Ray Parker Jr.
Ray Parker Jr. is an American musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer, known for his significant contributions to the music industry. He was born on May 1, 1954, in Detroit, Michigan. Parker began showcasing his musical talent at an early age; as a teenager, he became a guitar protégé, performing alongside notable acts such as Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, and Gladys Knight and the Pips, which underscored his early prowess as a guitarist and performer.
He became well know in R&B circles in the seventies through his funk band Raydio (hits like "Jack and Jill"), solo success ("The Other Woman"), and session work with legends like Stevie Wonder and Barry White before a surprise 1984 smash hit propelled him to global stardom, solidifying his versatile R&B/funk legacy.
Throughout his career, Parker has achieved recognition not only for his guitar skills but also for his songwriting and production capabilities. He is perhaps best known for writing and performing the iconic theme song for the 1984 film "Ghostbusters," which became a major hit and solidified his status in pop culture.
In addition to his success in film, Parker has released multiple albums throughout his career and has collaborated with various artists across genres, further demonstrating his versatility as a musician. His work extends beyond performance; he has played a crucial role in shaping the sound of contemporary music through his production efforts.
Parker is also known for his unique blend of R&B, pop, and rock influences, which has helped him carve out a distinct niche in the music scene. His contributions have earned him both critical acclaim and commercial success, making him a respected figure in the industry.
As of now, Ray Parker Jr. is still active in the music scene and continues to engage with his fans through performances and new music projects, solidifying his lasting impact on the world of entertainment.
(Provided by Soulyears.com)
After Dark
A2 Over You
Saxophone, Soloist – Dave Boroff
Vocals – Natalie Cole
Written-By, Producer – Carole Bayer Sager
Written-By, Producer, Arranged By – Burt Bacharach
4:38
A3 Lovin' You 4:08
A4 You Shoulda Kept A Spare
Saxophone, Soloist – Gerald Albright
4:46
A5 The Past
Arranged By – Gene Page
Arranged By [Background Vocals] – Kashif
3:27
B1 You Make My Nature Dance 4:30
B2 Perfect Lovers
Written-By, Producer – Burt Bacharach, Carole Bayer Sager
5:12
B3 After Midnite 3:40
B4 I Love Your Daughter 3:44
B5 After Dark 4:29
Written by Ray Parker Jr. (tracks: A1, A3 to B1, B3 to B5)
Label: Geffen Records – GHS 24124
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1987
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Eighties Soul, Funk
Released on August 25, 1987, After Dark is the fourth solo studio album by R&B musician Ray Parker Jr.. Published under Geffen Records, the album represents a shift toward a more sophisticated "adult soul" and smooth funk sound compared to his earlier work.
The album is characterized by a mix of smooth soul, funk, and R&B. Critics noted that Parker's vocals on this record sounded more somber and introspective than his previous releases.
Many tracks feature Parker's signature playful and sometimes highly sexualized wordplay, using mechanical and nature-based euphemisms for romantic encounters.
The album features production and songwriting from legendary duo Burt Bacharach and Carole Bayer Sager, particularly on the tracks "Over You" and "Perfect Lovers". It also includes performances by high-profile guest artists:
Natalie Cole: Duets with Parker on the ballad "Over You".
Philip Bailey: Provided background vocals.
Gerald Albright: Featured on saxophone for "You Shoulda Kept A Spare".
Session Musicians: Included notable names such as Jeff Porcaro (drums) and Nathan East (bass).
Key Tracks:-
"I Don't Think That Man Should Sleep Alone": The album's lead single, which focuses on male vulnerability and reached No. 5 on the Billboard R&B chart.
"Over You": A duet with Natalie Cole that served as a major ballad for the album.
"After Midnite": A soul-jazz instrumental featuring a guitar solo by Parker.
"After Dark": The title track and album closer, described as a mid-tempo funk groove with heavy use of wah-wah guitar.
The album peaked at No. 27 on the Billboard Top Soul Albums chart. While it was praised for its consistent production quality, some critics felt it was a "mixed bag," with some tracks feeling less inspired than his earlier hits with Raydio.