Ebony Eyes (Rick James song)
"Ebony Eyes" | ||||
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Motown | ||||
Songwriter(s) | Rick James | |||
Producer(s) | Rick James | |||
Rick James singles chronology | ||||
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Smokey Robinson singles chronology | ||||
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Music video | ||||
"Ebony Eyes" on YouTube |
"Ebony Eyes" is a song recorded by American singers
Song information
"Ebony Eyes" was a collaborative effort between Smokey Robinson and Rick James. First released on the album Cold Blooded, "Ebony Eyes" climbed the R&B chart and peaked at number 22. "Ebony Eyes" is one of the few hits by James to not use the style he labeled "punk-funk" but instead uses a more contemporary tempo and follows a more classic style of R&B. Robinson was credited for singing the introduction, bridge, and other more calm verses while James sang the chorus.
"Ebony Eyes" begins with a simple beat which leads into a more complex rhythm and the vocals of both Robinson and uncredited background vocalist who repeat falsetto vocals twice before Robinson begins the opening verse. The song chronicles the narrators affection for a certain woman. Lost for words and made weak by the mere presence of this lady, Robinson requires James' vocals to reveal how he really feels about this woman, who James thinks is unaware of his affection and apparent need for her. It is an ode to love for women of color, hence the title "Ebony Eyes".
Personnel
- Vocals and composition by Smokey Robinson and Rick James
- Produced and arranged by Rick James
Chart performance
Chart (1983–1984) | Peak position |
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UK Singles ( The Official Charts Company)[2]
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96 |
US Billboard Hot 100[1] | 43 |
US Billboard Adult Contemporary[3] | 35 |
US Hot Black Singles (Billboard)[4] | 22 |
References
- ^ a b Whitburn, Joel (2013). Joel Whitburn's Top Pop Singles, 14th Edition: 1955-2012. Record Research. p. 423.
- ^ "officialcharts.com". officialcharts.com. Retrieved February 27, 2022.
- ^ Whitburn, Joel (2002). Top Adult Contemporary: 1961-2001. Record Research. p. 125.
- ^ Whitburn, Joel (2004). Top R&B/Hip-Hop Singles: 1942-2004. Record Research. p. 291.