Introduction
"Dance! ... Ya Know It!" is a remix album by American R&B and pop singer Bobby Brown, released in 1989. Coming off the huge success of his development album, "Don't Be Cruel", Brown sought to capitalize on the popularity of his dance strikes by releasing a collection of remixes that put extra emphasis on his capability to move both his body and his audience. The album includes 9 tracks, all of which are reworkings of songs from his preceding albums.
The Success of "Don't Be Cruel"
Bobby Brown's second solo album, "Don't Be Cruel", released in 1988, was groundbreaking for the vocalist. It became one of the best-selling albums of the year and firmly established Brown as an influential figure in the world of R&B and popular song. The record included numerous hit songs, including "Every Little Step", "My Prerogative", and "Roni", which not just showcased Brown's singing expertise however likewise his abilities as a dancer and entertainer. Provided the broad appeal and business success of these tracks, it came as not a surprise that Brown looked for to launch a remix album that zeroed in on the dance aspects of his music.
Remixes of the Original Songs
"Dance! ... Ya Know It!" functions remixes of 9 songs handpicked by Bobby Brown from his very first 2 solo albums. A few of these choices consist of popular hits like "My Prerogative", "Every Little Step", and "Roni". These new versions offer the songs a fresh twist and, as the album title recommends, focus on their dancefloor appeal. Brown employed producers and remixers like L.A. Reid, Babyface, and Teddy Riley to assist craft these new versions of his hits.
The album opener, "Roni (R.D. Remix)", begins with a prolonged introduction that emphasizes the swirling synth sounds, making it feel more like a club anthem. Similarly, the timeless "Every Little Step (Uptown Mix)" carries an irresistible rhythm and beat, ensuring that listeners will find themselves transferring to the groove. Other notable remixes include "My Prerogative (Extended Remix)" and "Don't Be Cruel (Hip Hop Drums)", both of which reveal Brown's adaptability when it concerns musical styles and genres.
Industrial Performance and Reception
While it wasn't as successful as "Don't Be Cruel", "Dance! ... Ya Know It!" still handled to discover a place in the hearts of fans and on the charts. The album arrived 10 on the United States Billboard Top R&B Albums chart and was licensed Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Critics valued the collection, praising the refined production values that included contemporary flair to currently reputable hits.
Nevertheless, some felt that the remixed variations didn't constantly surpass their original counterparts in quality or impact, making the album more of a collector's product than a needed update. Regardless of these critiques, "Dance! ... Ya Know It!" has actually remained a favorite among Bobby Brown fans throughout the years, working as a testament to the vocalist's powerful impact on late 80s pop and R&B music.
Conclusion
"Dance! ... Ya Know It!" may have been developed as a simple remix album, but it handled to catch the energy and excitement that surrounded Bobby Brown's meteoric increase to popularity in the late 1980s. Featuring fresh takes on a few of his most pop music, the record stands as a pointer of why Brown was such a transformative figure in the world of R&B and pop music, forging a path that many other artists would follow in the years to come. While it may not enjoy the same legendary status as "Don't Be Cruel", "Dance! ... Ya Know It!" stays a vital part of Bobby Brown's discography and a photo of a distinct moment in music history.
Artist: Bobby Brown
Bobby Brown, King of New Jack Swing, featuring his hits, acting career, personal struggles, and impact on R&B/pop music. Explore memorable quotes.
More about Bobby Brown