What makes The DeBarges by DeBarge notable?

This album helped propel DeBarge to mainstream success, particularly with the hit single 'I Like It' which peaked at number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its blend of funk and soul not only influenced contemporary artists but also solidified the DeBarges' legacy in the genre, leading to future successes throughout the 1980s. The DeBarges marked the group's self-titled debut album in 1981, following their emergence as a popular soul and R&B act. At this point, they were transitioning from performing as a family group to establishing themselves as a significant force in the music industry.

How many songs are on The DeBarges?

The DeBarges has 8 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

The DeBarges

DeBarge · 1981

36 min · 8 tracks · funk

Smooth funk grooves intertwine with romantic ballads, showcasing the DeBarge family's signature harmonies and heartfelt performances.

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Top tracks — play these first

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What’s Your Name — This track captures the essence of DeBarge's sound with its infectious melody and catchy chorus, establishing their style early on.
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Dance the Night Away — With its upbeat tempo and danceable rhythm, this song showcases the group's ability to create vibrant party anthems that resonate with listeners.
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Queen of My Heart — This ballad highlights the emotional depth and vocal prowess of the group, becoming a standout track that exemplifies their romantic appeal.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album features strong grooves and harmonies but lacks the depth for lasting impact.

What we noticed

The first three tracks establish a consistent mid-tempo groove, while the fourth track introduces a slower ballad that shifts the album's energy.
Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in the choruses.
The album closes with a track that incorporates a more complex arrangement, blending funk rhythms with orchestral elements.

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: 6/10
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.

Tracklist

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

1 What’s Your Name 4:35
2 Dance the Night Away 4:50
3 You’re So Gentle So Kind 4:40
4 Queen of My Heart 3:49
5 Hesitated 3:42
6 Saving Up (All My Love) 4:16
7 Share My World 5:39
8 Strange Romance 5:00

What to play next

Listen next

All This Love

1982

Full DeBarge discography Artists like DeBarge

funk

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata