Complete List Of Rachel Sweet Albums And Discography

Feature Photo: David Fowler / Shutterstock.com

Rachel Sweet began her music career as a young teen in Akron, Ohio, stepping into the spotlight with a distinct blend of country, rock, and pop influences. She signed her first record deal with Stiff Records at the age of 16, releasing her debut album Fool Around in 1978. Sweet quickly became known for her powerful vocals and eclectic music style, which meshed elements of punk, new wave, and rockabilly, distinguishing her within the burgeoning new wave scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Throughout her career, Rachel Sweet released four studio albums, exploring and refining her sound with each record. Her debut album charted in the US, peaking at number 97 on the Billboard chart, establishing her as a promising artist in the music industry. Despite her early start and significant impact, Sweet transitioned out of her recording career in the mid-1980s to focus on other entertainment sectors, particularly television, where she achieved considerable success as a producer and writer.

Sweet’s work received critical acclaim during her active music years, with her first two albums making noticeable entries into US and UK charts. Although she did not win major music awards, her influence was noted in her ability to cross genre boundaries and appeal to diverse audiences. Her notable tracks, such as “B-A-B-Y” and her cover of “Everlasting Love,” remain enduring favorites. In 2022, a live album titled Alive in America, recorded during her peak years but unreleased until decades later, was brought out, offering new insights into her dynamic performance capabilities and enriching her discography.

Fool Around

Released: 1978

Label: Stiff Records

Fool Around is the debut album by Rachel Sweet, marking her entry into the music industry at just sixteen years old. This album blends elements of pop, country, and rock with Sweet’s distinctive vocals. Produced by Liam Sternberg and recorded at Britannia Row Studios in London, Fool Around showcases Sweet’s versatility across various music styles. The album reached number 97 on the US Billboard chart, propelled by her unique interpretations of classic songs and original tracks.

CD Track Listings:

“Just My Style” – 3:24
“B-A-B-Y” – 3:07
“Who Does Lisa Like?” – 2:52
“Wildwood Saloon” – 4:11
“Stay Awhile” – 3:35
“Suspended Animation” – 2:58
“Sad Song” – 2:24
“It’s So Different Here” – 2:19
“Cuckoo Clock” – 2:16
“Pin a Medal on Mary” – 2:44
“Girl With a Synthesizer” – 3:12
“Stranger in the House” – 3:32

Protect the Innocent

Released: 1980

Label: Stiff Records

Rachel Sweet’s second album, Protect the Innocent, continues to explore the blend of rock and pop with a slightly edgier tone. Recorded at Eden Studios in London and produced by Martin Rushent and Alan Winstanley, this album features a mix of covers and original compositions, showcasing Sweet’s growing artistry and vocal prowess. The album peaked at number 123 on the US Billboard charts.

CD Track Listings:

“Tonight” – 2:58
“Jealous” – 3:25
“I’ve Got a Reason” – 3:37
“New Age” – 4:22
“Baby Let’s Play House” – 3:28
“New Rose” – 2:35
“I Go to Pieces” – 2:42
“Lovers Lane” – 3:40
“Foul Play” – 2:47
“Spellbound” – 3:11
“Take Good Care of Me” – 3:07

…And Then He Kissed Me

Released: 1981

Label: Columbia Records

…And Then He Kissed Me marked Sweet’s transition to Columbia Records, featuring a polished sound with a strong 80s pop influence. Recorded at Media Sound Studios in New York and produced by Rick Chertoff, this album incorporates a mix of upbeat tracks and ballads, reflecting Sweet’s maturation as an artist.

CD Track Listings:

“Everlasting Love” – 3:21
“Shadows of the Night” – 3:44
“Party Girl” – 3:12
“Two Hearts Full of Love” – 3:33
“Billy and the Gun” – 3:55
“Then He Kissed Me/Be My Baby” – 4:23
“Cruisin’ Love” – 3:11
“American Girl” – 3:42
“Tonight Ricky” – 3:19
“Lover’s Lane” – 3:36

Blame It on Love

Released: 1982

Label: Columbia Records

In Blame It on Love, Rachel Sweet dives deeper into the pop-rock genre, emphasizing electronic instrumentation typical of the early 80s. Recorded in Los Angeles with producer Don Gehman, this album features a collection of tracks with strong hooks and lyrical content that ranges from romantic to introspective.

CD Track Listings:

“Blame It on Love” – 3:25
“Hearts on the Line” – 3:42
“Paralyzed” – 3:52
“Taken In” – 3:27
“Hear It” – 3:15
“Cool Heart” – 3:50
“Please Mr. Jailer” – 3:31
“Temple” – 3:44
“Ready Steady Go” – 3:07
“Voo Doo” – 3:10

Alive in America

Released: 2022 (Recorded 1980)

Label: Renaissance Records

Alive in America is a posthumously released live album, capturing Rachel Sweet’s vibrant performances during her 1980 tour. This album offers fans a glimpse into Sweet’s dynamic stage presence and vocal capabilities in a live setting. The recording captures the raw energy and emotional delivery that defined Sweet’s live performances.