Sheree Brown

Singer, ASCAP Award Winning Songwriter, Musician and Emmy Nominated Producer

Straight Ahead - CD album record

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Sheree Brown | Straight Ahead (Capitol Records) Before she took listeners on a journey with The Music, Sheree Brown arrived in 1981 with her seminal debut, "Straight Ahead." This album didn't just introduce a new voice to Capitol Records; it introduced a new philosophy of sound - one where the acoustic guitar and high-end jazz-funk production lived in perfect harmony.


The Vision

Produced by Richard Rudolph (widely known for his work with Minnie Riperton), Straight Ahead is an sunshine-drenched exploration of "Acoustic Soul." While the early '80s were pivoting toward heavy synthesizers, Brown leaned into organic textures, creating a record that feels both grounded and weightless.

The All-Star Lineup

The album’s "sophisti-soul" pedigree is undeniable, featuring a "who’s who" of West Coast musical royalty:

  • Patrice Rushen: Brown’s longtime collaborator provided keys, synthesizers, and string arrangements.

  • The Players: Features legendary percussionist Paulinho Da Costa, bassist Ready Freddie Washington, and guitarists Steve Khan and Paul Jackson Jr.

  • The Horns: Arranged by the incomparable Jerry Hey, giving tracks like "You'll Be Dancing All Night" that unmistakable punch.

Tracklist Highlights

  1. "You'll Be Dancing All Night": A high-energy opener that blends disco-funk with a polished pop sensibility.

  2. "It’s A Pleasure": The album's centerpiece and a permanent Rare Groove anthem. Its breezy, rhythmic guitar and "feel-good" lyrics have made it a staple for DJs and samplers (most notably by Zhané).

  3. "Happiness Flows": A mid-tempo masterpiece that perfectly showcases Brown’s smooth, conversational vocal style.

  4. "Straight Ahead": The title track, which acts as a mission statement for her positive, forward-looking songwriting.

Collector’s Note

Straight Ahead is often paired with The Music in modern reissues, but the original 1981 Capitol pressing is a prize for any soul collector. It represents a brief, beautiful window in music history where jazz-fusion technicality met the warmth of folk-soul.