SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: JACKIE WILSON – HIGHER AND HIGHER

Jackie Wilson
Higher and Higher
Org Music

Higher and Higher was an iconic album released by Jackie Wilson, also known as “Mr. Excitement”, in 1967. It was originally on the Brunswick Records label, and has been reissued by Org Music, using the original Brunswick masters.

It goes without saying that Higher and Higher was a brilliant album back then, and it remains a brilliant album today.

Jackie Wilson was a universally admired R&B pioneer before his tragic passing at the age of 49 in 1984. Wilson influenced artists like Elvis Presley (and was also influenced by Presley in turn), James Brown, and Michael Jackson. In fact, Jackson dedicated his 1984 Grammy win for Thriller to Wilson’s memory.

The title track, “Higher and Higher”, is probably the best-known cut on the record, and showcases Wilson’s versatility and range as a vocalist.

“Soulville” has that classic horn sound that The Funk Brothers, Motown’s in-house horn section, provided for countless artists during Motown’s heyday. Instead of using Brunswick’s horn players, Wilson opted to go with The Funk Brothers, which was a major factor in the popularity of Higher and Higher.

The last track on the album, the gospel-infused “When Will Our Day Come”, offers up another example of just how flawless Wilson’s voice was at his peak.

Re-releases like these are important for preserving historically significant albums, and for inspiring a new generation of listeners. Wilson was an incredible performer and deserves to be remembered. Kudos to Org Music for taking on this project.

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