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Originally from Harlem, New York, Freddie Jackson grew up as a gospel singer, singing for the community church and its choir. It would be there he would meet with Paul Laurence, a songwriter and record producer that would launch Jackson into a professional music career. First, Jackson performed in Laurence’s own band, Laurence Jones Ensemble (LJE) throughout New York’s nightclub scene. Briefly, Jackson moved to the West Coast and worked with the band, Mystic Merlin. After recording and releasing three albums between 1980 to 1982, Jackson returned to New York. He teamed up with Laurence to help record demos when he returned in 1981, which led to a 1984 recording contract with Capitol Records. On August 28, 1985, Jackson released his debut album, Rock Me Tonight. The success of the album officially made Jackson’s music a favorite on the urban contemporary airwaves, catapulting the R&B singer into stardom.
Freddie Jackson
So far, Freddie Jackson has recorded and released fourteen studio albums and five compilation albums. He also has thirty-nine singles to his credit, where ten of them became chart-toppers, all of them on US Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs. When his run from 1984 to 1993 with Capitol Records was over, Jackson sought a new beginning by signing up with RCA Records. According to a 1988 article written in the Los Angeles Times, Freddie Jackson admitted he refused to compromise his soulful, R&B style in favor of chasing after pop-rock recognition. This was in response to the criticism he was receiving by the likes of US Billboard Magazine that too much of his material sounded too similar to each other. This is also the same article that had Jackson voice another issue that embroiled him in a bit of controversy. However, Jackson’s point of view when it came to the music industry is that it should become a more level playing field for every artist, regardless of race, color, and personal background.
Top 10 Freddie Jackson Songs
#10 – I Do (featuring Natalie Cole)
In 1989, the duet of “I Do” reached number seven on the US Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, as well as number fifteen on the US Adult Contemporary/Easy Listening chart. Natalie Cole and Freddie Jackson laid out a soft, melodic performance as their combined vocal talents made this a feel-good ballad that can easily become a loving couple’s favorite. The song is featured on Natalie Cole’s 1989 album, Good to Be Back.
#9 – A Little Bit More (featuring Melba Moore)
Coming from Melba Moore’s 1986 album, A Lot of Love, the duet she performs with Freddie Jackson starts with “A Little Bit More” opening up with Jackson’s melodic vocals. The sensuality of this slow-paced love song smoked the US Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart as it reached number one in 1990. This song is also on Freddie Jackson’s album, Do Me Again, which was released on October 29, 1990.
#8 – Love Me Down
Freddy Jackson starts off the single, “Love Me Down,” with a melodic play of vocal notes before breaking into the soft lyrics that deservedly placed this song as a number one hit for the R&B artist on the US Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. It also made a chart appearance on the UK Singles Chart at number ninety-five. Love Me Down was the second of five singles recorded and released from his 1990 album, Do Me Again.
#7 – He’ll Never Love You (Like I Do)
As a fun, easy to dance to beat, “He’ll Never Love You (Like I Do)” demonstrates Freddie Jackson’s vocal performance is at its rhythmic best. On the US Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, the single peaked at number eight, making it the third single from Jackson’s debut album, Rock Me Tonight, that would become a top-ten hit. It also charted at number twenty-five on the US Billboard Hot 100, and at number twenty-eight on the US Billboard Adult Contemporary/Easy Listening Songs chart.
#6 – Jam Tonight
On the US Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles chart, “Jam Tonight” became Freddie Jackson’s sixth number one hit. Coming from the 1986 album, Just Like the First Time, it was the fourth time from the album Jackson would have a song that became a chart-topper. This easy-to-listen-to song features a fun, upbeat groove that makes a listener want to jam along with it.
#5 – Tasty Love
“Tasty Love” was the second of six singles that were released from Freddie Jackson’s second studio album, Just Like the First Time, which was recorded and released on November 8, 1986. The soul-felt, vocal display by Jackson gave a powerful, yet sensual, feel to the song. When it charted number one on the US Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, the song remained there for four weeks.
#4 – Have You Ever Loved Somebody
The 1986 album, Just Like the First Time, was Freddie Jackson’s second studio album, which had since become certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). From it, the single, “Have You Ever Loved Somebody,” became Jackson’s fifth number one hit on the US Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles chart. Between the opening harp play, keyboard performance, and Jackson’s rhythmic vocals, it’s easy to get caught up in the song’s soft groove.
#3 – Rock Me Tonight (For Old Time’s Sake)
Freddie Jackson made his debut with the single, “Rock Me Tonight (For Old Time’s Sake),” in 1984. In the slow, melodic intro Jackson starts the song with, the powerful vocalist laid out a dreamy delivery that would take music fans by storm. On the charts, the song peaked at number one on the US Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, and at number eighteen on the US Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart. Rock Me Tonight served as the first of ten number one hits Freddie Jackson would realize in his career as a solo artist.
#2 – Nice ‘N’ Slow
The 1988 American Music Association recognized the single, “Nice ‘N’ Slow,” as Favorite Soul/Rhythm & Blues Singles. Before the music officially sets in, Freddie Jackson’s vocal opening sets an easy-listening, rhythmic tone. From there the song maintains a pace that is kept nice, slow, and with a catchy beat. On the US Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, the song peaked at number one. Coming from the 1988 album, Don’t Let Love Slip Away, Nice ‘N’ Slow served as the leading track and was the first of four singles that were released.
# 1- You Are My Lady
“You Are My Lady” served as the explosive hit that would put Freddie Jackson on the map as an elite performer in the R&B music genre. On the US Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, the song peaked at number one. On the US Billboard Adult Contemporary/Easy Listening chart, the soft, emotional ballad charted at number three, and on the US Billboard Hot 100, at number twelve.
The powerful performance Jackson poured into You Are My Lady as a lovestruck companion to his woman, earned Jackson Grammy Award recognition to become nominated in 1985 for Best New Artist, as well as Best Rhythm & Blues Vocal Performance – Male. Although he didn’t take home any Grammys, this song was instrumental in making Jackson’s debut album, Rock Me Tonight, become a chart-topping success. The album also became certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), as well as certified Silver by the UK’s British Phonographic Industry (BPI).
Top 10 Freddie Jackson Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2021
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![Rob De Luca of Spread Eagle, Sebastian Bach & UFO: 10 Albums That Changed My Life From humble East Coast origins to grandest stages worldwide, veteran bassist Rob De Luca has seen and done it all. De Luca first hit the local Boston rock and metal scene in the late 80s after meeting guitarist Paul DiBartolo, bonding over Van Halen before forming Bang. Regional success came quickly, but eventually, the members of Bang went their separate ways, with De Luca and drummer Tommi Gallo heading to NYC and hooking up with Ray West and, later, DiBartolo to form Spread Eagle. By 1990, Spread Eagle was on the fast track, with a contract through MCA Records and a self-titled debut album poised to crush skulls. But poor timing and MCA's sad indifference left Spead Eagle out in the cold despite being a hard-boiled answer to Guns N' Roses's West Coast sleaze. Spread Eagle's first chapter came to an end in '95. As for Rob De Luca, his nimble fingers and gift for melody and songwriting kept him moving forward. Soon, he found a gig with former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach and the legendary outfit UFO. And in 2010, after coupling up with Ray West and his cousin Rik De Luca, Spread Eagle retook flight. During a break from Spread Eagle's increasingly busy touring schedule, Rob De Luca dialed in with ClassicRockHistory.com to run through the ten albums that changed his life. But only after adding, "I made a playlist of these songs, including some I've written or co-written. Do you hear any of these albums' influence on me?" Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3LWJuhDrE8JmzhsmTeIDUq 10) Gentlemen by Afghan Whigs (1993) Here's an entry that was so important to me. This may be the darkest break-up album of all time. Greg Dulli has been in many projects, but I feel Gentlemen is his zenith. Somewhat undefinable at times but always profound and honest. Listen to "Gentlemen," "Fountain and Fairfax," and "What Jail Is Like." 9) In on the Kill Taker by Fugazi (1993) By this time, I had been sucked in and spit out by the major-label record industry. Glam came and went; grunge was history, too. I was searching for new sounds. When I heard Fugazi's twin guitar approach, I knew this was what was missing. Fugazi may be considered a less polished sound than the albums above; however, once you "get it," it hits you like a ton of bricks, and there's no going back. From the moment I heard Fugazi, I went to every NYC show after. It's easily some of the best concerts of my life, and possibly my favorite bassist in Joe Lally. And their DIY ethics refused to charge us more than $5 a show! In on the Kill Taker is a powerful album demonstrated in songs such as "Smallpox Champion," "Great Cop," and "Public Witness Program." 8) Appetite for Destruction by Guns N' Roses (1987) I discovered many of these albums (sometimes long) after they were released. However, I was at the right place at the right time for this one. Steve Ostromogilsky had a Berklee College of Music lunch card and used to sneak out sandwiches for me. One day, he invited me to hang out at his place and listen to music. As we got off the train, he put Sony Walkman headphones on my ears and said, "Hey, check out this brand-new group." A song like "It's So Easy" was so different from the popular Sunset Strip sound at that time. Me and about 499 other informed rockers were lucky enough to see them on their first East Coast tour at the sold-out Paradise on Commonwealth Avenue, Boston (the same street Aerosmith started on). I saw Gn'R every tour after until I took a break when Buckethead joined. Gn'R is the band I've been lucky enough to see the most times live, almost 100! Everyone on this album is just stellar. Axl [Rose] had the tones, power, melodic sensibilities, and foresight to do what no other singer did then. Slash's playing was beyond memorable. Duff [McKagan] is one of the most underrated bassists in rock history, and learning his Appetite basslines is a masterclass. Steven [Adler] had the natural swing, and Izzy [Stradlin] was the secret weapon songwriter. Everything that's been heralded about this gem is deserved and true. Check out "It's So Easy," "Out Ta Get Me," and "Mr. Brownstone.' 7) Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (1975) Another contender for my favorite album and band of all time. Using The Beatles machine (same recording studio, engineer, record label), Pink Floyd made what I feel is their strongest, most cohesive album (my second favorite of theirs would be Animals). This list mainly consists of bands with an instantly recognizable sound. Floyd is certainly no exception to that! This album included a solid handful of undeniable rock radio classics, bookended by two halves of the mind-blowing song "Shine on You Crazy Diamond.' That song was written about former band member and founder Syd Barrett. It would be hard to live in a world without this album. Check out "Welcome to The Machine," "Shine on You Crazy Diamond (parts 6-9),' or even better yet, listen to the whole thing in one sitting! 6) Decade by Neil Young (1977) About this time, I started playing guitar. As a beginner, it was comfortable jamming to this album because the chord changes were simple—a great "first ten years" retrospective of Neil's stunning, unique songwriting. Neil is a treasure who always writes from the heart and stands up for what's right. Check out "Southern Man," "A Man Needs a Maid," "Down by The River," and "After the Goldrush." 5) Highway to Hell by AC/DC (1979) When I heard this album, I was firmly "me." My life would be 100% focused on hard rock music forever. AC/DC are like air; they're ubiquitous. Everyone knows them and their incredible songs. However, as a young teen in Wilmington, Delaware, I only had WMMR 93.3 FM Philadelphia and a few friends to inform me about the world of Rock outside my bedroom. AC/DC had not gone mainstream, and their albums were available primarily in the USA as imports. To put things more in perspective, I only knew two people in the world who had heard of AC/DC. A friend had an import that we played in Steve Buckley's basement, which sounded ripping. When Highway to Hell was released, WMMR started spinning the title track, and I immediately bought the album, listening to it every single day after school. Then WMMR announced AC/DC was coming to the Spectrum in Philly, supporting Ted Nugent! I liked Ted but loved AC/DC, so my good friend Mick Cummins and I bought tickets, and he drove us up to the Spectrum (where we saw most of our concerts). Bon Scott was in fine form, and the band went over great. Although the crowd knew Ted better, Angus [Young] wouldn't let anyone upstage him. I'll never forget it! Unfortunately, Bon would be gone in 6 months. Check out "Walk All Over You," "Touch Too Much," "Shot Down in Flames," and "If You Want Blood (You Got It)." 4) Toys in the Attic by Aerosmith (1975) By the time I heard this, I was now in my teens. I had a childhood friend up the street, Jim Linberg (we're still good buddies). His older sister had a great album collection, including Toys in The Attic. Once I heard that groove, my taste changed. I lost interest in rock music that didn't have some sort of "swing" feel to it. I think Rocks is a slightly better Aerosmith album (and possibly my favorite album of all time), but both are perfect or very close. Check out "Uncle Salty," "Adam's Apple," "No More No More," "Round and Round," and "You See Me Crying." 3) Alive! by Kiss (1975) When I was still a little kid, I asked for Cheech and Chong's Up in Smoke album for Christmas. The entire family came over for an enormous feast, and I dropped the needle. When my mother heard the content, she turned off the album and said I had to exchange it. My mom was cool, but I was young and knew much more about life than she suspected. Anyway, the next day, she drove me back to the store. In the music section, promoted on an "endcap" was a Kiss Alive! display. I had never heard of Kiss, but that cover picture told me I had to have it! My first foray into hard rock. Check out “Strutter.” I went through my Kiss phase very quickly, I believe in a matter of months because I discovered the previous entry, Aerosmith's Toys in the Attic. 2) Honky Chateau by Elton John (1972) When I was a wee lad, my parents bought a used Volkswagen camper van from my uncle Ozzie. My favorite Elton John album is Yellow Brick Road, but Honky Chateau is great and easily one of his best. It sent me down a lifelong rabbit hole of loving everything about the 1970s partnership between Elton and lyricist Bernie Taupin. The simple beauty of voice, the master songwriting, the perfect backing band, the clear, unobtrusive recordings, and always Bernie's incredible lyrics. The day this album was released, Elton became an unstoppable force that conquered the music industry. Check out "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" and "Rocket Man." 1) Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles (1967) Another tape that was included in the VW Camper. The van had a bunch of music tapes, and one was Sgt Pepper. I was too young to understand the sophistication of the music, but that was one of the many skills of The Beatles. They attracted listeners at every level, even little kids. I still feel that immediate connection to Sgt Pepper; now, I hear so much more. It's an album that changed the world and the world of music. Check out "Lucy in The Sky with Diamonds," "A Day In The Life," and "Fixing a Hole."](http://www.classicrockhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Shutterstock_1815495569-1-300x200.jpg)
