Jermaine Jackson – Do What You Do: Lyrics and Music Video

"Do What You Do" is a smooth, soulful ballad by Jermaine Jackson, released in 1984 as part of his successful album Jermaine Jackson (also known as Dynamite in some regions). It became one of his most popular solo hits during the 1980s and showcased his talent beyond his earlier work with the Jackson 5.

Key Details:

• Release Date: 1984.
• Album: Jermaine Jackson (also known as Dynamite).
• Writers: The song was written by Ralph Dino and Larry DiTommaso.
• Producer: Jermaine Jackson, along with Michael Omartian.

Themes and Meaning:

• Romantic Heartbreak: The song's lyrics express a mix of pain, longing, and acceptance in the face of romantic difficulties. It's about a relationship in which one partner is letting go or drifting away, while the other person urges them to do what they feel they need to do, even though it’s emotionally difficult.
• Emotional Vulnerability: Jermaine’s smooth vocal delivery conveys a deep sense of vulnerability and emotional maturity, making it relatable for anyone who’s experienced the complexity of love, heartache, and separation.

Lyrics Overview:

• The chorus, "Do what you do / When you did what you did to me," reflects the main theme of feeling hurt by a partner’s actions, yet still allowing them to do what they need to, perhaps out of love or resignation.
• The song is filled with heartfelt emotion, and the smooth melody emphasizes the sadness and sense of loss that comes with the end of a relationship.

Musical Style:

• Soulful Ballad: "Do What You Do" is a classic R&B ballad, characterized by its smooth melody, soulful vocal performance, and lush production. Jermaine Jackson's vocals are soft and tender, perfectly suiting the theme of heartbreak.
• Orchestration and Production: The song features gentle instrumentation, including soft percussion, strings, and a subtle bass line that creates a calm yet melancholic atmosphere. The production, led by Michael Omartian, enhances the emotional depth of the song.

Commercial Success:

• Chart Performance: "Do What You Do" became a commercial hit for Jermaine Jackson, reaching #13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #14 on the R&B chart. It also achieved notable success internationally, especially in the UK, where it reached #6 on the UK Singles Chart.
• This single, along with others like "Tell Me I'm Not Dreamin' (Too Good to Be True)" (a duet with his brother Michael Jackson), helped solidify Jermaine's solo career during the mid-1980s.

Music Video:

• The music video for "Do What You Do" is cinematic, set in a noir-style narrative that takes place in a 1940s or 1950s era. Jermaine Jackson plays a suave, well-dressed character involved in a complex love story, which mirrors the emotional conflict in the lyrics.
• The video was notable for its high production value and dramatic storytelling, helping to make the song a visual as well as an auditory experience.

Legacy and Impact:

• Defining Moment in Jermaine's Career: Although Jermaine Jackson was already well-known due to his work with the Jackson 5 and his familial connection to Michael Jackson, "Do What You Do" helped establish him as a successful solo artist in his own right.
• Timeless Appeal: The song remains one of Jermaine Jackson's most memorable hits, especially for fans of 1980s R&B and soul music. Its smooth, timeless quality and universal themes of love and heartache have ensured its lasting popularity on adult contemporary and R&B radio stations.
• International Success: The song’s popularity in Europe, especially in the UK, further cemented Jermaine’s status as a global artist, and its success gave him a strong presence in the international music market.

In Summary:

"Do What You Do" is a standout track from Jermaine Jackson's 1984 album, offering a heartfelt and emotional ballad that resonated with listeners worldwide. With its smooth R&B sound, soulful lyrics about love and heartbreak, and a memorable music video, the song became one of Jermaine’s most successful solo hits and remains a fan favorite in his discography.