Karime Harris

In the last post, I mentioned that Karime Harris would be appearing a the next Cleethorpes Weekender in June.

Over the past few years she has been performing as the lead singer of the funk group the Killer Meters, but has now come to terms with her parents’ music which she had previously revered so much that she was loath to perform it. However Kent Records’ recent and future reissuing of her mother’s 60s and 70s recordings has put that music back to the forefront and seeing Duffy, Adele and Amy hitting the charts with US soul style songs has made her determined to claim back her birthright and perform a special tribute to her parents’ work.

Here's a bit more information on Karime from her MySpace blurb:

I started my career in singing back in the 90's during the Acid Jazz period in L.A. I did a couple of projects which got me interested in coming to London where the scene was hot. I got lucky after three weeks and met Gilles Peterson who hooked me up a record deal. I went a little out of control and changed my sound not to the likings of the head of Mercury (wanker) so I was on my own with no record deal. But what I had with me were my masters and that meant Gilles could hook me up with Roni Size and DJ Die who I had hung out with on tour anyway.

Dj Die was young and hot with dope ideas so he took my song 'Chemical Imbalance' and remixed it and that is how it all started and my career has lead me via Gilles Peterson again to working on Red Snapper's album entitled 'Our aim is to satisfy Red Snapper'. Those cats were awesome live so i snapped at the chance and learned how to work under extreme pressure. It paid off too. I love live performance and i think thats when I really really shine. I was working with Shawn Lee who has penned some big tunes for Sugar Babes, Girls Aloud and recently Will Young covered his tune 'Happiness' which is a shit hot tune.

Shawn Lee and I came over from L.A. together and he helped me become a better writer and a singer for that matter. I have worked with Matt Cooper on a tune called 'Resist' which is still getting me Royalty checks too. We have talked about putting together a project this year so who knows. I have been in the dance charts with other material which you can google to find out. the list is a good size so check it out.

2005 I hooked up with Carl Ryden and recorded 'Mercy on Me' released on Onephatdiva . I had another single called 'Deliverance' produced by Tyken out of Gothenburg the team is Carl Ryden and Dj Nibc. If you check out Dj Nibc on Myspace you can have a listen or simply google my name. The video was on rotation in Scandinavia and Europe on MTV. But now is where I am. I am part of a fantastic Funk band called The Killer Meters. We revive the funk and are working on a album featuring some classics and original music.

Check us for gigs etc. on:

http://www.myspace.com/thekillermetersfunk

Things are going great for us and 2007 was fantastic year just making our mark. We have set 2008 up nicely so time to record and continue playing live everywhere. We played at Cargo for new years eve and it set the pace. Watch us bring funk to you like no other especially with me at the front and Sparo on drums.

Cleethorpes Northern Soul Weekender 6-8 June 2008

Ady Croasdell has sent me details of the above event:

The 2008 6TS Northern and Modern Soul Weekender at Cleethorpes boasts an impressive three act live performance at midnight on the Saturday all-nighter.

KARIME HARRIS

The opening act sees us witness the start of a new musical career for a very talented young singer. Karime is the daughter of top LA songwriter and producer Kent Harris and the legendary LA singer Ty Karim. She has actually now made north-west London her home and lives 2 miles from Ace’s offices.


Over the past few years she has been performing as the lead singer of the funk group the Killer Meters, but has now come to terms with her parents’ music which she had previously revered so much that she was loath to perform it. However Kent Records’ recent and future reissuing of her mother’s 60s and 70s recordings has put that music back to the forefront and seeing Duffy, Adele and Amy hitting the charts with US soul style songs has made her determined to claim back her birthright and perform a special tribute to her parents’ work.

She has inherited her mother’s husky, deep (for a woman) voice and will perform her biggest Northern and Modern tracks including ‘Lighten Up Baby’, ‘You Just Don’t Know’, ‘You Really Made It Good To Me’, ‘Wear Your Natural’, ‘Lighten Up’ and ‘I Ain’t Lying’ aka ‘Ain’t That Love Enough’. It will be a memorable night for both us and her.

FRANK DELL

Speaking of big voices, we are proud to be bringing New York singer Frank Dell over to Europe for the first time. Frank is a soul collector’s household name on the strength of his one superlative Northern Soul smash ‘He Broke Your Game Wide Open’. Though he has been a singer throughout his life, his career has mainly been on the jazz circuit, which has been our loss and their gain.

He recorded with New York stalwart producer Phil Medley, most famous for penning the original ‘Twist And Shout’ and Dave Blake the guy responsible for the Quotations and Jackye Owens recordings, among others. Apart from HBYGWO he cut the uptempo ‘Baby You’ve Got It’ which is soon to feature on Kent’s “Northern Soul’s Classiest Rarities Vol 3”. He recorded more sides with Phil and Dave in the 70s, some of which mysteriously came out on the Guinness LP devoted to Frank. More tracks were laid down that never made it onto vinyl like the excellent two-stepper ‘You’ve Got To Deal With It’ and one that came out as a Valise label 12” only, ‘What More Can I Do’, which is getting a lot of Modern soul action right now.

He also had a pair of singles for the Philips and Blue Rock stable of labels under his surname of Murphy; his real name being Franklin Delano Murphy. As Big Frank Murphy he cut 'It's All Over But The Pain' while as Big Frank & The Essence he recorded the magnificent 'I Won't Let Her See Me Cry', one of the monsters of the Stafford inspired "60s newies" Northern Soul scene in the 1980s. It will be an honour to hear these recordings performed live.

There's no doubt that Frank’s deep rich voice is going to thrill Cleethorpes and this charming and talented New York singer will show the soul world his vast talent.

GIGI & THE CHARMAINES

Our headline act this year is none other than Cincinnati’s fabulous girl group the Charmaines. Lead by Gigi Griffin this notable outfit has been present at some of the most ground breaking moments in soul music history, supplying backing vocals to many of James Brown’s legendary King sessions and working with the great Herman Griffin/Lewis in Detroit and Chicago in the mid 60s when those cities ruled the airwaves. This will be their first ever European appearance singing their uptempo soul songs.

Though the girls had an impressive series of 45 releases throughout their career, it is three unissued (one unheard) tracks that have shot them into the spotlight in recent years. Firstly we discovered a throbbingly tough version of Ike Turner’s ‘I Idolize You’ in the Fraternity tapes that Ace purchased and though the song was given a release number, no vinyl appears to exist of it. That was until acetate plays at London’s 100 Club turned it into the monster R&B/Northern crossover record that eventually lead to it being released as the 6TS 23rd anniversary single. It’s now very hard to find and quite expensive too. A similar path was lead by the girls’ stupendous 1966 Date recording, ‘I Don’t Wanna Lose Him’ a previously unissued track that was cut by Gigi’s future husband Herman Lewis at the same session as the issued stomper ‘Eternally’, a Wigan monster once bootlegged as by The Sweet Things. ‘Lose’ eventually saw life onto vinyl 4 years late as another 100 Club world exclusive. The third mystery track of the triumvirate is Gigi’s original version of the Andrea Henry and Janice Northern Soul classic ‘I Need You Like A Baby’. It’s a song Dale Warren wrote for the Charmaines that got as far as the demo stage but was then used on Andrea Henry. Sadly the demo version has not been heard since it was cut, but Gigi remembers Andrea copied her performance completely. Dale also wrote ‘Guilty’ and ‘Girl Crazy’ for the girls in this period, two great Columbia singles that will also be sung live at Cleethorpes along with their great reading of JJ Barnes’ ‘Poor Unfortunate Me’.

And if that ain’t enough for you, original group member and Gigi’s sister, Gerri Jackson, was the girl responsible for the wonderful duet with Herman Lewis (Griffin) version of Clara Ward’s stomping Wigan classic ‘The Right Direction’. And she’s going to relive that rare soul moment with us too.

So I feel this year’s Cleethorpes live show will be a remarkable and entertaining experience for us all. You might even catch me with a smile on my face.

Ady

Full info on weekender and all things 6t ish can be found at links below

http://www.6ts.info/

http://www.6ts.info/weekenders.asp?area=introduction

Blue Note Record Sleeves

There is nothing quite like the album sleeve as a concept. I love looking at pictures of albums and one site that has plenty to ooze over is one devoted to the Blue Note Jazz label - go and take a look!

Dark End Of The Street Mix

I have forgot to mention that this week's mix over on my Keeping Soul Alive blog is based on my Dark End Of The Street blog . The mix concentrates on posts based around my conversations with artists.

Please drop over to Dark End Of The Street and read posts on Hermon Hitson, Freddie Terrell, John Gary Williams and Randy Brown amongst others. Upcoming posts will feature Hoagy Lands, Lee Moses, Calvin Scott, Freddie Hughes, Mighty Hannibal, Jeff Floyd, Vernon Garrett, Kip Anderson and John Ellison.

Powerstation Allnighter 30/5/08

Universal Soul Club 5/5/08

Chicago Soul Trip USA 2009

The Bamboos In Australia June 2008

100 Club Picture Show 11/5/08

I was dropped details of the above exhibition:

100 Club Picture Show Friday 9th May – Sunday 11th May
Curated by Emily Beaver
Main Show for Public:
Friday 9th May – Sunday 11th May
12pm – 4pm
Free Entry

Announcing a new permanent display for the walls of the world famous 100 Club.

For 3 days the 100 Club will open the doors through the afternoon, giving the public unlimited access to view the work and venue for free.

Photographs from the club, spanning the last 60 years will include Jazz and Blues by Walter Hanlon, Terry Cryer and Chas McDevitt, The Punk Festival of 1976 shot by Barry Plummer, Ray Stevenson and Jill Furmanovsky and Rock and Indie acts by Paul Slattery, Dean Chalkley and Ross Halfin. Bringing you The Sex Pistols, The Clash, Siouxsie Sioux, Metallica, Oasis, Humphrey Lyttelton, Gallows, Chuck Berry, The Damned, Primal Scream and The Horrors to name but a few.

Still standing after 60 years the 100 Club has earned a long overdue show of appreciation, not only for being a place of historical importance for music, but also for remaining a personal treasure to many. The inspiration for the exhibition came from The Rolling Stones on stage at the club in 1982, images of which were donated to the club by Carole Lateman, only to be stored away and forgotten for over 20 years. Recently discovered, they sparked the desire to put them where they belong on the walls of the club for the public’s enjoyment.

With a capacity of 300, the 100 Club shows are always intimate and accessible. This show serves to update the famous walls, rather than transform them, keeping the existing style of the interior.

Wiley & The Checkmates We Call It Soul

The latest CD from the Rabbit Factory featuring Wiley & The Checkmates who are one of the bands at tonight's Ponderosa Stomp in New Orleans backing Hermon Hitson, Roscoe Robinson and Ralph Jackson.

They call it soul, and we do too -- a pretty good approximation of older southern soul modes from the 60s and 70s -- served up by a group who really gets it right! The set was recorded at the legendary Playground Studios -- and in Memphis too -- and the overall feel is stripped-down southern soul, without any of the too-glossy, or too-modern touches that show up in other recent proponents of the genre. There's also a nice undercurrent of funk, too -- thanks to some tight backings -- and vocals are by a male and female singer, who shift during the set. Titles include "Up In Heah", "I Did My Part", "I Want Your Love In My Life", "Tryin To Get Next To You", "Have You Been Crying", and "Set Your Mind Free" Dusty Groove

The band consist of Herbert Wiley- vocals, band leader; Matty Crockett - congas, percussion;
Tricanna McGee- vocals; J.D.Mark - guitar; Matt Patton - bass and Anthony Amp Wortham
- drums.

Drop over to their MySpace to listen to tracks. Here's their blurb:

Herbert Wiley formed the Checkmates in his hometown Oxford, Mississippi in 1960. After a dozen years playing a circuit that stretched from the Gulf Coast to the Midwest, Wiley quit music to run the family business. After watching the Oxford punk band the Preacher's Kids rehearse in a local storefront, Wiley was inspired to reform the Checkmates in 2002.

Wiley and the The Checkmates have become a force of Southern soul with performances in Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, and the 2006 Ponderosa Stomp in Memphis, TN., where they backed soul singers Bobby Patterson and Harvey Scales and blues guitarist Fillmore Slim. The Checkmates have been feted in soul and blues magazines around the world and have appeared on the playlists of blues and roots radio programs around the U.S. as well as in England, Holland, Italy, and Argentina.

Wiley and the Checkmates full-length debut CD "Introducing..." and their "Streak-A-Lean" b/w "Deep Shit" 7-inch are available at http://www.pickmarkrecords.com/

Nigeria Disco Funk Special

I have been playing this to death since I picked it up after hearing a track on the Craig Charles Funk & Soul Show.

Massive funk from the Nigerian scene of the 70s -- and miles away from US disco of the time! These cuts represent a tighter, more uptempo side of African funk -- but they're never as polished or professional as American club or disco -- no soaring strings, female chorus vocals, or other sweetening touches that played big at Studio 54. Instead, these grooves are all still gritty -- the kind of upbeat jamming funk performed in Lagos clubs and bars at the time -- kind of a distillation of the longer grooves of Fela, pushed a bit towards an American funk sound too. Drums and guitars dominate most of the tracks -- making for a well-played, edgey sound throughout -- and although there's a fair bit of vocals on the set, the instrumental jamming is the main focus of most of these tunes. Another essential collection from Soundway Records -- with tracks that include "Take Your Soul" by Sahara All Stars, "Will Of The People" by T-Fire, "Some More" by Jay-U Experience, "Love Affair" by S-Job Movement, "Ijere" by Dr Adolf Ahanotu, "Greetings" by Johnny Haastrup, "Lagos City" by Asiko Rock Group, and "Mota Giny" by Voices Of Darkness. Dusty Groove

Mondatta Funk 17/5/08

Craig Charles Funk & Soul Show 26/4/08

Ann Sexton

This week Craig interviewed soul legend Ann Sexton who has been a mysterious lady until her appearance at last year's Baltic Soul Weekender.

Erma Franklin - “Your Love Keeps Lifting Me Higher & Higher” (Kent)
Patti Austin - “Music To My Heart” (Kent)
Melvin Sparks - “If You Want My Love” (Edel Records)
The Soul Snatchers - “Crushed Ice” (Social Beats)
Lonnie The Cat – “I Ain’t Drunk” (Ace Records)
Willie Colon & Ruben Blades – “Plastico” (Mr Bongo Recordings)
Kinny – “Back Street Lust” feat Diesler (Tru Thoughts)
The Family Fortune – “Work” (Skyline Recordings)
James & Bobby Purify - “Shake a Tailfeather” (Sundazed)
Gene Chandler - “After The Laughter (Comes The Tears)” (Kent)
The Soulvation Army Band-“Dancing On A Daydream” (Soulvation Army)
The New Mastersounds - “Idris” (One Note Records)

Candi Staton – “Love Chain” (Honest Jon’s Records)
Una Mas Trio - “Son Montuno”- Smoove Remix (Agogo Records)
Etta James - “I Got You Babe” (Cadet)

Chatting with Simon Hodge, Tuomo & Anne Sexton from the Baltic Soul Weekender

Tuomo – “Don’t Take It To Hard” (White)
Anne Sexton – “You’ve Been Gone To Long” (Soul Brother Records)

Trio Valore - “Fuoco” (Record Kicks)
Millie Jackson – “You Can’t Stand The Thought Of Another Man Loving Me (Kent)
Dusty Springfield - “Can I Get A Witness” (Spectrum)
Roger Collins - “Foxy Girls In Oakland” (Kent)
6Toys - “Voodoo People” (White)
The Country Soul Revue Feat George Soule – “It’s Over” (Casual Records)
Cut Chemist – “Buckies Pick” (Stones Throw)
Thelma Houston - “Jumping Jack Flash” (Spectrum)
Malena - “More Afro” (Freestyle Records)
T- Model Ford – “Junk” (Fat Possum Records)
Geno Washongton – “ Walkin With The Gods” (Kookooland Records)
The Apples – “Power” (Live Session)
Orgel Kvintetten – “Danish Bacon” (Acid Jazz)
Vernon Garrett – “Keep On Forgiving You” (Kent)

Marie Queenie Lyons – “You’re Thing Ain’t” (Vampi Soul)
Jeb Stuart – “I Just Love Your Work” (Kent)
Ironing Board Sam – “Man Of The Street” (Union Square) 20.25
First Choice-“Let No Man Put Asunder” Shep Pettibone Remix Re-edit (Victor)
Lester Young – “” (Kent)
Lee McDonald-“I’ll Do Anything For You” Red Astaire Mix
(Favorite Records)
The O’Jays - “I’ll Never Forget You” (Goldmine Soul Supply)
Sterling Magee - “Keep On” (Kent)
The Spellbinders - “Help Me” (United)
Dark Skin Woman – “Sir Mack Rice” (BGP)
The Men from S.P.E.C.T.R.E – “Beautiful Stranger” (Acid Jazz)

If you missed the show then you can listen again here:

Craig Charles Funk & Soul Show 26/4/08

Sunday Soul Selection 27/4/08

Jon Hendricks

Sunday 27th April 2008: *The Orwell Years* - Part 4
Steve Plumb & Barry Maleady's Sunday Soul Selection.
Presented by Sean O'Connor.

Donn Thomas - How can I help but love you (LP)
Chuck Cissel - Don't tell me your sorry (LP/45)
24 Karat Gold - What does the future hold (12)
Barbara Stant - My mind holds on to yesterday (45)
Brief Encounter - Sweet tender loving (LP)
Solid Gold Revue - She's so good (Baz's jumping 45!)
Delegates of Soul - Lucky guy (45)
Maurice Long - One stands here (LP)
A J Brown - Making love together (45)
Impressions - Sooner or later (45)
Dennis Lee - Sunday afternoon (45)
Van McCoy - What kind of man (LP)
Johnny Moore - Such a wonderful feeling (45)
Essex IV - My heart can't take it (45)
Duane Williams - Yes my love is real (45)
Angel - Soothe you (45)
Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes - Keep on loving you (LP/45)
Spread Love - Here I go (LP)
Village Choir - Along the beach (Fast version!) (SCM) (Tee Shirt not included!)
Jon Hendricks - I bet you thought I'd never find you (LP)
Infinity - Put everything in its place (45)
Larry Wu - Let me show you (45)
John Simmons - Aint nothing like the love (45)
Bill Spoon - I'm the one who loves you (12)
Bonnie Blanchard - You're the only one (45)
Oscar Weathers - When you see what you want (Plumby's 45 that dropped off the deck!!)
Tony Middleton - Spanish maiden (12)
Bobby Cutchins - Leaving (45)

Download Sunday Soul Selection 27/4/08

Waxpoetics Issue 27

Latest issue out with Grandmaster Flash and Eddie Harris.

James Brown Funkfest 3/5/08

Mods Mayday Soulside 10/5/08

Alexander O'Neil & Howard Hewett 24/5/08

Boogaloo Assassins & Chico Mann @ Descarga LA 10/5/08

Tony Middleton Spanish Maiden

Tony Middleton Spanish Maiden Speed

A real favourite of mine which you can find on the Chuito & The Latin Uniques From The Street album on Speed Records.

The album featured: Jesus (Chuito) Santiago—Leader, Timbales; Norberto (Benbe) Carrasquillo—Lead Latin Vocals; Danny Agosto—Latin Cord; English Vocals Tony Middleton—Vocal on “Spanish Maiden”; Robert Maldanado—Conga; Charlie Torres–Bongo-Bell; Eddie Ruperto—Bass; Auther Puerto—Piano; Jay Torres—1st Trumpet; Irving Alaman—2nd Trumpet (Solo); Denisio Santiago—1st Trombone; Richie Colon—2nd Trombone (Solo). The album was produced by Stanley Lewis and Morty Craft with Bobby Marin as music. The abum was recorded at Studio 42, N.Y. (early 70’s) Speed Records (A Division of Latin Showcase Productions LTD.) 345 West 58th Street, New York, N.Y. 10019.

I like Tony Middleton's big city voice and you can find more of his music on a CD called Paris Blues. The title song is his classic side which was massive in the 70's on the UK Northern Soul scene and was issued in the UK on Grapevine Records.

You can pick a copy up of the Paris Blues CD from CD Baby:

The blurb has this to say about Tony:

Tony Middleton... One of the most versatile performers on the entertainment scene. You will note, on this CD, Tony can be edgy or soft, amusing or seductive. Tony Middleton loves music and caresses every word he sings. Tony sings with the power, feeling and sureness that only great talents have.

Tony has been aptly described as having “a rare ability” and a “vocal talent unsurpassed”. His career has included record recording, Broadway, commercials, television, and the cabaret circuit here and abroad. He lived and performed in Paris and Europe in the jazz circuit for a number of years and gets called back time and again.

Tony started his career as lead singer of the Willows, having composed his hit recording of “Church Bells May Ring” and is still in demand to sing with the Willows at Doo Wop concerts and has done several PBS Doo Wop shows.

As a soloist, Tony is known by world class performers. Tony has performed with and the music of Burt Bacharach, whose recording “Don’t Ever Leave Me” received a Grammy Award nomination. He has performed for Quincy Jones and Cy Coleman with their music. Having appeared at the Apollo along with Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, Big Mabel and Slappy White, he has also sung with Sissy Houston, Nell Carter and Della Reese.

Tony was the lead in “Cabin in the Sky” and one of the featured singers in the Broadway show “Purlie”. He performed in concert at the City Center with the Alvin Ailey Dancers in which he sang the “Mary Lou William’s Mass”, and was one of the headliners at Lincoln Center at the 55th Birthday Tribute to the late Charlie Parker.

He’s the man who can do it all……TONY MIDDLETON

Unfortunately, the above CD does not contain all of Tony's music which is a shame!

You can read more about Tony Middleton here based on an interview by Pete Burns with Tony back in 1999.

Jimmy Witherspoon Man Don't Cry

Jimmy Witherspoon Man Don't Cry Prestige

A track by Jimmy Witherspoon from 1964 with Kenny Burrell, Roy Haynes, Eddie Kahn and Gildo Mahones.

Bobby Parker In Hospital

I've received a message from Terry McArdle to tell me the following news about Bobby Parker:

Blues singer and guitarist Bobby Parker, famous for his hit records “Watch Your Step” (V-Tone label, 1961) and “Blues Get Off My Shoulder” (VJ label, 1958) as well as his two contemporary blues CDs on the Black Top label, has been hospitalized for the past three and a half weeks. Presently, he is at Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C. where he has undergone surgery for a mass in his stomach. Georgetown has a reputation as one of the best facilities for internal medicine on the East Coast – that’s the good news. The bad news is that Bobby has had to cancel all his immediate local engagements as well as an appearance at New Orleans’ Ponderosa Stomp. His bills are mounting.

For those in the Washington, D.C. area, there will be a benefit concert at the Surf Club, 4711 Kenilworth Ave., Riverdale, Md. on Sunday, May 11th featuring The Nighthawks, Memphis Gold, and Terence McArdle & Jumpin’ Tonight with some special guests. We plan to set up a custodial account for Bobby’s bills probably through the auspices of the Washington Area Music Association (WAMA-DC).

In the meantime, those who want help out by sending donations can writing checks payable to Bobby Parker and send them in care of the DC Blues Society, PO Box 77315, Washington, DC 20013.

You may also send cards and letter to Bobby care of Terence McArdle, PO Box 6548, Silver Spring, MD 20916 – and I will hand deliver them to him in the hospital. (I think this may be better than dealing with the hospital’s internal mailroom.) Please keep Bobby in your thoughts and prayers.

Thank you,

Terence McArdle

My thoughts are with Bobby.

Bobby Bland Update

My thoughts are also with Bobby Bland who is currently ill in hospital in Memphis.

I had a message through from Ann Kline of Malaco Records:

Bobby will have a cardiac stent inserted Monday AM at 7:00. That should help his circulation & general health. Baptist East Hospital in Memphis.

Per Wolf Stephenson.

Best regards,
Anna Kline
Assistant to Director Of Business Affairs,
Music Licensing Assistant
Malaco Music Group
P.O. Box 9287
3023 W. Northside DriveJackson, Mississippi USA 39286
phone: 601.982.4522 x206
fax: 601.982.4528
www.malaco.com
www.southernsoulradio.com

Further update 27/4/08

Bobby's out of his Procedure and doing fine.

Anna

Nathaniel Mayer Update

My thoughts are with Nathaniel Mayer who recently had a stroke.

I picked up this message from the Dark End Of The Street forum:

Nathaniel is still in the hospital, slowly recovering from the stroke. His right side and speech have been affected. He is more alert now, and though speech and movement are difficult for him at the moment, the slight improvements he's made are encouraging. The X-rays reveal that the damage from the stroke was limited to a small area, so the doctors think a considerable recovery is possible. Nate is aware of the many messages he's recieved here. Knowing how much everyone cares about him is giving him strength. Also, listening to lots of James Brown on the CD player is doing him good. We will keep posting information here.

Take care Nathaniel and get well soon.

Sierra Hurtt On The Right Track Radio Show 27/4/08

I've had a message through from Harry from the Right Track Radio Show:

Hi everyone

Remember to tune in to The Right Track on Sunday from 8 pm - 10 pm on Salford City Radio 94.4 fm.

Sierra Hurtt (Phil Hurtt's daughter) from Philadelphia will be in the studio so if you have any questions please email them now to righttrack@salfordcityradio.org

We'll also be playing tribute to the late, great Al Wilson who we sadly lost this week.

As always, if you have any requests, dedications, gigs or soul events going on - get in touch. We're opening up the phone lines for the first time this week so you can always ring in on 0161 793 2944. We're looking forward to hearing from you.

Get on The Right Track.

Harry & Diana
The Right Track Soul Show
Salford City Radio 94.4 fm
Sunday nights 8.00 pm - 10.00 pm
www.salfordcityradio.org
email: righttrack@salfordcityradio.org
http://www.therighttrack.org.uk

Jimmy "Preacher" Robins RIP

I received a message this AM asking me to confirm that Jimmy had died late last year. Unfortunately, when I checked I discovered that he had died on Christmas Eve 2007.

I had several conversations with Jimmy about his life and music and I had always hoped to meet up with him. I found him to be a real gentleman who patiently answered all my questions and who I enjoyed talking with.

We have lost another great singer and my thoughts go out to his family.

I will be back with a full retrospective on Jimmy's life as soon as possible. Life is full of coincidences because I just received a comment over on my Keeping Soul Alive blog saying thanks "the great great Jimmy Robins!" That's how I felt about him - a truely wonderful singer. I will certainly include as much of Jimmy's music in the retrospective because it deserves to be heard!

Thanks Preacher!!!!!

Randy Brown

Randy Brown I'm On Sick Leave Black Magic

I am continuing to post up my old interviews on my revamped Dark End Of The Street blog. The next interview is one with Randy Brown which I conducted back in 2003 and was originally published in In The Basement in 2004. The interview is based on conversations I had with Randy and his brothers Bertram and William.

The interview contains unpublished photos and coloured versions of the photos originally used in the In The Basement article.

When I conducted the interview I only had a copy of the above 45 on 1X Chains. During the interview I didn't find out the story behind the label because I didn't know of its existence and Randy Brown didn't mention its issue on Black Magic!

Still from a video made in Memphis 2003:

Randy, William & Bertram

Al Wilson 1939-2008

I woke up this AM to the sad news that Al Wilson died yesterday.

Al had one of those distinctive voices that as soon as you heard him you recognised his singing. I was going to dig out the 45 of I've Got A Feeling until I found the above on Youtube.

You can read more about Al Wilson on Soul Express .

Al Wilson RIP

Eddie Russ Zaius

Eddie Russ Zaius Monument LP See The Light

Recently, I have been enjoy a nostalgic trip back in time via the memories of people on Essential Modern Soul who were part of the UK's Jazz Funk scene back in the late 70's . Back in 1977/78, I couldn't get enough of sounds like Eddie Russ etc as they swept through the clubs of the UK. Zaius probably more than any other track reminds me of that period when I frequented venues like the Ritz and Rafters in Manchester. I used to buy many sounds from Spin Inn in Manchester or pick them up cheap from Soul Bowl which was better known for rare soul and Northern Soul. See The Light was released in 1976 and I first heard it about late 77 when I was starting to pick up the more obscure jazz funk releases.

Eddie Russ was a keyboard player from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania who worked with many jazz greats such as Benny Golson, Sarah Vaughn, Stan Getz and Dizzy Gillespie in the sixties and early seventies before starting a solo career.

He recorded See The Light at the famous United Sound Studios in Detroit and his rippling keyboards feature heavily on this very electronic album. The ARP basslines and Solina strings dominate most tracks. Besides Zaius, the other track which picked up plays was Stop It Now but I also enjoyed the slow Salem Avenue featuring Larry Nozero on sax and Marcus Belgrave on trumpet.

He also had another good album on Monument called Take A Look At Yourself which came out in 1978.

The Drivers Mr Astronaut King

The Drivers Mr Astronaut King

Sunday Soul Selection 20/4/08

This week's show on Solar Radio was hosted by Bob ‘the Crate’ Smith. Bob featured some excellent sides as you can see in the tracklisting:

Hodges James & Smith - Since I fell For You (12”)
G.C. Cameron - Strong Love (LP track)
Art & Honey - Let’s Make Love (45)
Willie Rogers - I Want To Thank You (45)
Johnny Moore - Just Be For Real (45)
Faith Hope & Charity - Who Could Love You More Than I (45)
Intruders - Do You Remember Yesterday (45)
Clarence Carter - Warning (45)
Newban - Free Your Mind (LP track)
Belita Woods - Magic Corner (45)
Jon Lucien - Search For The Inner Self (45)
JT Brown - Like Taking Candy From A Baby (45)
Charlie Hodges - Loving You Is Beautiful (45)
Butlers - She’s Gone (45)
Foundations - Change My Life (45)
Committee - Give In To The Power Of Love (45)
Maureen Bailey - Takin' My Time With You (45)
Reggie Sadler Revue - Just Wait & See (45)
Burny Reynolds - Try Me (45)
Flamingos - Think About Me (45)
Tommie Lee - That’s The Way I Want To Live My Life (45)
Primbrock Skiggs - that was yesterday (45)
Margaret Reynolds - I’m Gonna Let You Go (45)
Tomorrow’s Promise - That’s The Way It Will Stay (45)
Dennis Landry - Mm Mm Good (45)
Cornelius & Carol - So I Can Love You (45)
Soul Children - We Got to Get Our Thing Together (LP track)
Ace Spectrum - Pick Up (LP track)
Richard Stepp - Caught Up In A Whirlwind (Expansion 45)
Ben E King - Happiness Is Where You Find It (LP track)
Bill Brandon - Love Is A Two Way Street (LP track)
Leon Haywood - The La La Song (LP track)
George & Gwen McCrae - You & I Were Made For Each Other (LP track)
Tints Of Darkness - Answer Me (45)
Fantastic Four - I’m Falling In Love (45)

If you missed the show then you can listen again here:

Sunday Soul Selection 20/4/08

The Bahama Soul Club But Rich Rhythms

I was turned onto this band by Craig Charles - drop overt o their MySpace and take a listen to their new 45.

Melting Pot 26/4/08

Mods Mayday Soulside 10/5/08

Big Joe Louis Go Go Train

Big Joe has dropped me a line to say that his great 45 of last year - Go Go Train - has been reissued by Timmion. Don't miss it this time around.

Lou Pride Some Legends Are To Find

Drop over to the movie's MySpace to keep in touch.

Mousetrap "Fuzz For Freaks" 26/4/08

Funkduplondon Experience 26/4/08

Mods v Rockers Vertigo Special 3/5/08

The Strides @ The Boiler Club 25/4/08

Sweet Angel @ Chuck's Place Memphis 2/5/08

Jose James @ DROM NY22/4/08

Foundation Presents... 2 and 9 May 2008

Soul Discovery 20/4/08

Bill Coday

I think Mick surpassed himself this week!!! A stunner of a show demonstrating that the USA is pumping out some classic stuff at the moment!

Tracklisting

L.J. Reynolds “Key to the world” (Volt)
Duane Williams “Yes my love is real” (Soul Junction)
Bruce Billups “Beautiful” (CDS)
The Chestnut Brothers “Whole Lotta You In Me” (Abdul Promo Remix)
James Saxmo Gates “I know what God has done for me” (Winlane)
Shantel “Arise” (Mo-Philly)
Al Green/Anthony Hamilton “You’re got the love I need” (Bluenote Promo)
Shantel “Arise” (Mo-Philly)
Al Green/Anthony Hamilton “You’re got the love I need” (Bluenote Promo)
Al Green “True love” (A&M)
Bill Coday “When the dance is over” (Ecko)
Sam Moore “I want you back” (SSM)
The Rhythm Allstars feat: Geoff McBride
“What you you won’t for love” (Jomar Promo)
Maurice “How Can You Say You Love Me” (GloMar)
Eloise Laws “Tenderness” (Scepterstein)
Pookie Lane “Work it out” (Allison)
The Chestnut Bros “Come To Me” (Abdul Promo)
Nellie “Tiger” Travis/Stan Mosley “Who know you” (CDS)
Father Children “If I” (FC)
The Rhythm Allstars feat: Geoff McBride
“I’ll work for you” (Jomar Promo)
JJ. Johnson “Slow Jam” (R&S)
J Blackfoot “I’m just fool for you” (Rightnow)
OL Skool “Am I dreaming” (Universal)
The Beck Starr “Angel – Girlfriend” (CDS promo)
James Whitney “Goodness knows” (Whitney Music)
Bobby Cutchins “You’re my kind of girl” (Lasso) 7’
George Jackson “I want that love back” (Mardi Gras)
The Justic Dept. “It could be more beautiful than life” (Fair Play)
Doris Allen “Let's Walk Down The Street Together” (Soulscape Promo)
The Rhythm Allstars feat: Geoff McBride
“Stuck” (Jomar Promo)
Arthur “Where do you run” (Arthur)
Bob Baldwin/Phil Perry “Too Late” (Narada)
Bernard “Kingdom of love” (Bernard Stevenson)
Maurice Jackson - It's Been Revealed (T&Glomar)
Michael Sutton “Bandaid” (Litty Dizzy)
Cornelius MD “September” (Earfull)

If you missed the show then you can listen again here:

Soul Discovery 20/4/08

Sequins Try My Love Detroit Sound

Sequins Try My Love Detroit Sound



Download Sequins Try My Love Detroit Sound

I had the following message through after posting The Sequins He's Gonna Break Your Heart Detroit Sound:

Hey this is actually my mom's group. She was part of the original group members. They recorded song and was never paid for the song or their singing. My mom was about 17 at the time, Her friend who was another member of the group is having a 60th. Birthday party and I would love it if you were able to give me the mp3 of the song "Try my Love". MY mom's name is Merlene Karriem, and here friends' name is Brenda Roland. They were two of the three original members. I would greatly apppriciate it if you could get me this song as soon as you can. Thank You
William Holsey.

Wiiliam - I hope the party goes well and I've posted Try My Love!

Wigan Casino Interior Circa 1978

I looked back through my diary to see when Try My Love was first played at the Wigan Casino - the spiritual home of Northern Soul. I found an entry with it mentioned on 14th January 1978. I have posted a picture of the interior of the Wigan Casino around that time before anyone entered the place. I recall many a night being one of the first up the stairs to the dancefloor and the sounds booming around the empty space before it filled up with over 1500 soulies!

Let's Have A Party Mix

It's Monday so time for a new mix over on Keeping Soul Alive - Let's Have A Party Mix

Check it out and brighten up your Monday morning!!!!

Interview with Ken Shipley Founder Of Numero Uno

Numero Uno are one of the best companies in the reissue market with their fantastic Eccentric Soul series which have have been featured on IDR over the years.

You can now read about the stories behind Numero Uno in an interview with Ken Shipley the man behind the label with WTTM Radio.

Rollin' & Tumblin' R&B Club 26/4/08

Craig Charles Funk & Soul Show 19/4/08

Bill Curtis

This week's show featured an interview with Bill Curtis of The Fatback Band fame and Lonnie Jordan and Eric Burdon talking about their version of War.

Gladys Knight - “I Heard It Through The Grapevine” (Pickwick International)
Sidney Barnes - “I Hurt On The Other Side” (Music Club)
The Family Fortune featuring Jessica Darling - “Work”
(Skyline Recordings)
Sunset Soul Presents Da Weisel - “Soul Food”-Feature Cast Remix (Good Groove)
Bobby Peterson Quintet – “Mama, Get Your Hammer” (Ace/Theme Time radio)
Eli “Paperboy” Reed & The True Loves – “The Satisfier” (Qdivision)
Bonnie And Shelia – “You Keep Me Hangin On” (Soul Jazz Records)
Ann Sexton - “Color My World Blue” (Soul Brother Records)
The Supremes - “Nathan Jones” (Universal)
The O’Jays - “This Air I Breathe” Harmless
P Funk Allstars – “Chocolate City” (Mercury)
The Filthy Six - “Knockout” (Mr Bongo Recordings)

Bill Curtis from the Fatback Band Interview

Fatback band – “Double Dutch” (Polydor)
Bobby Thurston - “Is Something Wrong With You”(Prelude Records)
The Sahara All Stars – “Take Your Soul” (Sound Way)
The Apples – “Stack It Up” (Freestyle)
The Mohawks - “Champ” (Pama Records Ltd)
Kashmere Stage Band - “Super Strut” Kay Dee Remix (Now Again Records)
Kylie Auldist – “Community Service Announcement” (Tru Thoughts)
Gerardo Frisisna - “Donke De” (Schema Records)
Candi Staton - “I’m Just A Prisoner (Of Your Good Lovin’)” (Honest Jon’s Records)
Johnny Pacheco - “Boogaloo De Johnny” Quantic Remix (Mr Bongo Recordings)
Lord Large – “The Pouch” (Acid Jazz)

Interview with Eric Burdon & Lonnie Jordon (WAR)

War – “Spill The Wine” (Avenue Records)
Black Rock – “Blackrock Yeah Yeah” (BGP)
James Taylor – “Highway Patrol” (Mocambo Records)
Moses & Joshua Dillard – “My Elusive Dreams (Kent)
Jimmy Thomas – “Where There’s A Will” (Kent)
Cameo - “Insane” (Mercury)
Mr. Benn - “The Jump” (Martin Brew's Manhattan Rumble Mix)
(Leisure Recordings)
Thelma Houston - “Midnight Mona” (Spectrum)
Cornelius Brothers And Sister Love - “Too Late To Turn Back Now” (United Artists Records)
Lenny Williams - “I Couldn’t Find Nobody” (Kent)
Shirley Ellis - “Sugar Let’s Shing-A-Ling” (Columbia)
Captain Hammond – “Gimme Some Lovin” (Hammond Beat)

If you missed the show then tune in again here:

Craig Charles Funk & Soul Show 19/4/08

Amsterdam Soul Club 26/4/08

Sir Shambling Updates

Debbie Taylor

John Ridley has been busy updating his Sir Shambling website over the last few weeks with features on the following artists: Art Grayson, the raw Eddie Finley, Joe Mayfield, Marie"Queenie" Lyons and the celebrated Betty Fikes Big T & The Peace Makers, Willie Gauff from the West Coast, the obscure Snapshots and Tommy Soul and the really excellent Debbie Taylor.Oasis and Chuck Henley from New York, the obscure Jessie James Jr., Bobby Banks from Philly and Marilyn Barbarin from the Crescent City.

Drop over to Sir Shambling and check out the above including pictures, soundclips and discographies.

Sky Sports & Herbie Goins Number One In Your Heart

It never ceases to amaze me how many soul songs have crept into advertising in the UK. The latest one is Herbie Goins's 60's club classic Number One In Your Heart used by Sky Sports to advertise football matches.

John Simms My Acoustic Soul

John Simms My Acoustic Soul

This album originally came out in 2006 and had passed me by until Dave Cole reviewed it for In The Basement magazine due to it being released in France.

If you like you soul mellow in the vein of Terry Callier then take a listen to the snippets. IDR readers maybe familiar with John's work with his brother Arthur. Here is a brief bio:

John Simms hails from Baltimore and has been a professional guitarist, singer, composer and songwriter since he was 17. Being the youngest of 14 children, all of whom were singers or musicians or both, he didn’t have to go very far to find his earliest inspirations; his father was also a gospel singer in the 30s and 40s with a group called the Spiritual Chords.

He honed his craft the old-school way having spent many years on the Chitlin Circuit with various groups; including the 70s H&L records recording group: The Softones- for whom he was bandleader/guitarist / arranger (The Softones originated with his two brothers and two nephews).

He came to Paris more than 20 years ago to get off the road for a while and hook up with his pianist/singer brother Arthur. He immediately began to make a living there: sometimes as a song writer/composer, (he even wrote songs for the Paradis Latin’s show Champagne), sometimes as a session guitarist or yet again as a backing vocalist with his now-deceased brother. French performers are perhaps not known outside the country, but one of the people or groups he performed and recorded with with might mean something to someone: Michel Jonasz, Robert Charlebois, Yves Simon, Jacques Dutronc, Chagrin d’Amour, (he also did a few tours with Nana Mouskouri).

His first album, which he made with his brother Arthur, was released in 1980. It was produced by Alec Costandinos in the US and soberly entitled ‘John &Arthur Simms’
While in the States John also worked as a session guitarist with the renowned singer/songwriter /producer Al Johnson and he made it to Carnegie Hall playing behind the 70s classy soul singer Jean Carn.

John returned to Paris and married Brenda (Danielle Rogé) Jackson who was head of musical programming at French cable television network Canal +. Throughout the 13 years of his marriage, John continued to write songs for various French artist and work occasionally as a studio singer/musician, but following Brenda’s death in 2002 he faded from the music world as he tried to deal with his loss. He had come to Paris to be with his brother Arthur and stayed for his wife Brenda; now they were both gone.

Life began to take on meaning again for John when he decided just over a year ago that it was time to get back to his first love: playing and singing. The Parisian audiences were so bowled over by his performance that they implored him to make an album: the result is My Acoustic Soul.

Mister King Take Shape

Mister King Take Shape Snippets

I originally read about this album on Soul Treasures but returned to it after Dave Cole reviewed it for In The Basement magazine. If you listen to the above snippets you can hear that this is very different.

Here's some background info:

Mister King, born and raised Philadelphia. In total love with the art of expression! carrying the torch that his momma, the late, great "back to soul" Anna king of the "James Brown Review" passed on to him. He's hungry and he's searching for that place where Jimi Hendrix or John Coltrane fed us from. He dares to be different in a world of "junk food" music! And soon you will witness open pages of his passionate journal, with words that are as sweet as molasses to words that would cut you down to the root. His amazing new album "Take Shape" bursts through every bit of wicked chapters he has endured in his life and will show you just where he is standing this very moment.

You can get copies from CD Baby

Bruce James This Is Bruce James

Bruce James Snippets

This album was a Soul Treasures fave for this year. It took me a few listen to get into it but it has certainly grown on me.

All I know about Bruce James comes from a short blurb on CD Baby:

Bruce is one of Chicago's Premier R&B musicians. He was raised on Chicago's record row in the 60's. This is his first real effort as far as releasing any recording. His decades of recording experience and playing ability really does shine in this (his first) CD. He still works in Chicago's downtown blues clubs, as well as Chicago's north side blues clubs. In all honesty, you will find this (his) first work quite enjoyable.

Blak Ice Next To You

Blak Ice Next To You Snippets

I was tipped to this album after someone saw them live in Jackson and put me onto them.

Here's Black Cat Record's publicity blurb on the band:

Blak Ice is a group based in Jackson, Tennessee. This group consists of 5 members and is a great and enjoyable show band.

The members of this group includes 2 brothers, Jesse Sanders and Charles Blackmon, Lead and Backing Vocals, Jeremy Sanders, Keyboards, Gary Wolfe, Keyboards, Steve Gunn, Drums and Percussion and Al Wilder, Bass . The new CD by this group is a combination of songs designed with all generations in mind, ranging to nice dancing music, to the slow and sensuous songs with the ladies in mind

Get yours today! Blak Ice "Next To You" www.cdbaby.com/blakice

www.myspace.com/blakiceandcold

In The Basement 50

Congratulations to Dave Cole, editor of In The Basement, for reaching Issue 50. In The Basement is one of the world's leading magazines dedicated to soul music specialising in detailed articles based on interviews with artsists.

Issue 50 contains interviews with Shirley Alston, Eddie Floyd, Chuck Jackson, Esther Marrow and Ruby Winters plus an in-depth look at the Ovide record label. You can also find all the usual features including news round-up, gig reports, vinyl spotlight, reviews and readers forum.

You can obtain a copy from Dave:

itb@basement-group.co.uk

Dave - here's to the next 50 issues!!!!!

Mamon & Mamon He's My Rock

Mamon & Mamon He's My Rock Snippets

I have been enjoying this album since I first heard a track on Soul Discovery and I thought I'd give it another shout with audio this time around.

Please take a listen to the snippets and you can read more on my original post on Mamon & Mamon.

Bobby Wilson Home Is Where The Love Is

Bobby Wilson Here Is Where The Love Is

Bobby Wilson has a long pedigree in soul music stretching back to the 60's and he cut one of my favourite albums of the 70's with I'll Be Your Rainbow for Buddah.

He is still in fine voice and he has a new album out of cover versions which I really enjoyed even though it would have been nice to have heard on new material. Take a listen to some snippets above and you can pick this album up from CD Baby.

Here is his bio:

Bobby Wilson, pianist and vocalist, possesses a unique talent that is difficult to find locally. After classically studying/ training in music, Bobby left his native New York to further his career. He has been perfecting his talent for the last thirty years.

As a solo act (singer) in the 70’s, Bobby scored on Billboard’s national charts three times with his singles from his album I’ll Be Your Rainbow on Buddah Records. His second album “Too Many Memories” on his Jazzberry Records continues to sell well on the internet and through out the world; his earlier recorded music on the Buddah label such as Deeper and Deeper and It Feels Good has appeared on many dance compilations and he remains very popular in Japan and England today. His single, “Let Me Down Slow,” is on the nine CD Stax Volt Greatest Hit Compilation. The compilation is a volume of Stax number one hits.

Bobby has been the opening act for recording artists The Stylistics, Billy Paul, The Dramatics, Luther Ingram, and many more. Among his achievements, Bobby won the Amatuer Night at the Apollo Theatre in New York and later opened for Melba Moore at the Apollo.Later in the 70’s, Bobby signed with Motown as a staff songwriter for the publishing wing, Jobete. Bobby had the opportunity to further hone his craft by working with artists Diana Ross, Mary Wilson, Thelma Houston, and others.After leaving Motown, Bobby continued to perfect his vocal and piano skills by performing as a lounge artist. He has played in hundreds of hotels from Holiday Inns to the Trump Casino and everything in between, including cruise ships.

Now Bobby releases his Here Is Where The Love Is CD on his independent label Flycity records which he feels is his best work to date. Bobby wrote the title song but moves effortlessly through some great hits of the past with heartfelt emotion and feeling. This CD brings to mind some of the great love songs such as: What You Won’t Do For Love, Night And Day, Can’t Help Falling In Love, Don’t Know Why I Didn’t Call, just to mention a few song titles in this seventeen track set compilation.

Also check out his Too Many Memories on CD Baby

By coincidence, Steve's Soul Sounds have just got copies of Bobby's 2002 gospel set I Your Name - drop over and take a listen to that one as well because it is a great set!

Save Me (Billy's Got To Eat)

Various Artists Billy's Got To Eat BBDS CD Snippets

I was tipped to this interesting CD by Soul Treasures. It is a mixture of old and new with one of my favourite West Coast groups The ballads featuring on several tracks alongside young rappers Donald Thompson and Ben Petry as well as blues singers Sammy Mayfield. Please take a listen to the snippets!

You can pick the CD up from CD Baby and here is the blurb:

This BBDs Compilation CD Is made up with a cast of singers that dates back to
”Old School”(as they say) and a new generation.

Life experience; How it started. Before the Oakland Raider, Oakland A’s and the G.S. Warriors was former NBA player , Don Barsdale’s Showcase and Sportsman Night Clubs:

"Appearing Nightly ………Ladies and Gentlemen, ‘The Fabulous BALLADS”":

Nate Romerson the Founder [Back Gr. Vocal]
Leslie La Palmer [Lead Vocal] Deceased 2002
John Foster (John John) [Back Gr. Vocal]
Robert Thompson (Rico) [Lead / Back Gr. Vocal]
Arthur Cregett, join The Ballads (1985) as Lead Vocal.

The BALLADS and ‘The Whispers‘ use to rock the house and I mean “ROCK THE HOUSE”, Oakland High School Talent Shows, Oaktown Auditorium, The Oakland Coliseum, The Black & Tan Club (Seattle), Cotton Club, (Portland Or.), The Hollywood Palladium and The World Famous Apollo Theater (NYC).

“God Bless Our Love 2008” years later is still Riding High. What was Leslie’s song is now Arthur’s lead song but still remains The BALLADS #1 national hit song.
Stan Harris, Pam Harris and Buddy Johnson were always on call whenever needed to replace members if sick or for whatever reason.

The new generation on this CD, Donald Thompson and Ben Petry Vallejo, Ca. has overwhelmed me with their new style of rap lyrics and arrangements,I’m Billy and “Billy’s Got To Eat”, you feel me?. D-Thang (Donald Thompson) is the man. The public wanted a change of language in lyrics you ask for change and style in rap with the change of flavor soft and smart, Lend us your ear and we will put good music their.

The Blues Section in this CD is Sammy Mayfield of Denver, Colorado he play’s blues guitar and chairs as host of “The All Blues Show”- DJ @ www.KUVO.org 5:pm Saturdays Denver time ”The Birthday Song” and “Big Wolf Knockin” are his contribution and selections on this disk. Sammy holds a record in Oakland, Ca. for the longest playing CD, 12 years on 40 juke boxes,The Birthday Song is still #1. Sammy is a Big Bobby Blue Bland Fan. You are our Fans and we love you.

Hay you,… yes you, come here!...Put your ear to this wall and listen, what do you hear? .. Bill_lly, Billy’s Got To Eat…. It’s Been like that all day. (Smile)
(A Line from Mom’s Mabley Live at the Apollo 1956)

James Knox It's My Time

James Knox It's My Time Snippets

Here's a new release I can recommend - love the guy's voice.

You can pick it up from CD Baby - here is a brief bio:

"I am a singer, songwriter, producer, and arranger in the United States.

My expertise in the music industry has benefited countless number of entertainers, musicians, and people seeking stardom.

Listed below are just a few of the productions that I have been involved in:

*Opened for the Drifters in Atlanta, Georgia for six years.
*Opened for the Tams in Atlanta, Georgia
*Inducted in the Atlanta Blues Hall of Fame in 2001
*In 2005 I was on the road With Chuck Strong. The tour lasted for 8 months.
*In 1975 I released a hit song in the local and surrounding cities and states called Making It Good for a bad situation.
*I recently completed a thirteen month R&B performance in Atlanta, Georgia as the headlining act for the Danny Miller Band.
*Reviews of my performances have always exceeded an outstanding rating.
*During 2007, I worked with Baby Boy Records"

Kim Tolliver Come & Get Me I'm Ready

A very worthy reissue on the late great Kim Tolliver!!!!

During a recording career than spanned two decades, Cleveland based Kim Tolliver released just two albums, and only one under that name. Recorded for Chess in 1973, "Come And Get Me - I'm Ready" is a classic deep soul tour-de-force, reminiscent of and up there with anything by recently rediscovered R&B heroines Bettye LaVette and Candi Staton. Her producer/husband Freddy Briggs, based known for his classic Margie Joseph Stax productions, brings out the finest in Ms. Tolliver who sadly passed away in 2007 without ever receiving the recognition she so truly deserved. Digitally remastered in 24 bit from the original analog Chess masters.

Russell Taylor @ Temple bar 19/4/08

Soul Mish Mash Update 2

As I previously mentioned on IDR , I have started Soul Mish Mash dedicated to "retro soul" featuring only videos.

I have been adding further videos over the last couple of days including ones featuring; Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, Baby Charles, Naomi Davis, Budos Band, Osaka Monoaurail, Breakestra, The Lions, Clutchy Hopkins, Ohmegga Watts, Darondo, Club Des Belluga, Mario Biondi, Tape 5, Heliocentrics, Nostalgia 77, Alice Russell and Big Boss Man.

Please drop over and enjoy the videos.

No Half Steppin@ Asbury Lanes 18/4/08

Soul Clap 19/4/08

Connie Price & Keystones @ Metro 24/4/08

Alton Ellis Too Late

Alton Ellis Too Late

Cassietta George

Cassietta George Don't Give Up

Boris Gardiner The Keys

Boris Gardiner The Keys

Bootleggers Don't Count On Tomorrow

Bootleggers Don't Count On Tomorrow Discovery

Angel Break Out The Tears

Angel Rissoff Snippets

Real Sides Records are back with a new 45 from blue-eyed singer Angel Rissoff. Break Out The Tears was originally released back in 2005 on a CD. Now the track is getting more airplay as a 45 and the catchy dancer is going down a storm in the UK.

Pick a copy up from:

http://www.soulmusic.co.uk/

You can pick the CD up from Steve's Soul Sounds.

Tim McNealy I'm So Glad You're Mine

Tim McNealy I'm So Glad You're Mine Truth & Soul

Truth & Soul have let me know about their latest 45:

Truth & Soul have unearthed another soul gem, this time from 1972. Timothy McNealy puts down a laidback groove that lulls the listener into a soulful state of mind with his cover of Al Green's classic "I'm So Glad You're Mine." McNealy's voice, simultaneously calming and commanding, triggers memories of Al Green and Bill Withers, while the guitar, drums and keys gently bounce off McNealy's vocal stylings, evoking the essence of the golden era of soul. A song sampled and covered hundreds of times, the opening stick click drum intro, a short melodic line that repeats throughout the song, is immediately recognizable as a classic soul snippet. McNealy stays true to the sound of the original but adds female back-up singers and a rough sound that gives the song a raw, live energy. So kick back with your favorite beverage and let the sweet sounds of the song bring you back to a calmer day. "I'm So Glad You're Mine" appears on Fallin' Off The Reel Vol. 2, a Truth & Soul compilation, which is available now on both CD and double LP.

Duane Williams Yes, My Love Is Real

Duane Williams Yes, My Love Is Real Snippet

A new track for 2008! Lovely mid tempo track from one half of the Detroit duo Beverley & Duane. A great 45 release from the recently revamped Soul Junction label.

Get copies from:

http://www.soulmusic.co.uk/

Bo Street Runners Baby Never Say Goodbye

Bo Street Runners Baby Never Say Goodbye

Some good old British R&B from the Bo Street Runners - you can pick up this track on the CD below from Amazon etc

Mitch Ryder Blessing In Disguise

Just found this on my ITunes - thought I'd share - forgotten all about it!

Soul Discovery Radio Show 6/4/08

Omar Cunningham

I apologise for not posting the tracklisting sooner but I've only just managed to pick it up.

Mick had Mark Houghton in the studio with him and once again we were treated to some excellent music:

David Sea - Stay In My Arms
Mamon & Mamon - He'll Make It Right
Brotherly Love (aka The Chestnut Brothers) - Whole Lotta You In Me
John Ellison - What Can I Do
Lady A - I'm Movin on
Cornelius MD - September
Al Coffee McDaniel - What A Woman Needs
James Whitney - Goodness Knows
Jerome Jackson - He Lives
People of Pleasure (aka The Rimshots) - Never Say Never (1995-Sugar Hill)
Maurice Jackson - How Can You Say You Love Me
Maurice Jackson - It's Been Revealed
2GA1 - More Lovin'
Wendell Johnson - Love Somebody
Leonard Julien III - The Love I Let Slip Away
Barry Minniefield - I Got Everything It Takes To Make You Happy
Fluff - Making The Numbers Up (Big Stick Records)
Robert Duke Tillman - Still In Love With You
Rhythm Allstars - Work For You
Mavis Staples - Falling In Love
Brotherly Love (aka The Chestnut Brothers)
William Scott - All About Love
Pookie Lane - Come Into My Bedroom
Ollie Woodson - I Love You
Omar Cunningham - Ain't Nothing Changed
Fluff - The Back Streets
Albert Phillips - Tomorrow May Never Come
Marzette Griffith
Norma Jenkins - Cowards Way Out
Doris Allen - Let's Walk Down the Streets Together
Rusty Jackson - What You Want Do For Love
Rhythm Allstars - What You Want Do For Love
Soul Generation - Ain't Gonna Be No Next Time
Rhythm Allstars - Stuck
Tenry Johns - You Dont Need No One You Can trust
James Whitney - Let's Fall In Love
Timothy Fountain - I'm Gonna Pray
Cant Remember - Yes My Love Is Real
General Johnson - There's No Me Without You

If you missed the show then you still have chance to pick it up from Radio 209:

Soul Discovery 6/4/08

The Chamber Brothers People Get Ready & Time Has Come Today

This is what the subscriber on You Tube had to say:

Ultra rare live performance from 1968. This was from a promotional Reel to Reel BETA tape I found in a television station I worked at in the mid 1990's. It was only marked "For Local Affiliates - From your Friends at the Club Vegas" - My assumption is that these promotional videos were made by a music production facility to promote the artists on locally-produced music shows. I really have no idea as to the true origin or specific year!

John Gary Williams

John Gary Williams Memphis 2003

I have finally got round to posting an interview on my revamped Dark End Of The Street blog. The first interview is one with John Gary Williams which I conducted back in 2003 and was originally published in In The Basement in 2004.

The interview contains unpublished photos and coloured versions of the photos originally used in the In The Basement article.

Ebony Rhythm Campaign Sighin' & Groanin' Live

Ebony Rhythm Campaign Sighin' & Groanin' Live Snippet

I had a message through from the band to tell me of a new download available from them:

From late 1973 to late 1978, I had the rare privilege of being a member of the Ebony Rhythm Funk Campaign. Those early struggles of playing the "chittlin" circuit seem like a past life to me now. After the tragic loss of our friend and trumpet player Carl Haefeli in1978, I finally bowed to economic reality and wistfully took a slow but determined walk away from this "family" of musicians. I left my life as a funk musician and began working to support my wife and kids. Occasionally, I thought about what might have been. I saved some old boxes of tapes and photographs so I could have something to remember my old days on stage with the Funk Campaign. One tape in particular, titled Live at The Eldorado, had become a mystery to me over the years. I didn’t have a reel to reel deck so I couldn’t play the tape. Finally, in the summer of 2004, I reconnected with Lester Johnson in Indianapolis. Sadly, I found out that Tony Roberts had passed away, as well as Booby Townsend. I was excited to find that Matthew, Lester and Ricky were planning a reunion concert. They invited me to play. Little did I know the series of events that would follow.

Shortly after the first ERFC reunion concert in 2005, I picked up an old reel to reel deck from a friend of mine and finally satisfied my curiosity about the Live at the Eldorado tape. It turned out to be a live performance at the BlueBird in Bloomington, Indiana from, as near as I can tell, fall of 1974. Prior to hearing the tape I had been asking people in the group if they remembered an old tune we used to do called Sighin’ and Groanin’. A few cats remembered the tune but nobody could remember how the tune really went. After listening to almost the entire "mystery" Eldorado tape, there it was… the lost tune, Sighin’ and Groanin’. I knew I had uncovered a real treasure and it struck me that this tape had been sitting in a box in the hall closet for 27 years! The recording was rough and needed re-mixing, but thanks to current digital technology, we have been able to re-produce the live recording and we are excited to make this our first "never before released" historic ERFC Live recording.

For Funk Campaign fans this should be a real treat. Boobie is in rare form, nailing the guitar solo with a careful blend of "wall of sound" techniques and Hendricks inspired lines. The horns are pushing hard, Lester is playing counterpoint to Boobies licks, Ricky is funk personified on the organ and Matthew is weaving in and out of the tune like a New Orleans street drummer. And it’s all topped off with the signature vocal duo of Pam Tanner and Tony Roberts. If we ever stop missing Tony all we need to do is listen to his live vocals from this period and we miss him all over again. Pam frames the tune like a funk cheerleader and master of ceremonies, pulling in the live audience and gracing us with her uninhibited giggle at the end of the tune.

You can probably tell that I love these guys, and listening to this band at its 1974 peak always gives me a thrill. We hope it does the same for you!

Michael John Woods – Trombone

Pleased rop over to the band's MySpace to download the Sighin' & Groanin'.

The Grits Live 9/5/08

Eli "Paperboy" Reed @ Fullerton 18/4/08

Hot Buttered Soul 19/4/08

Business Casual @ Kelly's Pub Tampa 26/4/08

Skull Snaps Feat.Water Bros It's A New Day

Eugene Blacknell Rare Footage

These videos features rare vintage footage from 1960s/70s of Eugene Blacknell and his band in the city of Oakland and surrounding areas.

Oakland guitar ace Eugene Blacknell released multiple singles that ranged in style from raw r'n'b to power house funk. His musical career stretched from the early 1960s to the end of the 1980s and during that time he established himself as an East Bay original, an entrepreneur, an activist, and a family man. With so many accomplishments it's an irony of fate that he died before releasing an album despite having recorded enough material for several. This will be the first official Eugene Blacknell album, and the story of a Bay Area legend.

For more info visit: http://www.ubiquityrecords.com OR http://www.myspace.com/eugeneblacknell

Darondo / Legs, Live @ Crash Mansion

Darondo performs for the first time in Los Angeles at the Crash Mansion. He's backed up by Nino Moschella and The Park.

Recorded March 8, 2008.

Song: "Legs" from his album / Let Me People Go

For more info, visit:
http://www.ubiquityrecords.com/darond...

The Ipanemas

The Ipanemas are currently touring the UK - check out their MySpace for dates.

The Ipanemas, aka Os Ipanemas are led by Brazilian septuagenarians Wilson Das Neves and Neco. Both have had extraordinary careers spanning five decades as key players at the heart of Brazilian musical history. Wilson Das Neves, now also a vocalist, has long been one of the most sought-after drummers in Brazil and Neco’s bossa guitar genius can be traced to countless cult classics. They have recorded and toured with so many greats including Elis Regina, Tom Jobim, Wilson Simonal, Jorge Ben, Chico Buarque and Elza Soares. Wilson also features with Rio’s new samba big band Orquestra Imperial.

Intrinsically innovative at the time of its release, their eponymous debut recording is now considered an absolute classic. In a remarkable twist, the follow up wasn’t recorded until almost 40 years later in 2001 with ‘The Return of The Ipanemas’ for Far Out Recordings. As a landmark recording by sensational veteran musicians, the album was acclaimed by the press, with The Independent and Music Week calling The Ipanemas Brazil’s closest equivalent to Cuba’s Buena Vista Social Club. ‘Afro Bossa’ was recorded two years later, followed by ‘Samba is Our Gift’ in 2006 which confirmed ‘their sound remains extraordinarily fresh – exhilaratingly spacious and aerodynamic’ [The Daily Telegraph]. ‘Call of the Gods’ is their best album yet.

The Ipanemas debut tour in April 2008 is a rare chance to hear their 1960s repertoire as well as songs from all their Far Out releases played live in the UK for the first time ever. The line up includes very special guests Alex Mahleiros and Ivan Conti of Azymuth.

Soul Mish Mash Update

Last week, I started Soul Mish Mash dedicated to "retro soul" featuring only videos.

Please drop over and take a look at nearly 100 videos that I have already posted. The following artists are featured The Apples, Diesler, Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, Alice Russell, The Haggis Horns, Big Boss Man, Bongolian, Fort Knox 5, Soul Snatchers, Sweet Vandals, Family Vision Care, Tuomo, Jive Crank, The Black Seeds, Phat Fred, The Fantastics, Rev Cleatus, Capitain Hammond, Mike Painter, Leslie Overdrive, Lefties Soul Connection, The Sweet Divines, Lack Of Afro, Quantic Soul Orchestra, Hot 8 Brass Band, Speedometer, Baby Charles, Men From S.P.E.C.T.R.E.,The Cherry Boppers, The Diplomats Of Solid Soul, New Mastersounds, James Taylor Quartet, The Killer Meters and Andy Lewis.

Soul Mish Mash

Craig Charles Funk & Soul Show 12/4/08

Maceo Parker

This week's show featured an interview with Maceo Parker and a session from Hot 8 Brass Band

The Isley Brothers-“It’s Your Thing” (Columbia)
The 7th Avenue Aviators-“You Should O Held On” (Goldmine Soul Supply)
Diplomats Of Solid Sound Featuring The Diplomettes-“Hurt Me So” Lack Of Afro Remix (Record Kicks)
The Family Fortune featuring Jessica Darling-“Work” (Skyline Recordings)
Pete Rodriguez- “I Like It Like That” (Aaron Jerome Remix) (Fania)
Cyril Neville – “Gossip” (Soul Jazz)
Johnny Williams-“Just A Little Misunderstanding” (Kent)
Alice Clark-“You Hit Me (Right Where It Hurt Me)” (Universal)
Eddie Kendricks-“Girl You Need A Change Of Mind Pt.1” (Tamla)
Millie Jackson-“Breakaway” (Kent)
King Curtis-“Them Changes” (Atco)
Os Ipanemas-“Gana” (Far Out Recordings)
Sharon Jones-“What If We All Stopped Paying Taxes” (Daptone)
Lollipop – Delicious Allstars (Skyline)
Hot 8 Brass Band – I’ll Fly Away (Session Track)
Hot 8 Brass Band – Sexual Healing (Session Track)
The Apples – Buzzin’About (Freestyle)
Gil Scott Heron-“Angel Dust” (Arista)
The Funkees – “Acid Rock” (Soundway)
6 On 6 chosen by listener Graham Cochrane:
James Brown – “You Can Have Watergate Just Gimme Some Bucks & I’ll Be Straight (Polydor)
Prince & The Power Generation – “Get Wild “ (NPG)
Average White Band – “Person To Person” (The Hit Label)
Funkadelic – “One Nation Under A Groove” (Virgin)
James Brown – “Talkin’ Loud And Sayin’ Nothing” (Polydor)
Led Zepplin – “The Crunge” (Atlantic)
Eli “Paperboy” Reed & The True Loves-“(Doin’ The) Boom Boom” (Q-Division)
R.L.Burnside – “Shake ‘Em On Down” (Phat Possum)
Harry John Wilson – “Testifying” (Casual)
The Olympics - “Do The Philly Dog” (Kent)
Jackie Lee – “The Duck on Kent” (Kent)
Rodger Collins – “She’s Lookin good” (Kent)
Alan Toussaint “Tequila” (Soul Jazz)
Maceo Parker Interview Maceo Parker – “All The Kings Men” (Union Square)
Mary Jane Girls-“All Night Long” (Gordy)
Vicki Anderson-“I Want To Be In The Land Of Milk And Honey” (Soul Brother)
Saravah Soul – “Supersossego” (Tru Thoughts)
Lee Eldred-“Recouperating” (Chess)
Baker Brothers-“Soulshine” (White Label)
The Knockouts -“Mojo (Part 1)” (Scepter)
N.F. Porter-“Keep On Keeping On” (Goldmine Soul Supply)
Captain Hammond –“Size Of The Sky” (Hammond Beat)

If you missed the show then you can listen again here:

Craig Charles Funk & Soul Show 12/4/08

Sunday Soul Selection 13/4/08

Side Effect

This week's show hosted by Shaun Robbins featured the following tracks:

Bazuka – Come To Me (A&M) LP track
Tony Lampkin - He’s A Better Liar Than Me (Jemkl Soul) 45
Bobby Cutchins - You're My Kind Of Girl (Lasso) 45
Johnny Dean - Sitting Around My Table (Magic 7) 45
Wee Gee - In The Rain (Earwax) 45
Rhianna – Word Love (Sony) 45
Joy Denalane – One In A Million (2006) CD track
Ray Frazier & The Shades Of Madness – Your Eyes (Carriage) 45
Bobby Jonz – Win Your Love (Dispo) 45
William Bell – The Man In The Street (Stax) 45
Maryann Farra & Satin Soul - Living In The Footsteps Of Another Girl (Brunswick) 45
6AM – Missing You (Sundae Soul) 45
Moody - One Man's Happiness (Soul Unlimited) 45
Jimmy "Okera" Hightower - Love And Life (BCN) 45
Side Effect - Spend It On Love (Soul Brother) 45
Phillip Mitchell - The World Needs More People Like You (Shout) 45
Jean Carn - I Bet She Won't Love You Like I Do (PIR) 45
Angel - Break Out The Tears (Realside) 45
T.W. Bankston - You Are The Icing On The Cake (Straight Up Recs) 45
Faith Hope & Charity - To Each His Own (RCA Victor) 45
Melvin Moore - All Of A Sudden (Sky Hero) 45
George Benson - My Woman's Good To Me (A&M) LP track
Betty Lavette - Thank You For Loving Me (Epic) 45
Paul Kelly - You Make Me Tremble (WB) LP track
Betty Lavette - You Made A Believer Out Of Me (Epic) 45
Doug Parkinson's Southern Star Band - Rainbow In Your Eyes (Southern Star) LP track
Johnny Bristol - Do It To My Mind (Atlantic) 45
Frankie Newsome - We're On Our Way (WB) 45
Spinners - You Go Your Way (I'll Go Mine) (Atlantic) 45

Some killers there on another quality show. If you missed the show then you can listen again here:

Sunday Soul Selection 13/4/08

Central Soul Club Nurnberg 19/4/08

Basement Soul @ Xotchitl

The Grits In Maloe Melo 10/5/08

I Dig Chicks Mix

Please drop over to my Keeping Soul Alive blog to pick up this week's mix featuring 18 tracks by the ladies.

Don't forget that I will be posting a new mix every Monday.

The Dramatics In Swiftwater May 3rd

NU Soul Saturday 19/4/08

Aaron Jerome Band play Angel Lady with Andreya Triana

Aaron Jerome Band play Angel Lady with Andreya Triana live @ Cargo Feb 8th 2008

If you like Andreya's voice then check out her MySpace - here's her blurb:

Andreya begun her singing career pretty much as soon as she was born! With a natural ear for music she begun singing and songwriting from the age of seven taking influence from her mixed surroundings and cultural background, self taught in four instruments during her early years. Hailing originally from South East London she moved to Worcester in the West Midlands at 14, finding herself without the comfort of familiar surroundings her interest in music became more intense.At 17 she started doing an open mic night at the local music venue where the owner introduced her to a collective of musicians. It was with this collective of talented and older musicians, called Bootis that was to form the bench mark for her 'musical education' introducing her to the technique of jamming while opening up a world of new music and ideas. Bootis slowly despanded with members moving away marking an end of an era for the singer's early singing career. It was while studying for a degree in Music Technology in Leeds Andreya decided to reform Bootis with new members and a new sound influenced largely by Jazz, Funk and Nu Soul. It was with this new line up Andreya begun to refine her skills as a singer, songwriter and performer working with a vast arrey of musicians and producers in the process. Bootis gigged and recorded extensively over the course of two years doing their final gig at Live8 in 2005 in Edinburgh infront of an audience of 20,000.

Straight after finishing her degree Andreya fronted 8 piece Latin-Jazz outfit RSL touring the UK and headling at London's Jazz Cafe. During this time she begun embarking on her solo career. A host of collaborations followed and also her interest in developing her solo experiemental vocal set ensued in which she called FreeFlo Sessions. It was with these FreeFlo session home recordings and a heartfelt application that landed her a sought after place at the 2006 Red Bull Music Academy. Being one of sixty people to be selected worldwide she was flown to Australia for an intense and mind expanding experience, collaborating with some of the best musicians and producers in the world.

Since coming back from the Red Bull Music Academy Andreya has found herself travelling all over the world for gigs and musical projects including working with the legendary Mizell Brothers. 2007 saw her first collaborative projects released to rave reviews and radio play on BBC Radio One. Andreya currently resides in Brighton and with a vast amount of experience under her belt she is currently working on her debut album being produced by Ninja Tune artist Bonobo.

Cherry Wainer & Don Storer: "Green Onions" & "Take Five"

Cherry Wainer and Don Storer play "Green Onions" on German TV show "Beat Beat Beat", July 1st, 1966.



Cherry Wainer, one of the hottest female Hammond organ player ever, performing Dave Brubecks "Take Five" with her drummer Don Stoner. Taken from the West German music tv series "Beat! Beat! Beat!" (January 1967).

'What's Happening Brother' Soul Soldiers Video

A visual montage taken from photos in the SOUL SOLDIERS exhibit and the film directed by Chris Ivey at the Heinz History Center.

Homemadesoul Volume 2 Love

Homemadesoul Volume 2: Love Snippets

I recent tip from Soul Treasures is Homemadesoul which can be picked up from CD Baby.

Here's Homemadesoul's bio:

He can sing, write, produce, play, arrange, and create music. He is music. He is the hint of funk, hip-hop, jazz, gospel, and covered in the soul wrapper. Originality is the name of the game when it comes to describing him. Since his many influences include many of the great artist, to include, Musiq Soulchild, D’angelo, Al Green, Stevie Wonder, it is possible for him to take those influence and create his own sound with those all in the mix. Homemadesoul is the one word description for original music made form the soul.

Born Curtis Clark Jr., this born and bred Philadelphian was introduced to music at the early age of 5. He comes from a family full of musicians and singers. Growing up in the church laid the groundwork for this soul artist, enabling him to feel at home with the mic and the piano.

In 2001, after enlisting into the Air Force, Homemadesoul began to explore his desire to write and produce. Over the period of 6 years, he worked hard on his craft as a musician/singer, and this hard work resulted in the release of his first LP entitled, “Homemadesoul VOL. 1.” This collection of songs introduced to the world what Homemadesoul was all about.

His vocal ability has opened doors for him to open for national recording artist such as, The Original Bluenotes, THE PHYLLIES INTRUDERS, and Bradford Marsalis. He has also performed all over the U.S. and overseas to include Japan, Oman, Iraq, and Kuwait. In addition, his production has enabled him to be asked for by many independent artists to include 3TEN, Mixture, gospel recording artist Scripture, the UK’s DNYCE, and Precise. He has also created recordings for TM Century and their radio broadcast affiliates. In Oct 2006 Homemadesoul appeared on the independent movie, “Steel Here” soundtrack with his ballad, “It’s So Beautiful.” The soundtrack included national recording artist Court Dog, and Krayzie Bone of Bone Thugs in Harmony.

Currently, Homemadesoul has just released his second project entitled “Homemadesoul Vol. 2: LOVE”, and has joined forces with Hit House Entertainment, who boasts a roster featuring, THE PHYLLIES INTRUDERS, Totally Committed, Darlette Gayle, D-EEASY, and more. You can check his website to see upcoming events, and video of live performances and you can always expect Homemadesoul to keep it homemade!!!!

Fred Bolton Interview

Please drop over to the ever excellent Soul Treasures website and pick up an interview on Fred Bolton who currently has an excellent CD out I'm Gonna Get Mine.

The All Together

I just got tipped that the above movie has a great soundtrack which includes the following Northern Soul classics:

Tommy Neal - Going To A Happening
Doris Troy - I'd Do Anything
Johnny De'vigne - I Smell Trouble
Ronnie & Robyn - Sidra's Theme
The Channels - Anything You Do
Doni Burdick - Open The Door To Your Heart
Steve Karmen - Breakaway
The Sapphires - Gotta Have Your Love
The Yum Yums - Gonna Be A Big Thing

Ethel Beatty It's Your Love

The above photo of Ethel Beatty is the first I have seen.

You can pick the above classic track on a 12" on Urban or it is available on a CD:



Our last volume of Funk Soul Sisters featured Ethel’s “I Know You Care”, and we couldn’t resist having another listen to her sensuous soul style. The production is typical of Roy Ayers’ sound of the time (1982), and while perhaps hampered in a commercial by the limited resources of Roy’s own Uno Melodic label, there was no doubt that the otherwise-unknown Ms Beatty was saying something artistically.

Nancy Holloway

I recently came across a picture sleeve of a Nancy Holloway release and decided to dig out a bit more on her. I love version of Hurt So Bad and I never tire of hearng different intepretations of the 60's classic



Apparently, this haunting song has been sampled by Friction, Dende and Suave for "einer von ihnen"



Taken from a 1963 Scopitone.



Taken from a French TV programme on the lady including a short interview with her.

You can find out more on her website:

http://www.nancyholloway.com

James Gilbert Best Kept Secret

James Gilbert Best Kept Secret Snippets

I mentioned James Gilbert in the post on Steve's Soul Sounds. Take a listen to snippets from the whole album.

Here is is his bio:

Ever since I was a young boy I have loved music of all kinds. I am a fourth generation musician who was raised in a very spiritual environment, which fueled my appreciation for both gospel and blues music. Both of my parents were strict and in an effort to stay out of trouble I spent hour after hour teaching myself to play a variety of instruments, which includes drums, piano, lead and bass guitars. My singing ability was strengthened through listening to my Mother sing old spirituals around the house.

In 1979 I had the honor of sharing the stage with Blues Legend John Lee Hooker. In 1980 while attending high school, I was fortunate enough to play guitar for my neighborhood church until graduating in 1982. In 1990 my bass playing was put to the ultimate test when I was selected to accompany Legendary B.B. King on a 6-week tour. In 1992 I made my television acting debut for the Toyota Corporations Big Spring Sale, which aired nationally. Also in 1992 my vocal talents were featured on a Missouri Lottery’s Pick 3 promotion that aired locally. In 1993 I performed with an all-star group of local musicians for the pilot episode of Kansas City Crossroads, a syndicated T.V. documentary that showcased past and present local and national musicians. In 1997 my acting talents were once again called upon to be the lead actor in the release of a Red Hot Records music video of the Brook Benton classic “Rainy Night in Georgia”. In 1991 I was part of a group of American musicians chosen to perform in the Annual Blues Festival held in Amsterdam, Holland.

Currently, when not playing with the Big Woody Band, I have channeled my creativity in conjunction with Kansas City Living Legend Eugene Smiley, Sr. in creating my first solo CD, which serves as a pinnacle for a career spanning 35 years.

Musicians I have been fortunate enough to play with and/or open for include: John Lee Hooker, B.B. King, Phil Guy (Buddy Guy’s Brother), Little Milton Campbell, Little Johnny Taylor, A.C. Reed, David Dee, Tinsley Ellis, Charley Musslewhite, Little Hatch, Mary Moore, Lavalle White, Chick Willis, Vernon Garrett, Little Joe Blue, Blues Boy Willie, Buster Benton, Millie Jackson, Gary BB Coleman, Zapp, Bobby Blue Bland, Koko Taylor, Johnny Taylor, Johnny Winter, Delbert McClinton, War, Doyle Bramhall, Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, Tyrone Davis and Denise LaSalle.

Soul Mish Mash

I get a lot of material sent to me by media outlets and this week I was sent the following:

"Data from the survey shows that user-generated content is in tremendous demand across the generations, with 51% of all consumers watching and/or reading content created by others and 40% of all consumers are creating their own entertainment, such as editing movies, music and photos.." -Recently released Deloitte's study on Media & Entertainment

The above statement set me thinking about all the video clips I had lying around mostly picked up off You Tube and MySpace. In particular, I had a lot of "retro soul", Hammond Beat etc, which I thought I would collate and create my own entertainment centre called Soul Mish Mash to share with others.

Soul Mish Mash will be a place where I will only being posting video - so you can put your feet up and watch the videos all in one place. I will also post links to the artists sites or MySpace for anyone who is interested in finding out more.

Please drop over!!!

Ann Peebles Live In Belgium DVD

PAUL BROWN LIVE w/ ANN PEEBLES 2007


A Clip from the 2007 Ann Peebles DVD Release Live at the Lokerse Festival Belgium featuring Paul Brown, Paul Taylor, Joe Duke, Victor Williams and the late legendary James Mitchell.

I got tipped to this clip by the French Dark End Of The Street forum but has the DVD been released?

Daybreakk Life, Love & Money

Daybreakk Life, Love & Money Snippets

I mentioned this fine CD from Daybreakk on this last post about Steve's Soul Sounds. Take a listen to the snippets above.

Here is a bit more about the group:

The first artist signed to Soul 1st Records is Daybreakk!. The group Daybreakk!, with its roots in Gadsden, AL previously known as one of the best party and cover bands in the South, has stepped up its music game with the release of their first CD, entitled, "Life, Love & Money" on Soul 1st Records.

"Life Love and Money are the things everyone must deal with on one level or another," Hall said from his home in Gadsden, AL. "They all go hand in hand." Life or love can be great without money, but having all three is what most of us strive for" Hall said. "The songs on this record deal with all three in a way that most people can relate to."

The CD is a combination of Southern Soul/Blues and R&B. One of the CD's lead singles is "Drop It!," which blends Southern Soul with a touch of old school funk that will get people dancing every time according to Hall. "It's a great summer/fall party song," Hall said. Daybreakk!'s other lead single is a smooth, but powerful soul ballad, called "On & On". "On and On" is one of those songs the ladies love because it's about a man romantically taking care of his lady."

The five members of Daybreakk! are Austin Hall, Sam Hall, Earl Ford, Barry Byers, and Arthur Owens. Austin Hall is the songwriter, arranger and producer, who plays lead and rhythm guitar on every track. Sam Hall is the leader of the group and plays drums. Sam and Austin, brothers are also the founders of the group from Gadsden. The strength and uniqueness of the group is the three other members who are all lead singers. Barry Byers, of Gadsden sings lead on the ballad, Broken Heart, and the Motown reminiscent, "I Love You." Earl Ford, also of Gadsden, handles the lead on "Drop It!", "Candy" and "Money". Ford's style reminds listeners of the great funk band singers in Lakeside, Ohio Players and Cameo. The third lead singer is Arthur Owens, a native of Fayetteville, North Carolina. Owens brings raw emotion and strength to the hit "On and On", "Cryin", and "Be With You".

You can read a short interview with the group on Soul Treasures.

Steve's Soul Sounds

I thought I would give Steve Dolan a big shout for all the work he does in unearthing good independent soul releases. Steve runs Steve's Soul Sounds and has been responsible for supplying some of the fine new independent soul releases played on Mick O'Donnell's Soul Discovery Show.

I have picked out 10 releases which Steve currently has in stock which I highly recommend:

Daybreak On & On Snippet

Nellie "Tiger" Travis Running On Empty Snippet

Dalia It Ain't Easy Snippet

L.J. Reynolds Through The Storm Snippet

Leni Love Is The Answer Snippet

James Gilbert Breaking My Heart Again Snippet

LLC Anytime Snippet

Harold Daniels What The Hell Do You Want Snippet

T.C. Causey So Addicted Snippet

Oak 111 I Wanna Be With You Snippet

Please drop over to Steve's site where he is featuring many sounds featured on IDR such as Maurice, Pookie Lane etc. You can hear snippets of all the tracks on each CD.

Vicelounge

The above uses a scene from the ultra independent feature film “No Problema”

Tai of Vicelounge has become one of my friends over on Soul Commune - he dropped me one of the sounds from their forthcoming album:

Vicelounge Deep Inside

You can download the EP here:

Vicelounge consist of:

Jonn Nubian

jonn nubian - dj, producer, keyboardist, founder

Tai

tai (grfx) - sampler, producer, vocalist, writer, co-founder

Craig Knight

craig knight - vocalist, geetar, writer

grierson - sampler, writer, vocalist

nyaze - vocalist, geetar, writer, producer

with harvey moore + demax + qool dj marv + dj junior

guest starring the lovely vice vixens:

shae fiol, isis, tamara wellons and, the original, dee ferguson

Here is their blurb from Mobile Underground:

Once labels used to hit us with the cassette tape, and often in this fashion: midtempo banger ("Deep Inside"); fast tune for the clubs ("Cause Of Love") and then slow jam ("Never Fall Away") to "sleep" to. RBM and Vicelounge are bringing it back, futuristic soul music.

The maxi-single features the production and vocals of Craig Knight, Dee Ferguson and our favorite producer Joaquin. All under the craziness and guidance of the Vicelounge: Jonn Nubian + Tai.

Vicelounge: the soundtrack for stylish and dangerous lifestyle.

"Drum stabs, merge into dissonant echoes of wandering chants portraying the true darkness of an urban landscape. Vicelounge once again captures what real soul heads seek, a true melting pot of emotions where we can dream freely."
-- Mike Adasko (Mike Steady on "Cause Of Love")

"Zero7 meets MF Doom"
-- Mr. Len (Company Flow, Smacks Records)

"Thanks for the tunes my friend - I am digging them right now - perfect for today with my window open and a little breeze."
--Toshi Reagon (indie rocker, righteous babe)

Hermon Hitson Live @ The Earl 4/21/07

Hermon Hitson Live At The Earl 4/21/2007 Snippets

My old friend Hermon Hitson is back with a new CD on Sweet Rose Express of a live show he performed last year at the Earl in Atlanta. Supporting Hermon on the set was his friend Freddie Terrell and the Buckboard Express Band.

Listen above to snippets off the album which include some of his best songs such as Yes You Did, Walking In The Park, Human Heart, I Got That Will, Ain't No Other Way and Bad Girl.

You can pick up the CD:

In UK from Steve Dolan

Or direct from Hermon_Hitson@hotmail.com

Soul Survivors 12/4/08

Soulful Shack 2/5/08

Go Go Children 18/4/08

Different Kettle Of Fish 30/5/08

Jamal Evans After All This Time

Jamal Evans After All This Time Snippets


There is so much music out there!!! I found out about this album from Soul Treasures which is an excellent source of information. However, I must also pay thanks to Mick O'Donnell 's Soul Discovery show and his guests for many of the recent features on IDR especially Mark Merry and Steve Dolan for turning me onto some cracking sounds such as Pookie Lane and Maurice. In the near future, I'll be back with a feature on Steve Dolan's Soul Sounds and some of the sounds he is turning up.

The Jamal Evans album stems from 2001 and here is a brief bio:

Mr. Evans is an instrumentalist/vocalist/producer extraordinaire. He attended Brooklyn College where he majored in Psychology and minored in Music. After performing and/or working with some of today's top musical acts, in addition to working with some popular up and coming groups, Mr. Evans formed Intrinsic, dedicated to working with the truly "talented" artist. The list of popular performers that Mr. Evans has worked with is impressive: Tony Terry, Martha Walsh, En Vogue, Cover Girls, The Late Phyllis Hyman, Run DMC, Chaka Khan, BoysIIMen, Maurice White, Sandra St. Vincent (The Family Stand), Surface, and the late AAliYah to name a few. Martha Wash (Two Tons of Fun, Weather Girls, C&C Music Factory) was quoted saying, "He is a very intelligent/talented man, great fun to be around. He truly understands what the music business is about." Mr. Evans has worked as a Senior level executive in several major companies and that experience shines through in everything that he does.

Mr. Evans has been quoted saying, "The world is so fast paced that it's missing opportunities to experience and enjoy True Talent. Reality music television is killing the creativity of the Artist of old. Intrinsic intends on bringing back the standard/prerequisite of fame: 'true talent!'" A new 2008 album is in the works but many fans have asked to purchase the first release from 2001. So... here it is just for you. Enjoy. CD Baby

Nellie "Tiger" Travis I'm A Woman

Snippets from Nellie "Tiger" Travis I'm A Woman


Here's another good Southern album by Nellie "Tiger" Travis from CDS Records who have already brought us good albums from Dicky Williams, Lee Shot Williams, Stan Mosley, Charles Wilson and Clarence Dobbins. CDS Records have also announced that we should see new albums from Bobby Stringer and Barbara Carr later this year adding to an already impressive roster.

My favourite cut is her duo with Stan Mosley called Who Knows!

Her bio courtesy of CDS Records:

The girl's got Soul. I'm not talking about shallow vocal tricks but deep Gladys Knight/Tina Turner Soul from the gut...

Like many Soul singers Nellie Travis's love affair with music began at church in her hometown Mound Bayou, Mississippi. During mid 1980's she san lead for the Mississippi based group "SSIPP", opening for acts from Dee Dee Warwick to Ray Charles. During this period she also recorded extensively in Memphis under the direction of Ed Townsend.

Since relocating to Chicago in 1992, Nellie has been singing throughout the Chicago, Texas, Ohio, Kentucky, California, Mississippi, New York, Indiana, Tennessee, Virginia, Michigan and Wisconsin.

Having blossomed as a blues force to be reckon with, Nellie now performs with her own band, The Men in Black. Not only is she a staple in the "Home Of The Blues" (Chicago) but she also has standing engagements overseas, performing in Greece, Germany, Brazil, Italy and Japan.

Ms. Travis released her debut CD in September 2000 titled "I Got It Like That". It was a critically-acclaimed set of mostly original Blues. In the same year she appeared on a Japanese- backed CD featuring Shun Kikuta entitled "Heart & Soul" for Yoshinaga Ichinose M & I Co. Nellie is also featured artist on Biscuit Miller's debut release, lending her vocal talents in a duet called "Let's Go Fishing".
In 2002 she released a live CD entitled "Nellie Tiger Travis "Live at Sweet Georgia Browns". In 2005 her CD, "Wanna Be With You", became an underground smash on the "Southern Soul" circuit. Songs like "You Gone Make Me Cheat" & "If I Back It Up" can still be heard frequently on radio and in clubs.

In 2007 she signed with CDS Records and has completed an even better CD "I'm A Woman"

The album was produced by Floyd Hamberlin Jr who also helmed her last project. If you are keeping time with a Chinese calendar 2008 will be the "Year Of The Tiger"!

Mike Painter 5 Tet Live 18/4/08

Tyree Neal All Grown Up

Snippets from Tyree Neal's All Grown Up album


Check out the new album from Tyree Neal All Grown Up on his own label.

Here's his bio:

From the early age of 15 months, Tyree Neal has been drawn to perform on the live band stage. Coming from a large musical talented family, the birth giant of the late Blues Legend Raful Neal, Patriarch of the Neal Legacy, Tyree Neal continues to represent the Neal Family. Coming from a strong blues background, Tyree Neal is also a writer, producer and performer in the hip-hop, r&b, and rap genre. His most rewarding experiences were as Musical Director, Lead Guitarist and Vocalist for the late legendary Blues Diva, Ms.Jackie Neal. Tyree Neal continues to perfect his talent and dedication to his families musical influence with the release of his 2nd CD titled "All Grown Up". The title is a perfect fit for this multi talented artist. This 2nd CD contains collaborations from guest, Jazzy Records Rap artist "Bro Bro" aka Tyrell Neal, Maple Music Soul/Acoustic artist Syreeta Neal as well as Soul/R&B Legend Sir Charles Jones on the hit single "Whiskey and Beer". The CD also contains with the help of modern technology, a voice cameo appearance by Ms. Jackie Neal on the track "Zydeco". The long awaited 2nd CD is a little over a year behind in it's release due to Tyree Neal's overwhelming producer schedule. At the end of his "Stepping out at 22" promotional tour, the sought after producer-musician Tyree Neal continued to stay busy writing, producing and performing under the aka "Main Line". This latest release "All Grown Up" will definitely have the "Juke Joint Women" dancin & drinkin "Whiskey and Beer" til 3 in the morning and not just on the "Weekend". CD Baby

Al Green Stay With Me

Al Green Stay With Me Advert

Here is another track off the forthcoming new album from Al Green Lay It Down.

Ponderosa Stomp New Orleans 29/30 April

The Square Peg Skegness 19/4/08

Temptations Review & Miracles @ Wildwoods 26/4/08

Soul Folk CD Release Party 17/4/08

Killer Meters @ The Vibe Bar 4/5/08

Sweet Divines @ Union Hall Brooklyn 18/4/08

Mousetrap Allnighter 31/5/08

Dopamine Flux April 13th

Hitsville To JA 18/4/08

Wilton Allnighter 2/5/08

Winfield Parker & Tommy Hunt in Crewe 24/5/08

Sir Matthew Fox Rare Rillen

Atom Club 26/4/08

Low Fidelity Jet-Set Orchestra On Hammond Beat

Strictly Niceness 12/1/08

Tighten Up

The Heart Of Saturday Night @ Shadow Lounge 26/4/08

Rhoda Dakar @ Fithy Macnasty 12/4/08

Baby Charles Tonight!

Strut @ Corks London 2/5/08

Funk This @ Buttermarket Cellars 12/4/08

Pookie Lane Southern Woman

Snippets from Pookie Lane's Southern Woman


I am giving this CD another big shout because it has become one of my biggest faves of 2008 and I have found out some more info on Pookie since my last post.

I have also posted up snippets from the whole album so that you can hear what I am on about!!!

You can pick up the album once again from CD Baby who have new stocks in. Here's the lowdown on Pookie Lane:

“Southern Woman”, the debut solo album of song stylist Pookie Lane brings soul music to life with the single Southern Woman, a fun, lively song that pays tribute to hard working, good loving women everywhere. This song, as well as the rest of the album shows, the diverse range of Pookie’s passionate vocal talent.

Born in Blytheville, Arkansas, his father was a Southern Baptist minister and his mother was an outstanding singer in her own right, Pookie was wowing crowds as early as the age of five, when he bought his uncle’s Prince of Peace Church to their feet with his rendition of Why Do Men Treat The Lord Like They Do.

At 17 he forged his fathers signature on a release form to sing background with Dennis Edwards of Temptations fame. A stand out performer, Pookie soon caught the attention of R&B superstar Keith Sweat where he formed the group Ol Skool, a multiplatinum selling group on Universal Records.

In 2000 Pookie was called in at the last minute to do background for entertainer Stan Mosely. Pookie learned 12 songs in five hours and gave a stunning performance on the show. James McKay, currently bassist for the Temptations, then Mosely’s music director, took notice of Pookie’s extraordinary talent

The collaboration of Pookie and James McKay is pure soul magic with passionate gritty vocals and catchy hooks that stay on the mind.

Soul Folks Feat. Will Hammond Jr.

Snippets from Soul Folks Featuring Will Hammond Jr To Be Continued


Check out Will Hammond Jr. who is an exciting talent by listening to the above snippets!

You can pick the CD up from CD Baby - here's the blurb:

San Francisco based singer/songwriter Will Hammond Jr. scored a decade ago as the writer of Tara Kemp's international hit, "Hold You Tight," (Warners Bros.) The song went to #3 on the Billboard Pop and R&B charts and went to become a certified gold record with 800,000 units sold. In 2003, he released his first solo project named “brothafromanuthaplanet” was under his pseudonym, Soul Folk. However, Hammond has not himself recorded an album under his moniker, until now, with his upcoming cd “To Be Continued…”

Cicero Blake It's You I Need

Snippets from Cicero Blake It's You I Need Senator N Jones

Great to see Cicero Blake back with a new CD.

Listen up to the snippets above and then pop over to CD Baby to buy it!!!

Hurricane Do You Remember

Snippets from Hurricane Do You Remember


Here's a good new Southern Soul orientated album from Hurricane on the John Roberts & Lawrence Baulden label.

You can pick it up from CD Baby. Here's his blurb:

Darren "Hurricane" King, the bad boy of blues, was born in Merouge, Louisiana to a family dedicated to singing gospel music. By age four, his mother noticed that he had a special talent, an incredible desire to sing and the ability to perform in front of huge audiences without a moment’s hesitation.

On stage, he was a dynamic, entertaining personality. His brothers and sisters started calling him "Hurricane," because when he sang, he performed with high energy, like a storm, singing and dancing, climbing up on chairs and tables, and enticing the crowd to get involved.

Although he was so young, he learned every word of each song and performed each one like a professional. His mother formed a gospel group that included Hurricane and the rest of his brothers and sisters. They performed in churches in Louisiana for many years and allowed Hurricane to hone his skills.

During his years in school, Hurricane made his mark singing and acting in plays and other programs. In middle school, he realized his calling during a performance in the musical, “Trouble In River City.” From that moment, Hurricane decided that singing was going to be his life long profession and he decided to move to Los Angeles to pursue his career.

In Los Angeles, Hurricane sang in clubs and on stage. In 1990, he formed an R&B group called Manhood and recorded their first single, “Rib Tip Dinner,” which enjoyed a certain amount of success.

“Rib Tip Dinner” caught the ear of a blues band called Da Deal. Hurricane was invited to join Da Deal as their vocalist. Although he was familiar with the blues and knew some blues standards, it was his first encounter with actually performing the blues as his main set, but he took the opportunity and made it work.

Performing in local blues clubs over the years, Hurricane opened many shows for such blues artists as Little Milton, Vernon Garrett, Barbara Morrison, and others artists who came to Los Angeles to perform.

In the early months of 2007, Hurricane signed a recording contract with Roberts/Baulden Entertainment and out of that collaboration came the CD entitled “Do You Remember.”

“Do You Remember” is a collection of songs that only a vocalist of Hurricane’s ability can pull off, taking you to a level of funky R&B flavored bad boy blues to compositions that make you want to grab someone and hold on tight.

The first song on the CD, My Name Is Hurricane, gives the listener an idea of what Hurricane is all about. He is telling you to get up and dance, because as long as Hurricane is in the house, “there can’t be no wallflowers up in here.”

And ladies, you’ve got to “Drop Them Draws. You can’t expect a man to provide you with a place to live, pay all the bills, treat you like a queen, and then don’t, at least, make love to him.

Hurricane’s rendition of “Do You Remember” is a soulful, passionate question, asking his woman if she remembers all the love they shared. That was then, and this is now.

“Nothing Is Sweeter” is a song of love. If you’ve ever been in love, you know that there is nothing sweeter, whether you are giving love or receiving it. Love is sweet, and there is nothing better.

If you’ve ever taken another man’s woman, you may have gotten more than you bargained for. You may find yourself begging him to “Take Her Back,” and Hurricane sings this song with passion, begging the other man to please take his woman back because he didn’t know what he was getting himself into when he took her.

“The Heart You Broke” is a sad, moody, song that tells a story of being in love and having your heart broken when the one you love walks out on you. We’ve all been there at one point in our lives. It helps, though, when the heartbreaker realizes that you are the best thing that could have ever happened to them, and they have to beg and plead to get you back.

Then you can tell them, "I Cried Too Many Tears," so I’m letting you go. Hurricane is the master at making you feel that you are in the driver’s seat, because you’re tired of the blues, you’re tired of the pain, you’ve gotten yourself together, and you’re moving on with your life.

“Look What Love Has Done For Me” is a sensuous love song, telling the world to take note of changes that love can bring. Love makes you feel good, it gives you a new way of walking, a new way of talking, puts a smile on your face, and it takes you to a brand new place in your life.

Sometimes you may go through a period when it seems that it’s “Been Such A Long Time” since you’ve felt good about your life. In this song, Hurricane lets you know that, sooner or later, love will come along and when it does, you’ve got to grab it and hold on to it because it if you let it get away, you may not see it again for a long time.

Now it’s time to get “Freaky.” Hurricane is ready to make love and he wants to do it now, no matter what part of the house he is in. So ladies, the Hurricane is willing and able, so come ride this freak train so you can get in the mood to be a freaky freak.

Willie Tolver New Man In Town

Snippets from Willie Tolver New Man In Town Laryan CD


A new album from veteran Memphis artist Willie Tolver on Laryan the label that recently brought us David G, Allen O and Monique Ford.

Have alisten to the above snippets and if you like then drop over to CD Baby to get a copy

Sunday Soul Selection 6/4/08

Little Beaver

A quality show as ever from host Shaun Robbins.

Tracklisting 6/4/08

O’Jays – Never Break Us Up (PIR) LP track
Spyder Turner – I’ve Been Waiting (Whitfield) 45
Henry Jackson Company – What’s The Matter (Gospel Truth) LP track
Mary Gresham – You’ve Never Really Lived (Until You've Loved Someone) (Soulscape) CD track
Harvey Scales – Are You Still In Love (Kashgold) 12”
Quadraphonics – Prove My Love To You (Innovation II) 45
Brighter Side Of Darkness - Love Jones (20th Century) 45
Wildflower – Sugar Baby (Dash) 45
Hyla Parker – Joe (Cheri) 45
Wayne Henderson - Dancin' Love Affair (Polydor) 45
NYCC – Make Every Day Count (RCA) LP track
Ray Crumley - All The Way In Love With You (Alarm) 45
Charles Jackson - Love Of You (Capitol) LP track
Lee Eldred - You Saved Me Baby (Chess) 45
Sharon Cash - Let Me Be The One (A&M) 45
Chuck Overton – Is It Possible (Kapp) 45
Ellipsis - People (Jazzman) 12"
Little Beaver - Listen to My Heartbeat (Jazzman) 45
Shades of Blu - Bella Mi (A&M) 45
Marvin Gaye – Come Get To This (Tamla) 45
Lamont Dozier – Take Off Your Make Up (ABC) 45
Jackie Moore – Both Ends Against The Middle (Atlantic) 45
Ron Keith – Gotta Go By What You Tell Me (A&M) 45
Spinners – You Go Your Way (I’ll Go Mine) (Atlantic) 45
Duane Williams – Yes My Love Is Real (Soul Junction) 45
Richard Stepp - Caught In A Whirlwind (Infinity) LP track / (Expansion) 45
Charen Cotton – A Little Bit Of Love (Perception) 45
Willie Roundtree – Another World (Chelsea) 45
Charles Johnson – Baby I Cried, Cried, Cried (Alston) 45
Mary J Blige – Hello It’s Me (2007 Universal) CD track

If you missed the show then pick it up here:

6th April 2008: Sunday Soul Selection

Shirley Slaughter In Philly

My mate John Carrier has sent me a clip of video featuring Shirley Slaughter. The video features her performing tracks that influenced her musical direction recorded in Club Damani , Philadelphia 01st February 2008.

Watch out for more news on Shirley soon.

Syleena Johnson Is It True

Syleena Johnson Is It True

Syleena Johnson has launched her own label Aneelys Records and her debut album on the new label “Chapter 4: Labor Pains” is due on September 2. The first track I have heard is entitled “Is It True”

Syleena Johnson says “I am so excited about this venture. For the past 10 years, others have had control of my career. Now, I am in control and the level of Aneelys’ success is dependent on me and I look forward to that challenge. Having full control allows me to sign my own acts, call all of the shots and release my album when it is truly ready, I am blessed.”

Roy Malone

Roy Malone I've Got Something For The Ladies GCS

Roy Malone You're The Sweetest Thing Big M


Over the next couple of weeks, I thought that I would look back to the early 80's when there seemed to be a glut of good 45s coming out of Memphis every other week and feature some of my favourites.

First off, we have Roy Malone who had at least 3 singles out in the 80's and who seems to have dropped off the map since then. Roy was born in 1951 just outside Memphis and went into music via the Baptist Church where he sang in the choir. While still a teenager, he formed his own group with some school friends and sang at birthday parties and talent shows.

He graduated from high school in 1970 and worked as a cab driver. During this time, he formed a band with James Boner, an old school friend, called Fringe Benefits. He spent the next 4 years touring around the South before leaving in order to pursue a writing career. He eventually went back to taxi cab work to make ends meet. One day, as fortune would have it he ended up driving Carl Smith then a writer with Stax. Roy's singing in his cab impressed Carl Smith enough to offer him jobs cutting demos. Carl Smith offered Roy a contract at Stax but the fates intervened when Roy was shot by a robber.

After recovering, Roy hooked up with Reginald Eskridge and recorded 2 of his own songs I've Got Something For The Ladies and Keep On Dancing for the GCS label at the Galaxy Studios in Memphis. Roy had 2 further sides out on his own Big M label You're The Sweetest Thing and Hold Me, Kiss Me, Thrill Me. You're The Sweetest Thing even got a release on the UK Move label who issued a number of albums in the mid-80's featuring indie soul.

Does anyone know what happened to Roy Malone?

Biographical detail based on original article by Richard Carrington in UK magazine Voices From The Shadows 9 Winter 88/89

Melissa Young

Melissa Young Snippets From Just Up The Road

Melissa Young has just become one of my friends over on Soul Commune and she has just posted several new publicity shots including the one above.

Melissa Young had one of the best mainstream soul albums Just Up The Road out last year - take a listen to the snippets above.

Ayah Problem Woman Mixtape

Ayah Play It Cool Snippet

Ayah is a multitalented & self-taught singer / songwriter / composer who possesses an enchanting voice.

She says on her MySpace:

At the age of 9, Ayah discovered her voice and her passion to express herself through music. By the time she was 14, she had already mastered playing the piano and had learned the fundamentals to engineering her own material. While developing her genuine sound, Ayah drew from the musical prowess of both contemporary artists like Mary J. Blige, Lauryn Hill and Beyonce, soul stirrers like Sade, Jill Scott and Erykah Badu and timeless legends such as Anita Baker and Whitney Houston. Ayah, now 21, creates her own unique brand of music, an eclectic infusion of classic soul, R&B and hip hop. She has a new project out in May called Problem Woman Mixtape which draws inspiration from Marvin Gaye's Trouble Man album. For more details - check out her MySpace

Gina Foster B-Side Of Love

Gina Foster B-Side Of Love Snippet

Expansion Records launch their Soul Togetherness imprint with the very catchy 90's groover from Gina Foster. Due out in May.

Definition Of Soul West Coast Feat. Frank McComb 31/5/08

Frank McComb and Sy Smith Saturday May 31, 2008, The City Theatre, 2301 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201. Show starts at 8:30 p.m. Tickets go on sale April 26, 2008. Tickets are $29 and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets including Hockeytown Authentics. Call 248-645-6666 or order tickets online at ticketmaster.com and olympiaentertainment.com.

Mosaicthump Online Inc. in association with Olympia Entertainment is proud to bring you the Definition of Soul Concert Series. Definition of Soul is a two day event, East Coast Experience showcasing favorites from the east coast, and West Coast Experience highlighting soul music’s most sought after talent on the left coast. Definition of Soul concert goers will experience the top independent soul artists up close and personal; in an intimate setting that has to be seen to be believed, Detroit’s City Theatre. Day two of this series, Definition of Soul: West Coast Experience, features Frank McComb and Sy Smith as she makes her debut performance in Detroit.

Frank McComb uses his status as an “independent artist” to create some of the most progressive and diverse music on the scene today. Frank McComb left an indelible mark in his Detroit debut solo performance in 2007. One thing that attendees at his first show will assert is that standing-room-only were not the words to properly describe the packed crowd at Detroit’s Jazz Cafe. Expect Frank McComb to deliver a 70’s inspired performance of Jazz, funk and soul reminiscent of Donny Hathaway and Stevie Wonder. The best description for the music he creates is 70’s throwback. Frank’s mature, ballad-heavy music often moves people to tears.

Sy Smith emerged with her independent debut The Syberspace Social in 2005, which featured contributions vocalist Anthony Hamilton and famed producers such as James Poyser and Victor Duplaix. She regularly sang with Vonda Shepard on the popular FOX television series “Ally McBeal.” In addition, Smith shared the vocal spotlight with legendary singer Al Green performing the title song to the Showtime series “Soul Food.” Smith takes the listener to a cosmic café where freedom is encouraged and progressive thinking is demanded. Her new release, Conflict, seems to provide more of the signature Sy Smith, rendering a poised mixture of Funk, Soul, Hip Hop, Jazz, Rock with a little social commentary for good measure. Mosaicthump and Syberspace is a combination for the ages, come see the two collide.

Special thanks to Miles, Jay, SoulTracks.com, Jodine’s Corner, 4DaSoul.com, O.N.U.T.S.S., Myron Ruffin, Indigo, Fusicology.com, Halcyongroove, Purpose Records, Kreative Styles by Pilar, Fiona Bloom, DMo, Kendra Ross, Russell Taylor, Montaj, Abby Harris, Stevie Soul, Duane, Conya Doss and Detroit, MI

The Definition Of Soul Feat. Eric Roberson 30/5/08

Eric Roberson with special guest Carol Riddick Friday May 30, 2008, The City Theatre, 2301 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201. Tickets go on sale April 26, 2008. Show starts at 8:30 pm. Tickets are $29 and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets including Hockeytown Authentics. Call 248-645-6666 or order tickets online at ticketmaster.com and olympiaentertainment.com.

Mosaicthump Online Inc. in association with Olympia Entertainment is proud to bring you the Definition of Soul Concert Series. Definition of Soul is a two day event, East Coast Experience showcasing favorites from the east coast and West Coast Experience highlighting soul music’s most sought after talent on the left coast. Definition of Soul concert goers will experience the top independent soul artists up close and personal; in an intimate setting that has to be seen to be believed, Detroit’s City Theatre. Day one of this series, Definition of Soul: East Coast Experience, features Eric Roberson with his very special guest Carol Riddick as she makes her debut performance in Detroit.

Eric’s music can be best described as musical theatre. Listening to an Eric Roberson song will allow one one to realize what life without regret would feel like. Eric’s lyrics pull every piece of emotion from every syllable. Every bar has you holding your breath in preparation for the moment when he sings the words that you have always needed to say but couldn’t. Roberson’s stage shows hearken back to Marvin Gaye’s ability to interact with the audience in a way where the artist follows the audience’s lead. The journey that is a live performance from Eric Roberson is a once in a lifetime experience. Come early and be prepared for the ride of your life!

Carol Riddick is a sultry singer/songwriter who has graced stages from her hometown of Philadelphia to across the globe, winning fans and admirers with her extraordinary voice. Carol Riddick first came to public notice as a backing singer with DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince. She used that springboard to become a much sought-after vocalist, working over the past decade with such artists as Anthony Hamilton, Kindred, Jill Scott and Musiq Soulchild. Even while working with the industry’s finest, Carol always dreamed of sharing her own music. Now, with the release of her debut album, Moments Like This, Carol has evolved into a true rising star.

Special thanks to Miles, Jay, SoulTracks.com, Jodine’s Corner, 4DaSoul.com, O.N.U.T.S.S., Myron Ruffin, Indigo, Fusicology.com, Halcyongroove, Purpose Records, Momma Tennie, Darling, Fiona Bloom, DMo, Kendra Ross, Russell Taylor, Montaj, Abby Harris, Stevie Soul, Duane, Conya Doss and Detroit, MI

Bert's Apple Crumble 12/5/08

I've had a message from the Bert's Apple Crumble gang:

Anybody who's going to see Paul Weller at the Derby Assembly Rooms on MONDAY 12th MAY 2008, will be delighted to hear that BERT'S APPLE CRUMBLE will be putting an after show party together, giving fans a chance to carry the 'mod' experience right through until 3.30am, at a brand new venue for Derby City Centre - just a few minutes walk form the Assembly Rooms, The Royal on Victoria Street. www.theroyalderby.co.uk

To make it extra special we've invited some very special guests to join you, and will be welcoming ANDY LEWIS back to the club to spin some tunes for you. Andy last played Bert's in October last year, whilst charting in the UK with his Acid Jazz single with Mr Weller, titled 'Are you Trying To be Lonely?'. Since that time Andy's kept in close contact with Paul Weller, in fact he's now part of the band.

All details on nearby parking, hotels, future club dates, music policy, etc. can be found on our webpage:

www.myspace.com/bertsapplecrumbleclub

Bert's will appear twice in May 2008:
12th - Paul Weller After Party - Guest DJ ANDY LEWIS (Acid Jazz Records, Former Blur Tour DJ, Blow-up Club & Casino Royale)
23rd - Normal Club Night 10pm - 3.30am Djs Craig Simpson (Shoutin The Blues) & Dom Cater (Hipshaker regular)

Sonya Taylor Finding Platinum

One of my new friends over on Soul Commune is Sonya Taylor. She currently has a new book:

Finding Platinum
$15.95
Paperback,
5.5x8.5
ISBN: 1-59858-260-7
256 pages

Amongst the glitter and glamour of the high-priced lifestyle of exotic dancing, sex, and drugs is the poignant tale of a streetwise, coquettish young woman born and raised on the tough streets of Detroit, who migrated to the heart of the south in the late 80s and early 90s, and grew up under the dazzle of the strobe lights and the salacious eyes of men with power, money, and prestige.

At times, her life seemed so glamorous and exciting on the outside, but it was marred by heartbreak, tragedy, and senseless murders. This book explains how life’s lessons that sometimes cost so much, often show that their value is worth every dime.

For more information or to order the book, please visit:

www.FindingPlatinum.com

or email Sonya at:

Sonya@findingplatinum.com.

The Wild Mix

As I mentioned last week, Monday is the day I post a new mix on my Keeping Soul Alive blog.

This week it is bunch of songs with the title - The Wild Mix.

Please drop over and take a listen.

Ledisi

Check out Ledisi's re-vamped webiste.

If you want to see how great a singer Ledisi then check out this video and others from the same performance at New York City's Highline Ballroom NYC August 31 2007:

I was fortunate enough to see her in Blackpool a few years back and she blew the venue apart! If she comes to your city then check her out!

Walter "Wolfman" Washington Doin' The Funky Thing

I got news through today that Walter "Wolfman" Washington, one of my favourite New Orleans artists, is back with a new album.
The album is released by Zoho Music. Tracklisting:

1. Shake Your Booty /Funky Thing Part I
2. I’m Back
3. Tweakin’
4. One Day From Being A Fool
5. Crescent City Starlights
6. Just Like That
7. Only You
8. Wolf Jazz
9. Landslide
10. Shake Your Booty/Funky Thing Part II

Produced by Edward J Washington. Associate Producer: Barbara G Washington. Recorded and mixed by Tim Stambaugh. Mastered by David Farrell. Photography: Ericka Goldring (CD cover).Package design: Three and Co., New York www.threeandco.com Executive Producer: Joachim “Jochen” Becker.

Here is the Zoho Music Press Release on the album:

Since I first heard The Wolf, I thought that he was one of the hippest guitar players and singers! He understood how to comp behind other singers, whether it was Johnny Adams, Lee Dorsey, or Irma Thomas. I think “Doin’ The Funky Thing” is crucialchronic FUNK at its best!
Dr John

Walter “Wolfman” Washington & the Roadmasters have been doin’ the funky thing as long as there’s been a funky thing to do. In fact, when I asked George Clinton one time about how he got into the funk, he said, “There was this record on the radio: ‘Get Out of My Life Woman,’ and that was sure enough the funk.” Clinton was talking about Lee Dorsey, the bump and fender man from the 9th Ward in New Orleans, and Wolfman was his guitar player when Lee toured behind his hot single for Amy Records.

Wolfman is New Orleans to the bone, and in the tradition of hometown musical philosophers like Lee Dorsey, Professor Longhair, Earl King, Eddie Bo, Fats Domino, Jessie Hill and Wolf’s first cousin, Ernie K-Doe, he’s a deep thinker as well as a master musician.

Wolfman started playing professionally in his teens, first as a member of K-Doe’s band and then as Lee Dorsey’s guitarist. He spent some time backing Irma Thomas and worked with David Lastie & A Taste of New Orleans before entering a 20-year musical partnership with the great Johnny Adams.

Wolf always had his own idea of how he wanted a band to sound, and by the early 1980s he was recording sides for Senator Jones at J-B’s Records that established the high standard he would uphold and extend for the next quarter of a century—music that was deeply soulful, deliciously funky, tastefully lavished with horns and keys, but blues all the way down to the bottom and all the way up to the top. New Orleans blues, slick and urbane like always, and fully informed by the musical world outside the Crescent City.

Wolfman’s stock in trade for years and years has been presenting and interpreting great songs by his blues musical contemporaries and role models, from Ray Charles and Little Willie John to Tyrone Davis and Bill Withers. But Wolf has always placed equal importance in his own compositions, and he’s continued to grow and develop as a songwriter rooted in the urban blues idiom. From his earliest recordings as a leader in the early 1980s, through his splendid Rounder albums Wolf Tracks (1986), Out of the Dark (1988) and Wolf at the Door (1991), his Point Blank CD Sada (1991), his Swiss recording with the J.B. Horns called Blue Moon Rising (1994), his return to Rounder for Funk Is in the House (1998) and On the Prowl (2000), his recent hiatus from recording and then rebuilding his life and his band after the Flood, to the crowning achievement of Doin’ the Funky Thing, his self-produced blues masterpiece, Walter “Wolfman” Washington has never strayed from his basic artistic identity as a soulful urban bluesman with creative vision who consistently delivers maximum excitement as a singer, guitarist and stage performer.

Walter “Wolfman” Washington & the Roadmasters have already been leading the pack with respect to working blues outfits for a good 20 years now, and the tragic attrition of the ranks of their peers over this period has left the Roadmasters way out in front. But today as always, it’s the leader’s artistic conception and sheer determination to realize his vision that make his music shine and grow.

Doin’ The Funky Thing is an impressive and consistently moving achievement by an artist in the fullness of his maturity and a big step forward for the Wolfman as a contemporary blues composer. This program presents Wolf at his very best in every category: writing, arranging, singing, playing guitar and directing the band. He’s always bucked the economics and common sense of touring by carrying his own horn section at all times, and by now the horns whisper, punctuate, sing and shout like a natural extension of the Wolfman’s musical personality.

Wolf’s song “I’m Back” is the central number in this collection of heartfelt sounds. While it may sound like a self-congratulatory title by some obscure singer who’s been off the set a while for one sad reason or another, in this case it’s not an artist’s belated return to commerce, but the on-going physical resuscitation and spiritual revival of the flooded city of New Orleans and its sorely battered citizens that’s at the core of this stunning suite of original compositions by the Wolfman.

Lord knows where the Wolf had to flee to survive the Flood nor how long he had to stay there, but he got back to New Orleans as soon as he could and set about re-assembling his hand-tailored band, The Roadmasters, to perform and record the new songs he was creating to express the things he was feeling and seeing all around him.

“It’s coming back to life,” Wolfman asserts over the soulful musical bed laid down by his silky smooth horns and rhythm team. “We gonna come bring it back, y’all.”

Wolf’s hopeful, emphatic vision of the city’s rebirth from the ruins is advanced in the core compositions in this set: “I’m Back,” “Landslide,” “Crescent City Starlight,” and the anthemic “Just Like That”, a song which—if soulful, swinging, intelligent music written with wisdom about real life issues and performed to perfection had any commercial value in the modern marketplace—would be shooting to the top of this week’s charts.

Wolf’s fervent social pronouncements are balanced by more personal concerns in a smooth, reflective “One Day Being a Fool” and the exultant musical pledge of marital fidelity called “Only You”. And there’s plenty of Grade-A Wolfman funk like “Tweakin’,” “Wolf Jazz” and the two-part dance-floor marathon “Shake Your Booty/Funky Thing” highlighted by the Roadmasters and their leader’s fluid, effortlessly emotive guitar.

Wolfman has never stopped growing as a creative artist working in the urban blues idiom, and his persistence has brought him in his maturity to an even higher level of accomplishment as a masterful contemporary blues composer who deals with intelligence and grace in issues of great social and personal import. And his band of Roadmasters—it just keeps getting better and better. John Sinclair, Amsterdam, March 6, 2008

Vintage Soul Radio Show Sunday 6th April 2008

The Violinaires

It has been a few months since I gave a shout to my mate Barry Fowden's radio show:

SUNDAY MEANS.......REAL SOUL TIME....
Live on the net..
http://www.soulcellar.co.uk/Playlists.html
Click Radio Rüsselsheim Station logo
...on Radio Station Page..
next to WEBRADIO
click: MEDIA PLAYER or ANDERE
just make sure your player
has the .rm option clicked on.

USA Western Time 9am
USA Eastern Time 12pm
UK Time 5pm
Central European Time 6pm

Tracklisting 6/4/08

Gladys Knight & The Pips - Baby I Need Your Loving
Motown label..album 'Silk N' Soul'..1969

Persuasions - Hurry Back
Minit label...

Luther Ingram - Home Don't Seem Like Home
Koko label...

Hardie Clifton & Brooklyn All Stars - Sweet Love
Jewel label...

Violinaires - Times Like This
Checker label..1967
Robert Blair on lead

Chuck Wright - Love I Wont Be A Fool Anymore
Ember label...

Friendly Brothers – Operator
Vee Jay label...

Sam Baker - I Believe In You
Sound Stage Seven label...

Founders - Don't You Leave Me Baby
Bolivia label...

Willie Banks & The Messengers - Look At The Blessing
HSE label..1972

Hank Hodge - Thank You Girl
Eye label..1970

Bobby Warren - All I Ever Need
Kon Kord label..

Patterson Brothers - Tomorrow May Be Too Late
Ansco label..1982

Z Z Hill - Please Dont Make Me Do Something Bad To You
Malaco label..980

DEEP SOUL CELLAR
Johnny Jones - No Love As Sweet As Yours
Fury label..

Larry Clinton - This Would Be My Prayer
Lawn label.....

GOSPEL CORNER
Capitol City Stars - Friends Talk About Me
TruSound label..

Qunestine Strong - Very Tender Moments
Raina label...

Joe Wilson - You Need Me
Avco label..

If you can download the show here:

Vintage Soul Radio Show Sunday 6th April 2008

Craig Charles's Funk & Soul Show 5/4/08

Sharon Jones

Craig Charles was back with his usual powerhouse show featuring an interview with Sharon Jones and a studio session with The Apples who are currently on tour.

Tracklisting 5/4/08

Marvin Gaye-“Can I Get A Witness”(Universal)
S.O.U.L.-“On Top Of The World” (BGP)
Kraak and Smaak-“Squeeze Me” (Jalapeno Records)
The Family Fortune-“Work” (Skyline Recordings)
Tower of Power-“This Type Of Funk” (SDV)
Eli “Paperboy” Reed-“I’m Gonna Getcha Back”- (Q-Division)
Rainbow Brown-“I’m The One”-(Kent)
Betty Everett-“Getting Mighty Crowded” (Goldmine Soul Supply)
The Silhouettes-“Not Me Baby” (Goldmine Soul Supply)

The Apples - ‘Debils Dream’ (Session)
The Apples – ‘Buzz