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artists
Jody Watley
Though Jody Watley certainly helped define an era - to refer to her as simply an artist of the...
releases
The Makeover
Jody Watley's ninth solo album, appropriately titled ‘The Makeover’ (Avitone Recordings),...
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GIANT STEP
releases
GIANT STEP
Jody Watley The Makeover (Avitone Recordings)
Review by Deesha Dyer, Aug 08, 05:09 PM EST
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description

Refusing to go out like the bubble gum music of the late 80's, Jody Watley is holding down her spot as a multi-dimensional artist, which includes roles as a singer, producer and songwriter. She is deepening her love for music with ninth album, 'The Makeover,' which takes notable classics by artists such as Madonna, Bob Marley and Diana Ross, and transforms them into her own signature style with a little help from some talented friends.

Various vibes are presented on the album such as the springtime feel on the chill out title track, the sweet feminine sultriness displayed on "Waiting in Vein" (dope, dope mix by Ron Trent) and the slowed down pace of "Borderline," which presents the song with more emotion than the original. Aligning herself with a slew of famed remixers like Philly homeboy King Britt as he gives "Don't You Want Me" an infectious new rhythm, Watley also collaborates with UK's soul-jazz, broken beat outfit 4 Hero on "A Bed of Roses."

The majority of 'The Makeover' maintains a steady groove mixed with a choice of styles that get the body moving, but the gem that must be given a special mention is the Mark de Clive-Lowe Makeover Mix of "Midnight Love." This track screams club hit and is classic Watley. It's an automatic attention grabber and keeps you hooked for the entire song. As the lyrics suggest, "All you want to do is just dance." Truer words could not have been spoken when listening to "Midnight Love." I suggest you put this in the ears first and then the others after. It sets the expectation for the entire album and you will not be let down.

We all know that Ms.Watley is a form above the modern day divas – afterall, she is the one that paved that road! And, from the sounds of it, she isn't handing over her crown anytime soon.

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