Risqué by Chic

Released: 1979

Genre: Rock

"Risqué," released in 1979, is Chic's groundbreaking third studio album that solidified the band’s influence on the disco and rock genres. Featuring the iconic single "Good Times," which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, the album showcases a seamless fusion of funk, rock, and disco with Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards' signature guitar and bass interplay. The track's infectious bassline has been sampled extensively, notably influencing hip-hop tracks like The Sugarhill Gang's "Rapper's Delight." With its polished production, largely helmed by Rodgers and Edwards, "Risqué" introduced a sophisticated sound characterized by lush strings and rhythmic precision. Songs like "My Forbidden Lover" and "I Want Your Love" further exemplify Chic’s ability to blend danceable grooves with poignant lyrics. The album's cultural impact is profound, as it challenged the prevailing norms of rock music in the late '70s and laid the groundwork for future genres, including dance-pop and new wave. "Risqué" remains a seminal work in music history, reflecting both a societal shift and the enduring power of groove.

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