Alexander O'Neal – Hearsay

Alexander O'Neal – Hearsay

Released in 1987, Hearsay is the breakthrough album that firmly established Alexander O’Neal as one of the defining voices of 1980s R&B. Crafted under the influential production of Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, the album is a cornerstone of the Minneapolis sound - blending crisp drum programming, lush synth arrangements, and smooth yet emotionally charged vocal performances.

At its core, Hearsay is a deeply expressive R&B record that balances dancefloor energy with themes of love, betrayal, and vulnerability. The hit single Fake became one of O’Neal’s signature songs, driven by its infectious groove and biting lyrical honesty, while Criticize delivers punchy funk rhythms and sharp social commentary wrapped in polished production.

Tracks like The Lovers and Never Knew Love Like This showcase the album’s smoother, romantic side, with rich harmonies and soulful melodies, while Sunshine and Crying Overtime highlight O’Neal’s emotional vocal range. The use of short intros and interludes helps structure the album into a flowing, almost conceptual listening experience.

Hearsay remains a defining statement of late-80s R&B, combining club-ready funk with heartfelt soul and impeccable production.

Tracklist:

1. Intro – 0:35
2. (What Can I Say) To Make You Love Me – 4:25
3. Intro – 0:57
4. Hearsay – 4:01
5. Intro – 0:13
6. The Lovers – 4:38
7. Intro – 0:45
8. Fake – 3:55
9. Intro – 0:37
10. Criticize – 4:07
11. Intro – 0:28
12. Never Knew Love Like This – 5:09
13. Interlude – 0:17
14. Sunshine – 5:59
15. Crying Overtime – 5:13
16. Intro – 0:25
17. When The Party's Over – 3:31