Feature Photo: David Fowler / Shutterstock.com
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.
CD Track Listings:
- “B-A-B-Y” – 3:03
- “Spellbound” – 3:06
- “Tonight” – 2:58
- “Jealous” – 3:25
- “New Age” – 4:15
- “Foul Play” – 2:50
- “Baby Let’s Play House” – 3:30
- “Take Good Care of Me” – 3:10
- “I’ve Got a Reason” – 3:35
- “Everlasting Love” – 3:20