What makes Special Things by The Pointer Sisters notable?

Special Things achieved commercial success, peaking at number 25 on the Billboard 200 chart and featuring the hit single 'He's So Shy', which reached number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album helped to further establish the Pointer Sisters as a leading act in pop and R&B during this era. Released in January 1980, Special Things marked the Pointer Sisters' transition into a more polished pop sound after their successful albums from the late 1970s. This album followed their breakthrough record, Energy, showcasing their versatility while solidifying their place in the mainstream music scene.

Who is Special Things for?

Special Things works well if you're into steady melodic progression throughout, infectious hooks for sing-alongs and light-hearted energy for gatherings.

How many songs are on Special Things?

Special Things has 9 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

Special Things

The Pointer Sisters · 1980

33 min · 9 tracks · country music

A vibrant blend of pop and R&B, infused with catchy hooks and the Pointer Sisters' signature harmonies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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He's So Shy — This track stands out as a quintessential pop hit, characterized by its infectious melody and playful lyrics about infatuation.
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Could I Be Dreamin’ — Opening the album, this song introduces listeners to the Pointer Sisters' harmonious vocals and sets an inviting tone for the collection.
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Evil — 'Evil' showcases a darker undertone with its compelling narrative, highlighting the Sisters' ability to convey emotional depth alongside catchy melodies.
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Special Things — The title track encapsulates the album's essence, weaving together themes of love and celebration through its upbeat rhythm and engaging lyrics.

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 solid songwriting and production but lacks a cohesive narrative or standout tracks.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature upbeat tempos and strong hooks, while the fourth track shifts to a slower, more introspective feel.
Several songs incorporate prominent brass sections, adding a lively texture that complements the pop and R&B influences.

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: 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

steady melodic progression throughout
infectious hooks for sing-alongs
light-hearted energy for gatherings
uplifting vibes for feel-good moments

Maybe skip if you

seeking complex, lengthy compositions
prefer darker, more intense moods

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Marked the transition to a polished pop sound and solidified their commercial appeal.
Career context: Released in January 1980, Special Things marked the Pointer Sisters' transition into a more polished pop sound after their successful albums from the late 1970s. This album followed their breakthrough record, Energy, showcasing their versatility while solidifying their place in the mainstream music scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Chaka Khan· The Emotions· Donna Summer