Just Between Us was released in 1988 by Columbia Records, marking Ray Charles's return to a major label after several years on independent labels. The album was produced by Charles himself and featured orchestral arrangements and backing vocals, maintaining his characteristic style blending soul, blues, and jazz.
The record includes collaborations with top session musicians, though no notable duets with guest artists are registered on this album. Recording took place in Los Angeles and New York studios, with a polished sound reflecting late 1980s production.
Despite not generating major radio hits, Just Between Us was well received by critics, who highlighted Charles's vocal vitality at age 58. The album did not reach high positions on the Billboard charts but remained a testament to his artistic consistency in that decade.