I'm A Woman (I'm A Backbone) - Rufus featuring Chaka Khan

track 6 from the 1974 album Rufusized

In 1975 Rolling Stone Magazine writer Jim Miller wrote a less than favorable review of Rufusized, (http://www.rollingstone.com/artists/rufus/albums/album/219618/review/5940303/ru­fusized) but it didn't stop me or any of my crowd from enjoying, loving and partying along with the entire record as the first track suggests. This is by far my favorite of any recording by Chaka Khan and it holds a very special place in my heart's party days hall of fame.

Arranged By - Rufus
Arranged By [Strings & Horns] - Clare Fisher*
Artwork By [Design] - Earl Klasky
Bass, Backing Vocals - Bobby Watson
Concertmaster - Gerald Vinci
Drums, Percussion - André Fischer*
Engineer - Austin Godsey , Gary Olazabal , Mike Braunstein*
Guitar [Lead], Backing Vocals - Tony Maiden
Lead Vocals, Backing Vocals - Chaka Khan
Organ, Clavinet, Piano [Acoustic], Synthesizer [Arp], Backing Vocals, Arranged By [Strings & Horns] - Kevin Murphy (2)
Photography - Norman Seeff
Producer - Bob Monaco
Recorded & Remixed at The Record Plant
Los Angeles, Calif.
Mastered at ABC Recording Studios,
Los Angeles, Calif.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• Rufus
• Rufus featuring Chaka Khan
• Chaka Khan

[tljones9]

This album (along with "Rufus featuring Chaka Khan") could've been considered a greatest hits album.......there are at least 4 or 5 tracks on both albums that were being played on the radio at any given time.....in fact, the hits on those LPs and "Ask Rufus" could 've been made into a greatest hits compilation.....God Bless '70s Soul!

[xfunkster]

@tljones9 Great observation. I agree.

[candelise]

I am surprised that this song is not used as some sort of feminist anthem. Too funky for some?

[xfunkster]

@candelise Consider this; the song is over 30 years old. At some point in time it may have been used as a rallying cry for a feminist effort. As such I know of none (in my limited knowledge) wouldn't suppose that it's never been or isn't being done. Personally, I think it's one of the great self-empowerment songs that I'm willing to gamble has been on the lips of many women keeping them strong with strength and belief in self was needed.

[candelise]

@xfunkster I am certain you have a point, however, having loved this song for over 30 years, I, like you, have never heard the track on the lips of anyone entering this as a feminist call to arms as such, on the street or in the media. An old Helen Reddy song, of about the same vintage, called 'I Am Woman' was used in this way, but seemingly not this track, hence the comment. Perhaps too earthy also? If anyone knows any different, please tell.

[xfunkster]

@candelise Good catch regarding the Helen Reddy song. With that in comparison I would guess much has to do with radio airplay being the biggest factor. This song to my knowledge wasn't released as a single therefore relegated to fame via those familiar with the entire album. The song by Helen Reddy was hit single with huge promotion. I'd say it simply got to more ears. Have to agree with you it is a bit of a wonder.

[Phyl8116]

I never understood why "I'm Every Woman" was preferred over this jam. This is soooo awesome. I get loud right along wit it.

[bongoloid77]

REAL MUSIC FOR REAL PEOPLE... this pisses over the shit $£$£$£ Nu Soul, Power Ballad, RnB shit... we need to keep this stuff goin...

[monjieful]

this is RAW funk fo ya

[c11393]

This my jam with real musical instruments and everything!

Listen to the song, there is a story!

[Aaziah]

Yes, I feel "Beyonce" most times; but Chaka Khan & Rufus "groomed" me! :-)

[Aaziah]

This is by far my favorite of any recording by Chaka Khan and Rufus. It continues to hold a very special place heart! ~In my teens, I often saw glimpses of the woman that I was to become! At time in the 70's when being a woman meant something that it no longer means for most young women today, it seems. It saddens me, when I think of what the media machine has done 2 young girls... & boys!

[Whinnie1]

@mjjcng8958 I agree this isn't a feminism song. This is just a empowering song about being a WOMAN. U need me. I bear your kids and I be your mama too. The woman is the backbone!

[mjjcng8958]

to me this kinda goes against feminism. i'll bear your kids and be your momma too,