Following the nearly all-instrumental 'detour album, ' Journey Through The Secret Life Of Plants, Hotter Than July was a return to classic form. Released in fall 1980 It was a top 3 pop album and #1 R&B for more than three months, led by the hit singles 'Master Blaster (Jammin'), ' 'Lately' and 'I Ain't Gonna Stand For It, ' and the now-classic album cut, 'Happy Birthday, ' a tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. Hotter than July was originally released on Motown's Tamla label on September 29, 1980. It was certified platinum and reached #3 on the US Billboard chart. This was his most successful album in the UK, peaking at #2 and producing four top ten singles. Hotter than July was nominated for Favorite Soul/R&B Album at the American Music Awards in 1982.