The Jackson family’s musical legacy is undeniably powerful, with Michael Jackson often taking center stage. Yet, beyond the King of Pop, other family members have contributed their unique voices to the world of music. Two such figures, often overshadowed but no less talented, are Rebbie and La Toya Jackson.
Unilever.edu.vn delves into the debut albums of these remarkable women, exploring their musical styles and celebrating their contributions to the Jackson family’s musical dynasty.
La Toya Jackson: Finding Her Voice
Released in 1980, La Toya Jackson’s self-titled debut album marked the first foray of a Jackson sister into the solo music scene. Though Janet Jackson would later achieve greater commercial success, La Toya’s entry into the industry paved the way for her younger sister.
The album reflects La Toya’s personality at the time – shy, reserved, and heavily influenced by her Jehovah’s Witness upbringing. Her vocal style, often described as timid and restrained, distinguishes her from her more vocally powerful brothers. However, this very restraint lends a unique charm to her music.
The album kicks off with the energetic “If You Feel the Funk,” a track reminiscent of Patrice Rushen’s sound from the same era. It’s surprising to hear La Toya deliver such suggestive lyrics, given her conservative background.
While many tracks draw inspiration from the pop/R&B/disco fusion popularized by Jermaine Jackson, they lack the same level of artistic depth and complexity found in The Jacksons’ “Triumph,” released the same year.
However, “La Toya Jackson” is not without its gems. “My Love Has Passed You By,” a beautiful EWF-inspired ballad featuring Stevie Wonder on harmonica, showcases La Toya’s vocal prowess.
“Lovely Is She,” with its infectious Latin-infused melody, again brings Stevie Wonder to mind, though he doesn’t feature on the track. The album concludes with the high-energy funk of “If I Ain’t Got It,” showcasing a more assertive side of La Toya.
“La Toya Jackson” is a mixed bag, but the standout tracks are pure gold. The album stands as a testament to La Toya’s unique style and her courage in stepping out from the shadows of her famous brothers.
Rebbie Jackson: The Jackson Family’s Best Kept Secret?
Rebbie Jackson, the eldest of the Jackson siblings, released her debut album “Centipede” in 1984. With Janet and La Toya already having made their mark with their softer vocal styles, expectations for Rebbie may have been muted.
However, “Centipede” reveals Rebbie to be a vocal powerhouse, unjustly overlooked. Her voice, rich with jazzy inflections and a remarkable three-octave range, is a revelation.
The title track, penned by brother Michael, features a driving electro-funk groove that perfectly complements Rebbie’s powerful vocals. “Come Alive (It’s Saturday Night)” continues in the same vein, showcasing Rebbie’s ability to deliver infectious dance floor fillers.
“Hey Boy,” a soulful ballad with a distinctly 70s vibe, highlights Rebbie’s impressive vocal range and control. “Open Up My Love,” a mid-tempo soul gem with a catchy hook, further cements “Centipede” as a remarkable debut.
“Play Me (I’m A Jukebox)” places Rebbie in a Minneapolis sound landscape, complete with sassy rapping. Her cover of Prince’s “I Feel for You,” while not eclipsing Chaka Khan’s iconic rendition, demonstrates Rebbie’s versatility and ability to make a song her own.
“A Fork in the Road,” a beautiful 60s-inspired soul ballad, again showcases Rebbie’s ability to convey deep emotion through her singing. The album concludes with an upbeat, quintessentially 80s Jackson-esque groove that leaves the listener wanting more.
“Centipede” is a testament to Rebbie’s extraordinary talent. Sadly, her solo career never reached the heights it deserved. Despite this, the album stands as a powerful reminder of Rebbie Jackson’s unique artistry and her rightful place in the Jackson family’s musical legacy.
The Enduring Legacy of Rebbie and La Toya
Rebbie and La Toya Jackson, though often overshadowed, are integral threads in the rich tapestry of the Jackson family’s musical legacy.
Their debut albums, “La Toya Jackson” and “Centipede,” offer glimpses into their individual artistry, showcasing distinct vocal styles and musical approaches.
While their solo careers may not have reached the same commercial heights as their brother Michael or sister Janet, their contributions to music are undeniable.
Unilever.edu.vn celebrates the unique talents of Rebbie and La Toya Jackson, acknowledging their often-overlooked contributions to the world of music. Their stories remind us that talent can blossom in diverse forms, even within a family already recognized for its musical prowess.
