Burning The Ground Exclusive 1988
NEW 2024 Transfer
NEW Meticulous Audio Restoration
Original post date September 24, 2013
“Monkey” is a hit single by George Michael from his debut solo album, Faith (1987). Released as the album’s fourth single in 1988, the song became a major success, reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. The track showcases a funky, dance-oriented style, blending elements of pop and R&B, and was co-produced by George Michael and Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis.
The lyrics reflect themes of addiction and unhealthy relationships, with Michael imploring someone to choose between him and their “monkey”—a metaphor for a habit or dependency. Its infectious beat, layered production, and cutting-edge remixes, including the popular Jam & Lewis remix, contributed to its club appeal and chart-topping performance.
“Monkey” also stands out for its music video, directed by Andy Morahan, featuring energetic visuals, including Michael performing alongside dancers and showcasing his signature style during the Faith era. It remains a fan favorite and a testament to Michael’s versatility as an artist.
The remixes of “Monkey” played a significant role in its popularity, especially in the U.S. club scene. Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, renowned producers known for their work with artists like Janet Jackson, created a special remix for the single release. This version amplified the track’s funky, percussive energy, enhancing its appeal on dance floors and radio stations alike. The remix was so impactful that it became the definitive version of the song played on U.S. radio.
In terms of chart performance, “Monkey” achieved significant success globally. While it became George Michael’s eighth #1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, it also fared well on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. Internationally, it charted within the top 10 in countries like Canada and Ireland, though it performed more modestly in the UK, peaking at #13 on the UK Singles Chart.
The single’s success cemented Michael’s reputation as one of the 1980s’ most versatile pop icons, capable of delivering everything from heartfelt ballads to irresistible dance tracks. “Monkey” also contributed to the massive commercial success of Faith, which won the Grammy for Album of the Year in 1989.
SIDE A:
Monkey (Extended Version) 8:07
SIDE B:
Monkey (Acappella) 3:44
Monkey (Extra Beats) 3:43
VINYL GRADE:
Vinyl: Near Mint
Sleeve: Near Mint
U.S. CHART HISTORY:
| Year | Single | Chart | Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1988 | Monkey | U.S. Billboard Hot 100 | #1 |
| 1988 | Monkey | U.S. Billboard Hot R&B / Hip-Hop Songs | #8 |
| 1988 | Monkey | U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Music / Club Play | #1 |
RELEASE INFORMATION:
Label: Columbia – 44 07849, Columbia – 44-07849
Format: Vinyl, 12″, 33 ⅓ RPM, Stereo
Country: US
Released: 1988
Genre: Electronic
Style: Electro, Synth-pop, Dance-pop
CREDITS:
- Artwork [Artwork By] – George Michael, Norman Moore
- Engineer [Engineered By] – Steve Hodge
- Lacquer Cut By [Runout Etching ❀] – Brian Gardner
- Photography By [Photo By] – Chris Cuffaro
- Producer [Produced By] – Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis
- Producer [Produced By], Written-By, Arranged By – George Michael
- Remix [Special Re-mix By] – Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis
NOTES:
From the LP “FAITH”
Buy the 12″ at DISCOGS
VINYL TRANSFER & AUDIO RESTORATION:
-DjPaulT
burningtheground.net
THE GEAR:
Turntable: Technics SL-1200MK7
Cartridge/Stylus: Ortofon 2M Black PnP MkII
Turntable Isolation Platform: ISO-Tone™ Turntable Isolation Platform
Platter: Pro Spin Acrylic Mat
Stabilizer: Pro-Ject Record Puck
Phono Pre-amp: Pro-Jec Tube Box DS2
Tubes: Genalex Gold Lion 12AX7 ECC83/B759 Gold Pins Vacuum Tube – Matched Pair
DAC: Alpha Design Labs GT40a USB DAC
Record Cleaning: VPI HW 16.5 Record Cleaning Machine
Artwork Scans: Epson Workforce WF-7610 Professional Printer/Scanner
SOFTWARE:
Recording/Editing: Adobe Audition 25 (Recording)
Down Sampling/Dither: iZotope RX Advanced 2
Artwork Editor: Adobe Photoshop CS5
Click Removal: Manual
FLAC/MP3 Conversion: dBpoweramp
M3U Playlist: Playlist Creator
RESTORATION NOTES:
All vinyl rips are recorded @ 32bit/float
FLAC (Level Eight)
Artwork scanned at 600dpi
**24bit FLAC Only Available For Seven Days!
Password: burningtheground
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