Grace Jones Changed My Life: 11 artists pick their favourite Grace Jones records

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Crazy P

Crazy P

Much-loved UK trio Crazy P have been fusing slinky disco and shimmering pop for close to 20 years. With their seventh album of disco groovers out now, Crazy P’s Danielle Moore reflects on Grace Jone’s wholesome road safety hit ‘Pull Up To The Bumper’.


 

R-27792-1306006935.jpegGrace Jones
Pull Up To The Bumper
(Warner Bros, 1980)

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Grace Jones is for me one of the most ridiculously and superbly engaging, hypnotic, challenging, hedonistic, colourful and unpredictable songwriters and entertainers in the business. Most of her videos are shot of her alone and within that simple idea she conveys power, drama, intrigue and a story telling via her facial expressions that keep you from even blinking. Her wardrobe is to die for but then who would want to take on the challenge of wearing her clobber so well? She is unique!

Starting with ‘Pull Up To The Bumper’ – apparently this was banned initially for its supposed sexual references. “Pull up to the bumper baby, in your long black limousine, pull up to the bumper baby, drive it in between…” Well you know I had actually never really thought of it in that way – just an incredibly dynamic, bass driven slow disco tune. Cleverly referenced though in the manner Grace Jones does.

‘La Vie En Rose’ – almost similar to Edith Piaf in its wonderful rich beauty. Incredibly theatrical whilst delicate and takes you to Mediterranean summertimes and warm air and good times. Her phrasing is wonderful and never compromised rhythmically. She engages every word with the deepest emotion.

‘Nipple To The Bottle’ – co-written with Sly Dunbar of Sly and Robbie, this is a fantastically emotive song performed with vigour desperation and strength all at once. Not giving in this time to her relationship and manipulation, the choice once again of words versus the rhythm are perfectly placed without affecting the quality of the story. An incredible release with 3 gripping songs.