Is Portfolio a good place to start with Grace Jones?

Yes, Portfolio is recommended as a starting point for new Grace Jones listeners. A vibrant fusion of disco-infused rhythms and soulful melodies showcasing Grace Jones's distinctive vocal style and theatrical flair. Released on September 6, 1977, Portfolio is Grace Jones's debut album, marking her transition from modeling to a music career. This album laid the groundwork for her subsequent rise as a prominent figure in the disco and new wave scenes of the late '70s and early '80s.

Who is Portfolio for?

Portfolio works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and contemplative evening reflections.

How many songs are on Portfolio?

Portfolio has 7 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Portfolio

Grace Jones · 1977

37 min · 7 tracks · contemporary R&B

A vibrant fusion of disco-infused rhythms and soulful melodies showcasing Grace Jones's distinctive vocal style and theatrical flair.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Send in the Clowns Start here — This cover transforms the classic ballad into a disco anthem, highlighting Jones's powerful vocal delivery and emotional depth.
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I Need a Man — This track stands out with its infectious beat and assertive lyrics, embodying themes of empowerment that resonated deeply in the disco era.
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La Vie en rose — Jones's rendition brings a sultry vibrancy to this French classic, merging her unique style with a timeless romanticism that captivates listeners.

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 features strong vocal performances and varied arrangements, establishing a distinct sound within its genre.

What we noticed

The album opens with a cover of 'Send in the Clowns', featuring a slow tempo and orchestral arrangement that contrasts with the more upbeat tracks that follow.
Each track showcases Grace Jones's theatrical vocal delivery, often employing dramatic shifts in dynamics and phrasing.
The instrumentation blends disco beats with elements of jazz and pop, creating a diverse sonic palette across the seven tracks.

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

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

long, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
contemplative evening reflections
layered, dense sonic textures

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Debut album that marked her transition to music and established her presence in the industry.
Themes: New York nightlife· disco empowerment· club culture reinvention
Career context: Released on September 6, 1977, Portfolio is Grace Jones's debut album, marking her transition from modeling to a music career. This album laid the groundwork for her subsequent rise as a prominent figure in the disco and new wave scenes of the late '70s and early '80s.
Stylistic neighbors: Chic· Annie Lennox· David Bowie