An electro-funk pulse and Ruth Pointer's commanding alto made "Automatic" an irresistible 80s anthem.
The Song
Released on January 13, 1984, "Automatic" was the second single from The Pointer Sisters' highly successful tenth studio album, Break Out, which dropped in November 1983. Written by Brock Walsh and Mark Goldenberg and produced by Richard Perry, the track seamlessly blended electro-funk and synth-pop elements, creating a distinctive and forward-thinking sound for its time. The song's lyrics explore themes of irresistible attraction, personifying the singer's involuntary responses as those of an automaton completely controlled by her lover.
The track is particularly notable for featuring Ruth Pointer's distinctive contralto on lead vocals, a departure from some of the group's previous hits. This vocal choice, combined with the innovative production, garnered critical acclaim. "Automatic" later earned a Grammy Award for Best Arrangement for Two or More Voices at the 27th Annual Grammy Awards in 1985.
The Artist
The Pointer Sisters embarked on their musical journey in 1969, initially as a duo, then expanding into a trio, and eventually a quartet with the addition of Ruth Pointer in 1972. Throughout their career, the Oakland-born group became renowned for their remarkable versatility, effortlessly blending various genres including jazz, country, R&B, pop, disco, and funk. Their ability to adapt and innovate allowed them to consistently break barriers within the music industry.
The Break Out album era marked a pivotal moment, solidifying their transition from R&B roots to mainstream pop dominance and becoming their most successful album to date. As a trio, consisting of Ruth, Anita, and June, their energetic performances and dynamic harmonies became a hallmark of the 1980s music scene.
Chart Performance
"Automatic" achieved significant commercial success across multiple international charts. In the United States, it peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 in April 1984, spending a total of 20 weeks on the chart. It also performed strongly on genre-specific charts, reaching number two on both the US Hot Dance Club Songs chart and the US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.
The song proved to be an even bigger hit in the United Kingdom, where it became the Pointer Sisters' highest-charting single, spending two weeks at number two on the UK Singles Chart in May 1984. "Automatic" also topped the chart in Ireland and achieved top-ten success in Belgium (number five), the Netherlands (number nine), and New Zealand (number eight). In Australia, it reached a respectable peak of number 15.
Cultural Impact
"Automatic" played a crucial role in the Pointer Sisters' resurgence in the 1980s, propelling their album Break Out to multi-platinum status. Its futuristic sound and accompanying music video significantly amplified its cultural impact during the burgeoning MTV era. The song became a cornerstone of 1980s empowerment anthems, with its lyrics celebrating women's autonomy and aligning with the group's legacy of genre-busting innovation.
The track's electro-pop shift, blending soulful vocals with cutting-edge production, influenced subsequent synth-pop acts and cemented the group's versatility. Its enduring appeal is evidenced by its inclusion on Billboard's list of "100 Greatest Girl Group Songs Of All Time" at number 94. The song continues to resonate, even being featured in the 2018 "Black-ish" episode "Bow Knows," where a character declares it the best song ever made due to Ruth Pointer's alto, the funky guitar, and synthesizers. In 2007, Ultra Naté's cover version of "Automatic" topped the US dance chart, further showcasing its lasting influence.
Fun Facts
- Ruth Pointer initially believed the prominent low vocal part in "Automatic" was intended for a male vocalist but emphatically stated, "Are you kidding me? I'll do the low part!" showcasing her determination and range.
- The song was reportedly the final track chosen for the Break Out album, effectively completing the record.
- At the time of the song's release, Ruth Pointer was a 37-year-old grandmother, defying expectations and performing with incredible energy.
- The official music video for "Automatic," directed by David Hogan, features the Pointer Sisters in a futuristic, neon-lit warehouse setting, complete with synchronized dance routines and bold, industrial visuals that complemented the song's synth-driven sound.
- Interestingly, "Automatic" was chosen as the second single from Break Out over "Jump (For My Love)" due to heavy club and radio airplay it received as an album track. "Jump (For My Love)" would later become the album's third and most successful US single.