What makes Patti Austin by Patti Austin notable?

The album produced hits that contributed to Austin's rise on the charts, particularly 'Rhythm of the Street', which reached significant radio play and recognition. Its blend of genres helped solidify her position within the pop and R&B scenes of the 1980s, influencing subsequent artists in those genres. Released in 1984, this self-titled album marked Patti Austin's transition into mainstream pop after her successful debut in the late 1970s. Following her collaborations with prominent artists like Quincy Jones, she was poised to reach a broader audience, showcasing her versatility as an artist during a pivotal phase in her career.

Who is Patti Austin for?

Patti Austin works well if you're into upbeat tracks for lively gatherings, heartfelt ballads for emotional moments and danceable rhythms for celebration.

How many songs are on Patti Austin?

Patti Austin has 10 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Patti Austin

Patti Austin · 1984

42 min · 10 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of R&B and pop, layered with jazz influences and Patti Austin's commanding vocals.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Rhythm of the Street — This upbeat track embodies the album's energetic spirit, combining danceable rhythms with catchy hooks that highlight Austin's vocal prowess.
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I've Got My Heart Set on You — A romantic ballad that showcases Austin's range, featuring lush instrumentation and heartfelt delivery that resonates emotionally.
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Change Your Attitude — This track stands out for its empowering message and infectious groove, demonstrating Austin's ability to merge uplifting lyrics with engaging melodies.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and vocal performances but follows familiar pop and R&B structures.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate layered vocal harmonies, particularly in the choruses, enhancing the pop and R&B influences throughout.
The arrangement often shifts between sections that highlight Austin's vocal prowess and instrumental breaks, creating dynamic contrasts within individual songs.

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

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

upbeat tracks for lively gatherings
heartfelt ballads for emotional moments
danceable rhythms for celebration
catchy melodies for sing-alongs

Maybe skip if you

slow-paced reflective listening
minimalist soundscapes preference

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1984, this self-titled album marked Patti Austin's transition into mainstream pop after her successful debut in the late 1970s. Following her collaborations with prominent artists like Quincy Jones, she was poised to reach a broader audience, showcasing her versatility as an artist during a pivotal phase in her career.
Stylistic neighbors: Roberta Flack· Natalie Cole· Chaka Khan