Starchild [CD], Teena Marie, CD

With its bold blue of-the-era cover art, 1984's STARCHILD proved to be Teena Marie's biggest record by offering up an appealing fusion of synth-heavy pop, R&B, and funk. Led by the inescapable smash hit "Lovergirl," the album was the first major success for the expressive vocalist (born Mary Christine Brockert) after her very public '82 split with the Motown label. In addition to the vibrant "Lovergirl," STARCHILD also features the emotive ballad "Out on a Limb," the groove-laden title track, and "My Dear Mr. Gaye," a touching tribute to Marvin Gaye that was issued mere months after the soul icon's tragic death.