Introduction: A Smash Hit That Defined an Era
“Got To Be Real” by Cheryl Lynn is a song that needs no introduction for fans of classic disco and R&B. Released in 1978 as the lead single from Lynn’s self-titled debut album, the track quickly climbed the charts, peaking at #12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #1 on the Hot Soul Singles chart (Billboard). Co-written by Cheryl Lynn, David Paich (of Toto fame), and producer David Foster, the song showcases a powerful collaboration between seasoned musicians and a fresh, dynamic vocalist. Interestingly, David Paich also played keyboards during the recording, giving the track its distinctive funky groove that helped define the late 1970s sound.
Who is Cheryl Lynn: a Meteoric Rise
Before hitting it big, Cheryl Lynn was relatively unknown, working behind the scenes as a backing vocalist. Her big break came after an unforgettable performance on the TV show The Gong Show, where her powerful voice captured nationwide attention. Soon after, she landed a record deal with Columbia Records. “Got To Be Real” became her signature hit, laying the groundwork for a career filled with strong vocal performances and energetic live shows. The song remains a shining example of the disco era’s peak, blending R&B, funk, and pop into a vibrant and enduring anthem. Over the years, “Got To Be Real” has been sampled and covered by countless artists, solidifying Cheryl Lynn’s place in music history.
On the Videoclip: Classic Simplicity in a Visual World
While the late 1970s were not yet the golden age of the music video, “Got To Be Real” did eventually get visual treatments, especially during the song’s resurgence in later decades. The original promotional footage was minimalistic, primarily focusing on Cheryl Lynn’s powerful stage presence. Directed by low-profile studio directors (the specific name remains undocumented), the clip captured the raw energy of Lynn’s live performances without heavy choreography or special effects, which was common before MTV revolutionized the music video format. No high-profile dancers or elaborate choreographers were involved, which allowed Lynn’s charisma and voice to remain the focal points.
In later years, retro-style videos have been made for streaming platforms, celebrating the vintage vibe of the song with disco ball aesthetics and vibrant dance floor imagery.
Talk Nerdy to Me: Music Theory Trivia from “Got To Be Real”
Musically, “Got To Be Real” is a masterclass in late 70s funk-pop fusion. The song is written in the key of B♭ Major, and its infectious groove is built around a tight syncopated bass line and bright, syncopated horn stabs. The chord progression follows a classic I-IV-V structure with some jazzy embellishments, giving it that unmistakable “feel-good” energy.
One particularly nerdy point: the vocal melody leverages a lot of pentatonic scale patterns, making it instantly catchy and accessible. Cheryl Lynn’s vocal runs also showcase an impressive use of the melisma technique (singing a single syllable of text while moving between several different notes in succession), a style that would later influence R&B singers throughout the ’80s and ’90s.
Another fun fact: David Foster’s contributions to the arrangement introduced subtle modulations within the instrumental bridge, adding unexpected harmonic sophistication that keeps the listener engaged.
Quick Music Theory Breakdown:
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Key | B♭ Major |
| Chord Progression | I-IV-V with jazz embellishments |
| Special Techniques | Melisma, pentatonic runs, syncopation, modulation |
| Tempo | Approx. 116 BPM |
More from the Artist: Cheryl Lynn’s Musical Legacy
If you loved “Got To Be Real,” Cheryl Lynn has more gems worth exploring. Her 1983 hit “Encore,” produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, also topped the R&B charts and showcases her evolution into an 80s funk powerhouse.
Other notable songs include “Star Love” and “If This World Were Mine,” a duet with Luther Vandross, which remains a beloved classic among soul fans.
For those wanting a deeper dive into Cheryl Lynn’s artistry, YouTube offers several performances of her singing live, including vintage appearances that capture her electrifying voice without the aid of heavy studio production. Although she never became a mainstream pop icon like some of her peers, her influence can be felt across generations of R&B and dance music.
