Rock with You

Rock with You is a song by Michael Jackson, from his fifth studio album Off the Wall, released in 1979 by Epic Records. The song was written by Rod Temperton and produced by Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson, and features a distinctive Bass guitar riff played by Louis Johnson of The Brothers Johnson. The song's Disco-influenced sound was a departure from Michael Jackson's earlier work with The Jackson 5, and was influenced by the work of artists such as Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Chic.

Background

The song was recorded at Allen Zentz Recording, a studio in Los Angeles, with a team of experienced musicians including Greg Phillinganes on Keyboards, David Williams on Guitar, and John Robinson on Drums. The song's production was overseen by Quincy Jones, who had previously worked with Michael Jackson on his album Off the Wall, and was known for his work with artists such as Miles Davis, Frank Sinatra, and Count Basie. The song's Funk-influenced sound was also influenced by the work of artists such as James Brown, Parliament-Funkadelic, and Sly and the Family Stone. Other notable artists who have worked with Quincy Jones include Ray Charles, Diana Ross, and Paul McCartney.

Composition

The song's composition is characterized by its use of a distinctive Bass guitar riff, played by Louis Johnson, and a catchy Melody sung by Michael Jackson. The song's Lyrics were written by Rod Temperton, who was a member of the British Funk band Heatwave, and had previously written songs for artists such as Donna Summer and Herbie Hancock. The song's Chord progression is based on a simple, repetitive pattern, which creates a sense of tension and release, and is reminiscent of the work of artists such as Prince, The Time, and The Gap Band. Other notable songwriters who have worked with Michael Jackson include Paul Anka, Siedah Garrett, and Glen Ballard.

Release

The song was released as a single in 1979, and became a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and staying there for four weeks. The song was also a hit on the R&B and Disco charts, and helped to establish Michael Jackson as a major solo artist, following his success with The Jackson 5. The song's success was also due in part to its innovative Music video, which was directed by Bruce Gowers, and featured Michael Jackson performing the song in a sleek, futuristic setting, surrounded by Dancers and Special effects. Other notable artists who have worked with Bruce Gowers include Queen, The Rolling Stones, and Tina Turner.

Reception

The song received widespread critical acclaim, with many reviewers praising its catchy Melody and innovative production. The song was also a commercial success, selling over 4 million copies in the United States alone, and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. The song's success helped to establish Michael Jackson as one of the most successful artists of the 1980s, and paved the way for his future success with albums such as Thriller, Bad, and Black or White. Other notable artists who have been influenced by Michael Jackson include Justin Timberlake, Usher, and Chris Brown.

Legacy

The song's legacy can be heard in the work of many other artists, including Justin Timberlake, The Weeknd, and Daft Punk. The song's innovative production and catchy Melody have made it a classic of the Disco and Funk genres, and it continues to be widely played and admired today. The song has also been covered by many other artists, including George Benson, D'Angelo, and John Legend, and has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, including The Simpsons, Saturday Night Live, and American Idol. Other notable artists who have covered Michael Jackson's songs include Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, and Celine Dion. Category:Michael Jackson songs