What makes Should've Known Better by Richard Marx notable?

The album's title track became a significant hit, peaking at number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving substantial radio airplay. Its success helped establish Marx as a prominent figure in the adult contemporary genre, influencing a generation of pop songwriters with its lyrical depth and melodic craftsmanship. Released on September 8, 1987, 'Should've Known Better' marked Richard Marx's ascent in the music industry following his self-titled debut album earlier that year. This single solidified his reputation as a leading voice in pop music, showcasing his knack for crafting emotionally resonant songs that would dominate charts throughout the late '80s and early '90s.

How many songs are on Should've Known Better?

Should've Known Better has 2 tracks, running approximately 8 minutes.

Should've Known Better

Richard Marx · 1987

8 min · 2 tracks · pop music

A polished blend of heartfelt melodies and catchy pop hooks that defines late '80s romantic balladry.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Should've Known Better — As the lead single, this track encapsulates Marx's signature style with its memorable chorus and introspective lyrics about love and regret.
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Rhythm of Life — This track complements the album with its upbeat tempo and positive message, showcasing Marx's versatility beyond emotional ballads.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

42 /100

Lowland

Higher than 1% of albums we've rated

The single showcases solid pop writing but lacks strong cohesion between its two tracks.

What we noticed

The title track features a prominent synth line that drives the melody, while the verses are built around a steady drum machine beat.
The second track introduces a more upbeat tempo and incorporates layered vocal harmonies that contrast with the first track's more straightforward arrangement.

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: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single solidified Marx's reputation after his debut, gaining significant recognition.
Themes: late-night confessions· romantic regret· heartfelt melodies
Career context: Released on September 8, 1987, 'Should've Known Better' marked Richard Marx's ascent in the music industry following his self-titled debut album earlier that year. This single solidified his reputation as a leading voice in pop music, showcasing his knack for crafting emotionally resonant songs that would dominate charts throughout the late '80s and early '90s.
Stylistic neighbors: Michael Bolton· John Waite· Kenny Loggins