AOM [Rewind '11] The Significance of Michael Jackson’s “Rock With You”!!!
Another hit single from the ingenious duo of writer, Rod Temperton and producer, Quincy Jones, Off The Wall‘s Rock With You proved to be an illustrating moment for Michael in the early 80′s. Echoing the dance floors of Studio 54 with its moving bass line, flowing string arrangements, and synthesised sound of disco, this single captures a sensual playfulness fused with a joyous spirit in Jackson’s voice. Released November 3, 1979, Rock With You became a defining tune for Michael landing him in the #1 spot on Billboard’s pop and R&B single charts and later becoming the 4th biggest single of the 80′s decade. From a perspective of resilience, the staying power of this single beneath the backdrop of industry changes due to the declining taste for disco and a resurgence of rock makes its chart topping endurance and platinum certification very impressive.
While Rock With You is 31 years old, its ripple effect in song and video is still felt in many contemporary artists like Chris Brown, Kelly Clarkson, Chuck Loeb and many, many others. Here’s a couple of of examples to show the single’s reach and influence:
From Quincy Jones’ “Q’s Jook Joint” featuring Brandy and Heavy D – 1995
From The Renaissance album Q-Tip’s Move – 2008
Tags: Brandy, Heavy D., J Dilla, Michael Jackson, Q-Tip, Quincy Jones, Rock With You, Rod Temperton