Last Updated on 25 February 2026 by Massimo M.
Body and Soul by Joe Jackson is a record that confirms the importance of musical diversity.
Released in 1984, the album is in fact an eclectic journey through different genres, embracing pop, jazz, rock and soul with exceptional mastery.
The homage is clear right from the cover, which follows the famous shot by photographer Francis Wolff for the album “Sonny Rollins Vol. 2”, published in 1957. In the midst of the musical wave of the full eighties when the most plastic and synthetic pop was at the top, Jackson maniacally chases the “pure” sound, using for his recording sessions a deconsecrated church, entirely covered in wood, which Vanguard uses for classical music recordings.
As musicians he chooses the usual Maby, the ex-Blondie Gary Burke on drums, Vinnie Zummo on guitar, Ed Roynesdal (keyboards and violin), Tony Aiello (sax and flute), Michael Morreale (trumpets and flugelhorn), plus two backing singers from luxury like Ellen Foley, a singer famous above all for her collaborations with Meat loaf, and Elaine Caswell, singer of Pandora’s box with many important collaborations under her belt.
Obviously the recording techniques also follow Joe Jackson’s line of thought. The only two traditional microphones used for live recording certify the desire to deviate as much as possible from the artifices of the decade.
The result of all these choices will be one of the best recordings in the history of rock, also, but not only, to the delight of audiophiles.
Opening with “The Verdict” immediately establishes a theatrical tone, introducing an album that defies convention.
Jackson demonstrates his ability to mix styles, moving effortlessly from sophisticated jazz arrangements to punchier rhythms. “You Can’t Get What You Want (Till You Know What You Want)” emerges as a highlight, with its irresistible beat and witty lyrics that reflect on life’s aspirations and disappointments.
The track from which the album takes its title, “Body and Soul”, stands out for its elegant combination of piano and strings, creating an intensely emotional atmosphere.
Jackson also shows a deep introspective ability in songs like “Not Here, Not Now,” which touch on themes such as complex relationships and reflections on life.
Instrumental diversification is evident in “Cha Cha Loco,” where Latin American rhythms blend with pop energy. Jackson’s ability to compose songs with complex arrangements is further highlighted in “Happy Ending,” which concludes the album in triumphant fashion. “Be My Number Two” is an emotional highlight, with Jackson’s expressive vocals intertwining with engaging melodies.
David Kershenbaum’s impeccable production helps highlight every sonic nuance, giving the album a superb quality.
Three singles from the album entered the UK charts: first “Happy Ending” reached number 58 in April 1984, then “Be My Number Two” reached number 70 in June, followed by “You Can’ t Get What You Want (Till You Know What You Want)”, reaching number 77 in September.
In the United States, “You Can’t Get What You Want” peaked at number 15 in June, while “Happy Ending” peaked at number 57 in August.
“Body and Soul” is without any doubt a timeless work that continues to capture listeners’ imaginations with its innovation and emotional intensity.
Joe Jackson has created a masterpiece that defies time and musical categories, demonstrating his artistic brilliance and his ability to transform music into a deeply immersive experience.
Body and soul track list
Side A
The Verdict
Cha Cha Loco
Not Here, Not Now
You Can’t Get What You Want (Till You Know What You Want)
Go for It
Side B
Loisaida
Happy Ending (featuring Elaine Caswell)
Be My Number Two
Heart of Ice
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