On this day May 14, 1981, Teena Marie released her fourth studio album It Must Be Magic, a bold and powerful record that solidified her place as one of the most dynamic voices in funk and R&B. The album reached number 23 on the Billboard 200 and soared to number two on the R&B chart, making it the highest charting album of her career at the time.
It Must Be Magic showcased Teena Marie’s signature mix of soulful vocals, sharp songwriting and commanding production. The album featured standout tracks like Square Biz, which became a radio hit and club favorite thanks to its infectious groove and early use of rap in mainstream R&B. Known for playing multiple instruments and producing much of her own work, Teena Marie broke barriers as a female artist in a genre dominated by male producers. The album further established her reputation for artistic independence and musical excellence, influencing generations of singers and musicians who followed in her footsteps.
Fun fact: Square Biz featured one of the earliest examples of a female artist rapping on an R&B track, making Teena Marie a pioneer in blending funk and hip hop elements.
It Must Be Magic showcased Teena Marie’s signature mix of soulful vocals, sharp songwriting and commanding production. The album featured standout tracks like Square Biz, which became a radio hit and club favorite thanks to its infectious groove and early use of rap in mainstream R&B. Known for playing multiple instruments and producing much of her own work, Teena Marie broke barriers as a female artist in a genre dominated by male producers. The album further established her reputation for artistic independence and musical excellence, influencing generations of singers and musicians who followed in her footsteps.
Fun fact: Square Biz featured one of the earliest examples of a female artist rapping on an R&B track, making Teena Marie a pioneer in blending funk and hip hop elements.
