Go for It cover

Go for It

Shalamar · 1981

39 min · 8 tracks · dance music

A vibrant fusion of funk, soul, and dance beats that encapsulates early 80s energy and rhythmic sophistication.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Go for It — The title track sets the tone for the album with its infectious hooks and upbeat tempo, exemplifying Shalamar's signature sound.
  • →
    Appeal — This track stands out due to its smooth blend of funk rhythms and romantic lyrics, becoming one of their most enduring hits.
  • →
    Sweeter as the Days Go By — With its lush arrangements and heartfelt vocal delivery, this song highlights the group's emotive range within their dance music framework.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100
Foothills
Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong vocal arrangements and danceable grooves typical of its era, though it lacks standout compositions.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks maintain a high-energy tempo, while the fourth track introduces a slower groove that contrasts sharply with the preceding songs.
  • The production employs prominent bass lines and syncopated rhythms, characteristic of early 80s dance music, creating a danceable atmosphere.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • vibrant dance floor energy
  • catchy rhythms for sing-alongs
  • upbeat grooves for celebrations
  • feel-good vibes for gatherings

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer slow, introspective tracks
  • want minimalistic soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in January 1981, Go for It marked Shalamar's fourth studio album during a peak period of their popularity. Following the success of their previous album, Friends, this release further solidified their position as leaders in the disco and R&B scenes of the time.
Stylistic neighbors
Chic· Kool & The Gang· Earth, Wind & Fire

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Appeal

    The bridge shifts from a narrative about desire to an unabashed declaration of attraction.

    This shift enhances the emotional intensity, moving from subtlety into boldness, which reflects the song’s overarching theme of irresistible charm.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Go for It 5:29
  • 2 Appeal 5:20
  • 3 The Final Analysis 3:12
  • 4 You’ve Got Me Running 3:57
  • 5 Sweeter as the Days Go By 3:47
  • 6 Talk to Me 6:14
  • 7 Good Feelings 4:20
  • 8 Rocker 6:57

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata