Sex and the Single Man cover

Sex and the Single Man

Ray Parker Jr. · 1985

36 min · 8 tracks · rhythm and blues

A vibrant blend of jazz-funk and rhythm and blues that grooves with playful sexuality and upbeat melodies.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Girls Have More Fun Start here — This track encapsulates the album's playful theme, merging infectious grooves with lyrics that challenge traditional gender roles in dating.
  • →
    Sex and the Single Man — The title track serves as a manifesto for modern bachelorhood, blending humor and sincerity while showcasing Parker's signature smooth vocal style.
  • →
    Men Have Feelings Too — This song offers a candid look at male vulnerability, contrasting societal expectations with an emotional honesty rarely seen in R&B at the time.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • upbeat tracks for social gatherings
  • playful vibes for lighthearted moments
  • catchy melodies for sing-alongs
  • quick bursts of fun energy

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer lengthy, introspective albums
  • seek deep emotional complexity

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — A solid entry that showcases his style but isn't widely recognized as a standout.
Themes
modern bachelorhood· playful sexuality
Career context
Released in 1985, Sex and the Single Man was Ray Parker Jr.'s fourth studio album, following his commercial success with Ghostbusters. At this point in his career, Parker was transitioning from the mainstream pop spotlight into more personal explorations of love and relationships, showcasing his ability to fuse catchy hooks with deeper themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Prince· Chic· Earth, Wind & Fire

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Men Have Feelings Too

    Addressing common stereotypes about masculinity directly within its verses.

    This direct confrontation of gender norms allows for a nuanced discussion of male emotions, positioning the song as a progressive statement within the album.

Tracklist

  • 1 Girls Have More Fun Start here 4:45
  • 2 Good Time Baby 4:37
  • 3 Everybody Wants Someone 4:42
  • 4 I’m a Dog 4:41
  • 5 One Sided Love Affair 3:58
  • 6 Sex and the Single Man 4:19
  • 7 I’m in Love 4:38
  • 8 Men Have Feelings Too 4:28

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata