Blue Lights in the Basement cover

Blue Lights in the Basement

Roberta Flack · 1977

41 min · 10 tracks · jazz · R&B · soul

A smooth blend of jazz-inflected soul and introspective lyrics that evoke heartfelt emotions.

Why this album works

Best for
steady mid-tempo emotional flow introspective listening for reflection heartfelt moments of connection
Context
Released on December 13, 1977, 'Blue Lights in the Basement' was Roberta Flack's fifth studio album, coming after her commercial success with 'Killing Me Softly' in the early '70s. At this point in her career, Flack was solidifying her reputation as a leading voice in adult contemporary music while exploring deeper emotional themes through her songwriting.
If you like
jazz, R&B, soul

Blue Lights in the Basement is an album by Roberta Flack, released in 1977. A smooth blend of jazz-inflected soul and introspective lyrics that evoke heartfelt emotions. 'Blue Lights in the Basement' reached No. 1 on the Billboard R&B chart and featured the hit single 'The Closer I Get to You,' which became a classic duet with Donny Hathaway. The album's critical reception highlighted its sophisticated production and lyrical depth, further establishing Flack as a significant figure in American music during the late 1970s. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Blue Lights in the Basement sound like?

A smooth blend of jazz-inflected soul and introspective lyrics that evoke heartfelt emotions. Rooted in jazz and R&B.

What makes Blue Lights in the Basement by Roberta Flack notable?

'Blue Lights in the Basement' reached No. 1 on the Billboard R&B chart and featured the hit single 'The Closer I Get to You,' which became a classic duet with Donny Hathaway. The album's critical reception highlighted its sophisticated production and lyrical depth, further establishing Flack as a significant figure in American music during the late 1970s. Released on December 13, 1977, 'Blue Lights in the Basement' was Roberta Flack's fifth studio album, coming after her commercial success with 'Killing Me Softly' in the early '70s. At this point in her career, Flack was solidifying her reputation as a leading voice in adult contemporary music while exploring deeper emotional themes through her songwriting.

Who is Blue Lights in the Basement for?

Blue Lights in the Basement works well if you're into steady mid-tempo emotional flow, introspective listening for reflection and heartfelt moments of connection.

How many songs are on Blue Lights in the Basement?

Blue Lights in the Basement has 10 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Tracklist

10 tracks·41:21

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

  • 1 Why Don't You Move in With Me 4:54
  • 2 The Closer I Get to You Standout 4:41
  • 3 Fine, Fine Day Standout 4:52
  • 4 This Time I'll Be Sweeter Standout 4:27
  • 5 25th of Last December 4:32
  • 6 After You 3:55
  • 7 I'd Like to Be Baby to You 4:39
  • 8 Soul Deep 2:24
  • 9 Love Is the Healing 3:45
  • 10 Where I'll Find You 3:09

Release Date

December 13, 1977

Genre

jazz, soul

More albums in jazz

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

41 min 21 sec