Burn Rubber On Me (Why You Wanna Hurt Me) / Baby Baba Boogie

Released in 1981 on the Mercury label, this single features two tracks from The Gap Band's commercially successful album, Gap Band III. The group, led by the Wilson brothers, was instrumental in defining the electro-funk and R&B sound of the late seventies and early eighties. This specific 7-inch release served to capitalize on the momentum of their funk-heavy style, which blended synthesizer-driven grooves with the tight vocal harmonies that had become their signature during their rise to national prominence.

The production on these tracks reflects the era's transition toward a more synthesized, dance-oriented R&B sound. By the time of this release, The Gap Band had moved away from their earlier, more organic funk roots toward the polished, high-energy studio production that defined the early eighties pop charts. The record was received as a solid entry in their catalog, contributing to the group's sustained popularity on both R&B and dance radio stations during a highly competitive period for funk ensembles.