Jermaine Stewart: The Dance-Pop and R&B Vocalist

Jermaine Stewart was an American singer and dancer known for his smooth vocal style within the 1980s dance-pop and R&B scenes. His career is most defined by the international success of his 1986 single "We Don't Have to Take Our Clothes Off," which became a platinum-selling Top 5 hit on the Billboard Hot 100.

Early career

Born in Columbus, Ohio, in 1957, Jermaine Stewart began his professional journey as a dancer, touring with acts like Shalamar and appearing on the television show "Soul Train." His move into music was facilitated by a connection with musician and producer John "Jellybean" Benitez, which led to his first record deal with Arista Records in the early 1980s.

Breakthrough

Stewart's breakthrough arrived in 1986 with the release of his second album, Frantic Romantic, and its lead single. The song "We Don't Have to Take Our Clothes Off" peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified platinum, selling over a million copies in the United States alone and propelling him to international recognition.

Key tracks

We Don't Have to Take Our Clothes Off - This platinum single defined Stewart's career with its catchy, playful take on 80s dance-pop and its message of restraint.

The Word Is Out - A track from his debut album that gained traction in clubs and established his early sound.

Jody - A follow-up single that continued his success on the dance charts.

Don't Talk Dirty to Me - A later single that maintained his presence in the dance and R&B markets.

Following his peak success, Jermaine Stewart continued to record and perform, releasing albums like Say It Again in 1988 and What Becomes a Legend Most in 1992. His work remained rooted in danceable R&B and pop, though he never replicated the massive chart impact of his signature hit. Stewart's life was cut short in 1997 due to complications from liver cancer.

Fans of Jermaine Stewart's blend of 80s dance-pop and smooth R&B might also enjoy the work of Shalamar, for whom he once danced, which shares a similar boogie and soul foundation. The polished pop-funk of The Whispers also aligns with his style, as does the sophisticated dance music of Shannon. The crossover R&B of Ready For The World represents another facet of the mid-80s sound he helped popularize.