Continuation (album)

Content sourced from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Continuation is Philip Bailey’s first solo album, released in January 1983 by Columbia Records. Bailey, best known as a member of Earth, Wind & Fire, shares more straightforward, groove-driven songs and sings in his natural tenor. The album was produced by George Duke and Bailey and recorded mid-1982 at several California studios: Le Gonks West in West Hollywood; Ocean Way in Hollywood; The Complex and Record Plant in Los Angeles; and Soundcastle in Santa Monica. The 36-minute R&B set reached No. 19 on the US Billboard Top Soul Albums chart, No. 36 in the Netherlands, and No. 31 in Sweden.

critics had positive things to say. The Boston Globe called it an outstanding R&B dance album with charm and energy. AllMusic noted that Bailey explored cleaner grooves and used his natural voice rather than falsetto. Stereo Review felt it isn’t as consistently strong as Bailey’s Earth, Wind & Fire work but showcases his polished vocal style and professional delivery. The New York Daily News said there isn’t much new here since it features many Earth, Wind & Fire collaborators, but it’s a top-notch recording showcasing Bailey’s remarkable voice. The Los Angeles Times praised the album’s wit and Bailey’s jazzy vocal touch, while Blues & Soul highlighted the rich, layered production and Bailey’s emotional singing with guests like Sister Sledge and Jeffrey Osborne.