RarePhillySax

Soul Galaxy

2012-02-08T23:56:00.002+02:00

Bob Thompson - Each one reach one 1982 Lp

2012-02-08T23:56:00.000+02:00

Bob Thompson is an unknown singer of black gospel music. It was surprise for me when I discovered him. I had never heard for him anything. He has released three albums on Rainbow Sound from Dallas,Texas. It is the same label that the group called Soul Liberation has realeased an album in the early 80s entitled "Who are you".

Bob Thompson has released three albums entitled "Jesus mean all the world to me", "What you've done for me" and "Each one reach one".

The album "Each one reach one" was recorded at Rainbow Sound, Dallas, Texas. The musicians were J.Daniel Smith and Whitey Thomas on keyboards, Jerry Matheny and Bud Guin on guitars, Marc Jaco on bass, Mike Collier on drums, Charles McCampbell on prcussion, Becky Scherschell on harp and Marshall Head on woodwinds. Orchestration by J.Daniel Smith. Backing vocals arrangements by Bob Cline and J.Daniel Smith. Backing vocals by Cheryl Ingram, Mike Collier, Johnny Hooper, Roger Burton, J.Daniel Smith, Gary Barkey, Abby Anderson, Debi Rady and Lucy Crane.

I have chosen two tracks entitled "Draw me" and "You've got to start at calvary". Produced by Bob Cline.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Solar Plex - Why did you walk away 1981

2012-02-04T18:00:00.000+02:00

Solar Plex was an unknown soul/funk group. The members of the group were probably Bill Williams, Vance Roque and bassist Victor Purvis. All these guys were previous members of the funk group Full Force. They released a single entitled "Why did you walk away / Party hearty" on White Brothers Records in 1981. Robert and Alphonso White were the owners.

Both of these songs were written probably in 1979. Lyrics of "Why did you walk away" were written by Bill Williams and the music was written by Vance Roque. Produced by Robert & Alphonso White. Arranged by Victor Purvis.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

The Skyliners - Self Titled 1978 Lp

2012-01-28T18:21:00.000+02:00

The Skyliners were formed in the late 50s from two other groups from Pittsburgh. Jimmy Beaumont, Wally Lester and Jackie Taylor had sung with the Crescents, while Janet Vogel and Joe VerScharen were formerly of the El Rios. The Skyliners were best known for their 1959 hit "Since I Don't Have You". Over the years they have changed some members. Since 1958 they have released several singles and a few albums. In 1978 they released a self-titled album on Tortoise International Records, subsidiary of the RCA Records.

At that time the members of the group were Jimmy Beaumont, Janet Vogel Rapp, Jimmie Ross and Bobby Sholes. They collaborated with the producer Don Davis from Detroit who had previously produced Marilynn McCoo & Billy Davis, Jr., Johnny Taylor, the Dramatics, and the Dells.

The album was recorded at United Sound Systems, Detroit, Michigan.

I have chosen a great song entitled "The Love Bug (Done bit me again)". All the songs of the album were produced by Don Davis except this song which was produced by Tony Hester. Arranged by Rudy Robinson and Johnny Allen. Composed by Tony Hester.
I want to note that this song released as 7 incher and 12 incher respectively on Tortoise International Records in 1978.

After this album Jimmie Ross along with Cathy Cooper released an album entitled "Bottom line" in 1982 on MCA Records. This album I presented on my blog about two years ago.

Today, Jimmy Beaumont still performs with The Skyliners in their current lineup of Nick Pociask, Rick Morris, and Donna Groom (whose husband, Mark Groom, has been the group's drummer/conductor for more than 25 years). Two of the original members have died: Janet Vogel (suicide) in 1980 (age 37), and Joe Verscharen of cancer in 2007 (age 67).

Note: The above posted track is not played in full

BREAKING NEWS !!!!

2012-01-22T16:43:00.000+02:00

I have recently renewed my article about Charisma. You can see here.

http://souldennis.blogspot.com/2010/12/charisma-let-love-in-your-life-1983.html

Harold is back on vinyl

2012-01-19T07:50:00.002+02:00

Ladies and gentlemen, I have the pleasure to announce that Borka Records and Harold re-released "In The Cool Of The Night / Shortage of love" in December 2011. This single was originally released in late 1982 on Je-Har Records and soon became pick hit of the week in Billboard Magazine in early ‘83.

Two years ago I presented Harold on my blog. I was fortunate to speak with him. Harold is a singer, musician, composer and co-owner of Je-Har Records from Milwaukee. Harold's career as a crossover balladeer has spanned over 30 years. A popularly featured artist in Milwaukee's leading entertainment venues, including the famous Cotton Club, from the late '70s to '90s.

Harold in the summer 1982 recorded the songs "In The Cool Of The Night" and "Shortage of love" at Cornerstone Recording Studio, Milwaukee. The musicians were Johnnie Mills on guitar, Tommy Ford on bass, Wareen (Vito) Wiegartz on sax, Michael Resse on keyboards and Leonard Washington on drums. Backing vocals by Charity Marie, Cora Kemp and Taneka. All music written, produced and arranged by Harold.

Harold returned to discography releasing a CD entitled "For the love of a woman" on his own label called Harold in 2009. And of course he will never stop composing and singing music.

However, I want to note that one special moment of Harold's career was the participation in the group called The Perfections. They were young teenagers and Harold was 15 years old. The Perfections was born during 1971. Members of the group were Harold, William Flakes, Darrell Bates and Claxton Winters. They have been rehearsing in his parents basement every day. They formed a promising group but it seemed they weren't able to find a trustworthy manager. At that time many articles were written for their choreography Perfections'. It was Harold, who undertook the responsibility of the choreography.
The Perfections released one and only single entitled "Till I get home / Can this be real" on Calgar Records in 1978.

The musicians were J.C.Mabone on guitar, Coley Jackson on drums, Steve Williams on bass. The horn arrangements were done by a guy out of Chicago who went by the name of Tom Tom 84. The guy who produced it was the owner of Calgar Records named Cal Monegar. A guy by the name of Gerald Armstead wrote "Till I Get Home", William Flakes wrote "Can This Be Real", he was the 1st Tenor.

"Till I get home" (sample)

"Can this be real" (Sample)

Many dissapointments resulted in the group being disbanded. Harold went solo in 1979.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Everyone who is interested in the vinyl, can come in contact with Borka Records (borkarecords@gmail.com)

Gary Wilson - Cornerstone 1983 Lp

2012-01-12T00:37:00.000+02:00

Gary Wilson was born in 1951 and was raised in Denver Colorado. He grew up with 3 members of Earth, Wind and Fire: Phillip Bailey, Andrew Woolfolk, and Larry Dunn. He has been singer in the Mid-West for most of his life. He began singing as a child in church and school choirs. His first band was called the Citations and they performed at talent shows and school dances. In 1973 he joined the group called "Energy". This group was formed by guitarist Tommy Bolin. In the mid 70’s Gary moved to L.A. under the guidance of music management of Alan Goda and Debbie Burnett to pursue his music career. He returned to Boulder in order to write and record with Gerard McMahon at Caribou Ranch.
He joined the latin funk band called "Santiago" as lead singer. This band was formed by the drummer Nefty Santiago who was the original member of the group Mandrill. In the continued Gary Wilson along with Billy Bass Nelson and Charles Watson formed the group Majique in Canada. They released an album on Big Tree Records.
In 1979 he collaborated with Wilson Pickett as backing vocalist on the Wilson Pickett's album "I want you" on EMI Records.
In 1983 he released an independent album entitled "Cornerstone" on BridgeFire Music.

“Cornerstone” was voted as “Best Album” locally in the Denver Post and the Westward newspaper polls. The album was recorded at Salem Studios by Jay Salem. All music and lyrics were written, arranged and produced by Gary Wilson. Except the song "Goodbye my love" which was arranged and produced by Chris Lege. Lyrics was written by Chris Lege, P.K.Lege and Gary Wilson. Music was written by Chris Lege. Almost all the musicians were unknown.
The musicians on the song "Goodbye my love" were Geoffry Ortega on drums, P.K.Lege on bass, Efren "Oso" Olvera on guitar, Chris Lege on piano, percussion and trombone, Gary Sosias on congas, Forrest Means on trumpet and flugelhorn, Byron Lingenfelter on trumpet and flugelhorn, Richard Cimeno on trombone and Steve Watts on solo sax.

After this album Gary Wilson collaborated with producer Dik Darnell. Dik Darnell started a new label called Urban Sound Records and Gary signed to a recording contract. Later Gary Wilson, Wally Winzer and the bass, guitar player Rusty Allen member of the famous group Sly and The Family Stone formed a group called DAHOOK. In the continued Gary recorded several albums with Tim Duffy, the All Stars and an album with Chester Owens.

A big surprise for me was when I discovered that Gary Wilson has released an album CD in 2008 on BridgeFire Music. In this album participate "Oso" Olvera on guitar, strings, flute and horns, Kim Stone on bass, Larry Thompson on drums, Chester Owens on guitar, Rustee or Rusty Allen on bass, Wally Winzer on drums and keyboards, Brian Hunter on guitar, L.C.Copeland on percussion and finally Bob Redholtz on saxophone. Vocals by Coco Brown. Backing vocals by Sheryl Renee, Bonnie Boyer, Robert Johnson, Suzie Nelson and Sam Bruton.
I have chosen a great song entitled "Dancing with the moon".

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

F.O.J. - Refiner's Fire 1979 Lp

2012-01-06T14:22:00.000+02:00

Friends Of Jesus (F.O.J) was an obscure group of Christian Contemporary Music from Ohio which probably has released three albums. The debut self-titled album was released in 1976 on Pinebrook Records. The second album entitled "For the children" was released in 1978 on F.O.J Records. The third album entitled "Refiner's Fire" was released on F.O.J. Records in 1979.
The last album was recorded at Hedden West Studios, Schamberg, Illinois. At that time the members of the group were Phil Wallace on lead vocals and production, Don Rogers on lead vocals, Chuck Fry on lead vocals, Kelly Wallace on lead vocals, Rick Eberst on lead vocals, piano, percussion, Kurt Smith on guitar and percussion, Kevin Lindberg on bass, guitar, percussion and trombone, Mike Wallace on drums, Paul Thompson on trumpet and flugel horn, Spence Rowland on trumpet and flugel horn, Billy Schultz and Dan Hone on vocals.

Steve Shafer also participated on drums, piano, percussion and synthesizer, Jeff Rowe on acoustic guitar, Don Shelton on saxophone, Gary Matts on percussion. Produced by Steve Shafer and Phil Wallace. Vocal arrangements by Phil Wallace. Music arrangements by Rick Eberst, Kurt Smith and Kevin Lindberg.

I have chosen two great songs entitled "All my love, all my life" and "Sonlight". Enjoy !!!

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Mix Samples-Show 01-01-2012 by Souldennis

2012-01-01T00:13:00.004+02:00

I decided to present a special mix samples show. First of all, I want to thank Nicolas Drosos who brought to my attention the album of Ahmad Jamal several years ago. I also want to thank "BoogiE" from France who brought to my attention the album of Bobby Curtis.

I wish all my visitors a Happy New Year. Enjoy !!!

1. Ahmad Jamal - Bad times (theme from defiance) 1980 (Motown Lp)
2. Joe Casey and Fresh Heir - Let me hold you (GMI 45")
3. Jesse Davis - Never could have made it 1979 ( Essence Lp)
4. Ronnie LaShannon - Where has our love gone 1976 (Long Version) (Brunswick 45")
5. Bobby Curtis - Bitter with the better 1986 (B&P Ep)
6. Sir James Randolph - Pure Love 1981 (AllGem Lp)
7. The Ray Camacho Band - New York (California Artists Lp)
8. Ron Holmes - You are the girl 1978 (Unissued Test Press 45")
9. Ernie Fields - Can't we try (Crush Music Co Lp)
10. Vicki Lawrence - Never gonna let you go 1979 (WindMill Lp)
11. Stallion - Ain't no way 1981 (KG 45")
12. Ceasar Elloie - More than yesterday 2010 (Number Three Turbine CD)
13. Keith White - Love is not always forever (Lady M 45")
14. Bobby Love - NOLA my home 2010 (Sound Of New Orleans CD)

Wishes from my friend Ceasar Elloie for a Happy New Year.

Gary Bartz - Bartz 1980 Lp

2011-12-27T00:40:00.000+02:00

I have wanted to present this album since I started to operate my blog. As I remember it was about in 1996 when I found this album in Athens on Ipokratous Street. I noticed immediately that producers on the album were James Mtume and Reggie Lucas. I said: "Oh my god !". I had already another album entitled "Love affair" by Gary Bartz which was released in 1978 on Capitol Records. I was very curious to go to my home, so as to hear this album. I could not hear it in the shop.

Two hours later I said: "This album is not only one of the best soul/jazz/funk albums but also the best album !!!". I was really amazed.

What can I say about Gary Bartz ? I need many days to describe everything about him. I have recently read an article describing Gary Bartz when someone saw him in a club in Baltimore. He said that "Gary Bartz play two solos on every song, one at the begining and one at the end".

Gary Bartz is an alto and soprano saxophonist and clarinetist. He was born in 1940, Baltimore, Maryland. He graduated from the Baltimore City College high school and The Juilliard School. He has collaborated with great jazz musicians such as Miles Davis, Charles Mingus, Max Roach, Jackie McLean and many others.
In fact, the collaboration between James Mtume and Reggie Lucas with Gary Bartz began in 1979 when Gary Bartz played saxophone on the albums of Phillys Hyman entitled "You know how to love me" and Rena Scott's entitled "Come on inside". In both of these albums Mtume and Lucas were producers.
In 1980 Gary Bartz recorded an album with the help of team James Mtume and Reggie Lucas. The team consisted by Basil Fearington on bass, Reggie Lucas and Ed "Tree" Moore on guitars, Harry Whitaker, Hubert Eaves and Mtume on keyboards, Mtume on percussion, Howard King on drums and Tawatha Agee on vocals. The album entitled "Bartz" was released on Elektra Records in 1980.
Produced by James Mtume and Reggie Lucas. String and horn arrangements by Wade Marcus and Sinclair Acey. String and horn contractor by Gene Bianca. All rhythm arrangements by J.Mtume and R.Lucas. All vocals arrangements by J.Mtume, R.Lucas and Tawatha. Backing vocals by Tawatha, Cindy Jordan, J.Mtume and R.Lucas.
I have chosen three tracks entitled "After Glow" , "Need your love" and "Keep goin' on". I want to note that solo flugel horn on "After Glow" is by Danny Coleman.

Vocals on "Keep goin' on" by Tawatha. It was written by Tawatha and Howard King. I think this is the best song Tawatha has ever sung.

"Keep goin' on" was also released as a single on Arista Records. It was also included on the CD called "The Best Of Mtume & Lucas" which was released in 2004 on Expansion Records.

Recently the album "Bartz" was released in CD. Of course I bought it.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Big George Collier - Free at last 1984

2011-12-24T00:07:00.001+02:00

Big George Collier is an unknown singer with a great voice. He was lead singer of the group called Columbians, from Columbia, South Carolina in the late 60s. The most known song from the group was entitled "Forever More" in 1968. The short-lived group (1966-1969) consisted of 10 members.

After the Columbians, he worked as an actor and as a "hired voice". He has performed in films including “The Ride” and several others. He also appeared as Ludacris’ father in one of his music videos and participated in numerous local and national radio and TV commercials. He did appearances in various night clubs, hotels and festivals with his band. One of them was the club "Scarlett O'Hara" in which he appeared in the mid 70s. He sings at church, he has appeared with the Savannah Symphony and did guest appearances around GA, NC and SC.

In 1984 he released a single entitled "Free at last" on Imagery Records.

''Free At Last'' is a ballad which was written by Orlandoan Ellis Haraka and was getting a lot of play on area radio stations. Arranged by Steve Carey.

Finally I want to note that until nowadays he sings in various clubs.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

# I want to thank Big George Collier for his info and his photos.
## I also want to thank Dennis Fassuliotis founder of Charleston Jazz Club
http://charlestonjazzclub.com/
http://www.facebook.com/chasjazzclub

Sir James Randolph as Jimmy Randolph

2011-12-19T16:05:00.005+02:00

Jimmy Randolph 1971

Last year many people learnt about the great singer Sir James Randolph. Almost all the people are looking for his album which was released in 1981. I had the pleasure to present this album on my blog. However some real collectors know and the singer Jimmy Randolph who became known from the late 50s to mid 70s.

Recently I bought the record "You have to lose love" by Jimmy Randolph which was released on Honey Bee Records in 1978. I want to mention that I heard this song for the first time by Paul Collins Radio Show some years ago.

In fact when I learnt about Jimmy Randolph, I did not know anything about Sir James Randolph. When I bought the album "The Sophisticated Funk Of Sir James Randolph" in 2009 by Sir James Randolph, immediatelly I started to looking everywhere about Sir James Randolph and Jimmy Randolph, so as to get more info about them.

I understood that he was the same artist but I needed confirmation. I managed to come in contact with the niece of Sir James Randolph. She told me that Jimmy and Sir James Randolph is the same person. At the same time I found a few photos about him from magazines.

Jimmy Randolph 1958

Jimmy Randolph is a versatile artist. His true love was the music but he was also involved with the theater, film and television.
He started to become known, singing in night clubs throughout the city. His strong voice did not go unnoticed. On January 1956 he signed with Mercury Records. Jimmy Randolph also did appearances in the famous Cotton Club in the late 50s. At that time, he also sang for the Duke Ellington and his orchestra along with Barbara McNair at the Copa City in Miami Beach. Then he continued to do appearances in various clubs and hotels as well as to releasing 45". In 1966 he did first appearance on TV (Porgy in Wien). He played along with Robert Guillaume.
He made a five-month tour throughout France in the late 60s. He tried to promote his songs through this trip in France. In 1971 he received one of the highest honors to noncitizens by Liberian Government, because he composed a special song, titled "Liberian".

1972 at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas (Jimmy Randolph, Nancy Wilson, Sammy Davis Jr, Harry Belafonte, Billy Ekcstine and many others)

He continued to sing in various clubs and hotels such as "Riviera" in Las Vegas 1972 and "Stardust" with Lionel Hampton in 1974. He also did appearances in a few TV series.

In 1976 is the big moment of Jimmy Randolph's career, using the name James Randolph. He participated at the Broadway Theatre in a Broadway revival of "Guys and Dolls" with an all black-cast as Sky Masterson along with Robert Guillaume as Nathan Detroit, Norma Donaldson as Miss Adelaide, Ernestine Jackson as Sarah Brown."Guys and Dolls" is a musical and was directed and choreographed by Billy Wilson. The show closed on February 13, 1977 after 239 performances and 12 previews.

While in 1978 he was singing in Cotton Club, he released a single entitled "You have to lose love (to love love) / A man named Paul" on Honey Bee Records. He worked with Horace Ott and Jay Ellis. With Horace Ott he had collaborated again previously at the Broadway Theatre, on Guys and Dolls. Horace Ott and Danny Holgate did orchestrations.
"You have to lose love (to love love)" was written and arranged by Horace Ott. Produced by Jay Ellis. Enjoy it !!! My copy includes stereo/mono versions of "You have to lose love (to love love)".

Jay Ellis had collaborated with the group Showdown previously Jive Five on the same label, releasing a disco single entitled "Keep doin it" in 1977.

Discography as Jimmy Randolph

A band of angels on Wing Records 1956
The Little Boy / Fallen angel on Mercury Records 1956
I want you to know / Wagon wheels on Mercury Records
Shangri-La / Summertime on Mercury Records
Where shall I go / Way beyond the hills on Decca Records 1957
Show me the way to go home / You have given this to me on Decca Records 1959
Let's work together on Decca Records 1960
Don't talk this is my love on Decca Records
Everybody needs something to believe on Jeff Recording
Let's work together / What color is the love in your heart on Rama Rama Records
Silver Earring (Island) / My love will come by on London Records 1961
Mr.Groundhog / Walk the chalk line on Harmon Records 1962
Gonna sit and cry / In the garden on Arlis Records 1965
Caravan of lonely man / Miracle after on Felsted Records
Plainsville. USA on Motown Records 1973
You have to lose love (to love love) / A man named Paul on Honey Bee Records 1978

In 2008 it was released CD "Philadelphia Soul Rarities" which contains two songs of Jimmy Randolph. Both of these songs were produced by the great producer, songwriter Weldon Arthur McDougal III and probably they are unreleased. These songs entitled "No more beautiful days" and "All that I want" were recorded at Sigma Sound Studios in the early 70s.
I chose the track "No more beautiful days".

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

# Did Jimmy Randolph release any other records? If you know then please email me at the address above.
## This article is dedicated only for those who love the music.

Montage - Project One 1978 Lp

2011-12-13T23:53:00.000+02:00

Montage was an obscure jazz group from Wisconsin which was formed about in 1975. The group started to play at the local jazz nightclubs. In 1977 they had a prestigious collaboration with The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. They played in Jimmy Sardino's jazz club in the late 1977. It was then that they decided to record an album. For this reason, they came in contact with David Dillon who was a local investor, so as to back them financially. David Dillon wanted to help the group release an album but he also wanted to promote the group through jazz festivals. To prepare for the forthcoming album and tour, Montage strengthened with the guitarist John Zaffiro. Zafiro was an excellent addition. He played more into straight ahead jazz than jazz-rock. He joins keyboard player Tom Sandquist, sax player Bob Rebholz, drummer Paul Reedman, percussionist John Seydewitz, bassist Tom McGurr and vocalist Marcia Cunningham.

The album is already in the making. Finally they released the debut album in 1978, but I don't know why at the last moment the bassist Tom McGurr was replaced by other bassist called Joe Dolister.
The members on the album were Tom Sandquist on piano, Bob Rebholz on sax and flute, John Zaffiro on guitar, Marcia Cunningham on vocals, Joe Dolister on bass, John Seydewitz on percussion and Paul Redmann on drums.
The album was recorded at Shade Tree Studios, Lake Geneva Wisconsin, May and July, 1978. They recorded one of the best soul jazz albums in my opinion.
In this album also participated Tom Baker, Rick Chitwood, Tom Schlueter on trumpets, Harry Kozlowski and Dave Ruck on trombones. Backing vocals by Judy Watermann and Suzanne Falcone. Produced by M.L.Productions.
I have chosen three tracks, two with vocals entitled "We weave a lullabye" , "Wonderfull love" and one instrumental entitled "Bahia honda". It is worthy to note that Marcia Cunningham has a fantastic voice. She was also a great composer because she wrote the songs "We weave a lullabye", "Just me" and "Wonderfull love". The music of "Wonderfull love" was co-written by guitarist John Zaffiro.

We weave a lullabye (sample)

Wonderfull love (sample)

Bahia honda (sample)

After that album three members left the group and tried to follow a new musical direction with a group called Rainbow's End. Guitarist John Zaffiro, singer Marcia Cunningham and drummer Paul Redmann were the musical "refugees" in this new band which appeared at Sardino's Bull Ring Ltd. Since Zaffiro and Cunningham left Montage, they were replaced by guitarist John Northurp and vocalist Pam Duronio.

Cunningham and Zaffiro continued with Rainbow's End. The group performed throughout the Milwaukee and Mid West at venues such as Summerfest, Rainbow Summer, Jazz in the Park and various Night Clubs and Private Events. In the mid 1990’s the group became known as the rbe Jazz Quartet and was a regular performer at the Red Mill East and Red Mill Jazz Club.
Today two members of the group Montage, guitarist John Zaffiro and percussionist John Seydewitz play for the band called George Busateri Band from Milwaukee.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Ira Watson - Shining Star 1982 Lp

2011-12-08T22:40:00.005+02:00

All people know this singer mainly from the album "Shining Star". Ira Watson is a great talented musician and a multi-instrument player. How many people know that Ira Watson appeared in the mid 70s as bassist when he played for the group called Skip Mahoaney and the Casuals? Skip Mahoaney and the Casuals released their second album entitled "Land of love" which was released in 1976 on Abet Records.

At that time Ira Watson also played bass for the group called Exceptions from Washington. Member of this group was Mark Greene who previously was original member of the group The Moments. Exceptions recorded an album but unfortunately it was never released.
In 2007 Mark Greene released these songs on CD as "The Moments Featuring Mark Greene - Urban Legacy".

It is worthy to note that Ira Watson was a member of the gospel band called Kenneth Copeland Band as bassist and guitarist.

Ira Watson with Ronnie Pierce singer of gospel music

Keneth Copeland formed a label called Sozo Records in 1981. Next year Ira Watson released one and only album entitled "Shining Star".

This great album was recorded in different sound studios starting at the famous Sigma Sound Studios (Philadelphia,PA), Bias Recording Co (Springfield,VA), Central Sound Studios,Inc (Auburndale,FL), Sonrise Sound (Fort Worth, TX) and Cecca Sound Studios (Dallas,TX).
Great musicians participated such as the famous guitarist Norman Harris who was a founding member of MFSB, Hilton Felton keyboartist known from the 70s with his album entitled "Man for all reasons". Harrold Sutton on keyboards, Tim Eyermann on saxophone.

I have already presented two albums of Tim Eyermann on my blog. I presented one year ago the self-titled album which was released in 1984 and the second album entitled "Walkin' with you" which was released in 1985. As far as Ira Watson's album, Tim Eyermann featured on all solo saxophones especially on the tracks "Are you runnin" and "You belong to me".

Also participated Don Renaldo on strings, Ricky Wellman who later was the last drummer in a Miles Davis Band. Johnny Ingram on drums who today is the lead singer of The New MFSB. Of course and many other artists participated, but it is worthy to mention that Ira Watson played bass, guitar, percussion and keyboards. Unbelievable !!!

Backing vocals by Barbara Ingram with her cousins Evette Benton and Carla Benson. Produced by himself.

Are you runnin'(Sample)

Breakin' away (Sample)

"Breakin' away" was also released as a single on the same label in 1982.

Shinning star (Sample)

You belong to me (Sample)

Next year Ira Watson participated on the album "Living in your love" which was released by Cheryl Ingram on the same label (Sozo Records).

He co-wrote two songs with Cheryl Ingram entitled "Follow the light" and "What would I do". He also helped on rhythm arrangements. I presented this album six months ago.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

The Duke Jones Projects

2011-12-03T00:42:00.004+02:00

Albert "Duke" Jones was born in 1952. Trumpeter Albert Jones is known to all friends as "Duke". He began playing trumpet at the age of nine. In elementary school and through White Plains High School, "Duke" played and formed a band. In the beginning Duke Jones and Porter Carroll formed a band called "Newban" and they released two albums on Guiness Records. Later they changed their name to Atlantic Star.
I want to mention for the history that founding members of the Newban and later Atlantic Star were only Duke Jones and Porter Carroll.

Allthough he was a founding member of the famous group Atlantic Star he went to a solo career. He joined to The Starship Orchestra. In 1979 he played for Norman Connors on the album "Invitation" on Arista Records.
He also played on the self-titled disco funky album by Fingers. In fact Fingers (Chris Adams and Michael Ford) released an album on RCA Records in 1979. It was recorded at Minot Sound Studios, White Plains, New York.

Duke Jones played solo trumpet on the track "On my way back home". It is a great song whose music was written by Chris Adams and lyrics was written by Chris Adams and Michael Ford.

2005: Albert "Duke" Jones, Chris Adams and Michael Ford

At the same time he collaborated with Lonnie Liston Smith and played on his album entitled "Love is the answer" which was released in 1980 on CBS Records. The same year he appeared on the Atlantic Star album "Radiant" on A&M Records.

In 1981 he appeared on the Norman Connors album entitled "Mr. C" with The Starship Orchestra. He and saxophonist Marion Meadows did arrangement on horns of the self-titled track. Composed by Starship Orchestra. Arranged and conducted by Norman Connors and Jacques Burvick.

In 1982 he formed a band called The Duke Jones Project and released a single entitled "Topaz / I'll never stop" on Charlie Records from New York. It was distributed by TSOB (The Sound of Brooklyn Records). Produced by Albert Duke Jones, Cooper & Fulton.

"Topaz" is a great funky jazz instrumental. Composed by himself and G.Pablis.

The other song "I'll never stop" is a mid-tempo in which appears an unknown female singer.

The same year he participated on the Atlantic Star album "Brilliance" on A&M Records. A few years later he played again for Atlantic Star and the album "All in the name of love" which was released in 1987 on Warner Bros.Records.

Albert Duke Jones has toured to Japan, Europe and Africa working with musicians such as The Temptations, Angela Bofill, Larry Coryell and Marion Meadows.

In 1992, Duke served as Vice President of Creole Records, a label started with the band mate August Darnell (Kid Creole). The label, distributed by Nippon Columbia, released seven CD’s in Japan and the U.S.

In 1994 he released his debut album (CD) entitled "Thunder Island" on Three Brothers Music under the help of David Lewis from Atlantic Star and Norman Connors on production.

In 2005, he formed Café Soul All-Stars and recorded their debut CD “Love Pages” in which featured George Benson, Roy Ayers and Kenny Garrett among other great musicians.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Randy Cone - Angel

2011-11-28T17:19:00.006+02:00

Randy Cone is an unknown singer. It was very difficult to find info about him. I found only a composer with the same name who wrote several songs in the 70s. One of them was entitled "Honey I don't mind" which was released by John Byrd on 20th Century Records in 1974. Two years later the same song was re-recorded by John Edwards.

This record was released in the 80s on Harbor Records. Two songs were included in this single entitled "Nobody (Makes me feel like you do)" and "Angel". Both of these songs were written by himself. Produced by Thaddeus E.Williams. I chose "Angel" which is accompanied by nice saxophone.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

Charles Anthony Stewart - Stepping out

2011-11-23T00:39:00.003+02:00

Charles Anthony Stewart is an obscure artist who released a single "Bingo / Stepping out" on his own label called Charles Anthony. Probably it was released in 1984 because the vinyl doesn't mention anything about the year of release. FAQS mentions that date of creation is 1984.

"Stepping out" is a fantastic song which was written by himself. Produced by Jim Schrader and James Hargrove.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

J.J.Nichols - Dancin' lady 1975

2011-11-17T22:17:00.002+02:00

J.J.Nichols is an unknown singer who released the single "Dancin lady" in the mid 70s on NAMI (North American Music Industries).

This label from New York was owned and organized by Lou Guarino in 1972 with the purpose of acquiring the EMI/Capitol Records. Lou Guarino became known the years 1959 through 1962, when he and Lenny Martins were responsible for producing and marketing many of the groups from the Pittsburgh area.

Lou Guarino

Lou Guarino wrote this song along with Phil Lipati. Lou Guarino was also producer and co-arranger. Lou Hemsey was co-arranger as well.

Lou Hemsey

Lou Hemsey is a composer, orchestrator, mastering engineer, editor, screenwriter, film director and producer. I came in contact with Lou Hemsey but he doesn't know anything about J.J.Nichols. He told me that he was the sole arranger but Lou Guarino put his name down after discussion. Lou Hemsey loved working with Lou Guarino.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

# I want to thank Lou Hemsey for his info

Freddie Gorman - Love Has Seen Us Through 1980 (Long version)

2011-11-12T12:21:00.001+02:00

I had the pleasure to present Freddie Gorman and this fantastic song four months ago. As I remember when I heard the song "Love has seen us through" on the forum "soul-source" some years ago, I said oh my god and I started listening to it non stop. I tried to find the long version of "Love has seen us through". Finally I managed to find it. It was released only by Rene Records in 1980. It was also included on the EP on Airwave Records which was released by Freddie Gorman under the name Freddie Gee.

There is a strange thing. Some guys pay 300$ to buy this EP. Unbelievable !!! They don't know the real name of the artist. They think that he is an unknown artist.

Sample (Long version)

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

Nora - Mister 1983

2011-11-06T22:49:00.002+02:00

Nora Bernstein is an unknown singer from New York who appeared in the early 80s when she released two singles on The New York Music Company. The first single is entitled "November / Mister" and the second is entitled "Matter of time / Bound to love" which were released in 1983.

"Mister" is a great song with nice arrangement and fantastic vocals. It was recorded at Sigma Sound Studios, New York City. Composed by Nora Bernstein and Marsha Bernstein Lee

In the single "November / Mister" great musicians appear such as Horace Ott on piano, Bernard Purdie on drums, Hiram Bullock on guitar and Wilbur Bascomb on bass. Also Jack Cavani on guitar. Background vocals by Maretha Stewart, Ullanda McCullough, Barbara Massey and Terry Textor. Produced and arranged by Horace Ott.
Enjoy "Mister" !!!

One year later Nora released an album on the same label entitled "Foreign legions". However the song "Mister" was not included on the album.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

Ace Spectrum - Sweet music, soft lights and you 1976

2011-11-02T20:22:00.003+02:00

Ace Spectrum were formed in the early 70s by Elliot Isaac and Ed "Easy" Zant. The two other members of the group were Aubrey Johnson and Rudy Gay. They started to record at RCA Studios in New York, on August 23. Between 1974 and 1976 the group released three (3) albums entitled "Inner Spectrum" in 1974, "Low Rent Rendezvous" in 1975 and "Just Like In The Movies" in 1976 respectively.

The last album "Just Like In The Movies" was recorded at Atlantic & Media Sound Studios, New York in 1976. The members were Elliot Isaac and Ed "Easy" Zant. The two new members were Lawrence "Dee" Coley and Frederick "G" Duff.
The musicians were Jerry Friedman, Jeff Mironov and Jesse Cox on guitars, Derek Smith and George Butcher on keyboards, Dwight Brewster on synthesizers, Bob Babbitt on bass, Jimmy Young and Herb Lavell on drums, Carlos Martin on congas and Phil Kraus, Ted Sommers on percussion.
Produced by Ed Zant and Tony Sylvester. Arranged and conducted by Patrick Adams. My favorite song is entitled "Sweet music, soft lights & you".

However the original recording was released the same year by the songwriter, producer and singer Kenny Williams. Kenny Williams released a single "Sweet music, soft lights & you" in 1976 on Creem Records.

"Sweet music, soft lights & you" was written by Ken Williams, Mel Kent and J.R.Bailey. Arranged by Paul Griffin & Ken Williams. Produced by DeLano.

Ken Williams became known as songwriter when he wrote along with J.R.Bailey the song "Love, love, love" which was released as a single by J.R.Bailey in 1972 on Toy Records. This song was also sang by Donny Hathaway in 1973 and had a great success.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

R.B.Hudmon - Ain't no need of crying (when it's raining) 1977

2011-10-27T19:04:00.002+03:00

RB Hudmon

Robert B Hudmon Jr was born in 1954. He started to record in the mid 60s. R.B.Hudmon released one and only one album entitled "Closer to you" on Cotilion Records in 1978. One year ago he released a single "Ain't no need of cryin (When it's raining) / This could be the night" on Atlantic Records.

"This could be the night" is one of my favorite songs which was included on the album one year later.

However the other song "Ain't no need of cryin (When it's raining)" was not included on the album. This song was written by David Porter. David Porter wrote this song and was released as a single by The Rance Allen Group in 1974 on Stax Records. It was also included on the album called "A Soulfull Experience" on Stax Records in 1975. David Porter and Isaac Hayes were one of the most successful songwriting partnerships of the 1960’s.

Produced by Bobby Manuel & Jeff Stewart.

Hudmon passed away on 25 August 1995.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

Lovell Webb - Somebody lead you wrong

2011-10-21T17:17:00.001+03:00

Lovell Webb was born in 1954. He is an unknown singer who released in the early 80s a single entitled "Somebody lead you wrong / With turning my life all around" on Guillotine Records. Probably it was released in 1984. He has written several songs from 1979 to 1987 but I don't know if they have been ever released. In 1993 he released an album entitled "I want some singing" on Guillotine Records.

I have chosen a song "Somebody lead you wrong". Produced and composed by himself.

The other song "With turning my life all around" is a beautiful ballad.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

Memories of SpaceArk

2011-10-14T00:47:00.002+03:00

Peter Silberg

First of all, I want to thank Peter Silberg co-founder, lead guitarist, songwriter and member of the group SpaceArk for all his info.

One year ago I had the pleasure to find a rare single entitled "Just one look / Darling" by Fatu. It was released on Fire Mountain Records in 1980. Immediately I noticed that composer on the track "Just one look" was Troy Raglin and Peter Silberg members of the group SpaceArk. Of cource I knew this group because some years ago, I heard the song "Phantom lover" by SpaceArk from a site. For this reason I found out info about this group.

SpaceArk

SpaceArk was an obscure soul/rock group from Los Angeles that began in 1973 and disbanded in 1979. SpaceArk's founding members were Peter Silberg (lead guitarist) and Troy "Troiel" Raglin (lead singer). Original members were Reggie Austin on bass, Bryan "Skip" Reed on drums and Russell Greene on keyboards. Subsequent members were Mahlon Hawk on bass, Allen "Kenny" Chavis on bass, and Jared Stewart on keyboards. Two female singers periodically sang for the group. Dolores Hardy and another wonderful singer whose name is unknown. The members of SpaceArk came from different musical backgrounds and brought unique playing styles and ideas to the group.
SpaceArk released two albums. The first album was released in 1975 on Color World Records. The first 1000 white albums with 8-track labels were given away free as promotional materials.

The "real" cover was the full size black/white artist drawing of the group. My favorite song is entitled "Do what you can do". Composed by Bryan "Skip" Reed and Russell Greene. Produced by Troy Raglin.

After the first album the group started recording new songs for creating a new album. Although the group had recorded the original instrumental rhythm tracks, Troy Raglin decided to abandon the recordings because the direction of the group was not as Troy wanted. For this reason the original keyboardist Russell Greene decided to leave the group. However these songs were performed at live concerts. As far as the original second album's songs, they were never released except one song entitled "Don't stop". Another unreleased song was "Beautiful Machine".

Dolores Hardy

"Don't stop" was released as a single on Color World Records by Dolores Hardy with SpaceArk under the name Dolly Way & Space Ship Earth. Dolores Hardly was one of the female singers who sometimes appeared with SpaceArk. "Don't stop" was a featured song at SpaceArk live performances.

Music was composed by Peter Silberg and lyrics by Troy Raglin. Produced by Troy Raglin & Michael Waxman. Horns arrangements by Bobby Keyes (the sax player for the Rolling Stones) and David Leech.

I want to mention that SpaceArk and Dolores Hardy recorded one more song called "This spell" which was a flip side (B Side) of "Don't stop". However Troy Raglin, at the last moment, decided to include the instrumental version of "Don't stop" and not the song "This spell".

"Beautiful Machine" was released only as a demo and never released as a sinlge. This song was written by Peter Silberg, with original lyrics by Troy Raglin. This track was unreleased, and until now has been unheard by anyone, except fans who attended the group's live stage shows.

Beautiful Machine (Unreleased) (Sample)

Troy Raglin

Two years later after the group dispanded, Troy Raglin created a new record company called Fire Mountain Records. Troy Raglin released a single on his own label entitled "Just one look / Darling" under the name Fatu. Troy had re-recorded the unreleased song "Beautiful Machine" and changed the lyrics and title to "Just one look".

Produced by Troy Raglin. Arranged by David Leech and Troy Raglin.

Just One Look (Sample)

SpaceArk

Back to 1978, Troy Raglin directed and recorded a "new second" SpaceArk album, released as "SpaceArk Is" on Colorworld Records.

Troy Raglin composed most of the songs on SpaceArk's album "SpaceArk Is". Peter Silberg contributed the guitar overdubs, and was the composer of "Sexy Lady." SpaceArk's band members contributed the rhythm tracks (Skip Reed on drums, Kenny Chavis on bass and Jared Stewart on keyboards). Skip Reed sang lead on "Take Her Out Dancing".

My favorite song is entitled "Phantom Lover," composed by Troy Raglin and G.McAllister. "SpaceArk Is" was produced by Troy Raglin, and arranged by SpaceArk.

Phantom Lover (Sample)

SpaceArk released a total of 2 full length albums and a handful of 45 singles, including recording solo artists that were signed to Colorworld, SpaceArk's record label. But the times were not favorable, and after many years of effort, in the late 1979 Peter Silberg left the group and SpaceArk ceased to exist.
An artist who collaborated with SpaceArk was a vocalist Charles Breckinridge Overton known as C.B.Overton. Charles Overton had released a few singles on Shock Records such as "If I can't stop you" in 1977 and "Superstar lady / When it rains it pours" in 1978 respectively.
Charles Overton also performed sporadically with SpaceArk, playing congas/percussion. Charles Overton, with backing from SpaceArk released a single entitled "Big Locomotive" on Colorworld. "Big Locomotive" was recorded and performed by SpaceArk (entirely) with Charles Overton as lead vocalist. The record was produced by Marshall McQueen Jr. who was a great songwriter/producer, and a long-time associate of Troy Raglin.

Big Locomotive (Sample)

After SpaceArk dispanded and Colorworld Records ceased to exist, Troy Raglin created a new record company called Fire Mountain Records. I have already mentioned the record by Fatu and Troy Raglin. Troy Raglin would take old recordings created by members of SpaceArk, and re-record and rename then as his own compositions.
Another release of Troy Raglin's Fire Mountain label was artist Lucy Stone. Lucy Stone was not her real name but a ficticious name given by Troy Raglin to a girl he had met. Troy Raglin coached her for months to sing, and finally recorded songs he wrote for her. Lucy Stone released a single entitled "If somebody needs somebody / Giving love instead of gold" in 1980 on Fire Mountain Records, produced by Troy Raglin and arranged by David Leech and Troy Raglin. The solo flute was performed by David Leech.

If somebody needs somebody (Sample)

One of the main issues which caused Peter Silberg to leave SpaceArk was Troy's continued focus on other "artists" careers, without first getting SpaceArk to be successful. After the group dispanded, Troy eventually took the name "SpaceArk" and used it as his production entity name.

Sirviving members of SpaceArk are Peter Silberg, Reggie Austin, Bryan "Skip"Reed, Allan Chavis and Jared Stewart. Troy Raglin passed on a number of years ago, as did Dolores Hardy.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Available digital download at

iTunes
SpaceArk1
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/spaceark-i/id428998362
SpaceArk IS
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/spaceark-is/id431720913

Amazon US
SpaceArk I
SpaceArk IS
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-music&field-keywords=spaceark&x=0&y=0
Amazon UK
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B004U3QRCS/ref=dm_dp_adp

Last, CD releases of SpaceArk's two albums are set for December, 2011 in Japan on the Creole Stream label.

One more time I want to thank Peter Silberg for his assistance with this article

Kenny Lupper - Passion flower 1978

2011-10-08T00:33:00.003+03:00

Kenny Lupper is a keyboartist, singer, songwriter of gospel music. He worked with great artists as a keyboartist like Aretha Franklin, Billy Preston, The Gospel Keynotes, The Mighty Clouds of Joy, High Inergy, Rev.Isaac Douglas and D.J.Rogers. As a songwriter he collaborated with Diana Ross and Jermaine Jackson. He toured and recorded as a member of Billy Preston’s band for a period. After that, he played on James Cleveland’s Savoy gospel album "All You Need’" and then had some gospel releases on Mankind and Creed Records. His first album was released in the mid-70s entitled "Testify" on Creed Records.

In 1976 Kenny Lupper wrote a song for Diana Ross entitled "You're Good My Child". He also co-wrote along with Gwen Gordy Fuqua the song entitled "Kiss me now". These songs were included on the second self-titled Diana Ross album on Motown Records in 1976. The song "Kiss me now" a year later re-recorded by Thelma Houston & Jerry Butler.

Kenny Lupper also co-wrote and co-arranged a song for Jermaine Jackson entitled "Who's that lady" which was included on the album called "My name is Jermaine" on Motown Records.

In the continued he collaborated with the female group called High Inergy. In March 1978 he released a single entitled "Passion flower / Kiss me now" on Tamla Records. "Passion flower" was written by Kenny Lupper and T.Laws. Arranged by Kenny Lupper, Clay Drayton and Sylvester Rivers. Produced by Kenny Lupper, G.G.Fuqua and Kent Washburn. Backing vocals by High Inergy.

The other song "Kiss me now" was arranged by James Carmichael. Produced by Kenny Lupper and G.G.Fuqua. Backing vocals by High Inergy.

Next year he played on piano for the High Inergy album called "Shoulda gone dancin" on Motown Records.

In 1981 he released a self-titled album on AVI Records. This album include the same songs with the first album on Creed Records in 1975. I don't know if he re-recorded the same songs or include the old recordings.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

Elgin Wells - Brand New Love 1980 Lp

2011-10-02T15:31:00.002+03:00

Elgin Wells is a multi-instrumentalist, producer, songwriter, singer from Atlanta, who plays guitar, violin, flute, sax, trombone, flugelhorn, synthesizer and percussion. He has been performing since the age of fourteen. He was State high school vocal champion and member of the Georgia All-State Chorus. In the seventies he toured with a number of rock and show bands. In 1976 he toured Australia as featured vocalist with the Daly-Wilson Big Band. During this period, he began crafting his own guitars and violins.
Elgin Wells formed his own band called the Elgin Wells Band. Elgin Wells Band has performed since the mid-seventies, has won The New South Music Award (Best Jazz Band). The Band has also been nominated for Naras "Best Jass Album" and has contributed to "The Best of Jazz Flavours" volumes I and III.

In 1980 the band released the first album entitled "Brand New Love" on Earth Records. It was recorded at Stone Mountain Music and Elgin Wells' Studio.

Musicians were Elgin Wells on electric and acoustic guitars, on electric violin, on flute, on alto and tenor sax, on trombone, on flugelhorn, on synthesizer, on electronic string ensemble and on percussion. Simon Kenneth Carter, Ricky Keller and Ronnie Harville on bass, Tom Hanson on electric piano and synthesizer, Mike Nepote and David Snavley on drums, percussion, Mark Parrish on piano, synthesizer and Fred VanDoren on electric piano. Backing vocals by Andrea DaVinci Braun, Amy Brewer, Laurel Wells and Elgin Wells.
Produced by Elgin Wells. All arrangements by Elgin Wells.
My favorite song is entitled "Is this the last time ?". It was written by himself. Vocals and solo sax by himself.

Note: The above posted track is not played in full

More info about Elgin Wells you can see here below

http://www.elginwells.com/index.html

Garfield Fleming - Let's turn in early

2011-09-27T08:53:00.004+03:00

Garfield Fleming Ruffin was born in 1953 and raised in Philadelphia. He began writing songs to display his vocal ability. He has a fantastic voice and in my opinion he is one of the best singers of soul music. He has also performed with world class artists as diverse as Bobby Womack, Billy Paul, William Hart of the Delfonics, Mr.Big Ronald Isley, Jerry Butler, Major Harris and many well known artists.

He became known in the early 80s when he released a single as a 7 incher and 12 incher respectively entitled "Don't send me away / You got dat right" on Becket Records. Mainly the song "Don't send me away" is one of the best dance songs ever.

However many people don't really know that some years later Garfield Fleming released one more single entitled "Let's turn in early" on Gimme Five Records. This song was written and produced by David Morris and Roger Carl Meltzer. It was recorded at Music City in Cherry Hill, N.J.

Many years later he was the newest member of the legendary group The Delfonics.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Waymond Hall - (I Never Knew Love) Till I found You

2011-09-21T11:52:00.002+03:00

Waymond Nathaniel Hall, Jr. was born in Houston, Texas on November 4, 1938. Waymond's family moved to California in 1943 and six years later he began to sing in church and at school. He enjoyed performing so much that he entered a talent show in 1952 and won 2nd place. Even though he won 2nd place, he was selected to appear on the Channel 7 television station in San Francisco.

For some years he played football and ran track. Later he became Track and Field coach and assistant football coach at Edison High School.

Waymond Hall as a singer became known with a song entitled "What will tomorrow bring" in the late 60s. It was released on JaMal Records. Waymond Hall also toured with the group the California Malibus performing throughout California. He graced the stage with many in the field of entertainment including: The San Francisco Symphony Orchestra, The Stockton Talent Guild, Billy Preston, Johnny Taylor, Curtis Mayfield, The Whispers. He also was the pianist for Second Baptist Church.
In the late 70s he collaborated with the legendary H.B.Barnum. Waymond Hall released a single entitled "(I Never Knew Love) Till I found You / Dance,dance,dance" on JaMal Records. This single is one of the rarest. This single also is very expensive (about 700-800$). I don't know how many copies have released.

Both songs were written by Walter Johnson and H.B.Barnum. Executive produced by Waymond Hall and George Harrison. Produced by H.B.Barnum. Enjoy "(I never knew love) Till I found you".

I tried to come in contact with the legendary H.B.Barnum. H.B.Barnum told me that (Barnum and Walter Johnson) did several songs with Waymond. However I don't know if these songs have ever been released.

Sadly Waymond Hall passed away on September 16,2010.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

Keith White - Love is not always forever

2011-09-15T23:55:00.001+03:00

Keith White was an unknown singer form Detroit. He collaborated with a funky guitarist, songwriter called Edward James Harris A.K.A. Eddy Senay from Detroit. Eddy Senay released two albums in the early 70s entitled "Hot thang" and "Step by step" on Sussex Records.

Keith White released a single "Love is not always forever" on Lady M Productions probably in 1982. It was recorded at Master Piece Sound Studios, Detroit, Michigan. Produced, arranged and composed by Eddy Senay. I have been looking for a long time to find info about Keith White but it was very difficult.

For one more time I'm the first blogger in the world who present a rare fantastic song. Enjoy this masterpiece.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Bobby Jones & New Life - Soul Set Free 1982 Lp

2011-09-09T20:21:00.004+03:00

Bobby Jones is one of the best performers in history of gospel music. Gospel music was not popular on television before the advent of Bobby Jones and his TV program Bobby Jones Gospel Hour. I will need many pages to present Bobby Jones.

He was born on September 18,1938 in Henry, Tennessee. Bobby Jones was the youngest of Jim and Augusta Thorpe Jones’s three children. He graduates from Tennessee A & I State University. In 1973 he co-hosts Fun City Five TV show, Nashville, Tennessee. In 1975 he became instructor, Tennessee State University. He forms the gospel group Bobby Jones and the New Life Singers. He introduces the Nashville Gospel Music Show , which later becomes Bobby Jones Gospel Hour.

In 1977 he released the debut album under the name Bobby Jones and the New Life Singers entitled "Sooner or Later" on Benson Records. In 1978 he released the second album entitled "There is hope for this world" on Nashboro Creed Records. Next album is entitled "Caught up" which was released in 1980 on Nashboro Creed Records

In 1982 Bobby Jones and New Life Singers won a Grammy for best performance by a black contemporary gospel group for album called "Soul Set Free". This album was released on Myrrh Records in 1982. It was recorded at Woodland Sound Studio. The musicians were Randy McCormick, Lisa Nelson and Tony Brown on keyboards, Tom Robb on bass, Gunnar Gelotte and Larrie Londin on drums, Larry Byrom, Bruce Dees, Brent Rowan and Paul Worley on guitars, Micky Buckins and Farrell Morris on percussion. Background vocals by Donna McElroy, Hershey Reeves and Robert Byrne.
Strings by The Shelly Kurland Strings. Horns arranged by Sanchez Harley and Lloyd Barry. Vocals arranged by Gerry Jones and Hershey Reeves. Produced by Tony Brown.

I have chosen two tracks entitled "Soul set free" and "Close to you". Vocals by Bobby Jones and Francine Belcher respectively. It is worthy to mention that the song "Martin" is a tribute to Martin Luther King. In two other songs, vocals by Bonnie Hatcher and Charles Miller.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Rudy Pickering - Merry-Go-Round 1980

2011-09-03T21:21:00.001+03:00

In fact my article should be for Arthur L.Woods and not for Rudy Pickering. Rudy Pickering was an unknown singer who released a single entitled "Merry-go-round / Everybody falls in love sometime" in 1980 on Music Master Records. This single was produced, arranged and conducted by Arthur L.Woods. Arthur L.Woods became known when he wrote along with Ron Kenoly the song "Lovely weekend" which was released as a single by Ron Kenoly and Candy on Inner City Records. "Lovely Weekend" single was a massive success selling close to 200,000 copies. Ron Kenoly also became known under the name Ron Keith.

Later Arthur L.Woods singed with the Music Master Records. He wrote songs for the label and collaborated with the group Korla with Klass that released a single entitled "Stop before you start". Arthur L.Woods was composer, arranger and producer.

Two years later he collaborated with Rudy Pickering. Arthur L.Woods wrote two songs for Rudy.

Then Arthur collaborated as a pianist with artists like Cash McCall and Margie Evans. However at the same time the best collaboration of Arthur was when he collaborated with Lenard Lidell. Arthur wrote some fantastic songs and along with some of his old songs, Lenard Lidell released an EP entitled "Afternoon Affair" for Jara Records in 1983. Arthur L.Woods also was arranger and producer on this EP.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

Steve Turner - Harbor place 1983 Lp

2011-08-29T21:34:00.001+03:00

Steve Turner was an unknown saxophone and flute player from Baltimore. He began to sing in church and then became interested in the saxophone and flute. Steve began playing in various bands. Later he toured the states, Canada, Bermuda and Japan. In 1983 he released a debut album entitled "Harbor place" on Booman Records. This album bears the stamp of Julius Brockington. Julius Brockington is a keyboartist, composer and producer. He was more known with his albums in the early 70s "The Brockingtons", "Shophisticated Funk" and "The United Chair". All of these albums were released on Today Records. In the late 70s and early 80s he released some gospel albums under the name "Julius Brockington Ensemble".

This album was recorded at Sheffield Recording Studio, Phoenix, Maryland. The musicians were Ralph Fisher on drums, Rodney (Skeet) Curtis on bass, Timothy (Sharptar) Moore on guitar, Julius Brockington on fender rhodes, Charles Covington on grand piano, Robert Dupree Hailey on percussion. Steve Turner on flute, alto and soprano sax, Save Smith on soprano sax, Jonathan Barnes on trumpet.

Horn arrangements by Julius Brockington. String arrangements by Charles Covington. Arrangements and executive produced by Julius Brockington. Produced by Boo Frazier.

I have chosen three (3) tracks entitled "Downtown", "Shante" and "Tai". Vocals on "Downtown" by Jeannie Harris.

.

In 2003 he released under the name Stephen Turner a CD album entitled "An Istrument" on Stephen Turner Records.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Wanda Walden - Searchin' for love 1981 Lp

2011-08-26T12:49:00.008+03:00

I wouldn't be able not to present this album. As I remember, I bought this album probably in 1995 in Athens. Immediately I recorded on cassette two songs from this album entitled "Searchin for love" and "Wanna love tonite". For some weeks I have been hearing this cassette every day. Outstanding songs.

In fact Wanda Walden was an unknown singer before this album. Most people believe that Wanda is sister of Narada Michael Walden. However, I read somewhere that she's the wife of Narada's brother.

Narada was the producer on the album entitled "Searchin for love" which was released in 1981 on Elektra Records.

Narada Michael Walden on drums and percussion, Randy Jackson on bass, Bob Castell on guitar, Frank Martin on keyboards and synthesizers, Mark Russo all saxophone solos. String arrangements by Michael Gibbs and Frank Martin. Produced and arranged by Narada.

Searchin for love: Music by Narada and lyrics by Narada and Allee Willis. Vocals by Wanda and Narada.

Wanna love you tonite: Music and lyrics by Ronnie Brown.

Wanda Walden after of this album released a single "I must be dreamin" on the same label in 1982. She collaborated with Randy Jackson. Wanda Walden and Randy Jackson wrote this song. Randy was also the producer.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Howard University Jazz Ensemble - Night Breeze 1977

2011-08-20T18:54:00.003+03:00

Howard University Jazz Ensemble (HUJE) was founded in 1975 by its director, Fred Irby, III. Outstanding performances in the United States, Europe, South America, Asia, and the Caribbean have caused it to be recognized as one of the foremost college jazz ensembles. HUJE has been heard on radio and television as well as in concert, often appearing with celebrated performers. Members of the HUJE have won awards as performers and composers/arrangers, and the ensemble includes among its alumni several practicing jazz artists. Additionally, the HUJE was featured during the 1992, 1996 and 2005 Kennedy Center Honors Gala (CBS-TV).

HUJE DIRECTOR- FRED IRBY, III

HUJE has released albums every year from 1976 until today. Yes every year!!! From 1976 has released some specials jazz albums. I had the pleasure to buy one of them which was released on Mark Records in 1977. It was recorded on May 1 & 2, 1977 at Track Recorders, Inc. It is the second album in history of the band.

Arranged by Edwin Scott. Produced by the Division of Development and University Relations and the Department of Music.

My favorite track is entitled "Night Breeze". Benjamin Sands on tenor saxophone and Geri Allen on keyboards.

This famous track was composed by Bobby Lyle which has been recorded from many artists. First recording by Ronnie Laws in 1976 at The Total Experience Recording Sudio.

This sample is Souldennis "Re-Edit"

Note: The above posted track is not played in full. Also this sample was created by Souldennis and was not included on this album. The album track is a bit different.

For more info about Howard University Jazz Ensemble you can see here
http://www.coas.howard.edu/music/huje/index.htm

I'm back

2011-08-20T09:15:00.000+03:00

After several days of vacation, I'm back.

Time for holidays

2011-07-28T17:31:00.000+03:00

I will be away on holidays. Next post on August 20.

3rd Anniversary

2011-07-27T10:21:00.000+03:00

I opened this blog three years ago. Today it's the third anniversary. All the posts on my blog come from my personal collection. Yes, believe it or not all my articles come from my personal collection.

First of all, I wanna thank especially all the visitors from my blog.

I would like to thank some special people and friends who helped me last year.

Ron Henderson Jr. on stage

Special thanks goes to Ron Henderson Jr. (guitarist, producer, songwriter, the son of Ron Henderson Sr. who became known in the 70s with the group Ron Henderson & Choice of Colour) for his help to me on my article about Barry Duke.

Alan Kaufman

I would like to thank Alan Kaufman for his info about Barry Duke and Terri Gore's album. I want to mention that Alan Kaufman was also producer on the albums, The Fabulous Kays' entitled "Deep in the night" in 1983 and Terri Gore's entitled "Movin on" in 1984.

Also special thanks goes to Ceasar Elloie for all his info and for his collaboration with me. I believe his music and his singing voice have a lot to offer to the music industry. In 2010 he released a great album entitled "New Orleans to Paris". He is a great person.

I wanna thank Jesse Gomez for all. I really thank you from my heart. Finally, thank you very much for your gifts and for your confidence in me.

I wanna thank Southside Jerry Melix for all his info and for his confidence in me. It is worthy mentioning that he is a great person.

I want to thank Miche Braden for all her kind comments to me. In 1983 she collaborated with Earl Van Dyke Quartet and released a single entitled "(Meet me at) Hart Plaza / Earl's theme" on Har-Den Music Co.

Also I presented her musical show “The Devil’s Music" in New York. A musical by Angelo Parra. Musical Direction Miche Braden; Conceived and directed by Joe Brancato. Miche Braden stars as the legendary Bessie Smith. “The Devil’s Music" (The Life and Blues of Bessie Smith).

Shelton "Shelly" Berg

Special thanks to pianist, songwriter, producer Shelton "Shelly" Berg who helped me to find Chris Meyer.

Special thanks to Chris Meyer for his info and his kind comments to me. Chris Meyer released an ultra rare album entitled "Ready, Willing and Stable" on Meca Music Co.

I would like to thank Lee Mays (a.k.a. Percy Mays) for his kind comments to me. Lee Mays released an ultra rare album entitled "Shine Your Love" to 1976.

Special thanks goes to guitarist Gary Alexander, member of the group The Entertainers. I had the pleasure to present The Entertainers two years and a half ago. Gary Alexander and Earl Dawkins did a big honor to me including photos from my personal collection on the page of The Entertainers on Facebook.

Also special thanks goes to Harold known from a great song called "Shortage of love". He is a great friend of mine.

Special thanks goes to Gary Curtis Culpeper for all his info and for his help to me. I presented the song "Happy Birthday" by the group called Sugar for the first time when I had celebrated the second anniversary. About three months ago I presented again "Happy Birthday" because I had more details about this project. I want to note that Gary Curtis Culpepper has written songs for the famous group Kool & The Gang in the 80s.

Vocal

Note: The above posted single is not played in ful

Freddie Gorman - Love Has Seen Us Through / Alive again 1980

2011-07-24T00:08:00.000+03:00

Freddie Gorman was born in Detroit in 1939 and in my opinion was one of the best singers of his time. Of course he was a great composer who wrote songs for The Beatles, The Carpenters, Marvin Gaye, The Marvellettes, The Supremes, Diana Ross and others. He was part of the original Holland/Dozier/Gorman writing team and also sang on numerous songs for Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Jimmy Ruffin, Edwin Starr and many others. He was also a longtime member of the group The Originals. In 1977 he left the group to pursue a solo career. In 1980 he released a single "Love has seen us through / Alive again" on Rene Records.
As I remember when I heard the song "Love has seen us through" on the forum "soul-source" some years ago, I said oh my god and I started listening to it non stop.

Composed by L.Harrington, P.Harrington, Freddie Gorman. Arranged by Hense Powell. Produced by himself.

Composed by E.Croom, L.Harrington and Freddie Gorman. Arranged by Hense Powell. Produced by himself. Solo harmonica by Stevie Wonder.

This single was again released the same year by L.A.International Records. Also the song "Love has seen us through" was again released as a single (stereo/mono) on the same label.

Probably Freddie Gorman recorded an album for Rene Records but never released it.

In 1983 Gorman released under the name Freddie Gee an EP on Airwave Records in which were included four songs. I must note that EP includes the long version (5:07) of "Love has seen us through".
There is a strange thing. Some guys pay 300$ to buy this EP. Unbelievable. They don't know the real name of the artist. They think that he is someone unknown artist. These two songs are from the single on Rene Records in 1980. One more is entitled "Get up of the funk" which is a funk song below average. The last song on this EP, called "Good while it lasted" was probably included on the unreleased album of Rene Records.
In 1997 he released a CD under the name Freddy G called "It's all about love" on Rene Records.

Sadly for us music fans Freddie Gorman passed away in 2006.

Finally I want to note that the song "Love has seen us through" is one of my all time favorite songs.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Reverend T.L.Devlin - The Unique 1978 Lp Live

2011-07-19T21:17:00.002+03:00

Reverend T.L.Devlin in fact is no other than Thomas L.Devlin who released a single "The love in me" in 1978 under the name of Shae' Devlin on Sha' Fue Records. I presented this single one year ago on this blog. This black gospel album called "The Unique" was recorded live at Divine Shepherd Baptiste Church of Philadelphia. It was released on Sha' Fue Records in 1978. Produced by Mike Bennett and Dave Wilson.
I have chosen again "The love in me". It was recorded in January 1978.

Note: The above posted track is not played in full

Theresa Davis featuring Jerry Butler - I can't stop (loving you either) 1985

2011-07-15T19:12:00.001+03:00

Jerry Butler is a famous American singer. He is also the original lead singer of the R&B vocal group called The Impressions. He did many duets in his career with Brenda Lee Eager, Betty Everett, Dee Dee Sharp, Thelma Houston, Debra Henry, Patti Austin and others. Today I'm presenting another duet alongside Theresa Davis.

Theresa Davis did her first studio backup recording at the age of 15 at Paul Sarano's first studio in Chicago. Theresa was a member of the famous group The Emotions. Theresa replaced the eldest sister of the group. She was with that group for four years, and recorded three albums with them. When the sister decided she wanted to return to the group, Theresa left to pursue solo career.

She has done vocals for Otis Clay, Tyrone Davis, Billy Price, Gene Chandler, Syl Johnson, Walter Jackson, Corky McClerkin, Ramsey Lewis, Gregory Bibb, Brian Culbertson, and many others.

Theresa Davis alongside Jerry Butler released a single entitled "I can't stop (loving you either)" on DJ Records. This single was released as a 7 incher and 12 incher respectively. Composed by C.Otis and H.Kelly. Produced by Bunky Sheppard and Terre Gore.

Today Theresa Davis is a member of the group Tour De 4Force which I presented about one and a half years ago on this blog.

Tour De 4Force

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

The Longo Brothers - Manhattan / Nightwalk 1983

2011-07-11T16:06:00.001+03:00

One month ago I presented the group called The Longo Brothers and the single entitled "Looking for love". Today I'm presenting one more single entitled "Manhattan / Nightwalk" on People City Music in 1983. Both of these tracks are instrumental.

Composed by Frank and Larry Longo. Produced by The Longo Brothers.

Note: The bove posted tracks are not played in full

Together - It's you 1983

2011-07-05T11:16:00.003+03:00

Together featuring Jeff Morrow was an obscure group which released a single entitled "It's you / You're the one for me" on Together Records in 1983. Jeff has been one of the top studio vocalists and voice-over artists in Chicago for the past 20 years. He is a graduate of Valparaiso University, with a degree in vocal music. He spent 6 years as a music teacher in Hammond, Indiana, while playing in various local bands.
As a session singer, arranger and contractor, Jeff has worked on numerous gold and platinum albums with artists such as: Ramsey Lewis, Brian Culbertson, Peter Cetera, Mavis Staples, R Kelly, Céline Dion, Richard Marx, Jay-Z, Ruben Studdard, Dennis De Young, Michael Bolton, LaShell Griffin and many more.
Today, Jeff works as a singer, arranger, producer, voice-over artist and vocal contractor. He has sung on over 5,000 TV and radio commercials, and has done voice-overs on over 2,000 commercials.

Composed and produced by Jeff Morrow. Vocals by Jeff Morrow.

I have seen one more group called Together which released two albums on Albradella Records. There is another gospel group called Together which has released three albums from 1974 to 1980.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

Phil Copeland - (My) Lil Darlin 1977

2011-06-30T00:51:00.001+03:00

“Little Darlin” was written by Maurice Williams, lead singer of the Gladiolas. Maurice Williams & the Zodiacs were an American doo-wop/R&B vocal group, active during the late 1950s and early 1960s. Originally The (Royal) Charms, the band changed its name to The Gladiolas in 1957 and The Excellos in 1958, before finally settling on "The Zodiacs" in 1959.
The song "Little Darlin'" was a #11 hit on the R&B chart in 1957, but did not break the Billboard Hot 100's Top 40. However, when the song was covered by the Canadian group The Diamonds, it moved up to #2.

Phil Copeland

Today I'm presenting one more version from this famous song by Phil Copeland. Phil Copeland is a singer, producer and composer who has composed over 400 cues. Phil won consecutive Emmy awards in 2001 and 2002 for work he produced for ESPN Classic’s “SportsCentury”. He also won an Emmy Award for composing the theme song for “The Guiding Light”. He first achieved fame as the lead singer for the Torques.
In 1977 he released a single entitled "(My) Lil Darlin / Hard lovin man" on III Records. He also re-released the same single on Midwest Records in the same year. In fact "Little darlin" is the same song with "(My) Lil Darlin".

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

Cheryl Ingram - Living in your love 1983 Lp

2011-06-25T08:27:00.003+03:00

Cheryl Ingram is an unknown singer of Christian Contemporary Music. She also is a teacher, pastor and preacher. She and her husband founded and pastored the Word of Faith Family Church in Daytona Beach, Florida for several years.
I have seen only three albums by Cheryl Ingram entitled "Living in your love" in 1983 on Sozo Records, "Follow the light" in 1987 on Int'l Recording Corp and "Stir it up" in 1988 on IMI Records respectively.

She started her professional career in the early 80s when she participated as a backing vocalist on the Bob Thompson album entitled "Each one reach one" in 1982 on Rainbow Sound. Next year she released an album entitled "Living in your love" on Sozo Records. It was recorded at Sonrise Studio in Ft. Worth, Texas.

Some collectors know the label "Sozo Records" from the artist called Ira Watson who released an album called "Shining Star". Ira Watson collaborated with Cheryl Ingram in this album as composer and rhythm arranger. Produced by Win Kutz. Arranged by Alan Moore. Additional rhythm arrangements by Ira Watson. My favorite song is entitled "Living in your love".

Note: The above posted track is not played in full

Tim Eyermann's East Coast Offering - Walkin' with you 1985 Lp

2011-06-20T21:53:00.001+03:00

Six months ago, I presented Tim Eyermann and his band called East Coast Offering. I had the pleasure to present the masterpiece entitled "Don't take your love away" from the self-titled album which was released in 1984. Today I'm presenting you an album called "Walkin' with you" which was released in 1985 on MCA Records. It was recorded at Bias Studio, Springfield, Virginia.

It was a surprise when I noticed the participation of the great Al Johnson on the album. Al Johnson helped Tim Eyermann on the album as an arranger. Not for all but for only the songs entitled "Hell to heaven" and "Catherine". Strings for these tracks by Kim Miller, Peter Tramontana, Jane Stewart, David Hardy, Keith Fleming, Carol Hayes, Malcolm Russ, Cynthia Mauney, Steve Romer and Bruce Myers.

Clint Holmes

"Hell to heaven" is a great classic ballad which was written by Clint Holmes and Peter McCann. Tim Eyermann with his sax accompanies Clint Holmes on vocals. In fact Clint Holmes is a guest vocalist on the album. In 1972 he had a smash hit on the pop chart entitled "Playground in my mind" which was released on Epic Records. Today he is more than a charismatic singer of jazz music... He is a songwriter, plays in musical and hosted his own TV show called "New York at Night". In 2008 he collaborated with the composer and keyboardist Jeffrey Neiman. Together, they have forged new musical ground and recently Jeffrey produced Clint's much acclaimed new CD. Jeffrey is now serving as Clint's musical director. Jeffrey is also serving as Musical Director for the popular Las Vegas show "Vocal Soup" starring Clint Holmes, Susan Anton, Martin Nievera and Domenick Allen. Clint Holmes has just finished writing his latest musical “Just Another Man” with Larry Moss and Bill Fayne.

"Catherine" is a mellow instrumental along with the sax of Tim Eyermann under the arrangements of Al Johnson. Some great jazz musicians create a sweet atmosphere such as Tim Eyermann on sax and flute, Dave Palamar on drums, Wade Matthews on bass, Bob Sterling on guitar, Bruce Harrison on piano-keyboards, Mick Rossi on synthesizers, Bill Fayne on piano. Background vocals by Elaine Fayne, Robin Doezema and Jon Carroll.

Ιn the other songs also appear Bob Fowler on bass, Steve Branca and Jim Singer on guitars, Don Smallwood on keyboards and Robert "Dupree" Hailey on percussion. Jeaneane Marie, Karen Henderson and Gail Adams on vocals. Produced by Tim Eyermann, Bob Dawson and East Coast Offering.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Casper Peters - Find my way 1970

2011-06-16T09:01:00.005+03:00

This song was written by Johnny Melfi. Many people learnt this song by Cameo in 1977. However In 1974 the group started under the name New York City Players which was formed by 23 members. The drummer Larry Blackmon collaborated with Johnny Melfi and the group under the name The Players released a single entitled "Find my way / Good Company" on a new label called Chocolate City Records. Distributed by Casablanca Records. This release was the first by the label.

Both of these songs were produced by Larry Blackmon and Johnny Melfi.

The group soon changed its name to Cameo after concerns that "New York City Players" might cause confusion between them and the funk band Ohio Players.
In 1977 Cameo again released "Find my way" on the album entitled "Cardiac arrest".

Cameo re-released this song on the album "Secret Omen" in 1979

However how many people really know there is another version by unknown singer called Casper Peters who released it in 1970 on Enterprise Records. Casper Peters released a single "Find my way / April". Distributed by Stax Records. Produced by Steve Cropper and Don Nix.

When I heard this song I did not believe that it was released in 1970. Fantastic arrangements for as early as 1970. Amazing backing vocals.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

# Original recording by the group called The Tymes in 1969 on Columbia Records. Also you can check another version by the female group Three Degrees in 1972 on Roulette Records.

## I want to thank jayinches for his info

BREAKING NEWS !!!!

2011-06-13T15:57:00.001+03:00

Recently I renewed my article about Sandra Richardson or Sandra Feva. You can see this below.

http://souldennis.blogspot.com/2009/05/sandra-richardson.html

The Longo Brothers - Looking for love 1978

2011-06-11T08:35:00.001+03:00

The Longo Brothers was an unknown blue eyed soul group formed by the brothers Frank, Larry and Dino Longo from Canada. They have written and produced singles/albums for many other recording artists. They are focused on placing their songs with major producers and artists as well as with producers of television/commercials/movies. They have recently had 16 songs signed to a long term publishing contract with a prominent Los Angeles Publisher.

In 1978 they released a single entitled "Looking for love / Sun side up" on People City Music. Both of these songs were recorded at Zaza Sound, Toronto. Produced and arranged by Paul Zaza.

Both of these songs were included on the album entitled "Imitation Life" which was released on the same label in 1979.
Later they recorded some songs along with the female singer called Jill Vogel such as "In the middle of the night" and "Easy Life". They also recorded "The nightlife" and "Manhattan" which were both very good songs. "Manhattan" is a incredible and fantastic instrumental which released on People City Music in 1983. I don't know if this group ever released another album.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

C.P.Love - Falling 1987

2011-06-06T23:48:00.001+03:00

C.P.Love is one of the best contemporary performers of blues music. His real name is Carrollton Pierre Love. He was born in New Orleans on 1 May 1945, and raised in the city on it’s jazz and R & B roots. He started in the 60s when he played with various bands. His first release was in 1967 on King Walk Records.
CP Love began opening for top acts in the early 70's for entertainers such as BB King and Fats Domino. He has performed at many Blues and Jazz Festivals, including New Orleans' famous Jazz Fest as well as appearances from California to New York and to Canada at the Montreal Blues Festival, with over 250,000 people in attendance.
His music style ranges from Blues to Soul to R&B and Jazz. He has released only singles from the 60's until 80's. In 1987 he released an EP on his own label called CP Love Productions. EP includes four (4) songs. One of them is entitled "Falling".

All the songs were recorded at Mars Studio, Aptos,CA. Produced by Ken Kraft and Tiran Porter. The musicians were Ken Kraft and Warren Nabonne on guitars, Craig Owens, Harold Scott and Tiran Porter on bass, Jim Norris and Tom Williams on drums, Gene Barnholt and Keith Vinet on keyboards, Ruben Ramos on congas, Danny Hull and Nancy Wright on sax, Jeff Lewis, Ed Morrison on trumpets and Marvin Goss on trombone. Backing vocals by Tiran Porter, C.P. Love and Craig Owens.

Sax solo by Danny Hull.

Note: The above posted track is not played in full

Miche Braden on The Devil's Music (The Life And Blues Of Bessie Smith)

2011-06-05T12:49:00.001+03:00

A musical by Angelo Parra. Musical Direction Miche Braden; Conceived and directed by Joe Brancato. Miche Braden stars as the legendary Bessie Smith. It’s 1937 and the final performance of Bessie, as the fiesty singer regales her audience with tales from her life, and many loves and losses. Miche Braden not only captures the soulful richness of the singing style of the “Empress of the Blues” and one of the greatest singers of her era, but the essence of her boozy, feisty personality.

“The Devil’s Music: The Life and Blues of Bessie Smith" had its world premiere at Penguin Rep Theatre (Joe Brancato, Artistic Director, and Andrew Horn, Executive Director) in Stony Point, New York.

I want to note that I presented Miche Braden about three months ago.

http://www.thedevilsmusic.biz/Devils_Music/Home.html

Rose Weaver - There's a feeling of love / Where the sky meets the sea 1977

2011-06-02T23:38:00.002+03:00

She was born into a farming family in McDonough, Georgia. She studied at Emory University, and was generally interested in the theater and museums. She also wrote an essay for a competition on this subject. She gained success as the only black in the drama club at all white Brown High School in Atlanta, and in the drama and singing clubs at elite Wheaton College.
She was the first and only black woman to win the title, Miss Foxboro (home of the Patriots), in the Massachusetts State Beauty Pageant.
After college, she played leading roles such as Billie Holiday in Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grille, The Witch, in Into the Woods, and Bernice in August Wilson’s,The Piano Lesson.

Weaver has performed and toured with the Taper in Europe. As a sassy jazz singer, she has been a featured vocalist with the Smithsonian Jazz Orchestra, The Duke Ellington Orchestra, the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra and Conrad Janis and the Beverly Hills Unlisted Jazz Band. She has appeared in numerous radio plays for Scribbling Women and commercials. Rose wrote and began touring her one-woman show, Menopause Mama which has received rave reviews from Bermuda to Providence. She has appeared multiple times on National Public Radio with Deborah Becker and read her monologues. She holds an Honorary Doctor of Fine Arts from Marymount Manhattan College, New York, is a member of Screen Actor’s Guild, American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, and Actor’s Equity Association.

As a singer, she released a single entitled "There's a feeling of love / Where the sky meets the sea" on Bevco Music in 1977. Produced by Lee Norris. Arranged by Lee Norris and Artee Azenzer.

Composed by Eddy Courts.

Composed by Eddy Courts and Fredrika

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Willie Toliver - Bit off more than I could chew

2011-05-29T20:57:00.001+03:00

Ladies and gentlemen, I decided to present an extremely rare 7 incher by Willie Toliver. Willie Toliver is more known with the song entitled "Papa killed a chicken" which was included in various compilation called "Various Artists (Memphis 70)".

Willie Toliver collaborated with the saxophonist Andrew Love who is a member of the Memphis Horns. Toliver released a single entitled "Bussom of love / Bit off more than I could chew" on Thin Dime Records from Memphis. Both of these songs were recorded at Mastercraft Studios, Memphis,TN.

Andrew Love

"Bit off more than I chew" is a wonderful instrumental on which the saxophonist Andrew Love plays his instrument fantastically.

Composed by Willie Toliver. Produced by Ben Couley and James Craft.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

Bob Christy & Frank Wright - Pure Energy Lp

2011-05-25T20:32:00.003+03:00

This album is a private Lp which doesn't mention anything on the back cover of the vinyl record. I have seen this album once in Japan with a different front cover.

Bob Christy and Frank Wright was an unknown duet which was appeared in the early 80s. They performed in various clubs, hotels and restaurants at that time.

Inside my copy there is a biography of Bob Christy and Frank Wright. I discovered that Bob Christy is the composer/arranger under the name Robert O'Connor who co-wrote the famous song in the late 60s "Move in a little closer" which became a big success by Mama Cass Elliot. In fact Robert O'Connor wrote this song for the unknown U.K group called Harmony Grass. Two months later Mama Cass Elliot released the same song in the USA.

Robert O'Connor or Bob Christy

Bob has lived and breatbed music since he was 7. It was then, back in Newark, New Jersey, that he began studying classical piano, finally he graduated from New York's prestigious Julliard School of Music, as a teen.

He began professional career while he was still in high school at the age 17. Later he was hired in New York City as a writer/producer of records for such large labels such as Columbia, Mercury, Decca and Bell. He has collaborated with Englebert Humperdinck, Toots Thieleman, Joe Pesci, Daryl Hall and Dr.Hook & the Medicine Show. Finally Bob has arranged and conducted the Merv Griffin Show Band.

Frank Wright has never had a music lesson in his life. He comes by his satiny-smooth, far-ranging voice purely through a natural gift. Frank was only 7 years old when he put on his first show. He continued to sing still when he went in the Air Force at the age 20. He won every talent show in the Air Force. Later he went at Pasadena City College, The University of Southern California. Self taught on musical theory, Wright became a campus musical legend.
He continued his collegiate studies for 6 1/2 years. Finally ending up just a few credits away from a masters degree in Political Science. Wright worked for the State of California as a rehabilitation counselor.
He appeared in the famous club called St.Charles in Pomona, California in which Frank Sinatra and many others frequented. It was the first time he had sung for pay at this club. Frank realized his first love was singing and started his musical career. He formed a group and they played in many large hotels such as Hilton, Holiday Inn and Castaways. It was then he met a talent keyboard artist named Bob Christy. They teamed up to make beautiful music together.
They recorded an album called "Pure Energy" during 1980 but I don't know if it was ever released by any label. My copy doesn't mention any label. This album has different styles of music such as soul, jazz, funk and blues.
I chose a particularly sophisticated song "Nixon" and was written by Bob Christy and Frank Wright.

Note: The above posted track is not played in full

Robert "Goodie" Whitfield

2011-05-21T14:37:00.004+03:00

Most of the fans of black music know Robert Whitfield more as "Goodie". He used the name "Goodie" when collaborated with the famous funk group called Gap Band.

How many people really know that Robert Whitfield released a single before he collaborated with the Gap Band ?

Robert Whitfield with his fantastic voice released a single entitled "Keep on dancing to the music / I write songs" on Monterey Records. Both of these songs were written by himself. It seems to me that he was a great songwriter.

Produced and arranged by Jack Daugherty.

Produced and arranged by Jack Daugherty.

I want to note that Jack Daugherty had released an album under the name The Jack Daugherty Orchestra called "Carmel by the sea" on the same label in 1976.

Later Robert collaborated with the Gap Band. He appeared as a backing vocalist on the Gap Band album called "The Gap Band II" in 1979 on Mercury Records. Next year he appeared again with the Gap Band as keyboardist on the album called "Gap Band III" on Mercury Records. The same year he collaborated with the group Yarbrough & Peoples on the album "The two of us". On this album he appeared on keyboards and backing vocals.
In 1982 he released the debut album entitled "Call me Goodie" on Total Experience Records. I think that he was influenced by his collaboration with the Gap Band, because most of the songs which were included on the album were funky. However some songs are great such as "L.A" and "You and I".

This album was recorded at Total Experience Recording Studios, Hollywood. The musicians were Alisa Peoples on keyboards, Calvin Yarbrough, Louis Cabaza on Synthesizer, Ronnie Kaufman, Melvin Webb, David Fine and David Crockett on drums, Melvin Webb on percussion, Fred Jenkins, Lonnie Simmons, Mike McKinney, Jimi Macon and Glenn Nightingale on guitar, Dionne Oliver, Robert Wilson and Victor "Widetrack" Hill on bass. Background vocals by Charlie Wilson, Alisa Peoples, Calvin Yarbrough, Maxine Waters, Julia Waters, Rudy Taylor, Pat Peterson, Temple McKinney, Troy Peoples, Ronnie Kaufman and Val Young.

Horn arrangements by Malvin "Dino" Vice and Benjamin Wright. Produced by Lonnie Simmons.

My favorite songs are "L.A" and "You and I".

The same year he participated as keyboardist on the Gap Band album entitled "Gap Band IV" on Mercury Records.
In 1985 he released the second and the last album entitled "I wanna be your man" on Total Experience Records. The same year for one more time he collaborated with the group Yarbrough & Peoples. After this album I lost him. I have never seen him since.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

Chris Meyer - Ready, Willing and Stable Lp

2011-05-16T22:52:00.003+03:00

B.L. Chris Meyer started working in the film and photography business at the age of 15 for Designer's Group, a communications design company in Houston, Texas. His first job was cleaning up film ends and organizing negatives. However, within a short time, he began directing and shooting projects for the company.

In 1978 he went to work for KHOU-TV in Houston ,TX, at that time the 12th largest television market in the country. He was cast as the co-host and co-producer of a daily television magazine show called P.M. Magazine. In 1982 he was assigned to co-host a new live daily television talk-show program called Houston Afternoon.

At that time he released the second album (first album was released in 1969) entitled "Ready, Willing and Stable" on Meca Music Co. It was recorded at ACA Studios, the oldest studio in Houston, Texas. Chris Meyer collaborated with a pianist called Shelton Berg. Shelly was teaching at a local college and was playing jazz in and around the Houston area.
Chris Meyer told me: "Shelly" did an excellent job of producing and his arrangements were fantastic. The album got limited distribution in some of Houston's record stores and about 1000 copies were sold.

Shelton "Shelly" Berg

Shelton "Shelly" Berg was arranger and producer on the album. He also wrote most of the songs of the album. I want to note that today "Shelly" is one of the finest pianists, who plays modern mainstream jazz.
In this album participated Shelton Berg on keyboards, Evan Arredondo on bass, Tim Harris on guitar, Tom Cummings on percussion, Larry Martinez and Kit Reid on trumpets, Joe Miller on trombone, Tony Campice and Tristan Smith on Woodwinds, Raphael Fliegel, David Chausow, Caroline Plummer and Peggy Ruttenberg on violins.Arranged and produced by Shelton Berg.
My favorite songs are "You can dance with me" , "High time" and "Goin' back". These songs were written by Shelton Berg except the song "Goin' back" which was written by Shelton Berg and B.Cunningham.

After this album Chris Meyer recorded two singles in the country music scene, which were recorded at Sugar Hill Studios, also in Houston (Freddy Fenders Studio).

In 1984 Chris left broadcast television to start Meyer Productions, Inc. a full-service photography and video production company. By 1993 MPI was among the 10 largest production companies in Houston and included 3 additional companies: International Video Distributors, Technical Programming Services, and the Ink Spot. The company won a number of local, national and international awards.

In 1996 Chris downsized the company so he could return to doing more of the hands-on shooting. The company is now called Multimedia Production Services, Inc. and services a myriad of industrial and commercial clients.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

# I would like to thank Chris Meyer for all his info

## I would like to thank Shelton "Shelly" Berg

Stallion - Ain't no way 1981

2011-05-11T00:15:00.005+03:00

Dan Milner started his music career at the age of 6 taking piano lessons. At the age of 13 he started his own group, "The Visions" in Minneapolis. By the time he was 17, "The Visions" were a band in the Twin Cities playing all venues available. After two years of college majoring in music and art, Dan moved to Los Angeles to pursue his music career without his fellow band members. Within six months, he once again formed a band; this one named "Pony". Gathering together 3 other members with the love for The Beatles, Dan created a group which started to gather a good following in the LA area. At the age of 21, Dan's group was signed to the famous William Morris Agency and one month later signed to 20th Century Records.

After 2 years on the label, he became disenchanted with the producers of their first two albums and left that label and signed with Warner / Chappel roster as a composer.

In 1978 Dan moved South to San Diego, and started managing the largest recording studio in the city, "Studio West". Within two years, he was head / first engineer, and manager. Two years later he bought Studio West, and started his own music company, Wintermoon Music. Even though at one time Wintermoon Music had offices in San Diego, Minneapolis, and Toronto.

In 1981 he collaborated with the band called "Stallion". Not to be confused with the pop/rock group Stallion from Denver which recorded two albums with Casablanca Records in the late 70s. Stallion released a single entitled "You / Ain't no way" on KG Records. Dan Milner wrote both of these songs. Also both of these songs were produced by Dan Milner.
Today I have the pleasure to present one of the rarest modern soul songs which probably it appears for the first time in the world.

Dan has been a first engineer, producer, and arranger for over 25 years. He has earned over 350 advertising awards. and has produced music for over 650 episodes of television. One of them was “The American Gladiators”.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

# I would like to thank Buddy Stephens for all his info. Buddy Stephens is a member of the group Stallion which released two albums with Casablanca Records in the late 70s.

Barry Duke - I'm leaving 1983

2011-05-06T00:36:00.001+03:00

Barry Wade Duke was born in 1954. Barry is a singer with a great voice as well as being a producer, composer and saxophone player.

To understand more about Barry Duke I came in contact with Ron Henderson Jr. (the son of Ron Henderson Sr. who became known in the 70s with the group Ron Henderson & Choice of Colour). He has been performing since the age of 14 following in his dad's footsteps. He has performed, written and produced for various artists such as Jerry Butler, Al Wilson, The Platters, Brook Benton, Percy Sledge, Ron Henderson and The Choice of Colours, Major Lance, Archie Bell, Barry Duke, Billy Scott and many others.
Ron told me: Barry Duke is one of the most talented and dedicated producers, songwriters, and musicians I have ever come in contact with. I am proud to say he is more than my partner, my friend, "he is my brother".

Ron Henderson Jr. on stage

Ron Henderson Jr. as he recalls, first started out recording with Barry in the early 80s and they became partners and are still active today. Barry Duke wrote the song "I'm leaving" and Ron along with Barry produced and arranged it. They first recorded it on cassette.
Richard Robinson was also their partner at that time and was very instrumental in the success of the recording. They then released it on Ron Henderson Sr.'s label Choice Cut Records.

Composed by Barry Duke. Arranged by Alan Kaufman. Produced by Ron Henderson Jr.

The other side of the vinyl record is entitled "Gotta find a way". Composed by Pervis Lee Jr. and Duke Hall. Produced and arranged by Ron Henderson Jr.

At that time Choice Cut Records also released the single "Gemini Lady" which was by Ron Henderson and The Choice of Colour.

I asked Ron Henderson Jr. if they had recorded other songs at that time. Ron told me that they recorded two songs entitled "Ready or not" and "Love bandit" which were never released due to unforseen occurences. Later Barry Duke recorded "Love bandit" with the group The Catalinas which was written originally by Ron Henderson Jr.

The same year Barry Duke joined the group The Entertainers. The Entertainers released an album on HMC Records. It was recorded at HMC Studios, Charlotte, NC. Barry sang and played saxophone on this album. He sang again the song "I'm leavin". The album was produced by Alan Kaufman.

Alan Kaufman

I want to mention that Alan Kaufman was also producer on the albums, The Fabulous Kays' entitled "Deep in the night" in 1983 and Terri Gore's entitled "Movin on" in 1984.
I came in contact with Alan Kaufman. Alan told me that Barry Duke was very easy to work with as well as being very professional. He would do whatever it took to perfect something in the studio, because he enjoyed the process so very much. Alan Kaufman also enjoying working with Barry Duke and the whole band.

The members of The Entertainers who played on this album were Hugh "Tuff" Blanton on bass and background vocals, Earl Dawkins on lead vocals, Barry Duke on lead vocals and saxophone, Richie Lengel on guitar, Richard Robertson on trumpet and background vocals, Ric Sanders on keyboards and background vocals. Produced by Alan Kaufman.

After his period in the group The Entertainers, Barry Duke left and joined another group called The Fabulous Kays. Later, from 1991 to 2001 he sang for The Catalinas. After that he went to the Robin Rogers Band, then The Night Crawlers, in which he is currently still playing.

The Night Crawlers

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full

# I would like to thank Ron Henderson Jr. for all his info and his help. He is currently performing with the band (The Executives) that backs up "Chairmen of the Board"

## Also I would like to thank Alan Kaufman.

Charnissa Jones

2011-05-01T02:23:00.001+03:00

Charnissa Jones was known as Charnissa. She started as a member of the female group called Sweet Hearts of Soul. This group sang on the background vocals for the album of Aretha Franklin entitled "Aretha in Paris" in 1968.

Also she appeared along with the female group Raylettes for Ray Charles on background vocals. Later sadly she had problems with her voice. After of her voice rehabilitation, she sang for the U.S Navy Band.
In the continued she had a chance to meet the producer Bud Reneau in Atlanta when she did a visit to a recording company. Then she did some demos and Columbia Records signed with her. However there were problems between the label and the management team. For this reason this collaboration stopped.
So Bud Reneau helped Charnissa to release her first album in 1978 on Zeus Records. It was also released on Equity Records. It was recorded at East Avalon Studio, Muscle Shoals, Alabama.

Produced by Bud Reneau. Arranged by Dr.and Mrs Alien Chastain. I chose the track "When can we do this again". Composed by Phillip Mitchell and Billy Clements. This song was re-recorded by Z.Z.Hill in 1982 and Jesse James in 1988.

The second album is more scarce and released on Robox Records in 1979.

The same year she participated as Charnissa Butts along with Joy Cannon on vocals under the name Frisky. In fact this album was a project by Moses Dillard and Jesse Boyce on Vanguard Records. Four songs were included on the album. Three songs of them were performed by Charnissa.

Arranged, conducted and produced by Moses Dillard and Jesse Boyce. I chose a song entitled "Love at first sight". I want to note that this song was also recorded on the first album in 1978 by Charnissa. Original recording by Cathy O'Shea in 1978.

After of this album she collaborated with some groups from Alabama. She collaborated with Tony Wachter musician, singer, songwriter and producer. In 1984 she released a single entitled "Starting from Scratch / Will it take magic" on CRP Records. Both of these songs were recorded at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio Sheffield, Alabama. Both of the songs were written by Phillip Mitchell. Produced by Roger Hawkins & Charles O.Johnson. I want to note that Prince Phillip Mitchell re-recorded the song "Starting from Scratch" in 1991 for the album "Loner" which was released on Ichiban Records.

I have chosen the song "Will it take magic".

Today Charnissa Jones (Stevenson) is still active and she appears in various clubs and events. I want to mention that her daughter, who is named Charnissa Butts, is a singer of R&B.

Note: The above posted tracks are not played in full.

Gregg Stevens - I'm so lucky 1977

2011-04-26T21:13:00.000+03:00

What can I say for this song ? I can't describe my feelings when I hear it. Fantastic arrangement. Amazing music. Only for those who know how to hear quality music.

Gregg Stevens (born 1947) released this single "I'm so lucky / I don't have the right" in 1977 on ARBA Records. Both of these songs were included on the album called "I'm so lucky" which released on the same label at that time. Composed and produced by himself.

It was very difficult to find info about Gregg Stevens.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

Mark Harris - Sweet Kelly Lee

2011-04-22T13:00:00.000+03:00

Mark Harris is an unknown singer. Hearing the songs "Sweet Kelly Lee" and the other side of a vinyl record called "Your love (makes everything all right)" seems that he is a blue-eyed soul singer. I have seen another singer called Mark Harris of Contemporary Christian music but I don't know if he is the same singer. This record was released on Special Records Co from New York. I chose to present you the song "Sweet Kelly Lee". Composed by Lucky Dixon and James McNary. Arranged and conducted by James MacNary.

I want to note that the songwriters John "Lucky" Dixon was born in 1927 and James "Jimmy Mack" McNary was born in 1946. John "Lucky" Dixon has written many songs for the gospel music in the 80s.

James "Jimmy Mack" McNary

James "Jimmy Mack" McNary collaborated with a pianist of jazz music called LaMont Johnson. At that time he was co-owner of a record label Down East Records.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full

Vallee - After Last Night

2011-04-18T01:45:00.001+03:00

This song was written by saxophonist Jeff Kartak in 1978. Jeff Kartak was born in 1950 (Jeff sadly died one year ago). I don't know if he ever released this song for himself, but the song "After last night" by an unknown female singer called Vallee is an extremely rare single and fabulous song. It was recorded at Santa Barbara Sound Recording, California. Santa Barbara Sound Recording was incorporated in 1979 and is currently not active. This single "After last night / Listen to my side too" was released on Vallee Records probably in 1979.

Arranged by Jeff Kartak. Produced by Jeff Kartak and Vallee.

Note: The above posted single is not played in full