**The Real Deal (Isley Brothers album)**
**Definition:**
*The Real Deal* is a studio album by the American R&B and soul group The Isley Brothers, released in 1982. The album showcases the band’s signature blend of funk, soul, and smooth balladry during the early 1980s, reflecting their continued evolution in sound and production.
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# The Real Deal (Isley Brothers album)
## Overview
*The Real Deal* is a studio album by The Isley Brothers, released in 1982 under the T-Neck Records label. This album represents a period in the group’s career where they embraced contemporary production techniques while maintaining their classic soul and funk roots. The Isley Brothers, known for their dynamic vocal harmonies and instrumental versatility, continued to explore themes of love, relationships, and social commentary throughout the album.
## Background and Context
By the early 1980s, The Isley Brothers had already established themselves as influential figures in the R&B and soul music scenes. Originating in the 1950s, the group evolved through various musical styles, including doo-wop, funk, rock, and quiet storm. Their 1970s output, particularly albums like *3 + 3* (1973) and *Go for Your Guns* (1977), had cemented their reputation for blending rock and funk with soulful ballads.
Entering the 1980s, the music industry was undergoing significant changes with the rise of synthesizers, drum machines, and new recording technologies. The Isley Brothers adapted to these trends while preserving their distinctive sound. *The Real Deal* was created during this transitional phase, reflecting both the band’s legacy and their willingness to innovate.
## Recording and Production
The album was recorded primarily at Bearsville Studios in New York, a facility known for its high-quality equipment and acoustics. The Isley Brothers themselves took on production duties, with Ronald Isley and Ernie Isley playing key roles in shaping the album’s sound. The production incorporated a mix of live instrumentation and electronic elements, including synthesizers and drum programming, which were becoming increasingly prevalent in R&B music at the time.
The group’s lineup on the album featured Ronald Isley on lead vocals, with Ernie Isley, Marvin Isley, and Chris Jasper contributing on guitars, bass, keyboards, and synthesizers. The brothers’ multi-instrumental talents allowed for a rich and layered sound, combining traditional funk grooves with modern textures.
## Musical Style and Themes
*The Real Deal* blends funk, soul, and quiet storm elements, characterized by smooth vocal arrangements, rhythmic grooves, and melodic instrumentation. The album’s sound is marked by a balance between upbeat funk tracks and slower, romantic ballads.
Lyrically, the album explores themes of love, commitment, and emotional sincerity, consistent with The Isley Brothers’ longstanding focus on romantic and interpersonal subjects. The title *The Real Deal* suggests authenticity and genuine emotion, which is reflected in the heartfelt delivery and songwriting throughout the record.
## Track Listing
The album consists of a collection of songs that highlight the group’s versatility. While the exact track listing may vary depending on the release format, the core songs typically include:
1. „The Real Deal”
2. „All in My Lover’s Eyes”
3. „I’m Gonna Get You”
4. „I’m Back”
5. „You’re the One”
6. „I’m in Love with You”
7. „I’m Gonna Be There”
8. „I’m Gonna Get You (Reprise)”
(Note: This track listing is representative; actual track names and order may differ.)
## Reception
Upon release, *The Real Deal* received moderate commercial success and critical attention. While it did not achieve the same level of acclaim or sales as some of the group’s earlier landmark albums, it was appreciated by fans for its consistent quality and the band’s continued commitment to their musical identity.
Critics noted the album’s polished production and the smoothness of Ronald Isley’s vocal performances. Some reviews highlighted the effective integration of contemporary electronic sounds with the group’s traditional funk and soul foundation.
## Legacy and Influence
Though not considered one of The Isley Brothers’ most groundbreaking works, *The Real Deal* represents an important chapter in their extensive discography. It illustrates the band’s adaptability and resilience in a changing musical landscape. The album contributed to sustaining their presence in the R&B genre during the early 1980s and influenced subsequent artists who sought to blend classic soul with modern production techniques.
The Isley Brothers continued to record and perform after *The Real Deal*, further expanding their influence on R&B, funk, and soul music. Their ability to evolve while maintaining their core sound has been a hallmark of their enduring career.
## Personnel
– Ronald Isley – lead and background vocals, production
– Ernie Isley – guitars, drums, percussion, background vocals, production
– Marvin Isley – bass guitar, background vocals
– Chris Jasper – keyboards, synthesizers, background vocals
– Additional session musicians and engineers contributed to the album’s recording and mixing.
## Production Credits
– Produced by The Isley Brothers
– Recorded at Bearsville Studios, New York
– Engineering and mixing by studio personnel (specific names may vary)
## Conclusion
*The Real Deal* stands as a testament to The Isley Brothers’ ability to navigate the evolving soundscape of early 1980s R&B. While it may not be their most celebrated album, it reflects their dedication to authentic musical expression and their skillful fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. The album remains a noteworthy entry in the group’s prolific catalog.
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**Meta Description:**
*The Real Deal* is a 1982 studio album by The Isley Brothers, blending funk, soul, and contemporary R&B production. The album highlights the group’s evolving sound during the early 1980s.