Grace Jones – Nightclubbing – LP

“Nightclubbing” is the fifth studio album by Jamaican singer Grace Jones, released on 11 May 1981 by Island Records. Recorded at Compass Point Studios with producers Alex Sadkin and Island Records‘ president Chris Blackwell, as well as a team of session musicians rooted by rhythm section Sly & Robbie, the album marked her second foray into a new wave style that blends a variety of genres, including reggae, art pop, dub, synth-pop and funk. The album comprises a mixture of cover versions from artists including Bill Withers, Iggy Pop and Astor Piazzolla, and original songs, three of which were co-written by Jones.

The album received positive reviews upon its release and continues to be praised by critics, with reviewers commending the singer’s unique sound and organic fusion of genres. The album entered in the top 10 in five countries, and became Jones‘ highest-ranking record on the US Billboard mainstream albums and R&B charts. Six singles were released from the album, including the hits “Pull Up to the Bumper” and “I’ve Seen That Face Before (Libertango)”.

Critics and scholars have noted the album’s influence on popular music, especially how its unique sound has been emulated by both pop and alternative acts, and how the persona Grace Jones adopted – deeply influenced by art and fashion – has had an enduring influence in modern female pop singers. Around the time of the album’s release, she adopted her characteristic androgynous look which would become popular in fashion. “Nightclubbing” is now widely considered Jones‘ best studio album and the record that cemented her pop icon status.

Island Records (Back To Black Series)

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