The Stylistics – You Are Beautiful

The Stylistics – You Are Beautiful

A classic slice of mid-1970s Philadelphia soul, The Stylistics – You Are Beautiful finds one of the era's most distinctive vocal groups continuing their run of sophisticated R&B and soul releases. Originally released in 1975 on Avco, the album combines the group's trademark harmonies and Russell Thompkins Jr.'s unmistakable falsetto with a more rhythm-driven sound incorporating elements of funk and disco.

By the time You Are Beautiful arrived, The Stylistics had already established themselves as one of the defining groups of the Philadelphia soul movement. Their early records, shaped by the celebrated songwriting and production partnership of Thom Bell and Linda Creed, had produced a succession of major soul and pop hits. This 1975 album represents a later chapter in the group's Avco period, with production credited to Hugo & Luigi.

The album opens with “Funky Weekend”, one of its most overtly groove-focused performances. The track was also released as a single and demonstrates the group's move towards the funk and dance-oriented sounds becoming increasingly prominent in soul music during the mid-1970s. “Jenny,” “That Don't Shake Me,” “Na-Na Is The Saddest Word” and “Michael Or Me” continue the first side with a mixture of romantic soul, polished arrangements and the group's instantly recognisable vocal style.

Side B begins with “The Day The Clown Came To Town”, followed by the album's title track, “You Are Beautiful.” The remainder of the side — “To Save My Rock 'n' Roll Soul,” “If You Are There” and “We Just Can't Help It” — showcases the group's ability to move between smoother ballad material and more rhythmically driven arrangements.

You Are Beautiful is also an interesting record historically because it arrived during a period of transition for The Stylistics. Their hugely successful early-70s formula was evolving, and the group was increasingly incorporating contemporary funk and dance influences into their established smooth-soul sound. The album consequently offers an intriguing snapshot of the group as Philadelphia soul was moving towards the disco era.

The album was released in the UK as Avco 9109 006 in November 1975, while the record's US release appeared on Avco earlier that year. It reached No. 26 on the UK Albums Chart, continuing The Stylistics' considerable popularity with British audiences.

For collectors of The Stylistics, Philly soul, Philadelphia soul, 1970s R&B, smooth soul and classic funk, You Are Beautiful is an appealing example of the group's mid-70s sound. With its combination of sophisticated vocal harmonies, Russell Thompkins Jr.'s signature falsetto and increasingly danceable arrangements, it captures The Stylistics at an important point in their evolution.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Funky Weekend – 3:27
2. Jenny – 3:46
3. That Don't Shake Me – 3:15
4. Na-Na Is The Saddest World – 2:58
5. Michael Or Me – 3:39

Side B

1. The Day The Clown Came To Town – 3:02
2. You Are Beautiful – 4:08
3. To Save My Rock 'n' Roll Soul – 3:01
4. If You Are There – 3:21
5. We Just Can't Help It – 3:31