The Meaning Behind The Song: Dont Be Cruel by Bobby Brown

The King of R&B: The Meaning Behind The Song “Don’t Be Cruel” by Bobby Brown

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Bobby Brown is undeniably one of the pioneers of R&B music. He has been credited with paving the way for artists in the genre, including the late great Michael Jackson and most recently, the weekend. One of his most iconic songs, “Don’t Be Cruel,” is still relevant today. It played an essential role in his career and personal life, and it’s inspired many. In this article, we will delve into the meaning behind the song and its impact.

The genesis of “Don’t Be Cruel.”

“Don’t Be Cruel” was released on June 20th, 1988. It was Brown’s second album, and it quickly gained popularity. The song was written by Brown and Babyface, who was beginning to emerge as a force in the music industry. It was produced by L.A. Reid and Babyface, and it contained elements of the new jack swing, a fusion of R&B, hip hop, and swing.

The song is about a man pleading with his girlfriend not to be cruel and leave him. This theme is common in many love songs, but the delivery and the rhythm make it stand out. The song has a catchy tune, and it’s easy to dance to, making it a hit.

The impact of the song.

“Don’t Be Cruel” was the song that made Bobby Brown a superstar. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 Chart for two weeks, and it was number one on the R&B charts for four weeks. It was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), and it marked the beginning of Brown’s reinvention.

Before “Don’t Be Cruel,” Brown was part of the boy band New Edition. The group was popular in the 1980s, but Brown felt restricted in the group, and he wanted to try his hand at going solo. He signed with MCA records and released his debut album “King of Stage” in 1986. The album didn’t perform well, and it led to Brown becoming an outcast. But he didn’t give up.

“Don’t Be Cruel” was a turning point in Brown’s career. It proved that he had what it took to be a solo artist and that he was a force to be reckoned with. The song catapulted him to superstardom, and it led to him winning multiple awards, including a Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.

The lyrics.

The lyrics of “Don’t Be Cruel” are simple and relatable. The song is about a man who is pleading with his girlfriend not to leave him. He makes promises that he will be the best man he can be, and he asks her to give him another chance. He pleads “Don’t be cruel, cuz’ I would never be that cruel to you.” These lines speak to anyone who has been in a rocky relationship, and they have resonated with Brown’s fans over the years.

The legacy.

“Don’t Be Cruel” has stood the test of time. It’s played at parties, weddings, and even in movies (think Ghostbusters 2 and Happy Feet). The song has inspired other artists and has become a classic in R&B music. It’s a song that reminds us of the power of love and the importance of treating people right.

In Conclusion,

“Don’t Be Cruel” is a song that will always be remembered. It’s a song that elevated Bobby Brown’s career and proved that he was an artist to watch. The song’s lyrics are simple, but they pack a punch, and they resonate with anyone who has been in a rocky relationship. The song’s success inspired other artists and helped to shape the genre of R&B music. It’s a classic that will remain relevant for many years to come.

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