It took EMI to channel her image and style into the correct direction, to form the soul seductress she is today. Her single entitled What’s the Name of Your Game gave Jaki her first TV appearance on the children’s TV programme Crackerjack then Heaven Knows became the title track of her debut album. Could it Be I’m Falling In Love marked a significant collaboration in Jaki’s career, and is a song that remains a timeless 80’s classic that reached No.5 in the British charts in March ’85, her second and last hit duet entitled Mated again received wide critical acclaim.
When Jaki had the opportunity to take centre stage, there were no holds barred. Her powerful voice, positive energy and radiance were injected in every one of her performances and Round and Around became Jaki’s first successful solo hit reaching No.9 in June ’85. Jaki’s hits have remained fresh, uncomplicated and modern. Inbetween busy festival seasons over the last couple of years, Jaki has been back in the studio and shows why she firmly maintains her position as Britain’s most revered queen of soul, with the release of her long awaited new studio album When a Woman Loves. Mastered at Abbey Road Studios, When a Woman Loves is the beautiful result of Jaki’s personal and at times challenging life journey, showing her resilience and strength of character.
With song contributions from Michael McDonald, Eric Benet and the late Maurice White of Earth, Wind and Fire, the album is an exciting celebration of Jaki’s 40+ years in the business. Along with her repertoire of unforgettable as well as timeless classics, one thing is clear, her voice and music will continue to stand the test of time.