"Magic Man" by Herb Alpert

Song#:  0731
Date:  09/05/1981
Debut:  84
Peak:  79
Weeks:  5
Genre:  Pop, Instrumental, Adult Contemporary



Pop Bits:  Since Alpert's #2 hit "Rise" in 1979, he had been issuing albums with a more modern flair. None were as successful, but they typically would yield a chart single. This title track to his 1981 album sought to keep a groove similar to "Rise," but it didn't catch on as well spending only a few minor weeks on the chart. It did a little better at AC, but it wasn't enough to generate much interest in the album.

ReduxReview:  This is not a remake of the rock classic by Heart. However, that would have been far more preferable to this tedious tune. It seems like he was trying to incorporate some R&B/smooth jazz into this song along with a strange Latin-ish (or Middle Eastern?) section that just seems out of place. I just don't find it interesting or memorable and it drones on for far too long.

ReduxRating:  3/10

Trivia:  This song was co-written and produced by Michael Stokes. Around this time he became the head of A&R at A&M Records (the label co-founded by Alpert). In addition to producing artists like Patti LaBelle and Gladys Knight, Stokes was the one who signed Janet Jackson to the label.

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