If That's What It Takes
Michael McDonald · 1982
40 min · 10 tracks · R&B · soul · soft rock
Smooth melodies intertwine with soulful vocals, creating a rich tapestry of blue-eyed soul and soft rock.
Why this album works
- Best for
- steady mid-tempo groove smooth melodies for relaxation soulful vocals for emotional depth
- Context
- Released on August 1, 1982, 'If That's What It Takes' was Michael McDonald's third solo album, following his successful debut 'If That's What It Takes' in 1982. This album marked a maturation in his sound, showcasing his distinctive vocal style and songwriting prowess as he transitioned from being the lead singer of The Doobie Brothers to a solo artist.
- If you like
- R&B, soul, soft rock
If That's What It Takes is an album by Michael McDonald, released in 1982. Smooth melodies intertwine with soulful vocals, creating a rich tapestry of blue-eyed soul and soft rock. 'If That's What It Takes' features the hit single 'I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near),' which reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The album solidified McDonald’s presence in the pop and R&B scenes of the early '80s and has since been recognized for its lush production and emotional depth. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does If That's What It Takes sound like?
Smooth melodies intertwine with soulful vocals, creating a rich tapestry of blue-eyed soul and soft rock. Rooted in R&B and soul.
What makes If That's What It Takes by Michael McDonald notable?
'If That's What It Takes' features the hit single 'I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near),' which reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The album solidified McDonald’s presence in the pop and R&B scenes of the early '80s and has since been recognized for its lush production and emotional depth. Released on August 1, 1982, 'If That's What It Takes' was Michael McDonald's third solo album, following his successful debut 'If That's What It Takes' in 1982. This album marked a maturation in his sound, showcasing his distinctive vocal style and songwriting prowess as he transitioned from being the lead singer of The Doobie Brothers to a solo artist.
Who is If That's What It Takes for?
If That's What It Takes works well if you're into steady mid-tempo groove, smooth melodies for relaxation and soulful vocals for emotional depth.
How many songs are on If That's What It Takes?
If That's What It Takes has 10 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Playin’ by the Rules Standout 5:01
- 2 I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near) Standout 3:43
- 3 Love Lies 3:25
- 4 I Gotta Try 3:55
- 5 I Can Let Go Now 2:56
- 6 That’s Why 4:26
- 7 If That’s What It Takes Standout 4:20
- 8 No Such Luck 3:48
- 9 Losin’ End 4:15
- 10 Believe in It 4:40
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