- Sexy Nude Cover
Sheryl Lee Ralph an American singer, actress, and activist, best known for her roles in the films "To Sleep with Anger" and "Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit," and her Tony-nominated performance in the Broadway musical "Dreamgirls." She has also released several albums as a singer, This web-page has hi-res photos of "Sheryl Lee Ralph" the album covers, record label and a detailed description.
When Sheryl Lee Ralph's You're So Romantic / Too Hot 12" EP hit the scene in 1984, it was more than just a slab of vinyl—it was a bold statement, a delirious cocktail of soul, funk, and disco wrapped in one of the most provocative sleeves to hit record stores. This record is a flashpoint where the end of disco's reign, the rise of post-disco, and the unyielding fire of R&B crossed paths in a neon-lit, sweaty dance floor frenzy. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves—the story starts with Ralph herself, a bona fide force of nature.
A Brief Background
Sheryl Lee Ralph was an actress and singer, not exactly a household name in the music world in the early '80s, but definitely a face and voice you couldn’t forget. She had already made a splash on Broadway with her role as Deena Jones in Dreamgirls—yes, the same musical that would later launch Jennifer Holliday into the stratosphere. With her powerhouse vocals and stage presence, it was only a matter of time before Ralph ventured into the recording studio to carve her niche in the music industry.
The Music: Disco, Soul, and That '80s Groove
By 1984, the disco scene was supposedly dead and buried, but Ralph wasn’t here to mourn. Instead, she took what was left of disco’s glittering corpse, injected it with the sultry essence of soul, and set it ablaze with the kinetic energy of '80s post-disco. You're So Romantic drips with seduction, a slick production where Ralph’s silky vocals float over a pulsating bassline and shimmering synths. It’s like Marvin Gaye’s Sexual Healing dressed up for a night out at Studio 54—sensual, yet undeniably danceable.
Flip it over to Too Hot, and the tempo picks up, the beat gets a little nastier. This track is a straight-up party starter, built on a foundation of hard-hitting funk grooves and Ralph’s fiery delivery. Here, the EP straddles the line between R&B and the emergent sounds of early electro-funk. It’s got the tight, compressed production that was becoming the hallmark of the era—drum machines snapping like a whip, synths pulsing with an almost primal urgency. The track feels like it’s always on the brink of explosion, holding you in its grip from the first beat to the last fade-out.
Controversies: The Cover That Turned Heads
Now, let’s talk about that cover. You couldn’t discuss this record in the '80s without bringing up the artwork—a near-scandalous photograph of Ralph, semi-nude, looking every bit the femme fatale. In an era when Madonna was already pushing the envelope of sexuality in pop culture, Ralph’s cover art still managed to raise eyebrows. It was a brazen move, a visual statement that dared to challenge the boundaries of acceptable female representation in music. Was it empowering, exploitative, or just plain sexy? The debate raged on, but one thing was clear—the cover made this EP impossible to ignore.
The Production Team: A Dream in the Studio
On the boards, you had the duo of Trevor Lawrence and Richard Rudolph. Lawrence was already a legend, having played saxophone for the likes of Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and the Rolling Stones, and his production work was no less impressive. He had the chops to blend the gritty realism of funk with the polish of '80s pop. Rudolph, on the other hand, brought his own flair to the project. Having worked extensively with Minnie Riperton (who also happened to be his wife), Rudolph was adept at crafting lush, soulful arrangements that could showcase a voice like Ralph’s to perfection.
Conclusion: A Record That Was Too Hot to Handle
In the end, You're So Romantic / Too Hot wasn’t just a record—it was a moment in time captured in wax. It was Ralph’s bold declaration that she could straddle the line between music and theater, between the sensual and the soulful, between art and provocation. In a year when Prince was pushing the boundaries of sexuality in pop, and Madonna was the new queen of controversy, Sheryl Lee Ralph stepped up with a record that could hold its own on the dance floor and in the cultural conversation. This EP wasn’t just about making music—it was about making a statement, one that echoed across the turntables and into the cultural zeitgeist of the mid-'80s.
Sure, it might be easy to overlook this 12” today amidst the avalanche of other ‘80s records, but dismiss it at your peril. You're So Romantic / Too Hot was a hot, steamy night on wax—glowing under the spinning lights of a disco ball, electric with the promise of what might happen after the last track played. And even now, decades later, it’s still hot enough to burn your fingers if you’re not careful.
Music Genre: Disco Dance Music |
Album Production Information: Too Hot was a record label from TSR Mixers (1984-1985), Too Hot has released four albums with sexy covers: Raphael/Saylem, Le Foxxe, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Aleem |
Album Production Information: Trevor Lawrence for Golden Scarab Productions Remix by: Michael Bona, Frank Poulton Executive Producer: Juergen M. Mueller |
Record Label & Catalognr: Too Hot TSR 420103 |
Media Format: 12" Maxi Single 45rpm |
Year & Country: 1984-1985 Made in Germany |
Complete Track Listing of: Sheryl Lee Ralph You're So Romantic Too Hot Sexy Nude Cover |
|
Album cover photos of : Sheryl Lee Ralph You're So Romantic Too Hot Sexy Nude Cover |
The cover of Sheryl Lee Ralph’s 12” EP You’re So Romantic. It features a bold, nearly nude image of Ralph posed against a minimalist backdrop, creating a provocative and visually striking effect. Her posture and expression exude confidence and allure, embodying the sensual energy that the music itself promises. The cover, in keeping with the 1980s style, balances glamour and edge, using lighting to highlight her figure and frame her presence as both sultry and stylish. This artwork serves as a visual statement, adding a layer of allure that complements the EP’s energetic mix of disco, funk, and R&B. |
|
| Note: the above pictures are actual photos of the album and allow you to judge the quality of cover. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. |
"Too Hot" was a record label from TSR Mixers (1984-1985), Too Hot has released four albums with sexy covers: Raphael/Saylem, Le Foxxe, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Aleem.
Too Hot TSR-420102 , 1984 , Germany
Le Foxxe's "French Kiss" is a 1983 erotic funk EP that pushed boundaries with explicit lyrics and provocative artwork. A controversial underground gem, it remains a testament to fearless musical exploration and unapologetic sexuality.
French Kiss 12" Vinyl EP
Too Hot TSR-420101 , 1984 , Germany
Raphael Saylem's "Dream Love Too Hot" is not just a record, it's an experience. This 12" vinyl EP from 1983 pushes boundaries with its erotic themes, raw electronic sounds, and suggestive artwork. It's a testament to a time when music was wild, experimental, and unafraid to provoke.
Dream Love 12" Vinyl EP
Too Hot TSR 420103 , 1984 , Germany
Relive the magic of Sheryl Lee Ralph's early 80s charm with this rare 12" Vinyl EP. Featuring the infectious dance hit "You're So Romantic" and the sizzling "Too Hot," this collectible record is a must-have for fans of classic R&B and disco.
You're So Romantic 12" Vinyl EP
Rocket Record Company 884 344-1 , 1985 , Holland
Anya's captivating 1985 vinyl single "Moscow Nights" takes you on a musical journey through Cold War intrigue. Produced by Neil Ross & Bobbie Heatlie (Rocket Records). Made in Holland.
ANYA: Moscow Nights 7" Vinyl Single
RCA PL 28316 , 1977 , Germany
This self-titled debut wasn't just an album; it was a launching pad for Baccara's phenomenal career. It includes the two European megahits "Yes Sir, I Can Boogie" and "Sorry, I'm A Lady,"
BACCARA - Self-titled 12" Vinyl LP
RCA Victor PB 5611 , 1978 , Germany
"The Devil Sent You To Lorado" is a classic disco anthem. The song opens with a dramatic keyboard intro that sets the stage for the pulsating beat and Baccara's signature, powerful vocals.
The Devil Sent You To Lorado 7" Vinyl Single
Boney M. was a tremendously successful and influential Eurodisco group that deserves a dedicated webpage to chronicle their impressive career. Their infectious music and captivating performances made them a global phenomenon.
Boney M's Albums on Vinyl Discography
Alligator 773.801 , 1978 , France
Marc Cerrone's legendary "Love In C Minor" 12" vinyl cranks up the heat with its infectious rhythm and daring uncensored cover. This French disco masterpiece is a must-have for collectors.
Love In C Minor 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single
Groovy – GRL 25029 , 1977 , Netherlands
Donna Summer's Greatest Hits 12" Vinyl LP Album is a collection of the singer's most popular songs from the 1970s. The album was released in 1977 and features 12 songs
DONNA SUMMER - Greatest Hits 12" Vinyl LP Album
Warner Bros. Records – LWIS-613 , 1982 , Spain
Experience the Spanish edition of Donna Summer's self-titled album, a musical gem produced by the legendary Quincy Jones. This 12" vinyl LP album is a testament to Summer's artistry
DONNA SUMMER - Self-Titled (Spanish Edition) 12" Vinyl LP
Too Hot TSR-420102 , 1984 , Germany
Le Foxxe's "French Kiss" is a 1983 erotic funk EP that pushed boundaries with explicit lyrics and provocative artwork. A controversial underground gem, it remains a testament to fearless musical exploration and unapologetic sexuality.
French Kiss 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single
Front 242 is a Belgian electronic music group that emerged in the late 1980s as a pioneering force in the industrial and EBM (Electronic Body Music) genres.
FRONT 242 Albums on Vinyl Discography
Integrity IR 001 , 1988 , Belgium
Dive into the world of "New Beat" queen Nikkie Van Lierop with Jade 4U's "Jade's Dream." This 12" vinyl LP features the iconic artist behind Lords of Acid, showcasing her production talents alongside infectious New Beat rhythms. Get ready for a sonic journey unlike any other.
Jade's Dream 12" Vinyl LP Album
Luxury Service Records – JUMP 005 , 1995 , UK (United Kingdom)
Jump Cutz drops the fifth installment of their floor-filling anthems on this 1995 vinyl. Get ready for deep dives into soulful house, bumping disco grooves, and introspective journeys.
Jump Cutz Volume Five 12" Vinyl LP
Barclay 90.100 , 1977 , France
Discover the allure of 'Accidental Lover' by Love and Kisses—a 12" vinyl maxi-single that defined the disco era with its infectious beats and daring album cover.
Accidental Lover 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single
Prelude Records PLR 12168 , 1978 , USA
Featuring the vocal talents of Jocelyn Brown, Angela Howell, Gina Tharps, and Christine Wiltshire, this EP encapsulates the essence of the disco era. With infectious beats and vibrant vocals
Keep On Jumpin' 12" Vinyl LP Album
Too Hot TSR-420101 , 1984 , Germany
Raphael Saylem's "Dream Love Too Hot" is not just a record, it's an experience. This 12" vinyl EP from 1983 pushes boundaries with its erotic themes, raw electronic sounds, and suggestive artwork. It's a testament to a time when music was wild, experimental, and unafraid to provoke.
Dream Love 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single
Dapa Doosa's / Sperwer / Outland Songs , 1998 , Holland
The 12" Maxi-Single vinyl release "Move Static," a captivating track by the talented duo Rocco Mundo and The Scumfrog. Upon its release in 1998 but has left an enduring legacy within the EDM landscape.
Move Static 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single
CHIC 6.20784 , 1987 , Germany
Sabrina gained international fame with her catchy and energetic single "Boys (Summertime Love)," which was released in 1987 as a 12" Maxi-Single in the Italo Disco genre.
Boys (Summertime Love) 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single
Philips – 9101 149 , 1977 , France
"Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" is the first record released by the group "Santa Esmaralda" with lead singer"Leroy Gomez". It remains the only record of the original "Santa Esmaralda" with "Leroy Gomez".
Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood 12" Vinyl EP Album
Too Hot TSR 420103 , 1984 , Germany
Relive the magic of Sheryl Lee Ralph's early 80s charm with this rare 12" Vinyl EP. Featuring the infectious dance hit "You're So Romantic" and the sizzling "Too Hot," this collectible record is a must-have for fans of classic R&B and disco.
You're So Romantic 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single
Magnet Records MAG 5011 , 1976 , England
"Silver Convention Discotheque Vol 2" vinyl encapsulates the vibrant era of 1970s Euro-Disco. Also released under the title "Get Up And Boogie," the album showcases the German group's musical prowess from 1974 to 1979.
Discotheque Vol 2 12" Vinyl LP
Jupiter-Records 89 100 , 1975 , Holland
Silver Convention's self-titled album marked the captivating emergence of a Euro-disco sensation. Released as their debut album, it showcased the group's infectious energy, innovative sound,
SILVER CONVENTION - S/T Self-Titled 12" Vinyl LP Album
Rams Horn Records RHR 3864 , 1991 , Holland
Everybody Fuck Now 12" Maxi ". This unconventional masterpiece stands as a testament to the avant-garde spirit that continues to shape the music landscape.
Everybody Fuck Now 12" Vinyl Maxi
K-Tel – TU 2980 , 1984 , USA
"Street Beat New Music Hot Sounds" is a compilation album released by K-TEL and includes hits like: Irene Cara - Flashdance (What A Feeling) , Culture Club - I'll Tumble 4 Ya, Eurythmics - Love Is A Stranger
Street Beat New Music Hot Sounds K-TEL 12" Vinyl LP Album
Carrere 8816 , 1987 , France
This album is a captivating compilation of Madonna's iconic hits. Side One includes favorites like "Who's That Girl", "La Isla Bonita", and "Papa Don't Preach".
This Years Blonde Who's That Mix Madonna 12" Vinyl LP Album
Atlantic SD 19197 , 1978 , USA
Vincent Montana Jr.'s noteworthy presentation, "Goody Goody," released in 1978, pays homage to the original 1936 popular song of the same name composed by Matty Malneck, with lyrics by Johnny Mercer.
Goody Goody 12" Vinyl LP