The 10 Best Al Jarreau Songs of All-Time
Jarreau began singing in San Francisco nightclubs, where he was discovered by Warner Bros. Records producer Tommy LiPuma. Signed to a contract with the label, Jarreau recorded his self-titled debut album in 1975. The record was a critical success, but it did not gain much traction with radio audiences. Jarreau’s second album, Glow, was released in 1976 and featured the singer’s first major hit, “We’re In This Love Together.” According to Billboard, the album reached the Top 20 of the Billboard 200 chart and helped to establish Jarreau as a successful recording artist. He constantly toured throughout the 1970s and 1980s, performing at major jazz festivals and headlining his shows. The following are the 10 best Al Jarreau songs of all time, according to critics and fans.
10. We’re In This Love Together
This song is the perfect introduction to Jarreau’s musical style. It is a smooth and soulful ballad that showcases the singer’s incredible vocal range. The song was a major hit, reaching the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Jarreau released this song on his second album, Glow. The album was a critical and commercial success, reaching the Top 20 on the Billboard 200 chart. The lyrics of ‘We’re in This Love Together’ are about the strength of love and how it can overcome anything. The song has a positive and uplifting message that is perfect for any occasion.
9. Mornin’
This song is a classic Jarreau tune and one of his most recognizable hits. It was originally released on his fourth studio album, Breakin’ Away, in 1981. The song became a Top 40 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and won a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. It was written by Jarreau and keyboardist/producer George Duke. The song is about waking up in the morning and feeling the joy of a new day. Jarreau’s vocal performance is full of energy and optimism, which is perfect for a song about starting the day with a positive attitude.
8. After All
Another popular Jarreau tune, “After All” was originally released on the 1981 album Breakin’ Away. The song has a great message about continuing to love one another despite the trials and tribulations that life throws our way. The song’s popularity was given a boost in 1986 when it was used in the film “The Color Purple” starring Whoopi Goldberg and Danny Glover.
7. Moonlighting Theme
This song was originally written for the ABC television show “Moonlighting.” The show was a huge hit in the 1980s, and the theme song became just as popular. Jarreau’s version is a smooth, jazzy tune that is perfect for relaxing or dancing. The song covered many genres including pop, R&B, and jazz. The song won a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.
6. Roof Garden
The song ‘Roof Garden’ was released in 1981 as part of Al Jarreau’s album ‘L is for Lover’. The song is a beautiful ballad that showcases Jarreau’s vocal range and prowess. The song is about a couple who are in love and enjoying a special moment together on the roof of a building. The song has a romantic and sensual feeling to it, making it one of the best Al Jarreau songs of all time.
5. Ain’t No Sunshine
This song was originally written and performed by Bill Withers, but Al Jarreau’s version is just as good, if not better. According to Digital music news, Jarreau’s smooth, soulful voice is the perfect vehicle for this classic song about heartbreak and loneliness. The song ‘Ain’t No Sunshine is one of Al Jarreau’s most well-known songs and for good reason. It’s a beautifully written song about heartbreak and loneliness, and Jarreau’s smooth, soulful voice is the perfect vehicle for it.
4. Breakin’ Away
The ‘Breakin’ Away’ album was Jarreau’s commercial breakthrough and it spawned several hit singles including the title track, which reached the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song is a perfect example of Jarreau’s vocal prowess, as he effortlessly glides through the jazz-funk arrangement. While ‘Breakin’ Away’ might be Jarreau’s best-known song, it’s certainly not his only great one. It made Jarreau win his first Grammy for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.
3. We Are the World
Jarreau was one of the many artists who contributed to “We Are the World,” the 1985 charity single organized by Lionel Richie and Michael Jackson to raise money for African famine relief. Jarreau’s solo on the song is one of the most memorable, as he soars over the chorus with his trademark vocal gymnastics. The lyrics explain the mission of the song, and how every person can make a difference in the world. Jarreau’s performance is both hopeful and moving, making it one of the best moments in the history of “We Are the World.”
2. Rainbow in Your Eyes
Jarreau’s biggest hit, “Rainbow in Your Eyes,” is a beautiful ballad that showcases his incredible vocal range. The song peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and won a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. This song is a perfect example of Jarreau’s ability to cross genres and appeal to a wide range of listeners. His smooth, soulful voice is the perfect complement to the mellow jazz instrumentation.
1. Never Givin’ Up
Jarreau’s final top 40 hit, “Never Givin’ Up,” is an upbeat tune with a positive message. The song peaked at number 33 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. According to Classic rock History, the lyrics are about continuing to fight even when the odds seem insurmountable. Jarreau has said that the song is about “not giving up on your dreams and continuing to pursue them no matter what.”
Conclusion
Jarreau’s career spanned four decades and produced many memorable songs. These ten tracks are some of the best examples of his artistry. From his early hits like “We’re In This Love Together” to his later work like “Never Givin’ Up,” Jarreau left a lasting impression on the world of music. Jarreau’s impact on the music world is still felt today, and his songs will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.
