Rufus - Rufus

Today Marks The 52nd Anniversary of Rufus’s Debut Self-titled Album “Rufus” Originally Released on July 18, 1973.

“Rufus” is the debut Delft-titled studio album by American R&B-funk band Rufus, released inv1973 on ABC Records.

The album reached #44 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul LPs chart, and at #175 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

Three singles were released from the album "Slip 'n Slide", "Whoever's Thrilling You (Is Killing Me)" and "Feel Good".

"Slip 'n Slide" reached #110 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Whoever's Thrilling You (Is Killing Me)" reached #40 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Feel Good" reached #45 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The album is notable for an upbeat rock/soul sound that would be replaced by a more heavy direction into funk and jazzy-styled recordings.

The album features vocals by Chaka Khan and and multi-instrumentalist Ron Stockert. Though the band’s focus wasn't on Khan’s vocal abilities the band's artistic direction was led by Ron Stockert.

Shortly after this album's release and struggling with the group's slow climb to success, Stockert would leave the band during sessions of the group's next album, Rags to Rufus. By then, Khan's role would be updated and as the group became successful in later years, most of the focus of the band would lay solely on Khan's shoulders.

The album was produced by Bob Monaco.

Tracklist

1. Slip 'n Slide

2. Keep It Coming

3. There's No Tellin'

4. Maybe Your Baby

5. I Finally Found You

6. Feel Good

7. Satisfied

8. Haulin' Coal

9. Whoever's Thrilling You (Is Killing Me)

10. Love the One You're With

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.