The group was formed in 1976 at Kentucky State University by the Calloway brothers (trumpeter Reginald, and trombone player Vincent), with vocalist Belinda Lipscomb. Signing to RCA Records, they released their first album, The Beginning in 1980, with a host of studio musicians. In 1982, they moved to SOLAR Records, and releasing a second album, Victory now with a real band behind them (guitarist Melvin Gentry, bassist Kenneth Gant, drummer Bobby Lovelace, multi-instrumentalist Bill Simmons and keyboard player Bo Watson).
Due to the Calloways' production skills, it didn't take long for Midnight Star to connect with black listeners, hitting the R&B charts with early singles like "Hot Spot" and "I've Been Watching You." Their fourth album, No Parking on the Dance Floor released in 1983, took them to the top of the charts with the first single, "Freak-A-Zoid," which went to number two, on the R&B charts and propelled the album to platinum status. Their next album, Planetary Invasion was almost as big, going platinum again and making the pop Top 20 and the number one spot on the R&B charts with its first single, "Operator."
In 1986, they came out with their sixth album, Headlines, which was their third album to sell at least gold. It was not to be their last, as the Calloways departed in 1988. The group retooled, now down to seven members they produced and recorded their self-titled Midnight Star album. The single "Don't Rock the Boat" featured a rap by Ecstasy from the group Whodini. It would reach number 3 on the R&B charts. The album would also be certified gold.
In 1990 the band recorded Work It Out, their last album for Solar Records with internal problems between the distributor and record label the project was doomed. One of the standout tracks was called "Money Can't Buy You Love" a Belinda Lipscomb composition.
After 13 years of recording, touring, dealing with band issues, and label politics the group took a
long over due hiatus. They remained active in the business doing individual projects with Melvin Gentry and Bo Watson creating the production team "Bo & McArthur" writing, recording, and producing hits for Shanice Wilson and Toni Braxton. Bo also served as Music Director for Babyface on MTV Unplugged concert series and CD recording that featured Stevie Wonder and Eric Clapton.
Belinda Lipscomb found success singing on Emmy nominated TV and Radio commerials. She also landed lead roles in several musicals and gospel plays. Bassist Kenneth Gant became a record producer and executive for an LA based label. Bobby Lovelace and Bill Simmons worked on many music and media related projects. Jeff Cooper decided to retire from performing and create a music publication dedicated to educating young music hopefuls about the pros and cons of the music industry.
After a few years, the members began calling each other to see how they were doing. It became obvious during those conversations that the performing bug had hit them. It was time to give themselves and fans what they all were missing, a Midnight Star Reunion. The band quickly reformed and were back out on the concert circuit. In 1999 Capitol Records/Right Stuff released Midnight Star "Anniversary Collection" this CD covered many of their past hits. It also gave the band the opportunity to contribute a brand new "Slow Jam Live" and Freak-A-Zoid track for the CD.
In 2002 the band released their first album in over 12 years, entitled "15th Avenue. Today the band continues to perform for audiences all over the world. You can catch up with the band on their website.
www.midnightstarband.com
1
Playmates
Midnight Star Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Playmates, out to have some fun
Got a little plaything, takes me for a ride
I don't have to tell him how to keep me satisfied
When we're out together, he will stop and stare
That is why we play the game of trick and dare
I'll abide the rules, everybody play
Just can't be no cheatin', sure you understand
Choose a simple partner, and take him by the hand now
Playmates, out to have some fun
Playmates, I got to having one
Playmates, out to have some fun
Playmates, everybody needs one
Yeah, yeah
(Too much)
Kissin', huggin', lovin' keeps you in the game
Body language sets the page, ignites the flame
Play is full of passion, always reach the top
Midnight, don't you stop, we're getting hot
Gotta keep wondering
Why the strategy is easy when you play
Show them how we're workin'
Everyday's a game of rock and roll
We make it slow
Playmates, out to have some fun
Playmates, I got to having one
Playmates, out to have some fun
Playmates, everybody needs one
Hey Baby, you wanna come out and play?
Do you wanna play? I want it, I want it
Listen to me. Do you wanna play?
Do you wanna play house?
Play Squint the Mouse, turn the lights out
It's your move. Don't be so slow
On your marks, get set, hmm baby, let's go
Playmates, out to have some fun
Playmates, I got to having one
Playmates, out to have some fun
Playmates, everybody needs one, yeah
Playmates, out to have some fun
Ooh, too much, I got to having one
Playmates, playmates
Play it for me right now
Playmates, out to have some fun
Playmates, I got to having one
Playmates, out to have some fun
Playmates
Gotta keep wondering
Why the strategy is easy when you play
Show them how we're workin'
Everyday's a game of rock and roll
We make it slow
Playmates, out to have some fun
Playmates, I got to having one...
The lyrics to Midnight Star's "Playmates" are about the excitement and thrill of playing the game of love. The song describes the playful nature of relationships and the importance of keeping things fun and fresh. The song also touches on the idea of living in the moment and enjoying life to the fullest.
The opening lines of the song, "Playmates, out to have some fun, yeah, yeah, Playmates, out to have some fun," set the tone for what's to come. The song is all about the thrill of the chase and the excitement of being with someone who is equally interested in having a good time.
The lyrics go on to describe a "little plaything" that takes the singer for a ride, and how they don't need to be told how to keep them satisfied. The game of "trick and dare" is mentioned, which could be a reference to the flirtatious back and forth that happens in the early stages of a relationship. The overall message, however, seems to be about enjoying life and having fun in the company of others.
Overall, "Playmates" is a catchy, upbeat song that celebrates the joy of love and playfulness. It's a timeless track that can still be enjoyed today, several decades after its initial release.
Line by Line Meaning
Playmates, out to have some fun, yeah, yeah
A group of people who are friends and who have come together to derive pleasure from each other's company.
Got a little plaything, takes me for a ride
I have a lover who knows how to give me intense pleasure.
I don't have to tell him how to keep me satisfied
I do not need to guide or instruct my partner on what activities will give me pleasure.
When we're out together, he will stop and stare
When we are in public, my partner is visibly attracted to me and cannot take his eyes off me.
That is why we play the game of trick and dare
We enjoy playing games where we take risks and challenge each other's limits.
I'll abide the rules, everybody play
I am willing to follow the rules and play within the boundaries of the game.
All you've got to do is share a little love today
All we need to do is show kindness and affection to each other.
Just can't be no cheatin', sure you understand
We cannot cheat on each other, and I trust that you understand that.
Choose a simple partner, and take him by the hand now
Choose a partner who is easy to get along with, and let's start playing together.
Kissin', huggin', lovin' keeps you in the game
Physical intimacy is an important aspect of the game, and keeps us engaged in the relationship.
Body language sets the page, ignites the flame
Our nonverbal communication sets the tone and sparks passion between us.
Play is full of passion, always reach the top
The games we play are exciting and lead to intense pleasure.
Midnight, don't you stop, we're getting hot
We are heating up, and I want you to keep going.
Why the strategy is easy when you play
The game is simple to understand, and our instincts guide us in making moves.
Show them how we're workin'
Let's show everyone how well we work together.
Everyday's a game of rock and roll
Every day with you is like an adventure, and I am excited to see what happens next.
We make it slow
We take our time and savor every moment of the game.
Hey Baby, you wanna come out and play?
Would you like to spend some time together and engage in some playful activities?
Do you wanna play? I want it, I want it
I am eager to play and experience pleasure with you.
Listen to me. Do you wanna play?
I want to make sure that you understand the rules of the game before we start playing.
Do you wanna play house?
Would you like to role play as a couple and experience domestic life together?
Play Squint the Mouse, turn the lights out
Let's play a game where we try to catch each other in the dark.
It's your move. Don't be so slow
It is your turn to make a move, and I cannot wait any longer.
On your marks, get set, hmm baby, let's go
Let's start playing and experience intense pleasure together.
A game where everyone's a winner
A game where everyone experiences pleasure and satisfaction.
Playmates, everybody needs one
Having a playful partner is important for everyone's happiness and well-being.
Ooh, too much, I got to having one
The pleasure is overwhelming, and I cannot get enough of my partner.
Contributed by Christopher O. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@derrickcrawford2581
This is an underrated gem.
@anthonytaylor7928
It's not underrated why do folks use the word underrated on YouTube so darn much
@MrSilkydrew
This Album should've been, Way More Famous.
@bradlozano2571
Going to the Clubs in the early 80's....This song bring back memories....Old School R@B...Soul...Funk....It was the Best!
@garretjones9425
My jam from 1983.
@desireehairston1376
Loved this joint right here ❤❤
True soul music❤❤❤❤👍
@isaiahdhamilton811
It's official, Midnight Star is my 2nd favorite band, coming in at a very tight close 🤏🏾 to Zapp & Roger.
@randytalbert719
That was the jam !! Need more this type music 2day
@victoriamejia9016
Ayeeeee ladies 🔥🔥🔥🔥😊
@suavelleadams7098
High School or Shortly After: This was a Cold Jam !