What makes Goin' Up in Smoke by Eddie Kendricks notable?

Goin' Up in Smoke received positive reviews upon release, particularly for its innovative fusion of soul and funk elements, which influenced later artists in these genres. It peaked at number 36 on the Billboard 200 chart and showcased Kendricks' continued relevance in the music scene post-Temptations, helping to solidify his status as a leading figure in soul music. Released in 1976, Goin' Up in Smoke is Eddie Kendricks' third solo album following his departure from The Temptations. At this point in his career, he was transitioning into a more personal musical style, moving away from the Motown sound that had defined his earlier work. This album represents a crucial step in establishing his identity as a solo artist amidst changing musical landscapes.

How many songs are on Goin' Up in Smoke?

Goin' Up in Smoke has 10 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Released 50 years ago

Goin' Up in Smoke

Eddie Kendricks · 1976

39 min · 10 tracks · soul

A smooth blend of soulful melodies and funky grooves that showcases Kendricks' signature falsetto and heartfelt lyricism.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Goin’ Up in Smoke — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of fleeting romance and nostalgia, highlighted by Kendricks' emotive delivery and lush instrumentation.
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Sweet Tenderoni — This track features a smooth groove and romantic lyrics that exemplify Kendricks' ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with danceable rhythms.
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Muscle Man — With its upbeat tempo and catchy hook, this song serves as an anthem of self-empowerment, showcasing Kendricks' playful side alongside his vocal prowess.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends soulful melodies with funk grooves, showcasing Kendricks' vocal style but lacks strong cohesion.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a slow groove that gradually builds in intensity, leading into more upbeat tracks like 'Muscle Man' and 'Don't You Want Light'.
Kendricks employs his falsetto prominently throughout, often layering harmonies to create a rich vocal texture.
Several tracks feature extended instrumental sections that emphasize the funk elements, particularly in the rhythm section.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Goin’ Up in Smoke 4:30
2 The Newness Is Gone 4:40
3 Sweet Tenderoni 4:15
4 Born Again 3:26
5 Don’t You Want Light 3:47
6 Muscle Man 4:43
7 Thanks for the Memories 4:56
8 To You From Me 3:00
9 Don’t Put Off Till Tomorrow 3:53
10 Skeleton in Your Closet 2:36

What to play next

Listen next

He's a Friend

1976

Go back to

The Hit Man

1975

Full Eddie Kendricks discography Artists like Eddie Kendricks

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata