Donna Summer

Though already an established superstar in the disco world, this album (specifically the title track) is what made Donna Summer a household name. Released in 1983, the album offers a mix of upbeat, triumphant melodies and lovelorn slow jams, with the Boston diva shining throughout. Key tracks include the reggae-flavored "Unconditional Love" and the exotic vibe of "Tokyo."

As the title implies, Donna Summer is getting down to business. You may be surprised,
though, at what sort of business she means. She Works Hard for the Money, in marked
contrast to last year's grandly overreaching Donna Summer, functions as efficient
entertainment, but, like Summer herself, it's all in service to the Lord. Summer and
producer Michael Omartian are both gone-public born-agains who haven't lost th... More >

In which schlocky Michael Omartian replaces magic man Quincy Jones and Summer is born again. You know why? Because Omartian believes in Jesus, that's why. The result is the best Christian rock this side of T-Bone Burnett, and not just because it's suitable for Danceteria, although that helps. After all, can T-Bone claim to have introduced the concept of agape to the secular audience? (Grade - B+)