'Rock With You' - With, or Without the Handclaps?

[83magic]

the original album pressings of 'off the wall' didn't have them. however, i always grew up with the single/video version, and later pressings which had them. that's the one I prefer. in fact, I'd say it's one of the defining characteristics of the song, that Michael enhances with his dancing. sounds kind of flat without it..

which one do you prefer? with the handclaps, or without?

 

[ProductOfLoveliness]

Re: 'rock with you' - with, or without the handclaps?

I had no idea that the handclaps weren't in the original version - I always focus on the lovely string harmonies.
That being said, I prefer the single version with the claps, I think it fills the short 'void' of sound (even though it's only a millisecond!)

 

[Mikky Dee]

Handclaps are like cow bell.....you can never have too much!

 

[83magic]

I believe the cassette album doesn't have them for get on the floor either..

 

[Hulkamaniac]

I like both versions. i listen to the vinyl all the time, it's great.

 

[83magic]

here's the original pressing without the handclaps for reference

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=koq5sKCW1Ec

 

[NatureCriminal7896]

I'm gonna say with. but kind of want to try to listen without them if i can find it.

 

[NatureCriminal7896]

Just listen to rock with you without handclaps. yeah. i'm sticking with and going with handclaps. it's sounds better and i'm use to it. :laughing:

 

[NatureCriminal7896]

rock with you sounds good live too.

 

[83magic]

it sounds like he's performing to the version without the claps here: