What makes The Right Thing by Simply Red notable?

The title track reached number 11 on the UK Singles Chart, further cementing Simply Red's reputation as a leading force in the sophisti-pop genre. The album and its singles were well-received by critics, contributing to the band's enduring appeal and commercial viability throughout the late 1980s. When 'The Right Thing' was released in January 1987, Simply Red was riding high on the success of their debut album, 'Picture Book', which had established them as a prominent act in the UK. This single marked their transition into mainstream pop success and solidified their unique blend of soul and jazz influences while expanding their audience base.

How many songs are on The Right Thing?

The Right Thing has 3 tracks, running approximately 12 minutes.

The Right Thing

Simply Red · 1987

12 min · 3 tracks · jazz fusion

Soulful melodies and smooth grooves intertwine with jazzy instrumentation, showcasing a polished blend of pop and blue-eyed soul.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Right Thing (extended version) — This track serves as the album's centerpiece, illustrating the band's signature sound with its catchy chorus and sophisticated arrangement that blends pop sensibilities with soulful expressions.
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There’s a Light — A tender ballad that showcases Mick Hucknall's vocal range, this song highlights the emotional depth present in Simply Red's music while maintaining a smooth groove.
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Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye — This cover of Cole Porter's classic demonstrates the band's ability to reinterpret jazz standards while infusing them with a contemporary feel, showcasing their musical versatility.

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 single blends jazzy instrumentation with pop sensibilities, showcasing solid craftsmanship but lacking deep compositional complexity.

What we noticed

The extended version of 'The Right Thing' features a prominent brass section that drives the melody, while the rhythm section maintains a steady groove.
The second track introduces a more subdued piano arrangement, contrasting with the upbeat nature of the first track.
The final track is a jazz standard that showcases vocal improvisation and a slower tempo, creating a reflective mood.

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single solidified Simply Red's reputation after their debut success.
Themes: smooth jazz nights· emotive storytelling· love and longing
Career context: When 'The Right Thing' was released in January 1987, Simply Red was riding high on the success of their debut album, 'Picture Book', which had established them as a prominent act in the UK. This single marked their transition into mainstream pop success and solidified their unique blend of soul and jazz influences while expanding their audience base.
Stylistic neighbors: Sade· Seal· Jamiroquai