Introduction
Released in 1975 as part of their seventh studio album The Proud One, “Kind of Woman That a Man Wants” reflects a moment when The Osmonds were transitioning from their earlier bubblegum-pop and rock phases toward softer, more introspective balladry. Following massive hits like “One Bad Apple” (1971) and “Love Me for a Reason” (1974), the quintet—Alan, Wayne, Merrill, Jay, and Donny—explored evolving musical styles, showcasing their songwriting and vocal versatility .
Written by the brothers themselves (Alan, Wayne, Merrill, Jay, and Donny Osmond), the track stretches across just over 2 minutes and 20 seconds of tender, mid‑tempo melody. It opens with Donny softly crooning a romantic sentiment, supported by lush harmonies from his older brothers—all seasoned from their barbershop quartet beginnings . While not issued as a chart-topping single, the song enriches The Proud One’s track listing, which also features “The Proud One” and “I’m Still Gonna Need You” .
At this late stage in their golden era, The Osmonds were winding down their string of hits—it was their final album with MGM Records before moving to Polydor . “Kind of Woman…” strikes a reflective tone, showing their transition from teen-idol swagger to mature themes about love and identity. In contrast to the upbeat “Crazy Horses” rockers or easy‑listening chart-toppers, this song is an understated gem, with a sincere lyrical take on what qualities make a woman truly “wanted.”
Though overshadowed by their more prominent singles, “Kind of Woman That a Man Wants” is perfect for those tracing The Osmonds’ evolution—revealing their songwriting depth and vocal rich textures at a crossroads in their career. The track encapsulates a moment of quiet artistry in a family known for showbiz energy, offering fans a nuanced perspective on their musical identity.