People Like Us

People Like Us is the fifth and final studio album released by The Mamas & the Papas in November 1971, three years after the group originally split. This album came to be because the former members of the group were still under contract with Dunhill Records. The group had originally been signed to the label when it was run by their original producer Lou Adler, but by 1971, Dunhill's distributor, ABC Records, had purchased the label and discovered the clause in the group's original contract. According to their contract, the group had to produce one more album, or else be in breach of contract and subject to possible fines. While the album has some memorable songs, it was considered a disappointment by fans and critics, and did not sell well upon its release. It was produced by John Phillips. Michelle Phillips said later in the liner note of a Mama & Papa's CD compilation that the album "sounded like what it was, four people trying to avoid a lawsuit."