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Something Special 1981
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Something Special

When Kool & the Gang released Something Special in 1981, they had already managed to establish a formula that resonated with a wide audience. This album, which followed the successes of Ladies' Night and Celebrate!, became their third consecutive album to achieve platinum status. The band demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt to the sounds of the era, fusing R&B and soul with a very pop-oriented approach, which allowed them to connect with both the African American audience and the mainstream in the United States. The production, handled by Eumir Deodato, took place in several studios, including House of Music in New Jersey, Kendun Recorders in Los Angeles, and Secret Sound in New York City, spanning a recording period between 1980 and 1981.

Year
1981
Songs
8
Duration
36 min 16 seg
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About the album

Something Special, according to DoReSol

The album features several songs that became very popular. "Steppin' Out" reached number 12 on the R&B charts and 89 on the Pop charts, while "Take My Heart" reached number 1 on R&B and 17 on Pop. However, "Get Down on It" became a major hit, charting at number four on R&B and number ten on Pop. In the United Kingdom, Something Special had a particularly strong reception, reaching number 10 and solidifying its status as their most successful studio album there, largely driven by the single "Get Down on It". The album's sonic diversity is notable, ranging from 1960s Motown influences in "Take My Heart (You Can Have It If You Want It)", through the smooth funk of "Get Down On It", to more mellow ballads like "No Show".

Beyond individual hits, Something Special reflects the optimistic and familial energy that characterized Kool & the Gang. The album's eight songs, with a total duration of 36:18, convey a positive message, whether directed at children in "Pass It On", at ladies in "Be My Lady", or at humanity in general with "Stand Up and Sing", which was also included in the 1982 film *The Pirate Movie*. The band managed to make their music, intended to make people feel good, sound effortless.

Discography

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