OLDIES SUNDAY: Junior Tucker – Mr. Telephone Man (1983)

May is recognized as “Child Month“. During this time on “Oldies Sunday“, we highlight some of our former Child stars. Many of our favourites started out in their much younger day, and either found success then, or it helped to develop their careers later in life. Today, we go back into time to check out former Child Star Junior Tucker, and his track, “Mr. Telephone Man“.

Produced by Ray Parker Jr. and released through Geffen Records in 1983, Junior Tucker was having communication problems with his girlfriend in, “Mr. Telephone Man”. He makes a complaint to the Phone Operator that his connection with his girlfriend has been compromised, and despite his reasonings, it may be clear that his girlfriend doesn’t want to talk to him. “Mr. Telephone Man” was a minor hit for Tucker, who was gaining popularity as a teen sensation, and was one of Jamaica’s earliest child stars. The single was featured on his 3rd album, “Jr. Tucker“. If you have made it this far in the Article, yes, this is the original track that was later covered by Boston Boy Band, New Edition in 1984, and became a classic.

Since the release of “Mr. Telephone Man”, Junior Tucker went on to make a shift in his music career. He focused on Dancehall, and released a string of hits. He later converted to Christianity following the passing his of his Father, Jimmy Tucker and the birth of his daughter in the late 90s, and has been a Minister and Gospel Recording Artist ever since. Many know New Edition’s version of “Mr. Telephone Man”, but true fans of Tucker remember that he did it first.