Billy Griffin
William L. Griffin Jr., better known as Billy Griffin, was born on August 15, 1950, in West Baltimore, Maryland. He is a notable American singer, songwriter, and producer, particularly recognized for his role as the lead singer of the Motown group The Miracles after replacing the legendary Smokey Robinson in 1972.
Griffin's musical journey began in his youth, where he was heavily influenced by Smokey Robinson, whom he idolized. His career took a significant turn when he joined The Miracles, contributing to their continued success during the 1970s. Under his leadership, the group produced several hits, including the popular song “Love Machine,” which highlighted his vocal prowess and songwriting skills.
Beyond his time with The Miracles, Griffin has also pursued a solo career and collaborated with other artists. His contributions to R&B and pop music have solidified his status within the genre. Griffin's work continues to resonate with fans of classic Motown and R&B, illustrating his lasting impact on the music industry.
Be With Me
Written-By – B. Griffin, S. Barnes 4:57
A2 Stone's Throw From Heaven
Written-By – B. Griffin 3:05
A3 Hold Me Tighter In The Rain
Written-By – B. Griffin, D. Griffin 5:29
A4 Love Is Not A Word
Written-By – S. Barnes 5:52
B1 The Beat Is Getting Stronger
Written-By – B. Griffin, S. Barnes 4:33
B2 2nd Day Love Story
Written-By – B. Griffin 6:04
B3 Breaking Out
Written-By – B. Griffin, J. Gadson 6:30
B4 Understand
Written-By – B. Griffin 4:53
Label: Columbia – FC 37745
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1982
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Eighties Soul, Funk, Disco
Billy Griffin's 1982 solo debut, Be With Me, is praised as a classic disco-soul/funk record, bridging the gap from the dying disco era to the burgeoning 80s sound, featuring the hit "Hold Me Tighter in the Rain" and strong tracks like "2nd Day Love Story," but some listeners find the consistent falsetto delivery a potential turn-off, though it's generally a well-regarded, smooth, and danceable album.
The album spawned the major UK hit "Hold Me Tighter in the Rain," a soulful, danceable track that was popular in Europe.
Griffin, formerly of The Miracles, sings the entire album in a distinctive falsetto, sometimes compared to Sylvester, which can be polarizing for some but defines the album's sound.
Produced with John Barnes (later of Michael Jackson fame), it features heavyweights like Randy Jackson, Ed Greene, and Gerald Albright, giving it a high-quality, funky feel.
A blend of upbeat dance tracks like the title track and "Breaking Out," smooth mid-tempo grooves such as "Understand," and heartfelt ballads like "2nd Day Love Story".
Considered a memorable disco-soul album, especially appreciated in reissues with bonus tracks for fans of 80s dance music and Griffin's unique style.
A pleasant, sweet listen with great lyrics and orchestration, offering a smooth, soulful experience for fans of 80s dance and R&B.
Systematic
A2 If I Ever Lose This Heaven (L. Ware, P. Sawyer 5:09)
A3 Waiting To Touch (D. Griffin, L. Ware 4:40)
A4 This Ain't Puppy Love (D. Griffin, J. Schweigert 4:30)
B1 Electrified (D. Quander, G. Glenn, T. Cochran 4:05)
B2 Everybody Needs Somebody (C. Jackson, T. Cochran 4:28)
B3 Easy Thing To Say (D. Griffin 4:04)
B4 Can't Keep Running Away (D. Griffin, T. Cochran 4:17)
Label: Columbia – FC 39907
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1985
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Eighties Disco Funk
The 1985 album Systematic by Billy Griffin is a well-regarded R&B and dance-funk album, often praised by fans for its strong tracks, production, and Griffin's vocal performance.
Reviews of Systematic are generally positive, particularly among R&B and soul music enthusiasts:
The album is noted for bridging the gap between the late disco era and the 1980s dance sound. Griffin teamed up with producer and songwriter Leon Ware for this project, who helped define its sound.
Fans and critics often praise the album's production, highlighting the tight instrumentation.
Although not one of Griffin's major mainstream U.S. hits like "Hold Me Tighter in the Rain" or "Serious," the album is considered a "lesser known R&B track" gem from the era by those familiar with his work.
The title track itself is a standout, frequently mentioned for its exceptional quality and a "tight bass line". It was co-written by James Ingram and Leon Ware.
It's a sought-after album for those who appreciate deep cuts and classic sounds from that era.