R.J.’s Latest Arrival
<div hidden>RJs Latest Arrival RJ s Latest Arrival R.J.s Latest Arrival</div>R.J.'s Latest Arrival was popular R&B/soul/dance band from Detroit, Michigan, active from the late 1970s to 1990, known for hits like "Shackles (On My Feet)" (1984) and "Off The Hook (With Your Love)" (1988), led by R.J. Rice and featuring members like DeDe Leitta, they blended rap with soulful vocals and synths, with a notable reunion in 2023
Throughout the 1980s, R.J.'s Latest Arrival saw significant success on the R&B charts, managing to place 17 singles on Billboard's R&B chart between 1981 and 1990. Their most notable hit came in 1984 with the song "Shackles," which peaked in popularity during that time.
The band was known for their stylistic versatility, blending various influences within the R&B genre. They continued to produce music through the 1980s, with albums and singles that showcased their dynamic sound. In addition to "Shackles," two tracks from their self-titled album released in 1985 also made appearances on Billboard's Hot Black Singles chart.
Key Members: R.J. Rice, DeDe Leitta (vocals/guitar), Dean DiPierro (keys), Craig Lane (bass), Paul Munro (guitar), Rudy "Famous" Maldonado (drums).
R.J.'s Latest Arrival remains a notable name within the Detroit R&B scene and is remembered for their contributions to the genre during their active years. The band broke up in 1990 but reunited in 2023 for a new song, "One Step at a Time," featuring Slum Village. R.J. Rice later formed Barak Records, a Detroit hip-hop label.
R.J.’s Latest Arrival
RJs Latest Arrival RJ s Latest Arrival R.J.s Latest Arrival
A1 Keep Dancin'
A2 Stay With Me
B1 Serenade
B2 War
B3 Fantasy
Label: Zoo York Recordz – 5W-38231
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1982
Genre: R&B Funk, Soul
Style: Funk, Disco, Boogie
R.J.'s Latest Arrival's 1982 self-titled album is a solid, lesser-known gem in the Boogie/Electro-Funk/Post-Disco scene, praised for its prominent vocals, tight grooves, and strong entry-level appeal, particularly tracks A1 and A2, making it a recommended find for fans of early 80s dance music. While not a massive mainstream hit, it's considered a strong regional favorite from Detroit, blending soulful R&B with nascent hip-hop/electro sounds popular in the club scene, notes this Discogs user and this eBay seller.
The group is known for bouncing between labels; while they had a different self-titled debut in 1979 on Ariola, this 1982 Zoo York release is the definitive marker of their independent Detroit era before moving to major labels like Atlantic.
A blend of Funk, Soul, Disco, Boogie, Electro, and Post-Disco, characteristic of the vibrant early 80s Detroit scene. Features prominent vocals, tight funk melodies, and strong danceable rhythms, with good breakdowns in key tracks.
A significant hit in the Detroit area, notably on WGPR radio, and considered almost hip-hop by some DJs in other regions. Key Tracks: Tracks A1 and A2 are highlighted as strong points, along with cuts like "Heaven in Your Arms".
In essence, it's a well-regarded record for genre enthusiasts, offering authentic 80s dance vibes with a distinct Detroit flavor. A sought-after gem from the heyday of the boogie sound, offering a great blend of accessible tracks and deeper cuts. A solid, affordable entry point into the Boogie genre, still reasonably priced as of early 2025.