Rick James – Street Songs

Album Info

Artist: Rick James

Title: Street Songs

Year: 1981

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Tracklist

  • 1. Give It To Me Baby (4:08)
  • 2. Ghetto Life (4:21)
  • 3. Make Love To Me (4:48)
  • 4. Mr. Policeman (4:17)
  • 5. Super Freak (3:25)
  • 6. Fire And Desire (7:17)
  • 7. Call Me Up (3:53)
  • 8. Below The Funk (Pass The J) (2:36)
  • 9. Give It To Me Baby - 12 Version (5:42)
  • 10. Give It To Me Baby - Instrumental (6:48)
  • 11. Super Freak - 12 Version (7:05)
  • 12. Super Freak - Instrumental (3:33)
  • 1. Introduction - 1981/Live In Long Beach, CA (1:46)
  • 2. Ghetto Life - 1981/Live In Long Beach, CA (4:20)
  • 3. Big Time - 1981/Live In Long Beach, CA (7:07)
  • 4. Come Into My Life - 1981/Live In Long Beach, CA (4:14)
  • 5. I'm A Sucker For Your Love - 1981/Live In Long Beach, CA (8:27)
  • 6. Square Biz - 1981/Live In Long Beach, CA (7:00)
  • 7. Fire It Up - 1981/Live In Long Beach, CA (3:34)
  • 8. Love Gun - 1981/Live In Long Beach, CA (5:42)
  • 9. Do You Want Some Funk?! - Interlude / 1981/Live In Long Beach, CA (2:21)
  • 10. Mary Jane - 1981/Live In Long Beach, CA (10:39)
  • 11. Super Freak - 1981/Live In Long Beach, CA (4:21)
  • 12. You And I - 1981/Live In Long Beach, CA (11:48)
  • 13. Give It To Me Baby - 1981/Live In Long Beach, CA (6:05)

Review

Rick James' 1981 album "Street Songs" is a stunning funk masterpiece that perfectly captures his versatility and depth. The album is packed with infectious dance tracks and socially conscious songs that tackle the harsher realities of life, showcasing James' ability to create music that is both high in energy and deeply thoughtful.

The unforgettable "Give It to Me Baby" and "Super Freak" anchor the album with their irresistible beats and catchy hooks, demonstrating James' prowess in crafting enduring dance anthems. But it's the tracks like "Ghetto Life" and "Mr. Policeman" that reveal his social conscience, delving into themes of poverty and police brutality with raw honesty. "Ghetto Life" reflects on James' own upbringing in Buffalo, New York, while "Mr. Policeman" features Stevie Wonder's haunting harmonica, bringing an emotive depth to the critique of law enforcement.

The expanded edition enriches the experience further with 12-inch mixes and a riveting live performance recorded in Long Beach, California. These extras offer fans a glimpse into James' dynamic studio artistry and his electrifying stage presence. "Street Songs" is more than a funk classic—it's a powerful, enduring testament to Rick James' unique blend of style, substance, and social awareness, continuing to inspire musicians and audiences alike. - Kimberly