Civilized Man

Joe Cocker

1984

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About

Civilized Man is the ninth studio album by British artist Joe Cocker, released in May 1984. It was his first album on Capitol Records. The album marked a shift in Cocker's sound, moving from his earlier raw, soulful blues-rock style to a more polished, radio-friendly sound indicative of the 1980s. Despite this change, Cocker's signature gravelly voice remained a prominent feature. The album features covers of Squeeze's 1981 hit "Tempted" and The Drifters' 1959 hit "There Goes My Baby". The songs for *Civilized Man* were recorded in two separate sessions. Side A was recorded at Village Recorders in Los Angeles and produced by Gary Katz, featuring members of Toto as the backing band. Side B was recorded in Nashville and produced by Stewart Levine, showcasing Nashville musicians.

Recording Info

Recorded in 1984 at Village Recorders in Los Angeles, Ocean Way Recording in Hollywood, House of David in Nashville, and Soundworks Digital Audio/Video in New York City. Side A was produced by Gary Katz, with Daniel Lazerus as engineer and mixer. Side B was produced by Stewart Levine, with Rik Pekkonen handling recording and mixing.

Track Highlights

Civilized Man — Features a polished production and catchy melody.
There Goes My Baby (The Drifters) — A cover of The Drifters' hit, showcasing Cocker's soulful interpretation.
Tempted (Squeeze) — A cover of the Squeeze hit.
Long Drag Off a Cigarette — Features Joe Cocker's former bandmate Jim Keltner.
Hold On (I Feel Our Love Is Changing) — A ballad showcasing Cocker's powerful and emotional vocal performance.
Even A Fool Would Let Go — A soulful ballad that leaves a lasting impression.

Personnel

Joe Cocker (Lead Vocals)
David Paich (Hammond Organ)
Greg Phillinganes (Keyboards, Acoustic Piano)
Rob Mounsey (Acoustic Piano, Electric Piano, Roland Jupiter-8)
Bob Telson (Oberheim OB-Xa, Hammond Organ, Horn Arrangements)
David Briggs (Keyboards, String Arrangements)
Shane Keister (Synthesizers)
Randy McCormick (Fender Rhodes)
Steve Lukather (Guitars)
Domenic Troiano (Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar, Electric Guitar)
Larry John McNally (Acoustic Guitar)
Jon Goin (Guitars)

Significance

Civilized Man, along with its predecessor Sheffield Steel, marked a new era in Joe Cocker's music, incorporating fuller production and modern technology. The album expanded on the success of Sheffield Steel, selling well in Europe. Despite its quality and Cocker's strong performance, Civilized Man didn't achieve significant chart success and has been somewhat forgotten.

The album was recorded in two separate sessions, with Side A featuring the core of Toto as the backing band and Side B featuring Nashville session musicians.