My Thoughts:
Michael Joseph Jackson (August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009)

Press Release:
Michael Jackson's first solo album, released at the peak of the Jackson Five's popularity, is a mixed bag of covers and originals. Surprisingly, the sound of this album is vastly different than that of the J5, although the brothers appear on a few tracks as background singers. This is very light, gentle fare that perfectly suits Michael's then-13-year-old voice. Unfortunately, Motown's studio backup singers are much older than Michael and the blend is, at times, an odd one. Michael's pure talent and conviction saves a few otherwise dry arrangements ("You've Got a Friend," "Wings of my Love") and simply amazes on the THREE hit singles ("Got to be There," "Rockin' Robin," and "I Wanna be Where You Are"). On four tracks, Michael interjects much too-rehearsed spoken lyrics that ruin otherwise enjoyable songs. Cheeziness aside, this is a decent album which definitely rises above "kiddie" status, despite Michael's age at the time. Check it out, it's worth it. Hopefully Motown will re-release his solo albums in two-for-one packages like they did with the J5 albums and bonus tracks!

Tracklist:
01. Ain\'t no sunshine.mp3 (9.7MB)
02. I wanna be where you are.mp3 (7.0MB)
03. Girl don\'t take you love from me.mp3 (8.9MB)
04. In our small way.mp3 (8.5MB)
05. Got to be there.mp3 (7.9MB)
06. Rockin\' Robin.mp3 (5.9MB)
07. Wings of my love.mp3 (7.9MB)
08. Maria (you were the only one).mp3 (8.6MB)
09. Love is here and now you\'re gone.mp3 (6.7MB)
10. You\'ve got a friend.mp3 (11.2MB)

Tracks Below:


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