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Northern Soul Connections #35 - Latest Issue from Kenb

Now at #35 in the long running informative 'Northern Connections' series by @Kenb.
Northern Connections # 35 -  Child Of Friendship, Train Robbers
The eagle-eyed amongst you will have spotted two different addresses on the 2 versions of Natural Records 1516. 1516 25th Ave versus 1510 16th St. The latter being a small room and the location for Black Unity, Inc-at least from 1971 to 1974. Black Unity, Inc was incorporated in 1967 and was essentially founded to raise the political consciousness of black people through education. Whether this 'room' at 1510 16th St was vacated before the (apparent) release date and therefore has nothing to do with Black Unity, Inc. - OR - whether the release date is inaccurate (perhaps earlier than 1976) and it does have a Black Unity, Inc connection? I don't know.
 

 
You can check out all Kens other quality 34 Northern Connections and more via his 'activity' profile page, via the link below...
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/profile/37754-kenb/content/?type=cms_records5&change_section=1
By Kenb in Articles ·

2 x New 45s - Daptone Penrose Imprint - Johnny Ruiz / Junior Scaife

A quick shout about two most recent Penrose Daptone 45 releases
 
Videos and release notes below
Johnny Ruiz & the Escapers
"Sorry" b/w "Prettiest Girl"
Johnny Ruiz and the Escapers offer up two sides of haunting group sounds sure the scratch the itch of doo-wop and soul enthusiasts alike. Adorning the a-side is "Sorry", a stark, creeping, dirge-like ballad with a sparse rhythm track that swings eerily underneath Johnny's sublime lead and the Escapers plaintive harmonies, creating an hypnotic vibe that will have you dropping the needle over and over again. Continuing with the dark vibes but picking up the pace a couple BPMs, "The Prettiest Girl" brings a measure of hopefulness to the tune, evoking the earnest, lovelorn memories of youth. 


Junior Scaife
"When My Heart Beats" b/w "Moment to Moment"

On his debut 45, Junior Scaife shows us he's a vocal heavyweight whose prowess on the mic is tantamount to the pen. Backed by house band The Penrose Scholars and co-written by producer, Anthony Masino, "When My Heart Breaks" is a bouncy stepper with feel-good vibes and groove in equal measure, serving up a Brenton Wood-esque blast of sunshine and soul. On the flip is "Moment to Moment" a gorgeous, bluesy ballad with a vocal performance that transcends the trappings of lesser tunes, giving it a depth and serious- ness that takes you by the heart and mind to a place where longing and love reign supreme.
 
Available now via their uk store at £7 each or via a both 45s bundle
https://daptone.bigcartel.com/
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Pre-Order: New 45 from Creative Soul - MT Jones - I'd Be Lying

New Release from Creative Soul - MT Jones - I'd Be Lying
MT Jones - I'd Be Lying / In My Arms - Creative Soul 
There was a slogan carried on t-shirts and record bags a few years ago which simply said "Soul music, if I had to explain it, then you wouldn't understand". It's true up to a point, you have to listen, you have to have an ear to really appreciate to then understand what it's really about.
We think that our next release should have carried a strap line, "MT Jones.... soul music explained"
Available from mid-December, and available for pre-order now. We expect this to sell out, and those that have seen MT Jones supporting Jalen Ngonda's performances will certainly agree with us.
In MT Jones there’s unquestionable talent and passion for REAL soul music that crosses so many boundaries. It should come as no surprise that he now supports Jalen Ngonda's European tour. We are so excited to have his music on our logo and to release these tracks on the most fitting format…. on wax!
Here’s what soul music connoisseur, Brian Goucher has to say… 
'In May 2023 I stumbled over MT Jones and his "I’d Be Lying", I was totally transfixed with the subtle nod to Robert Parker's immortal "I Caught You In A Lie"  couple that with a unique and soulful voice and you have something very special. 
 
He is already a seasoned singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who started his journey at the age of 8 on the piano, his music is grounded in his affair with soul music; Motown, Stax and Atlantic featured heavily in the early years, his earliest influence being the legendary Ray Charles.  He has travelled the world honing his talents which he repeatedly reveals on his ability to seamlessly combine the past with the present day to output serenely soulful and timeless music. 
 
Soul radio in the UK has already given airtime with frequent plays of the topside. Flip the 45 over for the stunning builder “In My Arms” which morphs into a compulsive piece of soul music in its own right.
 
 An utterly fabulous release.'
More info and purchase options via
https://creativesoulcouk.bigcartel.com
 
 

 


By Wrongcrowd in News Archives ·

Brand New Soul Single 45: Featuring Darrell Smith (As Seen on BBC Northern Soul at The Proms)

A brand new Soul Double A Side Single from Suit Yourself Music.
The Syphons featuring Darrell Smith: Moving In On Somebody Else’s Heart
AA: I Don’t Know Where We Go From Here
Fresh from his show-stealing performance at July’s BBC Northern Soul Prom at London’s Royal Albert Hall, singer Darrell Smith has teamed up with producer and songwriter Andy Lewis (formerly bass player for living legend Paul Weller) and instrumentalists The Syphons for this double-sided slice of powerful 60’s inspired musical escapism with a propulsive beat. Smith’s incredible vocal range soars majestically over The Syphons’ authentically recorded backing track. Darrell has multiple bookings already in the diary to perform these songs live, including the Blackpool Tower Northern Soul Christmas Special

LISTEN HERE >> https://suityourselfmusic.com/products/moving-in-on-somebodys-elses-heart-the-syphons-feat-darrell-smith
site note
Pre-order info added below
Released: End November 2023. TBC
ttiled edited at authors request
By Suit Yourself in News Archives ·

Secret History of Chicago Music - Pastor Mitty Collier

Secret History of Chicago Music - Pastor Mitty Collier 
A new addition to the most enjoyable 'Secret History of Chicago Music' article series running on The Chicago Reader Website via Steve Krakow
THE SECRET HISTORY OF CHICAGO MUSIC
Pastor Mitty Collier spent the 1960s as one of the great voices in soul music
For 20 years she’s served the More Like Christ Christian Fellowship Church on the south side, but her old life deserves recognition too.
Mitty Lene Collier was born in Birmingham, Alabama, on June 21, 1941, the youngest of seven children of Rufus and Gertrude Collier. She started singing in church as a teenager and toured Alabama and Georgia with gospel group the Hayes Ensemble. After graduating from Western-Olin High School, Collier studied English at Alabama A&M College and Miles College. By then she was also singing R&B in nightclubs to subsidize her education, and when she was  18 she made a visit to Chicago that changed her life.
The full article can be read or listened to via
https://chicagoreader.com/music/the-secret-history-of-chicago-music/pastor-mitty-collier-spent-the-1960s-as-one-of-the-great-voices-in-soul-music/
 
 
Photo by Tim Gouw on Unsplash
By Mike in News Archives ·

Pre-order: New Retro Soul 45 - Brian Scartocci - Days Of Glory / No Kind Of Pitiful - LRK RECORDS

LRK are excited to announce their last 45 release of the year. The double A sided 45 by Texas soul man, Brian Scartocci
Brian Scartocci - Days Of Glory / No Kind Of Pitiful - LRK-24 - LRK RECORDS
Genre: Retro Soul
Release date: 8th Dec 2023
Pre-order from today! Only 300 copies pressed and already selling quick so make sure you secure a copy!
This is LRK's last 45 release of the year! Shipping before Christmas.
https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/days-of-glory-no-kind-of-pitiful
 
 

 
Brian Scartocci is a veteran soul singer and songwriter.
For more than a decade, the singer has been making a name for himself in the red-hot Austin music scene. The renowned vocalist has lent his voice to a series of popular local and regional bands including Austin Heat and Blind Lead The Blind. 
In 2012 Brian Scartocci wowed an international audience as a contestant on the hugely popular competitive singing program, The Voice. Now based in Texas, the New Jersey native has established a reputation across the United States as a dynamic performer and gifted vocalist. Known for interacting directly with the audience, he can often be found offstage, getting down with the crowd.
"If it’s soul music, it absolutely has to come from the heart, from the depths, from your greatest pain, your purest joy. It has to be honest, unvarnished. It has to hurt, it has to heal. If it’s real, people will know. If it isn’t, you won’t be doing it long. I’ve been around damn near 20 years now. Something must be resonating.”

 
Days Of Glory / No Kind Of Pitiful by Brian Scartocci
By LRK in News Archives ·

Pre-Order: New 45 - The Natural Soul Brothers Ltd / The Four Thoughts - Soul Direction

Details of the latest Soul Direction 45 release have just landed...
Press Release
Soul Direction Records are pleased to announce the next release in the catalogue.
The Natural Soul Brothers Ltd - 'Cement, Plaster & Gold' / The Four Thoughts - 'Kisses & Roses' - Soul Direction -SD019
Pre-Order from Friday 10th November for release date 24th November 2023.
Staying in my favourite state of Philly, we continue with 2 sublime tracks from the Wally-O Production stables.
The home of Herb Johnson & The Impacts, The Topics and the soul duo of Jeri Payne and Joe Freeman aka. Jeri & Joe. The two tracks featured in this latest Soul Direction  Release are both prime examples of the forgotten and obscure talents from this Wally Osborne production line.
The Natural Soul Brothers Ltd consisted of Tom McNeil on lead vocals and Guitarist Clayton Johnson. Any additional members info is sketchy, but we know for sure that Clayton Johnson later went on to help form Thomas Buck Nasty who released an LP on RCA in 1980. This one song from 1970 never saw a release and thanks to Dave Louis made a debut on the  'Best of Wally-o' CD in 2000. The haunting sound and lingering vocals make this a prefect sound for today’s more mellow collecting crowd and crosses more than one sub-genre on this complex soul scene of ours.
The Four Thoughts - Kisses and Roses did gain a release in 1967 on the “Womar” label which was part of the Wally-O set up. A label subsidiary suggested to Wally by Herb Johnson. The name came from the initials of Wally Osborne, his wife, Mabel, and his father-in-law, Ambrose Robinson, who provided the initial funding to start the label. Still an obscure outing to more people than you would think this track although released, just seemed a perfect companion to the A side and hopefully now will gain some more traction across soul nights everywhere.
Thank you for your continued support as always
Alan Kitchener
(Soul Direction Records Ltd)
alan@soul-direction.co.uk
Purchase via https://soul-direction.co.uk/
 
Video -  Natural Soul Brothers Ltd - Cement Plaster & Gold/ Four Thoughts - Kisses & Roses 
 
Sleeve and 45 Scans






 

By Mike in News Archives ·

Pre-Order - New Soul 45 - The Delights - Cannonball Records

Word received about an upcoming 45 from Cannonball Records available to pre-order now for an release on 24th November 2023
Label Release Notes
Unsung Heroes from the Golden Age of Philadelphia Soul
Philly local talents at the crossing of the 6’s and 7’s, they were initially known as The Twilights. At the time they only recorded three songs for demo purposes although all musicians were featured on many productions from Manny Campbell’s stables, The NuRons’ All Of My Life and I'm A Loner being a couple of them.
During the mid 1970's The Delights did go on to record and release a few 45's for the Phil-L.A Of Soul Label.
Like the previous release in the Unsung Heroes program, these masters are physically preserved at University of Pennsylvania.
https://cannonballsoul.com/cannonballrecords/

Video

 
By Mike in News Archives ·

New Release - Soon As I Saw You By Sally Jones & The Heart Healers

New Northern Soul inspired song SOON AS I SAW YOU by SALLY JONES & THE HEART HEALERS
Now available for download but for limited edition vinyl single sales please email info67Heaven@icloud.com (be quick they’re going like hot cakes!) more details on Facebook and Instagram at 67 Heaven. 

Keep The Faith! 
added by site
Facebook Link
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551518867422
Video
sally-jonesBy 67 Heaven.mp4
Press Release Sally Jones & The Heart Healers.
04/11/2023.
Northern Soul inspired new vinyl single fills the dancefloor!
During Lockdown 2020 Bristol singer songwriter Sally Larkin and London musician Jono Heale reconnected online and discovered their joint passion for Northern Soul music and dancing. Jono challenged Sally to compose some songs as a celebration of this genre but to also recreate their love for the 60’s Soul sound. They called the project Sally Jones & The Heart Healers and three years later this resulted in a self-funded vinyl record release under the same name.
Jono explains: ‘It became a journey of discovery in many ways from concept and composition to a lot of work going into the recording and production, even down to using analogue mixing techniques and effects to get the right results.’ He goes on to say: ‘Sally’s written these absolutely fantastic songs but it’s also about getting that authentic sound, which we both love, and hoping it could stand up against other classic Northern Soul tracks.’
The A side, ‘Soon As I Saw You’ is a Northern Soul anthemic dancing standard and the B side ‘He’s The One’ is a Supremes inspired tale of a young woman finding a true gentleman. The tracks were recently mastered at Abbey Road, London and pressed in the traditional way at The Vinyl Factory in Middlesex.
The first pressings are a numbered limited edition of 100 vinyl singles. These are already getting overwhelming feedback and praise from well-respected Northern Soul DJs and club goers around the country. The official release date is set for November, but Sally and Jono have already been busy attending Northern Soul clubs nation-wide and well-respected vinyl DJs have already given it a spin filling the dancefloor.
The single had its first public airings in early October at the Canary Club Norwich, The Sidney Barnes Weekender in Coventry and at various events in Manchester, Wigan and Bolton where it reportedly ‘went down a storm!’. On Saturday October 7th, Sally and Jono witnessed their song filling the dancefloor at their regular monthly haunt at the popular Bristol Northern Soul Club. Sally said: ‘It was quite emotional to see classic Soul fans dancing to your track which was the result of a 3-year journey’.
Sally and Jono hope that this initial release will be the first of more to come and are grateful to all the musicians they’ve involved along the way together with the support and encouragement from those in the vibrant Northern Soul scene.
For more information and interviews please contact 67 Heaven:  Info67Heaven@icloud.com
Soon As I Saw You by Sally Jones & The Heart Healers
By FallenMonk67 in News Archives ·

Durand Jones & The Indications  - New 45 out Nov 17th 2023

DURAND JONES & THE INDICATIONS
Too Many Tears / Cruisin' to the Parque [RELEASE DATE: 11/17/2023]
TRACKLIST:
A. Too Many Tears
B. Cruisin' to the Parque
 
 
 
Release notes
Durand Jones & The Indications are dropping a new 45 on November 17th, "Too Many Tears" b/w "Cruisin' to the Parque" (ft. Y La Bamba). This one was previously released as a tour exclusive, and has been highly sought after. We're excited to bring it back with new label art, and now pressed at the ever reliable, Gotta Groove Records. This new variant is also available on Sea Glass Blue vinyl (ltd 1,500 copies). Pick it up from your local record shop on the 17th, or secure your copy today at coleminerecords.com.
https://www.coleminerecords.com/collections/newandupcoming/products/durand-jones-the-indications-too-many-tears-cruisin-to-the-parque-release-date-11-17-2023
By Mike in News Archives ·

Pre-Order: Roberta Flack – Lost Takes - New Vinyl Lp Featuring 12 x Demos

Roberta Flack – Lost Takes
The twelve-track album which will be released on vinyl only features a collection of demos recorded six months prior to Roberta Flack’s debut album First Takes including Mongo Santamaria’s ‘Afro Blue’, Motown classic ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ and My Fair Lady’s ‘On The Street Where You Live’.
DJ, producer and label owner Gilles Peterson continues his exploration into the Warner archives with the release of Lost Takes, a twelve-track album featuring a collection of demos recorded six months prior to Roberta Flack’s debut album First Takes. The tracks were originally released on CD and are made available here on vinyl for the very first time. Set for release on January 12th 2024 via Peterson’s Arc Records imprint, the album features Flack’s inimitable take on songs including Mongo Santamaria’s ‘Afro Blue’, Motown classic ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ and My Fair Lady’s ‘On The Street Where You Live’.
 
PRE-ORDER ROBERTA FLACK’S LOST TAKES HERE 
https://robertaflack.bandcamp.com/album/lost-takes
 
Gilles Peterson:
“Roberta is a true visionary and one of the great singers of modern times. Imagine the excitement when I saw she had recorded a version of ‘Afro Blue’ during her demo sessions for First Take. I knew straight away that it was a project we wanted to release via Arc Records and to make available on vinyl for the very first time. We’re thrilled to be releasing this and can’t wait for everyone to hear it.”
A four-time Grammy Award winner, Roberta Flack first rose to fame following the release of her 1969 debut album First Take which received widespread international acclaim. She went on to record a string of seminal, chart-topping tracks including ‘Killing Me Softly with His Song’ and ‘Feel Like Makin Love’. 
Track listing:
1.    This Could Be The Start of Something
2.    Nobody Knows You When You’re Down And Out
3.    Hush-A-Bye
4.    Afro Blue
5.    It’s Way Past Suppertime
6.    On The Street Where You Live
7.    Frankie And Johnny
8.    The House Song
9.    Ain’t No Mountain High Enough
10.  The Song Is Love
11.  To Sir With Love
12.  Groove Me

By Mike in News Archives ·

2 New 45's from Hit and Run - November 2023

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN - ANOTHER 2 WINNERS FOR YOUR COLLECTIONS.

£15 each + £3 UK postage (good for 1-3 records)    OVERSEAS - please pm for current postage rates.

paypal – hitandrunsoul45@gmail.com - as 'friends and family' please.
 
HR 1554 THE MOOVERS One Little Dance + Someone To Fulfill My Needs / I Love You Baby .
Another of our great value 3 track 45s; contains both sides of their rarely-seen-for-sale 1966 Miami’s Deep City 45 (£500 a few months back) + the 1967 release on Brent of their 3rdtrack.
3 great male harmony vocal group sounds; if you don’t know them, real growers.
One Little Dance -
www.youtube.com/watch?v=fBgA86qZ6zE
Someone To Fullfill My Needs - www.youtube.com/watch?v=nHZiWPov4ZQ
I Love You Baby - www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1MJrPjh1qg
 
HR 1555 SPENCER WIGGINS Holding On To A Dying Love / I’m At The Breaking Point + Let’s Talk It Over
3 great tracks from Spencer’s Fame period; ‘A’ side never before available on vinyl, also cut by the great Otis Clay; 2 solid dance favourites on the flip, last released some 14-15 years ago and a new audience out there these days.
Holding On To A Dying Love – http://www.dropbox.com/.../HR-1555-A-Spencer-Wiggins...
I’m At The Breaking Point - www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jJ8QnY-N0Y
Let’s Talk It Over - www.youtube.com/watch?v=1S4R-J7yDcI
Both releases in stock now and ready to hit the mail.
Interested in a promo ? Please pm me for up-to-date availability.




 
By Dewsburyborn in News Archives ·

Pre-Order: Soul Junction 45 Reggie Soul having some 'Mighty Good Loving' in his 'World of Ecstasy'

Press Release:   Reggie Soul & The Soul Swingers    “My World Of Ecstasy/Mighty Good Loving” SJ553
Release Date:   Monday November 14th 2023
Reggie Soul real name Reginald Stone is just one of many illusive recording artists who had a very limited recording career for a handful of small independent Chicago labels then disappeared into obscurity, Reggie reputedly left Chicago in the mid 1970’s for the lone star state of Texas never to be seen or heard from again!
 

 
Reggie’s recording legacy is the sum total of 3, 45 singles two of which he recorded under the supervision of respected Chicago songwriter and producer Clarence Johnson., firstly the funk outing “I Got Jody” backed with the soulful “I Feel So Bad” for Red Balloon Records, “I Feel So Bad” was composed by Lee Sain who recorded his own version under the title of “Baby Don’t Leave Me” for the Broach label.  Reggie Soul’s “I Got Jody” also came out as a B-side on Nation Time Records, the A-side was a version of the James Brown song “Soul Walkin’ but this side was credited under the mis-credited artist name of Reggie Smith?

Finally, Reggie’s third release “My World Of Ecstasy/Mighty Good Loving” was released on the Scott Brothers own Capri Records label in 1968. Both sides of the 45 were written by Reggie with Charles and Walter Scott, arrangements were provided by John Jackson and Bill McFarland who provided the horn section to many of the Scott’s future productions.  The Scott Brothers of which there were several (all musicians) had begun their own careers during the late 1950’s recording under the group name of The Masquerades on the Formal label. Often referred to as The Scott Brothers Orchestra with Howard Sephus Scott at the head of their growing musical dynasty they formed their own company Capri Productions circa 1968, their initial recording productions were Fred Johnson (Shi-Lush Records) and the aforementioned Reggie Soul & The Soul Swingers. The Scott’s were also the house band in one of Chicago’s Southside’s most popular night clubs ‘The Bonanza Lounge on 7641, South Halsted. The Scott’s often used the Bonanza as a source of finding future artists for their labels, such as The Soul Majestics, Judson Moore, Bobby Jones & Duke Turner amongst others, they even recorded a live performance on The Bonanza Lounges’ resident comedian Randolph Browner which gained a release on the Shi-Lush label.

“My World Of Ecstasy” like several Capri 45 releases were heavily imported into the UK, often sold in soul packs before finding favour with aficionados of the Crossover Scene in the late 1980’s with it’s popularity still remaining high to the present day.
Soul Junction through their licensing deal with Scot-Tees Publishing would like to present the first release of their Capri Records series.
 
For Further information please contact Soul Junction at:
E-mail:   sales@souljunctionrecords.co.uk
To order visit SOUL JUNCTION RECORDS
 


By Chalky in News Archives ·

Out Now! - New Soul4Real Releases: Magic Sam (S4R31) & Aretha Franklin (S4R32)

Out Now! - New Soul4Real Releases: Magic Sam (S4R31) & Aretha Franklin (S4R32)
MAGIC SAM - THAT´S ALL I NEED /  EVERY NIGHT AND EVERY DAY (SOUL4REAL)
ARETHA FRANKLIN - CAN YOU LOVE AGAIN /  I´M TRYING TO OVERCOME (SOUL4REAL)
 
MAGIC SAM - THAT´S ALL I NEED /  EVERY NIGHT AND EVERY DAY - (SOUL4REAL)
What better way to herald Soul4Real's first foray into the blues: two wonderful sides by the late great Magic Sam!
Born Samuel Gene Maghett in Mississippi in 1937, in his teens he made the familiar migratory journey north where he established himself – along with the likes of Otis Rush – as one of the great exponents of the 'West Side' Chicago blues sound.
In 1967, Sam signed to Delmark and cut his first LP, the critically acclaimed 'West Side Soul' from which the two tracks featured here are taken. "Every Night and Every Day" is delivered in his familiar style, whereas "That's All I Need" reveals a more soulful side to Sam's vocals, pointing towards the blues-soul style that was to dominate the genre into the 70s and beyond.
His tragic death, aged just 32 in 1969, deprived the world of a wonderful blues talent, but he left a fine legacy of influential and inspirational work admired by fans and musicians alike.
Mike Lofthouse
 
 
 
ARETHA FRANKLIN - CAN YOU LOVE AGAIN /  I´M TRYING TO OVERCOME (SOUL4REAL)
Atlantic records impresario Jerry Wexler had many strings to his bow, but undoubtedly his greatest stroke of genius was leading Aretha towards the Fame Studios in 1967 to conduct her first sessions for the label. A lady with many quite uneven Columbia albums to her name would turn the world of soul music upside down and reveal the Queen of Soul to the world. The music created was both harrowing and spine-chilling in equal measure, leaving everyone in its radius in a state of soulful euphoria.

“Can” was recorded during the ‘Hey Now Hey’ LA album sessions circa 1972, with Quincy Jones at the helm, and is a scintillating slow burner of exquisite beauty. 
 
“I’m Trying” is a glorious 1969/70 outtake from her ‘Spirit in the Dark’ LP, cut at Criteria with Wexler and the MSS boys in tow. 
 
A friend of mine recently alluded that you sometimes don’t realise the true greatness of a track until it is embossed in 7” vinyl. So true!
Jan Barker
 
 
 
IN STOCK, ORDER NOW!
www.soul4real.es
 
 








 
 
 www.soul4real.es
 
By Alexsubinas in News Archives ·

Ray Williams & The Majortones : Girl (You're So Sweet, You're So Fine) - Epsilon Record Co EPS028

Ray Williams & The Majortones : Girl (You're So Sweet, You're So Fine) Vocal & Instrumental EPS028
Ray Williams & The Majortones
Previously Unissued Modern Soul Crossover Monster 
Vocal & Instrumental
A: “Girl (You're So Sweet, You're So Fine)”(2:58)
B: “Girl (You're So Sweet, You're So Fine)”instrumental (2:58)
Video
 
 
B: “Girl (You're So Sweet, You're So Fine)”instrumental (2:58)
Written by: Lil Major Williams & Major Williams Sr Houston, Texas
As a young kid I always wanted to be a musician especially with my brothers.
My Dad, Major Williams Sr started it all with my Brother Lil Major Williams and Garland Williams.
They would travel and play music at venues all over Texas and surroundings States.
I myself stared playing the snare drum in Junior High school and eventually started playing with the Majortones Band which was my dad and brothers group.
I remember the first time I ever sat behind a set of drums it was like a dream come true.
We were playing at this club in Houston, called the Green Parrot.
Garland which was the drummer at the time, I think he got sick or something happened, that's when my dad came to me and said this your time Ray.
I was so scared , keep in my I was only 11years old, anyway I played that night if it had not been for the Bass player (Fox was his name) telling me how to work the foot pedal and high hats snare we wouldn't have made he just kept telling me to stay on the one, at that time I was wondering what was the one Lol.
As time went by I started really getting the hang the thing call music.
Little Major was a big James Brown fan, so we played a lot of Brown's music and if I  tell you we were tight and right.
Major wrote Girl (You're So Sweet, You're So Fine & Girl) Don't Leave in 1978 and I can't remember the real reason for the title of song but it did really good lot's of air play.
As time went on Lil Major, Garland and my Dad passed away.
That's when I started managing The Majortones Band and to this Day it's still going strong.
Yann Vatiste send me back to the studio early this year to re-take Girl (You're So Sweet, You're So Fine & Girl) with new vocal arrangement on the original backing track.
I feel like it's my time in the music industry, I've been playing for over forty years and I'm still in love with it and still having lots of fun. 
Ray Williams
 
BUY IT NOW:
https://www.epsilonrecord.com
By Yann V in News Archives ·

The Essence Of Life: You're An Angel / Walking In My Shadow Epsilon Record Co EPS027

The Essence Of Life: You're An Angel  /  Walking In My Shadow Epsilon Record Co EPS027
EPS027
The Essence Of Life
Incredible Sweet Soul Lowrider with a Raw Killer Rhythm Soul Funk B side
Videos
 
 
Charlotte NC / 1973
The Essence Of Life Group members
Larry Graves
Jacque Johnson Jr. (RIP)
Craig Young
Ken Lock
J Jerome Johnson
Info
Essence of Life was formed in 1973 in Charlotte North Carolina at Johnson C Smith University.
Towan Butler and Craig Young were basketball players on scholarship who were singing in the shower after practice, when a man named Jock Johnson who was a business major who had graduated heard Towan and Craig singing in the shower and asked if we would like to be in a singing group that he was putting together, if we did he asked us to meet him later that evening at a location on campus. 
When we arrived we were introduced to Jerry Johnson, who is Jocks brother, Kenny Lock and Larry Graves and Essence Of Life was formed.
Essence Of Life has performed with such groups as Blue Magic, The Whispers and The Barkays to name a few. 
Essence Of Life sang and danced their way into the hearts of fans all over the United States spreading love through high impact performances.
Craig Young
 
Managers Jacque Johnson Jr.(RIP) 
Russell "Redbone" Thompson (RIP),
Gene Kelly was band director and drummer for the 21st Century Charlotte band. 
Buy it here: 
https://www.epsilonrecord.com
 
By Yann V in News Archives ·

All Platinum - The Making Of A Sound - Author: Steve Guarnori

To be released: 26/11/2023
All Platinum - The Making of a Sound 
Author: Steve Guarnori
ISBN: 978-1-3999-5659-8
Release Date: 26th November 2023
All Platinum – The Making of a Sound is the long overdue detailed history of All Platinum records from 1967-1979. The book contains 534 pages and over 300,000 words, dealing with each year in the company’s history as well as telling the stories of its artists and the musicians who signed for the company each year. With quotes from many of the surviving artists, it is a fascinating insight into how Joe and Sylvia Robinson’s record label started operating from a small basement and grew to become one of the most important black owned record labels of the 70s. 
This was no ordinary record company. The creative talent that passed through All Platinum’s doors was phenomenal and the way the business operated was unusual to say the least. All Platinum – The Making of a Sound, also covers the acquisition of Chess, the once mighty Chicago label, as well as the company’s successful expansion into the U.K and Europe in 1975. 
Additionally, the book contains the most comprehensive (and fully illustrated) discography on the records pressed on All Platinum and its related labels, as well as those records it distributed nationally for other record labels. The discography includes many records not included anywhere else. 
 

By Steve G in News Archives ·

Pre-Order: New LP & 45 - Gary Beals - The Melody Within & All Of Me - Self Revolution - LRK RECORDS

LRK are super proud to announce we will be releasing "The Melody Within" LP by Gary Beals on a limited edition vinyl (300 copies) and a bonus limited edition 45 vinyl also only 300 copies.
"The Melody Within" is a musical journey that unfolds across two sides, much like a story that reveals new layers with each turn. The album is more than just a collection of songs; it's an emotional guide that beckons us to explore the depths of our own feelings and explores navigating emotions, self-discovery, and nostalgia through soulful melodies. 
The tracks on the 45 are "All Of Me", a big favourite on the Craig Charles Funk and Soul show, and "Self Revolution", another Retro Soul sounding track that will be released on the same day the album comes out on Oct 27th.

The digital release date is 27th Oct 
The vinyl will be shipping early Dec.
Pre-order here: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-melody-within
The Melody Within by Gary Beals
Powerhouse R&B/Soul vocalist and Canadian Idol finalist. Gary Beals, is thrilled to be releasing his new album, The Melody Within. The Melody within is a musical journey that unfolds across two sides, much like a story that reveals new layers with each turn. The album is more than just a collection of songs; it's an emotional guide that beckons us to explore the depths of our own feelings and explores navigating emotions, self discovery, and nostalgia through soulful melodies. "This album serves as the aftermath to my previous album, "Bleed My Truth". It's a continuation of my musical journey, a fusion of soulful melodies and diverse influences that mirror both my personal and artistic evolution," said Gary Beals. "Each song is a chapter, a piece of my heart and soul, inviting listeners into my world of emotions, experiences and connection. It uncovers the melody that resides within. The anticipation is building as I look forward to sharing this collection of new music, and I hope it resonates deeply, offering a meaningful and memorable musical experience enriched with a multitude of emotions." With this new body of work, Gary had the opportunity to work with two talented primary producers,Beatchild (Drake, Justin Nozuka, Glen Lewis) and Myles "Losh'' Schwartz (Allan Rayman, Tobi, The Game, Pretty Lights). Additional production credits on the album include, Chris Guirguis, Frizzy Astro (Raz Fresco, Daniel Son), Jordan "Tempo" Farmer, Kobebeats (Rodwave, Kcamp, Sevyn),Sid Aakowa, Ty Danelley (Popcaan, Tory Lanez, Pressa) and Warren Williams, who all helped to shape the makings of the album while maintaining a consistent synergy. Side A of the album draws inspiration from the likes of Al Green, Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Marvin Gaye, and James Brown, and pays homage to artists who have played an integral part in shaping Gary's musical roots. This side includes Gary's previously released singles, "Good People, Good Vibes" and "All of Me," and the album's title track "The Melody Within," that commends the process of self-discovery and introspection. Also included is the album's 5th single, "Self Revolution," which will be released on October 27th along with the official music video. On Side B, you'll encounter a fusion of R&B and pop elements while still staying true to the album's soulful essence. Included on this side, is Gary's third single "I Like That," featuring JRDN and KAYO ,and the new single "How Do I Say (I Love You)," released September 22nd. "How Do I Say (I Love You)" dives into the inner conflict of conveying affection, showing vulnerability, and the bravery needed to expose one's heart to someone else. About Gary Beals: Two decades ago, Gary embarked on his musical journey when he, a small-town kid from Nova Scotia (now calling Toronto home), made a remarkable entrance onto the national stage as a part of Canada's inaugural season of Canadian Idol. This month marks the 20th anniversary of the finale where Gary was crowned as the "runner up" on the show. The experience ignited a transformative period of self-reflection and discovery that propelled Gary toward personal growth, shaping his life and musical career in lasting ways.
 
Fast forward through three albums and twenty years, Gary's work and talent have made a remarkable impact and received widespread critical acclaim. Among his accomplishments are debuting in the top 10 of the Canadian sales chart, being nominated for a JUNO Award for "Best R&B/Soul Recording," winning an East Coast Music Award and seven African Nova Scotia Music Awards, as well as scoring nominations for an Urban Music Award and a Canadian Radio Music Award. These accomplishments led to his home province's Premier officially designating November 22nd as Gary Beals Day in acknowledgment of his achievements.
With his return, Gary is poised to make a positive impact on the ever-expanding global community as he prepares to release his new album The Melody Within. The album will stand as a tribute to the strength that resides within all of us and a reminder that true fulfillment comes not just from achieving goals, but from discovering the intricate beauty that lies within our own hearts and souls. 
https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-melody-within
 

 
By LRK in News Archives ·

Out Now - New 45 - Nick Corbin & The Hang Ups - Feelin' Kinda Lucky / Time Alone - Big AC Records

Out now the latest 45 release from Big AC Records...
Nick Corbin & The Hang Ups - Feelin' Kinda Lucky / Time Alone - Big AC Records
Released Friday 20th October 2023, the label release notes and purchase details follow below
‘Feelin’ Kinda Lucky’ is the first single from Nick Corbin & The Hang Ups, recorded direct to tape at Kitty,Daisy & Lewis’ Durham Sound Studio in Kentish Town.
Corbin has previously fronted Acid Jazz act New Street Adventure and his own solo project as well as writing for the likes of Emma Noble, Laville, Lack of Afro and Carmy Love.
This collaboration with his touring band brings a raw edge to proceedings; a self-produced gem capturing all the energy of live performance in the studio. Corbin says “‘Feelin’ Kinda Lucky’ is about waking up and feeling as though all is right in the world. You don’t know why or how but you  carry that energy and satisfaction through the day. We tried to capture that with the musical arrangement too - there are these breaks throughout that build anticipation about the next section, culminating in a raucous outro, where we intentionally sped up, taking advantage of the freedom the analogue recording process gave us”
“I had recorded at Durham Sound with Phono 48 a couple of years before and knew we could get a sound reminiscent of the Muscle Shoals studio, particularly with the rhythm section. Combining that with a few other Soul, Jazz and even Americana influences from the other guys in the band has given us a really refreshing mix of old and new – we hope people will find it an uplifting song to listen to!”
‘Feelin’ Kinda Lucky’ is the first of two new recordings which will sit either side of a limited edition 45, now available from https://www.bigacrecords.com and various record stores including our very own Source Store. Tap here to view Source Store page

Videos
 
 
 
Audio
Nick-Corbin-Hang-Ups-FEELIN-KINDA-LUCKY-cut.mp3
 
 
Images

 

 

 
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Northern Soul by Jim Cartwright - A Play - Wigan 21st Oct 2023

My name is Jim Cartwright, I am a playwright. We are honoured to be closing the 'Fiftieth Anniversary of Wigan Casino' celebrations in Wigan on this Saturday night with my brand new play NORTHERN SOUL.
We have a fantastic high profile cast. Tickets are FREE.
Please see attached press release for more details.
All best wishes,
Jim
 
Northern Soul by Jim Cartwright

When: 21 October, 8pm
Where: Trencherfield Mill (Machine Hall)
A one-off performance of a new play written by Jim Cartwright and Directed by Nick Bagnall, which pays tribute to the legendary music and dance venue; Wigan Casino, performed with support from students of Rose Bruford College.
 
NEW 'LIFE AFFIRMING' PLAY CELEBRATES NORTHERN SOUL ANNIVERSARY
A life affirming new play which captures what it was like to be at the epicentre of the Northern Soul movement when it exploded and the passion and exhilaration of the scene as it is now, is coming to Wigan, the very Mecca of Northern Soul.
NORTHERN SOUL will be performed by a remarkable cast (Coronation Street, Dinnerladies, Everybody's talking about Jamie) (The Full Monty,Wire in the Blood,Coronation Street)
The play is written by award winning internationally renowned playwright Jim Cartwright (Road, The Rise and Fall of Little Voice etc..) and directed by Nick Bagnall, whose previous works have been performed at The National Theatre, Manchester’s Royal Exchange and Liverpool Everyman.
Councillor Chris Ready, cabinet member for communities at Wigan Council, said: ‘Northern Soul means so much to the people of Wigan. Through this fantastic and high-profile cast list, alongside the commitment and work from Rose Bruford College who have played such an integral part in developing the play, it’s amazing to see the Northern Soul baton being handed on to the next generation of fans.'
The play is a part of a series of events put on by Wigan Council to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Wigan Casino, including panel discussions, exhibitions and theatre productions.
Director, Nick Bagnall, added: ‘The play highlights painful and uplifting stories of quiet revolution alongside a joyous abundance of music and dance.' 
The performance will take place at Trencherfield Mill on Saturday, October 21 from 8pm. To book tickets, please email wiganmuseum@wigan.gov.uk
Contact us visitwigan.com 01942 828128
https://www.visitwigan.com/Events/Casino-50.aspx

NORTHERN SOUL PRESS RELEASE with you tube links Oct 2023.pdf
By Jimbo in News Archives ·

Out Now - 2 x 45s - Hank Hodge -The Caressors - Sir Joe - Soul Direction 45

Out today (10th October 2023 ) 2 very strong releases from the Soul Direction label. Details follow below
Hank Hodge & The J Notes Band - Eye for An Eye / Since You Said Goodbye – (Soul Direction Origins SDO1008
The Caressors - I Can’t Stay Away / Sir Joe - Every Day (I’ll Be Needing You) – Soul Direction Origins SDO1008
 

 
Hank Hodge & The J Notes Band - Eye for An Eye / Since You Said Goodbye – Soul Direction Origins SDO1008
Info
Initially brought to the attention of the rare soul scene by Mark "Butch" Dobson in some of his first ventures into his DJ career covered as "Lancaster Johnson". A 45 that has always been very elusive for the years after it's initial plays and still commands a king's ransom to own.
After some initial research into Willie Henry Hodge (Hank to his friends and family) and sadly finding his obituary, further searching lead us to his brother "Larry Hodge". We contacted Larry, and we had a couple of conversations about Hank and the two releases
for the "Eye" Label. He did recall that Hank had already been with the "J-Notes" for a while before the two releases and that both were released locally but were only minor hits in the area, and "Eye for An Eye" being played the lesser of the two, so with no commercial
success came no financial rewards.
This led Soul Direction to propose a re-release of "Eye for An Eye" and a chance to at least give something to the family for what was an inspired piece of rare soul on vinyl. Larry spoke with the family and anyone else connected with the initial release and
agreed this would be a fitting tribute to his brother and the rest of the J-Note Orch. (sadly according to Larry have all but passed away).
Backed with the Joel Bernard Ledbetter song "Since You Said Goodbye" and all permissions granted, it seemed a perfect double sider.
Sleeve Notes
A native of Calhoun County, GA, Hank resided in Jacksonville, Florida, where he received his early education graduating from Stanton Senior High School-Class of 1957. Furthering his education, he earned his Barber License from Jones College. He helped form the J-Notes Band which were managed by Joe Giles and featured vocalists Evelina Smith and Henry “Hank” Hodge as lead singers with Ray Love on tenor sax and flute; Ron Tooley on trumpet, John Sanders on guitar and vocals, Ed Coley on bass and vocals and Dick Curtis on drums and vocals. The band played many of the local dances at the Women’s Club of Jacksonville in Riverside as well as other venues like the Southside Women’s Club and more. His brother Larry recalls the tracks recorded on Hank’s own label Eye with fondness and did play on some of the sessions but could not recall if he took part in the final recordings.
They only recorded 2 records on the label, and both have continued to be elusive to collectors and DJ’s alike. Unfortunately, they never made a huge impact on their release but did stay popular songs around the community Hank lived in. The J-Notes did record one album of classic covers named “Versatility” on their own label which again is rare itself. He later became a self-employed Carpenter and Owner/ Operator of Interior Design with 40 years of dedicated service. Mr. Hodge was a dedicated member of the church until his passing. Mr. Willie Henry Hodge, age 74, passed away July 16, 2012, in a local hospital with his family around him. 

Discography:
Hank Hodge (With The J-Note & Orch) - Eye for An Eye / Since You Said Goodbye - Eye Productions
Hank Hodge - One Way Love / Thank You Girl - Eye Productions
J Notes Band - Versatility, Volume 1 - No Label Name
Licensed Courtesy of Larry Hodge & the Hodge Family

Alan Kitchener  (Soul-Direction)
https://www.soul-direction.co.uk
Hank Hodge (With The J-Note & Orch) - Eye for An Eye
SDO-1007A-HANK HODGE - Eye For An Eye-cut.mp3
Hank Hodge & The J Notes Band - Since You Said Goodbye
SDO-1007B-HANK HODGE_Since You Said Goodbye-cut.mp3
 
 

 
The Caressors - I Can’t Stay Away / Sir Joe - Every Day (I’ll Be Needing You) – Soul Direction Origins SDO1008
Soul-Direction bring you these two classic and rare slabs of soul from the Ru-Jac stable fully licensed and ready to unleash on your turntables.
The Caressors - I Can’t Stay Away – Soul Direction Origins SDO1008A
Info
The Caressors needs no introduction as a veteran of the Northern soul Dance floors and an elusive 45, as most have been sat in collectors' boxes for many years, with only a few appearing for sale in collector's circles and internet auction sites.
Co written by Rufus Mitchell and George Charles Brown and released in 1968. Mitchell had a involvement in a few Ru-Jac outings including tracks with Winfield Parker and Gene & Eddie. According to the Label owners at Ru-Jac and other artists at the stable, no one recalls anything about the band at all. At that point they decided to change the label colour to yellow and adopted a new font for the label text, and The Caressors was the first release in the new colour. Other than a promotional photo of the group attached to an artist contract, they seemingly formed, recorded and disappeared again. They could have well been session singers who sometimes performed a song in the studio but never pursued a further career together.
Sir Joe - Every Day (I’ll Be Needing You) – Soul Direction Origins SDO1008B
Info
The Sir Joe track is one that has been around in sales boxes and on collector's tapes and CD's for the best part of 30 years without really breaking into the mainstream of the DJ playlists. This maybe down to its rarity and of course obscurity to many people outside the hardcore of collections. This is one release that Soul Direction had planned some time ago, but do to pressing plant constraints has taken it's time, but happy to say it has had some dance floor exposure recently, which is something that has been long overdue.
Penned and performed by Joe Quarterman himself in 1970 and remains an elusive 45 in the world of collecting. Joseph Patrick Quarterman hailed from the Shaw neighbourhood in Washington D.C. He started writing songs at a young age and after graduating from Dunbar High School he met song writers Eddie Best and Don Downing and began singing lead vocals with a Washington. DC group called “The Knights” and adopted the name Sir Joe.” He later formed a recording group Sir Joe and The Maidens” after most of the knights went into the armed services. The Baltimore label primarily active between 1963-1974, with one additional release in 1980.
“Ru-Jac” was named as such based on the initials of its founder, Rufus Mitchell, and associate Jack Bennett. The record label had no studio so recordings were usually done at Edgewood or Virtue studios so we can presume these tracks were recorded at one or both of these studios. Licensed courtesy of Omnivore Recordings.
Alan Kitchener (Soul-Direction)
https://www.soul-direction.co.uk
 
The Caressors - I Can’t Stay Away
SDO-1008-A-The_Caressors_I Can't stay away-cut.mp3
Sir Joe - Every Day (I’ll Be Needing You)
SDO-1008-B-Sir_Joe_Every Day-cut.mp3
 
 
 

 

 

 




 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Lester Tipton - The Story

Introduction
For over 15 years I wrote a monthly column in the now defunct Manifesto magazine, latterly under the editorship of Mike Ritson. This was a premier, glossy monthly publication that in my opinion surpassed everything since Black Music and hard copy Blues & Soul went under. Most of my submissions were record reviews interspersed with articles on labels and artists. My many box files contained information from various sources from old copies of the Detroit Free Press to heart felt letters from 60s artists seeking some sort of exposure in Britain. They were akin to bits of jigsaw, each one interesting but insufficient to create a complete picture.
In a long-forgotten Detroit / Motown box were some cassettes of unissued Motown tracks from LA record dealer and DJ, Bob Cattaneo and also one time Motown employee, Tom Depierro. Connected to the latter was a letter from Tom to Soul aficionado, Ian Clark who I first met at the early 6Ts nights in London in the mid 70s, the letter gave Ian the tragic news of the slaying of Lester Tipton and how Tom and Lester had become friends in Hollywood.
So here, along with other bits and pieces accumulated while preparing the `Groovesville USA` book were enough jigsaw pieces for an article but sadly Manifesto magazine ground to a halt in the spring of 2019 and the story remained unpublished, until now.
LESTER TIPTON
Lester Fred Tipton was born 1st September 1948 in Detroit Mi. along with twin sister Leslie Viola to their parents, Mr & Mrs Willard Tipton. The twins had two brothers, Larry and Eddie. Lester and Leslie attended Goldberg Elementary school on Marquette St. then Hutchins Jr High on Woodrow Wilson and on to Northern High, on Woodward. At Northern, Lester showed great skills in design and some of his creations were bought by local celebrities. By the mid 60s, 2000 of Northern’s students were Afro-American with the likes of Ron Banks, Smokey Robnison, Pete Moore, Sylvia Moy, Lorraine Chandler and Aretha Franklin graduating from there.

Lester and Leslie were keen singers at Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church on near by Elmhurst and soon after leaving school, Lester heard about a new record label that had opened up nearby at 6072 14th St. near Marquette in January ‘66 by Lou Beatty, called La Beat. Like other local young aspiring singers he would linger outside and stare in to the studios through the large windows. The building, originally a four bedroomed house was quite imposing which Beatty had converted, with the studio on street level and was well equipped with Crown two track recorders, Bogan mixers etc. Although he had experience in making music as a young saxophonist, Beatty’s inexperience in recording showed somewhat as 14th Street had heavy traffic and the recording room’s large windows allowed street noise in. He eventually overcame this by using the Universal Studios in Chicago for special sessions. No doubt in anticipation of his new venture, the previous year had seen him form a loose partnership with the Rev James Hendrix aka Hendricks who already had the Carrie label behind him, which featured both Motor City recordings as well as tracks leased from North Carolina and his home town Nashville. Hendrix’s labels originally had PO Box addresses prior to 6072 14th St. Soon other labels emerged that were connected to this address; Rambler, Arnold, Cool School and Mary Jane. Once La Beat got on its feet and Beatty became more confident he began distancing himself from Hendrix and engaged Teddy Harris Snr. as his music advisor.

La Beat Studios with Beatty
Beatty, who lived on LaSalle St like most other label owners in Detroit funded his sideline from his other business’, mainly Beatty Brothers Construction and motels, one of which stood almost opposite La Beat.
Lester managed to get the attention of Beatty who signed the 17 year old up for one session; La Beat 6607, “This Won’t Change” /  “Go On”, written and produced by Johnny Mills and Curtis Trusell, both members of the LPTs (La Beat Production Team) but it made little to no impact on the Detroit music scene and so no more sessions followed. This was not the end of Lester’s venture into showbiz however as he and sister, who were great dancers entered a dance contest on Robin Seymour’s Swingin’ Time TV show on CKLW 9, broadcast around Detroit and went on to be the show’s regular dancers. When Seymour was asked who were his favourite dancers he nominated “The Tiptons, Lester & Leslie, they were probably the most famous. They were a black couple and great dancers, they were on the show every single day...Lester and Leslie would do things, and the other kids would try to copy them. They entered this national contest that Dick Clark had and won.. they won two Pontiac auto-mobiles.” Another competition prize was a trip to Florida and a third, a trip to Hollywood. Soon to become great friends, Tom Depierro said that on that occasion the siblings decided to stay there and they soon appeared as dancers in the film ‘Thank God It’s Friday` and Lester, with a different partner in `Cindy`, both released in 1978. He also appeared in a couple of TV sitcoms inc  `Love Boat` and `Hollywood Dynasty`. But singing was still Lester’s driving ambition and in ‘75 he cut two sides with Jerome Russell but the record company were looking for a stereotypical Soul performer which Lester rejected as he knew what he wanted to achieve. The recordings remained in the can. By now he and Tom had formed a very strong friendship based around Lester’s musical aspirations but Tom began to witness Lester’s growing doubts about his singing ability which Tom described as “Ludicrous...he had rich natural tones, warmth, a wonderful sense of timing and harmonics, down to earth style and one ton of class. Why we couldn’t get a deal on him is something that remains a mystery”.
As many of you know Tom Depierro was in the music business and came to fame via his `From the Vaults` LP on Motown when he found hundreds of acetates that were in a skip outside a storage facility that originated from Motown when they were moving into 6255 Sunset in LA. They contained unreleased material from Detroit, recorded between 1960 – 67. With a plan to group together the best 35 tracks and then present a proposition to Motown, he approached the company but was rejected and “treated like a fool”. Instinctively however he knew the enormity of what he was sitting on and kept the idea on the back burner. He eventually found a position under Iris Gordy, Motown executive and wife of Johnny Bristol. Tom did not have a favourable opinion of Iris’s organisational skills and on one occasion when she was behind with a scheduled album release she impetuously demanded Tom deal with it. This was his opportunity to get his unreleased material onto vinyl and it was out on the streets before Motown realised it until reading about it in Billboard who had replaced a feature on Diana Ross with an article on `From the Vaults`. But by then 20,000 had been pressed and were selling well.

Tom also recalls a less favourable episode in his life when a well known record `entrepreneur` visited him at the time when Lester was living with him. When Lester relieved that he didn’t own a copy of his La Beat outing, the visitor reassured him he’d get him one and he also borrowed Andantes and Frank Wilson 45s from Tom. Tom revealed that Lester never did received his record and he never saw his two rare Motown discs again. Upon hearing of this episode from Tom, his long standing UK friend Ian Clark sent him a Grapevine copy to give to Lester who was over the moon with it and sent it on to Detroit for his family, most of whom had never heard it!
Tom said that he intended to record Lester on his own fledgling Airwaves label but at that point finances were not in place to promote Lester and get him the dates he deserved. By 1980 Lester had given up his dream and flew to New York City to the School of Cosmetology. Having qualified as a hairdresser he returned to California and rented in his own apartment in down town LA but on the night of 9th February 1982 someone broke in and beat him to death. The police suggested robbery was the motive but Tom made the point that Lester had few material possessions to steal only a couple of rings and a watch. His body was found five days later on Sunday 14th February by his now married sister, Leslie Russell. Ironically, `Love Boat`, the sit-com he had a part in was broadcast the following day.
His remains were taken back to Detroit and his funeral took place on Tuesday 23rd February 1982 at the Lincoln Memorial Park on 14 Mile at Gratiot and the service was held at the Charles T Cole Funeral Home on E Grand Boulevard with Rev John H Kearney officiating. Anthony Earl (Tony) Thornton sang a solo and Leonard Cheatem read the obituary. Now that she had the full story about his legendary status, she told Ian that someone in England should write about her brother.

La Beat Studios - The Masquraders
La Beat eventually closed down in 1972 and for any indie set up to last over five years was quite remarkable. Such was the demand for Beatty’s Detroit recordings in the UK that legendary Glaswegian record dealer John Anderson, struck a deal with Beatty in the late 70s to issue his recordings on his Grapevine label including of course, `This Won’t Change`. Having never been boot-legged, this gave Britain’s Soul fans the opportunity to own Detroit Soul’s holy grail as the original was virtually unobtainable. Lou Beatty passed away on 7th March, 2001 and very sadly, John on 2nd October 2019.
You will notice that I have not referred to the value of Lester’s 45s on La Beat or Grapevine. I learned something some twenty years ago when I was in contact with and eventually met Leonard King Jr. a contemporary of Lester’s in Detroit, back in the day. Leonard told me as tactfully as he could that most of us in the UK only viewed the Detroit Soul scene through a hole in a 7” piece of plastic and if a name didn’t appear on the aforementioned disc of vinyl, then we would probably never know about them. I eventually realised this was oh so true, certainly as far as I was concerned once I started looking through various 60s entertainment mags and newspapers from mid sixties Detroit. But I also know there are British guys around who know more than me because they’ve looked beyond monetary value and have been to the States and befriended these artists for more that wanting what was in their attic or garage. In Leonard’s case, as a teenager he and his band, the Soul Messengers who had one release on Impact Records were, he told me taken to the cleaners financially and so never recorded again. They, along with scores of other Detroit artists made their money and reputation on the live scene playing the hundreds of clubs, lounges, ballrooms, bar etc. in the city.
I would like to thank Graham Finch, Paul Mooney and Dave Welding for their invaluable research, Ron Murphy for newspaper photos, Stuart Russell for layout and Ian Clark in particular for specific information on Lester Tipton.
Keith Rylatt
 
Video
 
 
By Funky 4 Corners in Articles ·

Event Guide - Featured Event Improvements and Upgrades

Our popular 'Featured Events' feature has undergone some work, improvements and updates
Source Event Guide Featured Events
Intro
The 'Featured Events' feature now allows promoters/organisers/members  to 'upgrade' any Event's exposure/awareness via the event listings in our Soul Source Event Guide. 
For a small cost members can now 'upgrade' their own or indeed other members Event Guide Entry in minutes
Prices have been upgraded
The trial 'opening' offer is now over, however the 'final' price for one week slot is now £15 not the full  £20 as stated earlier
Now the 'opening' offer is over, the 2, 3, and 4 week slot prices have been reduced to offer better value as per the below
Price of Featured Event Slots (from Oct 2023)
Four types of slots are available...
One week slot will cost £15.
Two week slot will cost £25.
Three week slot will cost £35.
One month slot will cost £45.
 
Purchase Links
When purchasing slots, some members have had issues with copying and pasting the url while using mobile devices, to get around this we now have the following additions to the direct 'copy and paste' purchase link
A pm link on each slots page to purchase 'manually' by pm 
  A direct  promoter/poster only link that shows on each event to the actual promoter/posting member only, Just tap the  button and the url will be filled in for you Screenshot of Promoters/Posters  Event View

 
 
 
More info on this feature can be had via the product page (link below)
For direct purchase go to the product page (link below) or use the 'on event' link as above
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/store/category/13-event-guide-featured-event-slots/
 
 
By Mike in Soul News ·

Pre-Order: 2 New Jai Alai 7s - Jaheim & Johnnie Taylor / Bobby Bland

JAHEIM - Just In Case / Diamond In Da Ruff (JAR11)
Jaheim H. Hoagland, known professionally just as Jaheim, is best described as an R&B singer, but as all his releases are post millennium, the term has a different usage now to the style of the 50s/60s/70s that once used the genre. A resident of Hillsborough Township, New Jersey, and the grandson of 1960s soul singer Hoagy Lands which gives him Cuban, African and Native American blood, plus a fine musical heritage.
His recording career started with Divine Mill Records (a division of Warner Bros. Records) and his debut album “Ghetto Love” was released in 2001 to great acclaim. His follow-up album “Still Ghetto” (2002) spawned two hit singles, “Put That Woman First” and “Fabulous”, that both went platinum, and his third album “Ghetto Classics” (2006) topped the US Billboard chart selling over 153,000 copies in its first week. He then was signed to Atlantic Records in 2007 and his success continued with another three albums, and his final album to date, “Struggle Love” (2016) was released through BMG on his own label Julie’s Dream. To date he has received three Grammy nominations and sold over 5 million records worldwide.
The tracks selected for their 7” debuts are “Just In Case”, which was from the 20-track album “Ghetto Love” and did actually get released on a 12” being a massive favourite at the more progressive soul events, and “Diamond In Da Ruff” from “Still Ghetto”, which was also released on 12” vinyl.
Steve Hobbs (Solar radio / Totally Wired Radio)
 
 
 
 
JOHNNIE TAYLOR / BOBBY BLAND - Let´s Get Back On Track / Heart, Open Up Again (JAR12)
Johnnie Taylor was an accomplished soul artist despite having little instrumental skill and he rarely wrote any of his own material. He was known variously as the ‘Blues Wailer’ and the ‘Philosopher Of Soul’ and recorded over 30 albums and 120 singles throughout a career that cemented his status as one of the leading male soul vocalists during the late sixties and throughout the seventies.
He started his recording career mid-50s with the doo-wop group The Five Echoes and gospel groups The Highway Q.C.’s and then in 1957, The Soul Stirrers, replacing Sam Cooke who had left the group for a solo career. Taylor followed that path a few years later signing for Cooke’s SAR label. and had a minor hit in 1962 with “Rome Wasn’t Built In A Day”.
in 1964 he moved to Stax Records where he started as a blues artist enjoying many fruitful years, most notably with “Who’s Making Love” selling more than a million copies. Following the unfortunate demise of Stax in 1976 he moved to Columbia Records where he went platinum with the hit “Disco Lady” (ironically not a disco track at all) and the album from which it came ‘Eargasm’ (1976) was a commercial peak he would never scale again. However, he continued with many collectable releases before moving to Beverly Glen Music in the early eighties and then Malaco Records in 1984, where his style became the more soul-blues based sound that was synonymous with the label. He remained with them until he died of a heart attack in Dallas aged 66 in 2000.
“Let’s Get Back On” Track comes from the CD ‘Gotta Get The Groove Back’ (1999) produced (and co-written with Charlie Brooks) by Frederick Knight, who also used the same backing track some 7 years later with his production of the David Sea track “Stay In My Arms” which was a modern soul favourite and will help to register the significance of this earlier production. It is now available as a vinyl release for the first time. It was taken from his final album although Malaco released ‘There’s No Good In Goodbye’ posthumously in 2003.
Robert Calvin Brooks, known professionally as Bobby “Blue” Bland spent his early career in Memphis, developing a sound that mixed gospel with blues and R&B and was known as the ‘Lion Of The Blues ‘and the ‘Sinatra Of The Blues’. His father abandoned the family not long after his birth and he acquired his name from his stepfather, Leroy Bland. His formative musical years were centered around the Beale Street scene and he was scouted by Ike Turner for Modern Records.
His progress was interrupted by a two year stint in the US Army and when he returned to Memphis he signed for Duke Records, run by Don Robey. Bland was illiterate and Robey helped him sign his contract which only gave him half a cent per record sold instead of the industry standard of 2 cents. He had his first hit in 1957 and continued a successful run of R&B chart entries without breaking through into the mainstream markets and was ranked number 13 of the all time chart-topping artists in Joel Whitburn’s “Top R&B/Hip-Hop Singles: 1942-1995”.
Duke Records sold out to ABC and with them he managed to return to the R&B charts but he still couldn’t succeed in the pop charts. In 1985 Bland signed for Malaco who were specialists in the Southern black music sound and he recorded many albums and toured for them, frequently with B.B. King, and was inducted into the ‘Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame’ in 1992.
Whilst “Heart Open Up Again” was a vinyl release in 1985 it was not chosen to be the single release from the Tommy Couch & Wolf Stephenson produced album Members Only (1985). This beautiful ballad, penned by George Jackson/Robert Miller/Michael Wooten, was never before released as a single and is a fabulous pairing with the topside – two of the best from two of the all-time greats.
Steve Hobbs (Solar radio / Totally Wired Radio)
 
 
 
 
PRE-ORDER NOW FOR 14th OCTOBER
www.soul4real.es
 
 
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By Alexsubinas in News Archives ·

New Release News - Big Man Records - The Embers - Coming Soon

WE ARE THRILLED TO ANNOUNCE OUR NEXT RELEASE BMR 1017 - THE EMBERS - 'JUST CRAZY 'BOUT YOU BABY' B/W 'AWARE OF LOVE', UNDER LICENCE FROM EMBERS ENTERTAINMENT ENTERPRISES/KHP PRODUCTIONS TO BIG MAN RECORDS.
THE EMBERS NEED NO INTRODUCTION TO THE RARE SOUL SCENE, FORMED IN 1958 BY Co FOUNDERS BOBBY TOMLINSON (DRUMMER) AND JACKIE GORE (LEAD SINGER) THE GROUP HAVE RECORDED A HOST OF ALBUMS AND 45's OVER THE YEARS,  THE NORTHERN SCENE HAS ENJOYED SUCH RECORDS AS 'WATCH OUT GIRL' (MGM) 'FIRST TIME' (JCP) 'WHERE DID I GO WRONG' (ATLANTIC) AND THIS SUBLIME DOUBLE HEADER, 'JUST CRAZY 'BOUT YOU BABY' WAS ISSUED TWICE ON THE GROUPS OWN EEE RECORDS (EMBERS ENTERTAINMENT ENTERPRISES) LABEL THE RARER ISSUE BEING WITH THE SUBLIME JERRY BUTLER/CURTIS MAYFIELD SONG 'AWARE OF LOVE' ON THE FLIP ALSO RECORDED BY JERRY BUTLER AND THE IMPRESSIONS THE EMBERS SMASH IT OUT OF THE BALL PARK WITH A DREAM OF A VERSION WHICH HAS BEEN CHAMPIONED FOR MANY YEARS BY THE LIKES OF GUY HENNIGAN AT THE RARE SOUL VENUES AND RIGHTLY SO. THE TRACKS HAVE BEEN REMASTED AND SOUND FABULOUS. 'CRAZY 'BOUT YOU BABY' IS SIMPLY DANCE FLOOR DYNAMITE WHICH GAINED FAVOUR AT THE ALLNIGHTERS BACK IN THE EARLY 80's BUT NEEDS IT'S DAY IN THE SUN AGAIN.
THE RELEASE WILL COME IN A CUSTOM CARD PICTURE SLEEVE WITH SLEEVE NOTES, A6 COLLECTORS CARD, FACSIMILE SIGNED GROUP PROMO PICTURE CARD INSERT IN A POLY SLEEVE, THE RELEASE IS IN PRODUCTION AND WILL. BE AVAILABLE PRE CHRISTMAS, TO RESERVE A COPY PM MARK BICKNELL EMAIL bicknellmark@aol.com OR bigmanrecords1@gmail.com 
THERE IS STILL AN EMBERS GROUP PERFORMING IN THE UNITED STATES BEING VERY ACTIVE AND ASSOCIATED WITH THE BEACH MUSIC SCENE THERE, THEIR BODY OF WORK AND RECORDINGS ARE LEGENDARY BOTH SIDES OF THE ATLANTIC, 
THE TWO MORE MODERN PICTURES HERE ARE JACKIE GIRE AND BOBBY TOMLINSON THE TWO ORIGINAL Co FOUNDERS OF THE EMBERS.
 

















Embers Promo-1.mp4
By Mark Bicknell in News Archives ·

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