Ebony Eyes (Rick James song)

"Ebony Eyes"
Single by Rick James and Smokey Robinson
from the album Cold Blooded
Released November, 1983
Format 7"
Genre R&B
Length 3:56
Label Motown
Writer(s) James Johnson [1]
Producer(s) Rick James
Music video
"Ebony Eyes" on YouTube

"Ebony Eyes" is a 1983 hit R&B single recorded by African-American singers Rick James and Smokey Robinson for the Gordy (Motown) label. It was first featured on James' album Cold Blooded. The song was produced and arranged by Rick James. It peaked at #43 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

History

Song information

Ebony Eyes was a collaborative effort by Smokey Robinson and Rick James. It was first released on the album Cold Blooded, the title song quickly became Rick James' third number one R&B hit but Ebony Eyes also climbed the R&B/Hip Hop charts and peaked at number 26. Ebony Eyes remains one of James' most notable hits as it is one of the few to not use the style he labeled "punk-funk" but instead uses a more contemporary tempo and follows a more classic style of R&B. Robinson was credited for singing the introduction, bridge, and other more calm verses while James sang the chorus.

Ebony Eyes begins with a simple beat which leads into a more complex rhythm and the vocals of both Robinson and uncredited background vocalist who repeat falsetto vocals twice before Robinson begins the opening verse. The song chronicles the narrators affection for a certain woman. Lost for words and made weak by the mere presence of this lady, Robinson requires James' vocals to reveal how he really feels about this woman, who James thinks is unaware of his affection and apparent need for her. It is a ode to love for Women of Color -hence the title Ebony Eyes.

Cover versions

Silk covered the song on their 2001 album, Love Session.

Silkk The Shocker uses this sample on his song "Ghetto Rain" off his Made Man (album) which also features Master P & O'Dell.

Personnel

References

  1. ↑ Ascap entry for song

External links