What makes Rhythm of the Night by DeBarge notable?

The album features the massive hit title track, which reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a defining anthem of the era. Its success helped DeBarge gain significant mainstream recognition and has influenced numerous artists within the R&B genre, making it a staple at dance parties and radio playlists. Released in January 1985, Rhythm of the Night marked DeBarge's fourth studio album during their commercial peak. Following the success of their previous album, In a Special Way, this record solidified their place in the R&B landscape and showcased their evolving sound, blending funk with more polished pop elements.

How many songs are on Rhythm of the Night?

Rhythm of the Night has 9 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Rhythm of the Night

DeBarge · 1985

42 min · 9 tracks · funk

Funky grooves intertwine with smooth harmonies, creating an infectious blend of R&B and pop that defines the mid-80s sound.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Rhythm of the Night — As the title track, it encapsulates the album's spirit with its catchy chorus and danceable rhythm, becoming synonymous with DeBarge's legacy.
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Who's Holding Donna Now — This track showcases the group's signature harmonies and emotional depth, resonating with listeners through its narrative of love and longing.
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The Heart Is Not So Smart — This song blends upbeat melodies with introspective lyrics, highlighting DeBarge's ability to balance joy and vulnerability in their music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends catchy melodies with smooth harmonies, characteristic of mid-80s funk and R&B.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features upbeat tracks that maintain a consistent tempo, while the second half introduces slower ballads that create a contrast in energy.
The title track is positioned last, serving as a climactic conclusion after a series of narrative-driven songs.
Several tracks utilize layered vocal harmonies, with call-and-response sections that engage the listener and enhance the groove.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Prime Time 4:27
2 The Heart Is Not So Smart 4:35
3 Who’s Holding Donna Now 4:27
4 Give It Up 4:20
5 Single Heart 3:33
6 You Wear It Well 4:44
7 The Walls (Came Tumbling Down) 6:45
8 Share My World 5:37
9 Rhythm of the Night 3:48

What to play next

Listen next

DeBarge - Greatest Hits

1986

Go back to

In a Special Way

1983

Full DeBarge discography Artists like DeBarge

funk

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata