Rich and Poor

Released in 1989, Rich and Poor represents a pivotal moment in Randy Crawford's career where she fully embraced the sophisticated 'Adult Contemporary' sound of the late 80s while maintaining her jazz-soul roots. Produced largely by Michael Powell (known for his work with Anita Baker), the album features a high-gloss finish that emphasizes Crawford's unique vocal texture. The tracklist is notable for its diverse covers, including a soulful reimagining of Robert Palmer's 'Every Kind of People' and the poignant 'Cigarette in the Rain.' Critically, the album was praised for its consistency and the way it showcased Crawford's ability to elevate pop material through her jazz-trained phrasing. It solidified her status as a premier global songstress, particularly in Europe and the UK, where her brand of elegant R&B found a permanent home. The record stands as a testament to the era's ability to blend digital precision with soulful human emotion.