Soulful, Talented, and Versatile: "The Pointer Sisters"
Two, three, four, three, and then four again, and then a trio if and when they desire it. What on earth am I talking about? I’m talking about the number of members that constituted ‘The Pointer Sisters’ during their career which started way back late 60s, through the 70s, 80s onward. They made some great music in the 70s, but it was in the 80s when I first heard them. And it’s their music that came up in my hand when I stuck into my music vault.
Thapson
They appeared on my music radar with ‘Jump’ and I went on to discover and appreciate the rest of their work in my own sequence. Starting with June (the youngest) and Bonnie and they were later joined by Anita and Ruth. Bonnie went away to pursue her own solo career. Then there were three. During this time they hit their peak, or so is my opinion. After June passed away, the “next generation” joined up including Ruth’s daughter and granddaughter Issa, Sadako respectively. I’ll leave the research to you as we essentially want to hear their music and enjoy how they Rocked, R&B’d, Do Wopped, you name it. Their style spanned a range of genres as per the pundits which is evident from their albums. Here’s a rundown of some of my favorite songs by them, although there’s a whole lot more out there to listen and enjoy.
A Quick “Pointer”
Just a quick ‘pointer’: Bonnie Pointer passed away recently and despite being one of the founders is not featured in any of the following songs as they were recorded after she left. She, however, is likely in the last song as that was recorded when she was still a founder member.
“Their style spanned a wide range of genres as per the pundits which is evident from their albums”
Neutron Dance
Always gets you into a positive mood however down you might be. A buddy of mine was crazy about it for this very reason. Used in the movie ‘Beverly Hills Cop’, this clip also reflects Eddie Murphy’s ascendancy.
TSP Ultra Gaming / YouTube.com
Jump (for my love)
One of their numbers which was a ‘breakout moment’ of sorts for them and was also on the album of the same name – Break Out. This album spanned the multifaceted eclectic music style of the 80s. and can be considered the height of their career. Another of those energy numbers by them. Very 80s in its feel and video production with emphasis on synthesizers not to mention the dated athletic wear shown in the video.
TSP Ultra Gaming / YouTube.com
I’m So Excited
I love the sensual tone of this song, and the video matches the feeling well. Music has a tendency to reach those areas of the brain, I guess. Once again somewhat dated video reflecting on those excessive ‘Miami Vice’ like 80s styles. But you know what will never date? That’s right! The music of the Pointer Sisters will never date. It feels just much fun to listen to now as it did back then.
TSP Ultra Gaming / YouTube.com
Slow Hand
Okay, here they’re getting downright serious and make it clear they want a ‘man with a slow hand’. Oooooookaaaay, we hear you, ladies. The beat also is so smooth and addictive and will make you dance even if you don’t want to. Classic stuff! Okay, this song was not actually written with the Pointer Sisters in mind as per the music gurus. But they definitely had big success with this in 1981.
TSP Ultra Gaming / YouTube.com
He’s So Shy
Another cool display of their versatility here. So, you shy guys out there, there’s probably someone out there who’s got a crush on you too. And the Pointer Sisters have underlined this very will with this number from 1980. It had the right combination of music styles synonymous with the group that would establish them at the top.
vJ Akolade / YouTube.com
Should I Do It
Whadya know! They can also do a good Do Wop thing too. Almost makes you want to pull up your leather jacket collar, ride that convertible down to the nearest malt shop for a fizzy soda drink that’ll make you feel good all over…….whoooeee daddy-o! Yet one more time that they have not failed to surprise (or not surprise) me with their versatility. Talking about retro, lets go back for real with one of their earliest songs next.
TSP Ultra Gaming / YouTube.com
Yes We Can Can
Did Obama get the inspiration for his cool slogan from this song? Who knows? In any case, it showcases their 70s funky style of music. Wonder if Obama ever jived to it, you dig? And I know one thing for sure. Since this song was one of their earliest releases around 1973, I can say for sure that Bonnie Pointer was definitely singing on this one. Interesting how we come full circle right back to the origins.
Cla Sessantasette / YouTube.com
So, there you are! These were just a sampling of the vast repository of work from this fantastic group. I hope we enjoyed re-discovering how great The Pointer Sisters really were, and still are with that amazing talent, versatility, and groove as they carved out their contribution to the music world, making them an ideal candidate for our ‘From the Music Vault’ segment this time. I’ll be back with more music and until then, take care and stay safe.
Other Posts Under ‘From the Music Vault’ and Related
My “Blast From The Past” and The Resultant Fallout
From the Music Vault: Philip Bailey
From the Music Vault: “The Sweet”
