About the song
The artist associated with "Don’t Be Cruel" could be either Elvis Presley or Bobby Brown, as both had hits with songs of the same name. However, the tone and content of your request suggest you might be referring to Bobby Brown’s 1988 hit, as it notably had a music video.
Introduction:
"Don’t Be Cruel" is an iconic track by Bobby Brown, released in 1988 as the title single from his second studio album. Written and produced by hit-makers Babyface, L.A. Reid, and Daryl Simmons, the song marked a turning point in Bobby Brown’s career, showcasing his ability to blend R&B, pop, and new jack swing with a confident and infectious energy. With its smooth production, catchy hooks, and Bobby’s dynamic vocals, the track quickly rose to the top of the charts.
The single became a commercial success, reaching the number one position on the Billboard Hot R&B Songs chart and securing a prominent spot in the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. It helped establish Bobby Brown as one of the leading artists of the late ’80s and early ’90s, solidifying his reputation as the "King of New Jack Swing."
"Don’t Be Cruel" was a critical and commercial triumph, further fueling the success of the album, which won the American Music Award for Favorite Soul/R&B Album in 1990. The album itself went on to achieve multi-Platinum status, becoming one of the best-selling R&B albums of its time. Its success, along with the hit single, also positioned Bobby Brown as a defining figure in the evolution of contemporary R&B.
The music video for "Don’t Be Cruel" reflects the essence of the new jack swing era, showcasing Brown’s charismatic stage presence and dance moves. With its combination of smooth grooves and swagger, the song remains a classic, remembered as a defining R&B anthem of the late 1980s.
Whether you’re revisiting this classic or discovering it for the first time, "Don’t Be Cruel" is a timeless track that keeps the spirit of new jack swing alive.
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