Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1

A mature statement from one of the great mainstream pop artists shooting for eternal air play on Smooth FM, and the album that made it OK for me as a red blooded and masculine male to like George Michael.

I took your advice, George Michael, and you know what? This shit slaps. Best track: Freedom! '90

Isn’t it annoying when someone tells you, “Don’t look over there, but…”? The first thing you’re going to do is look over there, right? So when George Michael tells me to “Listen Without Prejudice”, I’m going to be listening with a more critical ear than usual. Big mistake, George Michael. So here’s my prejudiced take after listening: there’s so much reverb on George Michael’s voice on every track of this record that it sounds like he fell down a well and instead of trying to get him out, his producers lowered a microphone down into the well so they could record his vocals.

George Michael’s hits were an ever present constant in the 80’s and 90’s, but other than Faith, which sold 25 million copies, I hadn’t thought about his work in terms of albums. One day last year I heard his duet with Elton John for the bazillionth time and started to think about Michael’s talent. So I sat there and listened to Faith again and then to his entire solo discography and was blown away by his musical range and depth of feeling. A truly great artist and this album is worth absorbing every track.

George Michael peut se vanter de porter à bout de bras ce courant musical qu'est l'homosexual pop. L'album est une réussite de bout en bout. L'intro nous fait entrer dans un univers très riche, très marquée par une attirance envers la gente masculine. On slalome entre les pistes tel George Michael entre les passants sur son char lors des marches de fierté. L'album se conclue sur un coming out explosif. En bref, on en redemande.

Freedom is awesome, but the rest of it is weak boring sauce.

Other than 'Freedom 90' the rest of the album is kinda repetitive and slow

One good song. Freedom! ‘90

Une homosexualité debordante de la part de notre ami George Michael, qui reprend tous les codes de la homosexual pop, très chère à notre ami robbière. En effet, ce genre musical porté par George Michael et Ricki Martins, n'a plus rien à prouver, et vient recolter un nouveau 4/5. Bien dommage donc de ne pas voir ce genre figurer dans le classement des genres du générateur. Un manque d'ouverture d'esprit peut-être? Je vous tiendrais au courant dès que j'en saurai un peu plus sur les motivations réelles de Robert.

I was ready to write this one off based just on the artist's clownish pose on the cover and goofy shades, but I reread the album title and promised myself that I would give it a fair shake. Thankfully, the music is just as clownish. The music is well-produced but takes itself much too seriously while saying nothing important.

Classic. More ballads than I remember. Gifted writer, composer and voice.

If this album was a biscuit, it would be a plain digestive Not necessarily bad - just plain and not really anyones favourite 3 ⭐️

Somber. Honestly, I was expecting more soaring vocals but it feels like he was trying to be restrained so as not to be one-dimensional. That's not to say his incredible vocals aren't on display but it's not like a Celine Dion album where every song is rising to a climax. Sometimes it's just even, intense vocals throughout a song. You've got to respect his decision to put his vocals and lyrics front and center. I guess with vocals like his that's an easy choice. I think his lyrics got better over time - he hadn't quite found it yet. But you can see the potential in Mother's Pride, Cowboys and Angels, and Praying for Time. Soul Free was a disappointment - like the record producers got their way with a track. Too cheesy. Fortunately Waiting takes it out on a big high note. From a pure enjoyment perspective I probably give the album a 4. But from a concept perspective and what he was trying to accomplish and the raw emotion, it's a 5.

Started strong, but I lost interest pretty quick. Freedom! 90 fucks, but the rest I could take it or leave it. 2/5

No idea why this one should deserve a spot on this list. Certainly one of the most unremarkable albums we've listened to so far. Boring songs, adequate execution, subpar production. I did like Soul Free, the only track that stood out to me.

it sounded okay i guess but i couldnt get into it or connect with it at all.. felt nothing throughout.

It's not bad, but extremely dull and forgettable in most places

No. 58/1001 Praying for Time 4/5 Freedom 90' 5/5 They Won't Go When I Go 4/5 Something to Save 5/5 Cobowys and Angels 4/5 Waiting for that Day 5/5 Mothers Pride 5/5 Heal the Pain 5/5 Soul Free 4/5 Waiting (Reprise) NR Average: 4,56 Wow, I'm super surprised about this. Incredible voice and songwriting. Influences ranging from gospel to funk to to rock. Had multiple relistens today and it got better every time. Pop Perfection. This is now my best rated album taking over from Born To Run - Bruce Springsteen (4,5)

So very different to Faith or his work with Wham, this album is the pinnacle of George Michael's career. Even to a casual listener and not a super fan like my wife, it is hard to deny that this is pop perfection

A lot of stylistic variety. I really enjoyed the first portion of the album especially.

I may be a little prejudice going into this one because this album snapshots such a memorable time in my life. I love this album and struggle to pick a ‘best track’ because there are simply too many to pick from. George Michael was such a talent and by what I have seen was also an awesome person. I listened to this all day!

Wow, I haven't listened to this album in decades. They Won't go When I go is a beautiful song. It really highlights George Michaels range.

So far above his debut it's not even funny. Poignant, catchy, fun, and interesting in historical context. This does everything it can to fight it's way to a 5 for me, and who am I to deny it?

It's always fun to be pleasantly surprised, but I should have taken the advice of the album title. When I read it was a move away from George Michael's dance music, I imagined something boring. I ended up loving it. I will steal the comment of a contemporary critic and say that this felt "personal, not commercial." I really felt connected to it and loved its sound. "Freedom! '90" is the song I well remember and always liked, but I liked digging into it a bit deeper and listening to its lyrics about the emotional consequences of his fame. "Cowboys and Angels" is a lovely heartfelt waltz with a saxophone solo. I enjoyed the seamless transition to the Rolling Stones in "Waiting for that Day." And the rest! I liked all the songs on this. It was perfect music for the day.

When I listen to George Michael a couple of things cross my mind (and my heart). One, I just feel joy in everything he does, he was so very, very good. Everything he created was a gift. But now I also feel a sadness for the way we lost him, essentially to his fame. One thing is for sure, pop music probably would have taken a different trajectory without George Michael. There's a depth and maturity to some of his work that pop music is just starting to come back around to, after so many frivolous years. Listen Without Prejudice is not a perfect album. But it stands out so starkly from pop music of the 80s, from everything Michael had made up to that point. It's smart, seriously crafted pop that really cracked open the possibilities in 1990 of what a pop album could or should be. Another reviewer commented that the album essentially kicked off pop for the 90s, which is so true. The arrangements are more sophisticated, the lyrics are deeper, this is music for grown ass adults, not the teenagers who listened to Wham! in the 80s. That's not to say the album doesn't have fun, because that’s in there too. Maybe not as much fun as Faith, but that would be a hard one to top. There's another vibe at work here, one of introspection, one of growth. I can't think of a better opener than "Praying for Time." It has this lush, atmospheric arrangement that just pulls you in. Michael's vocal is so silky, so infectious, so gorgeous. I want to hear it forever. “Freedom '90” is damn catchy, a perfect pop song. It’s smooth, funky, more than a little angry. I have special fondness for it knowing it really is George Michael's declaration of independence from his image and our expectations of him. Being frank about the costs of stardom made Michael a far better artist. As I listen now, the album is a touch more dated than I expected it to be. But seriously, who cares? Pop music is specifically a time sensitive genre, but excellent is excellent. In that sense, Listen Without Prejudice is timeless. Fave Songs: Freedom! '90, They Won't Go When I Go, Praying for Time, Soul Free, Cowboys and Angels

Freedom is just one of those songs that you hear once and can never get out of your head. Phenomenal album from George Michael. A super strong album.

What a voice. His music is dramatic and soulful and there really can only be one George Michael. Some of it is a little over the top and I prefer his upbeat hit on this album ("Freedom.")

An album that pulled pop music out of its 80s malaise to kick off the 90s in style - hip hop beats, r&b and gospel influences, supermodels in the video and George Michael’s powerful, soulful voice (the greatest pop singer of his era?). Freedom 90 is a perfect pop record (and what a singalong) and the ballads have real staying power. You feel George Michael is starting to be the artist he wants to be, getting ever more comfortable writing confessional (perhaps?), personal lyrics. A significant improvement on Faith, which also appears on this list, Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1 (is there a more pretentious album title - vol.1 indeed?!?! - I love it!) fully deserves its place on this list.

The credit card song! This was fine.

I just listened to this less than a month ago because Apple Music put it on their list of 100 best albums. I wasn’t impress then and am still not. Somehow, it’s more bearable, though. It depends on the mood I’m in, I suppose. If I’m not in a “heal the world, let’s all sing kumbaya” mood, then I won’t enjoy it as much. Also, I need to mention that what he does to “They Won’t Go When I Go” is a shame. It’s not bad, but doesn’t deserve to be on either list. 3/5

I thought half was decent and the other half was pretty boring

okay

If Last Christmas was an hour long...

If there's one thing I'm not interested in it's generic pop albums from the past

Not for me. Accessible but a bit too sappy. Favorite: Freedom! '90

They try to be all inspirational, but it just comes off as insincere.

yeah prejudice isn't why i don't like this, it's just boring as fuck George

A few good songs, but overall a little schmaltzy for me. I'd give it a few more listens to see if it grows on me.

All a bit cheesy, like a mega Glee choir. I liked a few but nothing amazing

Overproduced torch songs, I'd imagine this would go down well at Tescos.

Can't believe I listened to this whole thing. That will not happen again.

I tried to listen without prejudice but it really was shit. Clearly he was trying to be taken seriously as an artist but there's no substance just pretension added to basic ballads

I listened without prejudice, but still thought it was shit. Sorry George lad.

Boy this is a boring album. Like... inoffensive soft-pop that very very quickly faded into background at the dentist office pap for me.

The first two tracks here are amazing, and "Freedom" is one of my favourite songs ever, just a shame that Robbie Williams massacred it. The rest of the tracks wear a little thin at times, but the most astonishing thing here is just how incredibly human and fragile George Michael comes across, despite that heartbreakingly powerful voice. Very much missed.

Listening to this now, I hear so much more gospel influence in the soaring vocals and soulful lyrics. I guess you gotta have faith. Freedom is a top 5 favorite song for me; it speaks to relationships but also political and societal concerns. The entire album is really achingly beautiful. I miss him.

## In-Depth Review of *Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1* by George Michael George Michael's *Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1*, released on September 3, 1990, marks a significant evolution in his artistic journey following the monumental success of his debut solo album, *Faith*. This album is characterized by its introspective lyrics, sophisticated musical arrangements, and a departure from the commercial pop sound that defined much of his earlier work. Here, we will explore the album's lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence while also discussing its pros and cons. ****Lyrics**** The lyrics of *Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1* are deeply personal and reflective, showcasing Michael's desire to be seen as a serious artist. The lead single, "Praying for Time," addresses social injustices and critiques the apathy of society towards suffering. Lines such as "It's not a matter of who's wrong or right / It's about the way we live our lives" exemplify this theme of moral introspection and societal critique. Other tracks like "Cowboys and Angels" explore complex emotional landscapes, touching on themes of love and longing through a lens of vulnerability. The song's narrative portrays a love triangle fraught with unrequited feelings, showcasing Michael's ability to weave storytelling into his songwriting. In "Heal the Pain," Michael expresses a yearning for reconciliation and healing, both personally and universally. The lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced heartache or loss, making them relatable and poignant. Overall, the lyrical content is marked by a maturity that reflects Michael's growth as an artist. He moves beyond superficial themes to tackle weighty subjects such as fame, isolation, and social responsibility. ****Music**** Musically, *Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1* diverges from the upbeat pop sound of *Faith*, embracing a more subdued and contemplative style. The album incorporates elements of jazz, soul, and acoustic music, creating a rich tapestry of sound that complements its lyrical depth. The production features lush instrumentation with prominent use of acoustic guitars, piano, and subtle percussion. For instance: - **"Praying for Time"** opens with a stark piano melody that sets a somber tone for its heavy subject matter. - **"Heal the Pain"** showcases Michael's vocal prowess against a backdrop of warm acoustic guitar and gentle bongo rhythms, creating an intimate atmosphere. - **"Cowboys and Angels"** straddles jazz and lounge genres with its smooth melodies and intricate arrangements. The album is characterized by its polished production quality without sacrificing emotional authenticity. Each track flows seamlessly into the next, creating an immersive listening experience that invites reflection. ****Production**** The production of *Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1* was primarily handled by George Michael himself, showcasing his growth as a producer alongside his songwriting capabilities. This self-production allowed him to maintain creative control over the project—an essential aspect given his desire to distance himself from the commercial pressures he felt during his earlier career. Michael opted for a minimalist approach in many tracks, allowing the raw emotion in his voice to shine through without overwhelming instrumentation. This decision reflects his intention to create an album that prioritizes substance over style. Critics have noted that while some tracks may lack the catchy hooks found in *Faith*, they reward listeners with deeper emotional resonance upon repeated listens. The album’s sound is often described as timeless—a quality that has allowed it to remain relevant decades after its release. ****Themes**** The overarching themes of *Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1* include: - **Fame and Isolation:** Michael grapples with the loneliness that accompanies celebrity status. He questions whether fame is worth the price paid in personal happiness. - **Social Responsibility:** Tracks like "Praying for Time" highlight social issues such as poverty and inequality, urging listeners to reflect on their roles within society. - **Love and Vulnerability:** Many songs explore complex relationships and emotional struggles, emphasizing human connection amidst personal turmoil. - **Self-Reflection:** The album serves as an introspective journey where Michael confronts his identity as an artist and individual in a world that often demands conformity. These themes resonate strongly in today's context, reflecting ongoing societal challenges while also providing insight into Michael's personal struggles during this period. ****Influence**** Upon its release, *Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1* was met with critical acclaim but faced commercial challenges in the U.S., leading to legal disputes between Michael and Sony Music over marketing support. Despite these hurdles, the album has influenced countless artists seeking to balance commercial success with artistic integrity. Michael’s willingness to tackle serious themes paved the way for future artists who wish to address social issues through their music. The album’s introspective nature encourages listeners to engage with their emotions more deeply than typical pop fare allows. Moreover, its impact can be seen in contemporary music where artists like Sam Smith and Adele draw on similar themes of vulnerability and social commentary within their work. The album remains a touchstone for discussions about authenticity in pop music. ****Pros and Cons**** **Pros:** - **Lyrical Depth:** The introspective lyrics offer profound insights into personal struggles and societal issues. - **Musical Diversity:** A blend of genres creates a rich listening experience that showcases Michael’s versatility. - **Emotional Resonance:** Tracks evoke strong emotions through both lyrics and vocal delivery. - **Artistic Integrity:** The self-produced nature reflects Michael’s commitment to creative control. - **Timelessness:** The themes remain relevant today, allowing new generations to connect with the material. **Cons:** - **Commercial Performance:** The album did not achieve the same level of commercial success as *Faith*, particularly in the U.S., which may overshadow its artistic merit. - **Lack of Catchy Hooks:** Some critics argue that it lacks memorable hooks compared to earlier works. - **Heavy Themes:** The serious subject matter may not appeal to all listeners seeking lighter entertainment. In conclusion, *Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1* stands as a testament to George Michael's evolution as an artist willing to confront difficult truths through his music. Its lyrical depth, musical sophistication, and exploration of significant themes have cemented its place in music history as an essential work that continues to resonate today.

Great album, it's a real shame I have a chance to discover George Michael's songs when he is no longer here. Amazing side A to the record, I loved every song on it, especially his rendition of Wonder's "They Won't Go When I Go". Beautiful songs, great lyrics, amazing voice. Side B is still solid and brings in few interesting tracks. Looking at it from the distance, it has to be the best album in George's discography. Let's look for vinyl now.

Most of this George Michael content was new to me -- I really enjoyed it!

Wayyyyy less horny than his last album I listened to and it made it wayyyyy better!! Awesome instrumentation all over this thing, he clearly knows how to let others shine when it's their time and I think this album is so much better off for it. That being said his vocals are as crsip and clear as ever, really like the Stevie wonder cover too, one of my favourite ever songs.

I was by no means a Wham or George Micheal fan growing up in the 80’s but this album is special. Transports me back to my early twenties and being introduced to it by the then girlfriend and thinking, ooh this is not Wham Rap or Wake Me Up Before You Go Go, this is grown up. Beautiful voice, beautiful music and Waiting For The Day will always have a special place.

Really loved this

Y'know, on its own I woulda given this thing a 4. It's really good, soulful pop, but nothing that really blew my mind. But consider that I played this album's cover of "They Won't Go When I Go" three times. That alone moves it up to a 5 for me, goodness. So, so good, goodness.

Never listened to much of George's music asides from the big Wham! hits, but wow, this album blew me away with its', just, everything contained into 40+ minutes. Hell of a 5 to give.

I’m at a 5. This is my first full George Michael album – obviously, I know the bigger hits and some of his Wham! stuff, but I knew this was the one that had Freedom! ‘90 on it, which is an all-timer track as far I’m concerned, so I was sort of expecting an album with that kind of tone. Instead, I got something that feels deeply introspective and much more serious / matured than most of his 80s work, and I’m not complaining about it – I love the direction this album takes, and while some might categorize it as moody or whiny, I think it’s a strong separation from his more poppy stuff to show his bigger variety as an artist. Obviously, people are still gonna play Careless Whisper or Last Christmas (or even Freedom! ‘90) more than they will most of the tracks on this album, but I think what’s here is probably deeply underrated in his catalog. I really don’t think there’s a bad track here – the only odd one out is Soul Free, which is a great fucking track that just feels like it’s on the wrong album, and doesn’t really mesh with the other tracks as cohesively. Regardless, I really loved this album; it’s sort of a shame that his career slowed down heavily after this, but it’s better that he slowed down to make music he was truly engaged with instead of trying to follow a sort of tour/release cycle that Sony was trying to box so many other artists into during the early 90s. This is an easy 5 for me to give, and it’s beyond deserving to be on the list. I gotta hear this MTV Unplugged half.

Outstanding album. Lots of people have great voices, but not all of them know how to sing. George Michael knows how to sing. This isn't my usually genre, but I appreciate talent. Thoroughly enjoyed it. 5 stars.

Ахуеть, старина то мог и таких вещей наделать. Умный осмысленный поп. Никакого сексапильного саксофона

4.5/5

Day167 - one of my favorite albums ever and it has only gotten better over time

George era un absoluto genio.

cool

This project has taught me that I really loved George Michael as a child.

Ah well wasn’t this breeze of fresh air after having a bit of a tough time going trough this challenge. By far the most positively surprising discovery. Ofc I've known about George Michael before and listened to a lot of Wham back in the days. I don't know why but I just never was invested to look what else was there on his solo discography. I got ”Faith” a couple weeks back and was then pleasantly surprised by it. I really liked it and now this album just blew me away. George has one of the most beautiful voices I've ever heard, I never made the comparison but his voice reminds me a lot of Freddies. Beautiful piece of work and the album cover is brilliant. I’m happy to discover this.

Under-rated. Love this album.

What a voice, we all new about that! Besides very few known songs of this album it's a 4.5/5. Watching \"Freedom\" video brought me back in the 80's where all those models were making us dreaming....

4.5/5

Incredible album. Such a talented singer songwriter.

Amazing. Easy 5/5.

Increíble

Just a good record. Nothing standing out. Just a groove.

So much better than I remembered!

u gotta have faith!!

FREEDOM, FREEDOM (George baby please come back I miss you)

I genuinely believe this is one of the most perfect albums ever made. At a minimum, the opening trio of 'Praying for Time', 'Freedom! '90', and the haunting cover of 'They Won't Go When I Go', have to be heard to be believed. It is also tied for me to childhood memories of all-out voice-belting family sing alongs, which is saying a lot given how dysfunctional we were. While I'm no George Michael biographer, I always felt like this album was a response to dysfunction. The man had been repressing his sexual identity while his musical career and international fame continuously grew, built (at least in part) on him being a hetero sex symbol. He is then outed in the most humiliating way possible and forced to confront it all, all at once, on CNN for Christ's sake. The album's name, it seems to me at least, is practically a plea to give him a chance. While the dysfunction in my own life was of a different sort, this perception has given me a personal connection to this album that has only grown and deepened over the years. I can hear echos of truths I don't want to live with in these songs, and the hopes of the possibilities that come with living life after I begin to put them behind me.

Last 3 tracks sound like perfection

Some lovely songs and an amazing voice. What's not to like?

I loved this but I listened with (personal) prejudice, as I had completely forgotten but I’ve heard this before, it was in heavy rotation in my mom’s car growing up. Love this one! Also it takes massive balls to cover Stevie Wonder, and he nails it

Classic George Michael, brilliant album and sounds fantastic on this. Really enjoyed listening to the full album, some great instrumentals throughout also.

Love this album!

george michael is the loml

I love this album. It's one of the best albums ever released, in my view, definitely top 20. This is a rare example, from this otherwise hopeless list, of an album that everyone actually should hear before they die. George Michael was the great white hope of soul, a wonderful voice and brilliant songwriter. The story of his life and tragic death will make an amazing film, one day.

Brilliant. I must confess I'd never listened to a George Michael album before today but this blew my mind. Such a great voice and some real heartfelt lyrics. Pleasantly surprised and defo 5 stars

What an accurate album title. From what I've previously heard from George Micheal I was expecting to hate this but I thoroughly enjoyed the entire album. It's a solid pop album with very interesting lyrics and a nice stylistic variety. Give it a go, you won't regret it.

This was great

Haven't listened to a lot of George Michael in my life, which right now seems criminal. Just a phenomenal showcase of musical talent on this album. I don't know if it's just me, but at times it sounds like Freddy Mercury singing. Not a knock against it; if anything it just goes to show how great Michael's voice is. I don't have anything bad to say about this album, it was a joy from start to finish.

Excellent

This is one of my all time favourite albums, thanks.

:) make me think of me mom

cool

Wonderful

Pero que buenísimo que está. Ni una canción mala. No es repetitivo y el opener es increíble. Dudé mucho en darle las 5, pero cada vez que lo escuchaba me convencía más de ello, simplemente no pude evitarlo.

Really excellent

I don't know why it took me until now to realize how much I ADORE George Michael's voice. His vocals, plus the instrumentals, lyrics, and general song composition, made for a great album. For some reason, I don't like Freedom! (yeah I know) but the rest of it was exquisite.

One of my all-time favourite albums. Even better now than when I first heard it in 1991. Beautiful and powerful.

A work of art by one of the great musical geniuses of my lifetime. Outstanding songwriting and a beautiful singer and it is amazing this was not actually a massive hit.

In my mind, a perfect pop album. Blue-eyed soul (at it's finest) matched with masterful production and great songwriting equals a classic.

Intense and beautiful. A gem. Beautiful to listen to it all again after all these years.

Need to study how he wrote songs in 3/4

Freedom is a 5/5 song Wasn't expecting to hear a stevie wonder cover Production on soul free was amazing

10/10