What makes Don't Be Cruel by Bobby Brown notable?

The album was a commercial success, reaching #1 on the Billboard 200 and producing five top ten hits on the Billboard Hot 100. It was pivotal in defining the sound of the late '80s R&B scene and has been credited with influencing subsequent artists in the genre. Bobby Brown's 'Don't Be Cruel' marked his second solo album, following his 1986 debut 'King of Stage'. This release established him as a leading figure in the emerging new jack swing genre, solidifying his transition from New Edition member to a prominent solo artist.

How many songs are on Don't Be Cruel?

Don't Be Cruel has 2 tracks, running approximately 8 minutes.

Don't Be Cruel

Bobby Brown · 1988

8 min · 2 tracks · contemporary R&B

A fusion of R&B and hip-hop rhythms layered with smooth vocals and infectious melodies paving the way for new jack swing.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Don’t Be Cruel — The title track showcases Bobby's smooth vocal delivery over a catchy beat, exemplifying the new jack swing sound that characterized the album.
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My Prerogative — This track is notable for its bold lyrics about self-empowerment and individuality, becoming an anthem for personal freedom during the era.
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Every Little Step — With its irresistible hook and rhythmic groove, this song illustrates Brown's knack for blending pop sensibilities with R&B flair, making it a dance floor staple.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong hooks and production while maintaining a cohesive new jack swing sound.

What we noticed

The album opens with a short instrumental prelude that sets a smooth tone before transitioning into the title track, which features a prominent bassline and layered vocals.
Several tracks incorporate call-and-response elements, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the interactive feel of the music.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

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

3 Don’t Be Cruel 4:07
4 Don’t Be Cruel (instrumental) 4:17

What to play next

Listen next

Dance!...Ya Know It!

1989

Go back to

Don't Be Cruel

1988

Full Bobby Brown discography Where to start with Bobby Brown Artists like Bobby Brown

contemporary R&B dance-pop hip-hop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata