First Listen: Kirk Franklin and Tamela Mann wow on remixed Jacksons classic

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Photo credit: Allan Olley; Photo courtesy of Sony Music

(April 30, 2021) We wrote a few weeks ago about the long awaited reissues of three classic 1980s albums by the Jacksons — Triumph (1980), Victory (1984), and 2300 Jackson Street (1989).  In addition to The Jacksons X MLK remix, which was released on March 19, the Triumph re-release includes two additional new remixes of The Jacksons’ “Can You Feel It”:  The Kirk Franklin Remix and The Island Remix featuring David Sanborn.

“These albums were released at a defining time in our career, and we thank Sony Music for recognizing the legacy of this music and our historic relationship with the label,” said Jackie, Marlon and Tito Jackson.

The third single from the Triumph album, “Can You Feel It” hit #1 on the Billboard Dance Club Charts (and #77 on the Hot 100) following its release in March 1981. Written and arranged by Michael Jackson and Jackie Jackson, the track was produced by The Jacksons and features lead vocals by Michael and Randy Jackson accompanied by gospel choirs. 

The Kirk Franklin’s remix of the classic Jacksons recording is a revelation. The Grammy Award-winning contemporary gospel artist reminds everyone that “the winds of change are blowing your way” while channeling a Sunday church service with gospel musicians and choir, the soulful vocals of the legendary Tamela Mann and Franklin’s own call-and-response with Michael Jackson.  This remix also serves as the electrifying soundtrack to a new music video set in a church and celebrating the inspirational soul-gospel vibe and message of the song.

The Jacksons – “Can You Feel It”
Kirk Franklin Remix feat. Tamela Mann

Video

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The Jacksons’ definitive album project:

The expanded digital releases of TriumphVictory and 2300 Jackson Streetare now available alongside The Jacksons (1976), Goin’ Places (1977) and Destiny (1978), released February 12. The six studio albums recorded by The Jacksons for Epic Records trace the group’s spectacular transformation from their Jackson 5 boy band roots to their role as avatars of an R&B/pop revolution (1976-1989). Each title includes the original album in its entirety, bundled with additional bonus tracks and may be ordered here:

https://TheJacksons.lnk.to/TriumphPR

https://TheJacksons.lnk.to/2300JacksonStPR

https://TheJacksons.lnk.to/VictoryPR

A 2LP 12″ vinyl edition of The Jacksons Live! (recorded during their 1981 North American Triumph Tour) was released on Friday, March 26.

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