Search - Michael Jackson :: Got to Be There

One terrific debut album

Matthew G. Sherwin | last seen screaming at Amazon customer service | 07/23/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"And to think that Michael Jackson's debut album came when he was really just a kid! Michael is in top form on these tracks and he never misses a beat. In general, I think the backup singers enhance the songs--not that Michael ever really needed backup; but they do sound pretty good anyway. The quality of the sound on this CD is excellent and the artwork is good, too.



The album starts off with Michael singing his heart out on "Ain't No Sunshine." Michael's voice is strong and the lush musical arrangement is just right for his vocals. The backup singers harmonize to perfection--and beyond! Overall, "Ain't No Sunshine" is a strong beginning track for this CD. "I Wanna Be Where You Are" by Leon Ware and Arthur "T-Boy" Ross is packed with energy; Michael sings this faultlessly and he handles complex tempo and key changes like the pro he was and still remains! "I Wanna Be Where You Are" is easily a major highlight of this album.



"In Our Small Way" is very easy on the ear for this hopeful love song; Michael aces this as effortlessly as if it were mere breathing. Of course, we know that it really wasn't all that easy; Michael's talent always carried him through. I love it! In addition, the title track, "Got to Be There" impresses me immensely. MJ sings this incredibly well and the melody is very pretty. "Rockin' Robin" is yet another tune packed with energy; its fantastic arrangement combines Michael's singing with some really fine music to make this a pop masterpiece.



"Wings of My Love" uses the strings to great advantage; and Michael sings this with all his heart and soul. Michael's cover of a number made famous by The Supremes, "Love Is Here and Now You're Gone," sparkles like silver and gold combined in his capable hands; and it's another major highlight of this album. "You've Got a Friend" ends the album with Michael doing a superlative job of placing his own stamp on this Carole King ballad; he plays a little bit with the tempo and the keys to make this song his own. Great!



Michael Jackson's music always made me feel elated; and it always will. I highly recommend this for his fans; and even newcomers to MJ will like this awesome CD."