Just as Barry Manilow redefined his career by covering hits from the previous three decades, Michael McDonald rejuvenated with "Motown" and "Motown 2," which have collectively sold more than 2 million copies, while fostering AC hit readings of "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" and "Ain't No Mountain High Enough." New set "Soul Speak," arriving March 11, has already entranced some 50 AC stations with single "(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher," originally a top 10 hit in 1967 for Jackie Wilson. McDonald's ability to lavishly wrap chops around black soul has never been questioned—but this time around, thanks to a spirited uptempo template, the former Doobie is getting down. AC needs to toss a little fun onto the airwaves, and McDonald delivers with gusto. And there's more where this came from, via a downtown jam remake of "Walk On By." Hard to believe he's been doing the solo gig for 25 years now . . . with no sign of slowing down. Higher? You betcha. —Chuck Taylor