Written by Peter Piakowski

Thirty-five years ago, Jody Watley’s debut album kickstarted the career of one of dance-pop’s most entertaining and consistent performers.

In the mid-1980s, MTV largely defined pop music, so the charts were ruled by telegenic singers who often acted as spokesmodels for their albums. So the charts were ruled by telegenic singers who often acted as spokesmodels for their albums. Dance hits were churned out like products on an assembly line, many quickly forgotten after their fleeting moments in the spotlight. But there were also real stars who made their mark (primarily due to a combination of charm, talent, and charisma). 

One of the most significant figures to emerge from this period was Jody Watley, who inarguably announced her reign as a dance-pop queen with 1987’s self-titled first record. Her smokey yet supple voice, unerring pop instincts, and supermodel looks made her the perfect pop star, and Jody Watley was a fantastic introduction to .. Read full feature on PopMatters