What is the best Al Jarreau album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Breakin' Away" (1981). It's the most representative of what makes Al Jarreau worth hearing.

What are the best Al Jarreau albums?

The essential Al Jarreau albums include "Look to the Rainbow", "Glow" (1976), "This Time" (1980), "Breakin' Away" (1981) and "Jarreau" (1983).

How many albums does Al Jarreau have?

Al Jarreau has 31 releases in their discography, including 25 albums and 1 EP.

Photo: Kingkongphoto & www.celebrity-photos.com from Laurel Maryland, USA · CC BY-SA 2.0

Al Jarreau

Q: Who is Al Jarreau for?

If you're into funk and R&B, Al Jarreau is worth your time. Al Jarreau's music pulses with rhythmic intricacies and layered textures, driven by playful syncopation and rich vocal harmonies that create an immersive groove.

Al Jarreau's music pulses with rhythmic intricacies and layered textures, driven by playful syncopation and rich vocal harmonies that create an immersive groove.

funk · smooth jazz · soul

United States

Read about Al Jarreau on Bookshop

Start here

The album

Breakin' Away (1981)

A cohesive album that showcases Al Jarreau's signature blend of jazz and funk, making it accessible for new listeners.

The song

“Roof Garden”

This track features engaging rhythms and smooth melodies, effectively introducing Al Jarreau's vocal style and musical approach.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"Closer to Your Love" — from Breakin' Away (1981)

accessible entry with immediate hook
2

"Rainbow in Your Eyes" — from Glow (1976)

establishes the sonic palette early
3

"Tell Me What I Gotta Do" — from L Is for Lover (1986)

accessible entry with immediate hook
4

"Cold Duck" — from Accentuate the Positive (2004)

establishes the sonic palette early
5

"What You Do to Me" — from Heaven and Earth (1992)

accessible entry with immediate hook
6

"Letter Perfect" — from Look to the Rainbow

accessible entry with immediate hook

About Al Jarreau

Al Jarreau reshaped the musical landscape with his distinct blend of jazz and funk, creating a sound that transcended traditional genre boundaries.

His ability to effortlessly merge complex vocal techniques with infectious grooves not only captivated audiences but also paved new avenues for expression in contemporary music.

His ability to effortlessly merge complex vocal techniques with infectious grooves not only captivated audiences but also paved new avenues for expression in contemporary music. As a performer, he brought unparalleled charisma and energy to the stage, fostering a deeper connection between artist and listener that encouraged a more engaged, participatory experience. His approach to music was marked by an innovative use of vocal improvisation, allowing him to navigate intricate melodies and rhythms with remarkable agility. This fluidity is complemented by his penchant for storytelling through song, where each performance feels like an intimate dialogue rather than a mere recital. By blending elements of jazz improvisation with pop sensibilities, he carved out a unique niche that resonated deeply with diverse audiences. Lyrically, Jarreau often explores themes of love, life’s complexities, and the human experience, weaving personal narratives with broader reflections on society. His voice carries both sincerity and playfulness, striking a balance between irony and heartfelt emotion as he invites listeners into his world. The result is an engaging auditory experience that feels both spontaneous and thoughtfully constructed.

25 studio albums· 31 total releases· 4 decades· United States