Alicia Myers
Alicia Myers (born November 20, 1957) is a prominent American R&B and soul musician, best known for her 1980s solo hits and her role as a vocalist for the band One Way.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, Myers was one of nine children. She displayed musical talent early, winning a local competition at Detroit's Martin Luther King Jr. High School in 1968 with her brother Jackie, who later joined the band Chairmen of the Board. Myers is a survivor of childhood tuberculosis and later overcame breast cancer in 1998, subsequently becoming an advocate for the disease's treatment.
Myers began her professional career in Los Angeles with Al Hudson & the Soul Partners (later renamed One Way). She co-wrote and sang lead on their 1979 disco hit "You Can Do It".
She launched her solo career with MCA Records in 1981. Her most enduring anthem, "I Want to Thank You," originally appeared on her debut album Alicia (1981) but became a massive club hit after being re-released in 1982.
She released four albims between 1981-84: Alicia (1981); Alicia Again (1981); I Fooled You This Time (1982) – featuring the re-release of "I Want to Thank You";I Appreciate (1984) – her highest-charting album, peaking at No. 12 on the R&B charts. After a long hiatus during which she worked in the medical field, Myers returned to music in 2011 with the album Peace of Mind.
Myers’ soulful vocals have had a lasting impact on modern music. Her hit "I Want to Thank You" has been sampled by numerous artists, including Mariah Carey ("Make It Happen"), Busta Rhymes, and E-40. Her ballad "If You Play Your Cards Right" remains a staple in "Quiet Storm" radio formats and has been covered by artists like Syleena Johnson.
I Appreciate
Written-By – Al Hudson, Kevin McCord 8:00
A2 Appreciation
Engineer [Remix] – Taavi Mote
Remix – Louil Silas, Jr.
Written-By – Kevin McCord, Ralph Ernest 5:00
A3 Say That
Written-By – Kevin McCord 4:17
B1 My Guy
Written-By – Al Hudson, Irene Perkins 4:06
B2 Just Can't Stay Away
Written-By – C. Jackson, M. Yancy 5:30
B3 Just Praying
Written-By – Al Hudson, Irene Perkins 4:54
B4 Don't Do Me This Way
Written-By – Kevin McCord 4:10
Label: MCA Records – MCA-5485
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1984
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul, Disco, Funk
I Appreciate, is a well-regarded R&B/soul record, known for its smooth grooves, powerful vocals, and successful singles like "Don't Stop What You're Doin'," "I Just Can't Stay Away," and "If You Play Your Cards Right," solidifying her solo success after her One Way fame, with fans loving its blend of soulful ballads and disco/boogie elements.
I Appreciate was her highest-charting album on the R&B charts, reaching #12, and marked her first appearance on the Billboard 200 (peaking at #186).
It spawned popular tracks that became staples on radio, including the romantic ballad "I Just Can't Stay Away" and the uplifting "Don't Stop What You're Doin'".
While containing soulful ballads, the album also featured disco/boogie influences, showcasing Myers' versatility and strong vocal delivery.
Listeners often praise the album for its nostalgic appeal and smooth, soulful sound, with many rediscovering it and appreciating its enduring quality.
Why it's Appreciated:
Vocal Power: Myers' rich, soulful voice shines throughout, delivering emotive performances on tracks like "Don't Do Me This Way".
Timeless Feel: The production blends classic 80s R&B with timeless soul, making it a favorite for those who enjoy vintage sounds.
Legacy: I Appreciate is considered a significant part of her solo career and a highlight from her successful 1980s run with MCA Records.