What makes Animal by Bar-Kays notable?

Animal features the hit single 'Struck by You,' which became a staple on urban radio stations and contributed to the Bar-Kays’ resurgence in popularity during the late '80s. The album showcases their signature blend of funk and soul while also reflecting emerging trends in contemporary R&B, influencing future artists within both genres. Released in 1989, Animal was the Bar-Kays' first album after their lineup change following the tragic death of several members in a plane crash. At this point, the group had already established themselves as stalwarts of the funk genre since the 1960s, but Animal marked a new era for them as they sought to reassert their presence in a changing musical landscape.

Animal works well if you're into playful grooves for dancing, soulful melodies for romance and energetic tracks for parties.

How many songs are on Animal?

Animal has 10 tracks, running approximately 54 minutes.

Animal

Bar-Kays · 1989

54 min · 10 tracks · funk

Funky grooves and soulful melodies collide in this vibrant exploration of love and desire.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Struck by You — This track exemplifies the album's blend of catchy hooks and smooth grooves, becoming one of the Bar-Kays' most recognizable hits.
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Animal — The title track pulsates with energy, showcasing the band's tight instrumentation and dynamic vocal performances that define their sound.
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Stop! Look What You’re Missing — With its infectious rhythm and engaging lyrics about seizing love, this song encapsulates the playful spirit present throughout the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

playful grooves for dancing
soulful melodies for romance
energetic tracks for parties
catchy hooks for sing-alongs
vibrant exploration of desire

Maybe skip if you

slow-paced reflective moments
minimalist soundscape preferences

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1989, Animal was the Bar-Kays' first album after their lineup change following the tragic death of several members in a plane crash. At this point, the group had already established themselves as stalwarts of the funk genre since the 1960s, but Animal marked a new era for them as they sought to reassert their presence in a changing musical landscape.
Stylistic neighbors: Earth, Wind & Fire· Parliament-Funkadelic· Sly and the Family Stone

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Are U Available

The bridge introduces a direct plea for connection, shifting from storytelling to an intimate invitation.

This transition deepens emotional engagement by moving from narrative observation to personal interaction, enhancing the song's urgency.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Animal 5:13
2 Struck by You 5:43
3 Stop! Look What You’re Missing 5:11
4 Someone Else 4:50
5 Are U Available 5:38
6 Get Your Fingers Wet 5:38
7 Just Like a Teeter-Totter 4:16
8 I Adore You 5:16
9 Leaving You 5:29
10 Struck by You (12" version) 6:46

What to play next

Listen next

48 Hours

1994

Go back to

Contagious

1987

Full Bar-Kays discography Artists like Bar-Kays

funk

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata