Michael Wycoff
Michael Wycoff was an American R&B, soul, and funk singer known for his smooth vocals and keyboard skills, particularly his 1982 hit "Looking Up to You." Born on February 8, 1953, in Torrance, California (some sources cite January 1, 1956), he rose in the music scene during the 1970s and 1980s before passing away on March 13, 2019, from pancreatic cancer in Los Angeles at age 66.
He grew up in the Los Angeles area, attending Wilmington Jr. High and Phineas Banning High Schools, where he played keyboards in talent shows and at a local church. He began piano at age three and entered recording through his brother-in-law, who connected him with artist DJ Rogers, leading to band work and production lessons.
Wycoff gained notice as a background vocalist on Stevie Wonder's 1976 album Songs in the Key of Life, specifically on "Pastime Paradise" with the West Angeles Church of God Choir. He released his debut single "Do the Camel Hump" in 1978, then signed with RCA Records, dropping three albums: Come Into My World (1980), Love Conquers All (1982, featuring the sampled hit "Looking Up to You"), and a third in 1983. His work charted modestly on US R&B lists, and he collaborated with artists like Natalie Cole, Bobby Womack, Phoebe Snow, and others.
Struggles with drug and alcohol addiction led to the loss of his career, home, and family, resulting in homelessness. He recovered through faith, becoming Minister of Music at Los Angeles churches, and planned a 2007 comeback album Return that went unreleased. His son, DJ Michael Wycoff, released A Boy and His Toys in 2013.
On The Line
Written-By – G. Taylor
5:50
A2 There's No Easy Way
Written-By – Lol Mason, Richard Jon Smith
4:11
A3 You've Got It Coming
Written-By – H. Johnson
3:50
A4 So Close
Written-By – A. Hamilton, W. Lewis
6:06
B1 Tell Me Love
Soloist, Piano – Michael Wycoff
Written-By – R. Wright, W. Lewis
7:48
B2 I'll Do Anything For You
Written-By – L. Nocentelli
4:08
B3 Do It To Me Baby
Written-By – G. Taylor
3:40
B4 You Are Everything
Written-By – L. Creed, T. Bell
\
Label: RCA Victor – AFL1-4563
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1983
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Eighties Soul, Funk, Disco
Released in 1983, On The Line is the third and final studio album by R&B artist Michael Wycoff. It is widely regarded by soul aficionados as a stronger, more polished effort than his debut, characterized by its "mid-80s commercial R&B/disco" sound and high production value.
The album features heavy collaboration with producer Webster Lewis, which critics note provides a more robust and professional sound compared to his earlier work. While some contemporary listeners find it "more synthetic" than his previous albums, it is still hailed as an "early 80s gem".
Wycoff’s vocals are frequently compared to the "Stevie-esque" style of Stevie Wonder, combined with the smooth, emotive delivery of James Ingram. The record blends dance-floor fillers with sophisticated "Quiet Storm" ballads, making it a staple for fans of 80s soul and funk.
Key Tracks
"Tell Me Love": Generally considered the standout track and Wycoff’s biggest hit, described as a "dancefloor smasher" with a superb progression.
"So Close": An "achingly beautiful ballad" that many critics cite as one of Wycoff’s finest vocal performances.
"You’ve Got It Coming": Another major dance track praised for its infectious energy.
"No Easy Way": A "loping slow jam" that remains a favorite for its timeless production.
"You Are Everything": A "solid" cover of the classic track by The Stylistics.
Various pressings hold high average ratings between 4.3 and 4.5 out of 5 stars based on community reviews.
While Wycoff did not release further solo albums and later struggled with personal challenges, On the Line remains a staple for soul music enthusiasts and collectors. It has been digitally remastered and reissued, often paired with his debut album Come To My World as a "2-on-1" CD release.