicians were, of course, top notch and the production was slick and prepared to have radio hits. And it did.
“Got To Be There” and “Rockin Robin” got to #5 & #6 on the charts…and “I Wanna Be Where You Are” made it to #27.
Rockin Robin was a remake of the old Bobby Day classic and “I Wanna Be Where You Are got covered nicely by Melissa Manchester a few years later.
Michael also cut Carole King’s “You’ve Got A Friend” and Bill Withers ‘Ain’t No Sunshine” plus taking a crack at the Supreme’s “Love Is Here And Now You’re Gone”.
But he also shines on some lesser known tunes. “In Our Small Way” is a nice “change the world” type song…and he lets his voice soar on Maria (Youre The Only One)”.
I think this was a cut above the usual bubblegum aimed at pre-pubescent females…even if Michael was only 12 years old. Your taste may vary.
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