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Jimmy Radcliffe - Big City Blues - Big Man Records 45 - Out Now BMR 1012

The latest release from Big Man Records, the first in a series of previously unissued Jimmy Radcliffe recordings. Sleeve notes and audio follow below...
 Jimmy Radcliffe - Big City Blues - Big Man Records 45 - Out Now BMR 1012
Sleeve Notes
As Jimmy Radcliffe's fan #1 I'm super excited for the release of "Big City Blues" b/w "You Can't Lose Something You Never Had" on Big Man Records! My father's signature vocals showcase the brilliant talents of the songwriting team of Brass-Levine-Kooper, on perhaps lesser known songs than their celebrated hit "This Diamond Ring" but what these songs may lack in notoriety they more than make up for in their measure as quality soul music. Much like the lonely lost love footsteps that open the David-Bacharach opus "(There Goes) The Forgotten Man" the horns and timpani heartbeat of "Big City Blues" sounds out the pathos and desperate longing found down the alleyways and corridors of the discarded hotels that echoes throughout the songs of the big city. Once again harkening back to the sweetly inspired records that the David-Bacharach-Warwick team, Tommy Hunt or Chuck Jackson released in the early 60's, "You Can't Lose Something You Never Had" speaks right to the heart of a souring love with the horns hurling the tinkle of the piano down the waterfall of emotion in Jimmy's voice.
Will this add to the long standing legacy of classic Jimmy Radcliffe discs like "Long After Tonight Is All Over" (Musicor), "My Ship Is Com in' In (Aurora) and "Breakaway"(United Artists)? Only you, the fans, can determine this ... but for my part, I say the soul scene is all the better for them and I for one look forward to hearing them out and about on a talc dusted floor. 
 So without further ado, it is with great pleasure that we bring to you BIG CITY SOUL!
Keeping The Faith, Chris Radcliffe
Special thanks to Chris Radcliffe - Black Patch Productions for his blessing, permission and assistance in making this release possible. Massive thanks to David Cartlidge for his recommendation and bringing "Big City Blues" to the attention of the Soul Scene, after acquiring the studio acetate from Sean Chapman. Special thanks to Ian Gregory - Soul Time Soul Flyers for label, sleeve, collectors card and lyric sheet artwork. To my best mate Kevin Cox - SoulSpinner Northern & Rare Soul Sales for his involvement with Big Man Records. Finally to my soulmate Karen Bentham for her continued support and administration skills. Last but not least we thank the Legend ... Jimmy Radcliffe for whom the night will never be over!
Mark Bicknell - Big Man Records
 
Release Notes
Jimmy Radcliffe - Big City Blues b/w You Can't Lose Something You Never Had - BMR 1012 new release. The first in a series of previously unissued Jimmy Radcliffe recordings from Big Man Records.
Fully licenced from Black Patch Productions to Big Man Records taken from studio masters, big city soul of the highest order.
Each 45 is presented in a custom card picture sleeve, with liner notes written by Christopher Radcliffe Jimmy's son. Also included is an A6 collectors card, lyric sheet (insert inside the sleeve), all in a poly outer sleeve.
 
Listen
 
 
Images

 


Availability
Available now direct from @Mark Bicknell Big Man Records, or via the many records shops now, including our own Source Store - Tap to view Jimmy Radcliffe - Big City Blues Source Store page
 
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Spector - Sky Documentaries and Now Tv

Spector - A 4 Part Series Via Sky Documentaries
'Through the lens of a notorious crime and the media hysteria following the case of Phil Spector, this major four-part documentary series uncovers the hidden layers to tell the story both of Lana Clarkson and the man who was convicted of her murder. SPECTOR re-examines the life of one of the most important, yet mysterious, cultural figures of the 21st century in a way that has never been done before'
Now showing via Sky Documentaries and Now tv in the UK
Live S1 E1 10 Jan 9:00pm
and streaming via Now tv 
https://www.nowtv.com/gb/watch/home/asset/spector/iYEQYZ6xzLBzvuRXEwPrCu
A 4 star review can be read here
https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2023/jan/08/phil-spector-review-sky-documentary
'This four-part series about Phil Spector walks the tightrope between sensitive and salacious – and refuses to diminish the importance of Lana Clarkson, the woman he killed'
 
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Stax ’68: Easing A Nation’s Sorrows Article

udiscovermusic.com are running an article titled Stax ’68: Easing A Nation’s Sorrows, One Song At A Time
Written with references to a UMC/Concord l 5 Cd Box set 'Stax 68: A Memphis Story' Box Set released 4 years ago,...
Stax ’68: Easing A Nation’s Sorrows, One Song At A Time
As political unrest swept the world in 1968, Stax Records faced a tumultuous year saved only by the legendary label’s own soul power.
Published on January 8, 2023 by Ian McCann
Article via
https://www.udiscovermusic.com/stories/stax-records-1968-politics-memphis-music/
By Mike in News Archives ·

Interview with Bonnie & Anita Pointer recorded 2018

We regret to learn of the sad passing of Bonnie on 8th June 2020 and of Anita on 31st December 2022
The Pointer Sisters achieved mainstream success during the 1970s and 1980s. Their career spanned four decades and their repertoire has included such diverse genres as pop, disco, jazz, blues, soul, funk, country and dance.
The Pointer Sisters have won three Grammy awards and received a star on the Hollywood Hall Of Fame in 1994. The group had 13 US top 20 hits between 1973 and 1985
The group had its origins when sisters June and Bonnie Pointer began performing in clubs in 1969 as Pointers, A Pair.  The line-up grew to a trio when sister Anita joined them.  They then got a record deal with Atlantic records and released several singles.  The trio grew to a quartet when sister Ruth joined in 1972.


By Ady Of Newark in Soul News ·

Two Recent Hit and Run 45 Releases - Nancy Butts & Deon Jackson

HR 1544 NANCY BUTTS – I Want To Hold Your Hand Baby / Your Friend Will Take The Man You Love
Wonderful Northern / Modern soul dancer from this Southern soul sister. Played at 100 Club originally by Guy Hennigan coverd up as by Eula Cooper. c/w a great midpace beat ballad flip. 
Reputedly released in a quantity of only 200 in the late 80s/early 90s after an unissued master was found in Detroit.
 
 
HR 1545 DEON JACKSON - Someday The Sun Will Shine / I Remember The Feeling 
Iconic Detroit artist from the legendary Ollie McLaughlin's family of labels, this was unknown and unreleased until one acetate was found. It then appeared on a Canadian Maple St. boot CD and also had a UK boot on a crappy looking fake Carla label.
Carefully remastered to obtain absolutely the best audio available from the source.  Flip is another unreleased at the time, also cut by the great Barbara Lewis.
 
All releases prior to 1540 remain at the old price of £12.00.       Paypal – hitandrunsoul45@gmail.com
Interested in a demo ?         please pm me for availability and new pricing.
HR 1544 A - Nancy Butts - I Want To Hold Your Hand Baby 2.21 master ref copy.mp3 HR 1545 A - Deon Jackson - Someday The Sun Will Shine 2.08 master ref copy.mp3 HR 1545 B - Deon Jackson - I RememberThe Feeling.mp3 HR 1544 B - Nancy Butts - Your Friend Will Take The Man You Love.mp3 HR 1545 B - Deon Jackson - I RememberThe Feeling.mp3
By Dewsburyborn in News Archives ·

Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations - London March 2023

Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations, the exhilarating new musical following the remarkable journey of The Temptations from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, coming to the Prince Edward Theatre in London next March. 
From the creators of the award-winning Jersey Boys…Get Ready, Cause Here They Come!
AIN’T TOO PROUD is the exhilarating new musical following the remarkable journey of THE TEMPTATIONS from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
TONY Award-winning choreography and Grammy Award-winning music tell a thrilling story of brotherhood, loyalty and betrayal set to the beat of the group’s most treasured hits, including My Girl, Just My Imagination, Get Ready, Papa Was a Rolling Stone and so many more.
With their signature dance moves and unmistakable harmonies, THE TEMPTATIONS rose to the top of the charts with a staggering 42 Top-Ten Hits and 14 Number Ones. The rest is history.
Experience the sound of genius in the making. Begins March 2023 at the Prince Edward Theatre, London.
More information about the show, including our recently announced Temptations can be found at 
https://www.ainttooproudmusical.co.uk
 
 
Tickets are on sale now - Currently 31st March - 1st October 2023
The advertising agency for this show, have been in touch asking can we inform members that the following deals are available.
'We currently have a discounted groups rate available, where groups of 10+ can get tickets for £32.50 each. Throughout the rest of the run, and for individual bookings, we have accessible pricing with tickets from £25.'
 

By Mike in News Archives ·

Site: The 'Show Us Your Great Photos' Topics 2023

It's that time of year again...
Back in April 2013, Russ aka @Amsterdam Russ started up a freebasing topic, simply set up for Source members to share their wildlife photos.
Straight off it became a most popular topic, so popular it was extended to include all types of photo subjects, with a new year based topic at the start of every year.
So here we are 10 years later ...
The 2023 topic has just kicked off and can be had here
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/forums/topic/435880-show-us-your-great-photos-2023/#
 
While all the previous topics (2013-2023) can now be found under the below tag
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/tags/photos/
Almost 10,000 comments in the 10 topics 
 
Of course many thanks go to all members past and present who have contributed photos and comments wise over the last 10 years and to Russ for his time and efforts in organising the topics
Cover photo is from the very first 2013 post by Russ
 
By Mike in Soul News ·

Jimmy Radcliffe - Big City Blues - BMR 1012 - Due 1st Week In January

WE ARE THRILLED TO ANNOUNCE JIMMY RADCLIFFE - BIG CITY BLUES - BMR 1012 IS DUE TO BE SHIPPED TO US ON DECEMBER 27TH AND WILL BE RELEASED FIRST WEEK IN JANUARY COMES IN CUSTOM CARD PICTURE SLEEVE, A6 COLLECTORS CARD, LYRIC SHEET INSERT IN A POLY OUTER SLEEVE, LINER NOTES WRITTEN BY CHRISTOPHER RADCLIFFE JIMMY'S SON.
PRE RESERVES FOR THIS RELEASE HAVE BEEN INCREDIBLE, TO ORDER PM MARK BICKNELL EMAIL bicknellmark@aol.com OR bigmanrecords1@gmail.com 
FULLY LICENCED FROM BLACK PATCH PRODUCTIONS TO BIG MAN RECORDS TAKEN FROM STUDIO MASTERS, BIG CITY SOUL OF THE HIGHEST ORDER. 
JIMMY RADCLIFFE - BIG CITY BLUES B/W YOU CAN'T LOSE SOMETHING YOU NEVER HAD - BMR 1012 NEW RELEASE. THE FIRST IN A SERIES OF PREVIOUSLY UNISSUED JIMMY RADCLIFFE RECORDINGS FROM BIG MAN RECORDS.
 
 







 



By Mark Bicknell in News Archives ·

Gloria Scott UK Tour Dates 2023

Gloria Scott is in the UK in the New Year
https://www.seetickets.com/tour/gloria-scott
Tue 14 Mar 2023
19:00 Gloria Scott 
Colchester Arts Centre, Colchester 
Thu 16 Mar 2023
19:00 Gloria Scott 
The Junction, Cambridge 
Fri 17 Mar 2023
19:00 Gloria Scott 
229, London 
Sat 18 Mar 2023
19:00 Gloria Scott 
The Crossing, Birmingham 
Performing: Gloria Scott, Gloria Scott & The Tonettes and Andrew McGuinness
By Chalky in Event News ·

Trevor Nelson's Soul Christmas - Royal Albert Hall - BBC Radio 2 Thursday

Trevor Nelson's Soul Christmas
Trevor Nelson's Rhythm Nation
After bringing the house down in 2019, Trevor returns to the Royal Albert Hall for a second time round, bringing together a host of special guests including Chic’s Kimberly Davis, soul singers Tony Momrelle and Omar, Ivor Novello-winning producer Troy Miller, award-winning singer Corinne Bailey Rae, singer-songwriter Andrew Roachford and British gospel group The Kingdom Choir.
They perform re-imagined and re-scored iconic tracks with help from the BBC Concert Orchestra.
Dance along to Soul and RnB with a classic Christmas twist this December at Trevor Nelson’s Soul Christmas.
 
Thursday 22:00 - BBC RADIO 2 - 1 hour, 57 minutes
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001gc22
By Mike in News Archives ·

Secret History of Chicago Music - Jo Ann Garrett

The Chicago Readers 'Secret History of Chicago Music' series of articles by Steve Krakow hits the spot yet again, this time it's taking a look at Jo Ann Garrett.
Local soul sensation Jo Ann Garrett disappeared from the biz in her 20s
This flexible, distinctive singer worked with the likes of Pervis Spann, Andre Williams, and Charles Stepney—but her career lasted only a few years.
by Steve Krakow
December 16, 2022
... urged Garrett to audition for WVON DJ and club owner Pervis Spann. Garrett passed the audition, which got her a spot at a talent show at the Regal Theater. She took second place, behind the Five Stairsteps (later of “O-o-h Child” fame), and both artists ended up with record contracts. Garrett was still just 16 or 17 years old, but already her music career was being managed by Spann and Robert “Bob” Lee, who owned a small local label called Hawk Records and worked in A&R for the short-lived but more successful Crash...
Get over to the Chicago Reader website for the full length article, worth the walk.
https://chicagoreader.com/music/local-soul-sensation-jo-ann-garrett-disappeared-from-the-biz-in-her-20s/
View all Secret History of Chicago Music articles on The Chicago Reader site via
https://chicagoreader.com/music/the-secret-history-of-chicago-music/
By Mike in News Archives ·

Book: Soul Serenade King Curtis and His Immortal Saxophone

Recently published, this 352 page hardback book takes a detailed look at 'King Curtis’s meteoric rise from a humble Texas farm to the recording studios of Memphis, Muscle Shoals, and New York City as well as to some of the world’s greatest music stages, including the Apollo Theatre, Fillmore West, and Montreux Jazz Festival.'
A lengthy Kindle preview follows below the notes
Release Notes
Although in 2000 he became the first sideman inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, “King Curtis” Ousley never lived to accept his award. Tragically, he was murdered outside his New York City home in 1971. At that moment, thirty-seven-year-old King Curtis was widely regarded as the greatest R & B saxophone player of all time. He also may have been the most prolific, having recorded with well over two hundred artists during an eighteen-year span.
Soul Serenade is the definitive biography of one of the most influential musicians of the 50s, 60s, and early 70s. Timothy R. Hoover chronicles King Curtis’s meteoric rise from a humble Texas farm to the recording studios of Memphis, Muscle Shoals, and New York City as well as to some of the world’s greatest music stages, including the Apollo Theatre, Fillmore West, and Montreux Jazz Festival. Curtis’s “chicken-scratch” solos on the Coasters’ Yakety Yak changed the role of the saxophone in rock & roll forever. His band opened for the Beatles at their famous Shea Stadium concert in 1965. He also backed his “little sister” and close friend Aretha Franklin on nearly all of her tours and Atlantic Records productions from 1967 until his death.
Soul Serenade is the result of more than twenty years of interviews and research. It is the most comprehensive exploration of Curtis’s complex personality: his contagious sense of humor and endearing southern elegance as well as his love for gambling and his sometimes aggressive temperament. Hoover explores Curtis’s vibrant relationships and music-making with the likes of Buddy Holly, Sam Cooke, Isaac Hayes, Jimi Hendrix, Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Sam Moore, Donny Hathaway, and Duane Allman, among many others.
Author Notes
Timothy R Hoover is an avid music lover who has spent more than twenty years researching and writing about the life of King Curtis. A freelance writer for Hittin’ the Note magazine, he lives outside Wheatland, Wyoming, with his wife.
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Two new Stream Records 45 Releases: Armour Gomez and The Ritz Band

Two new Stream Records releases announced
Armour Gomez - 'Feeling Uptight' and The Ritz Band - 'I Should Have Known'
Due for release at the end of February 2023, details below
 
Armour Gomez - Feeling Uptight / The Accent Instrumental
Limited Edition Stream Records 7” 250 run (Bundle with The Ritz Band Available)
Out End of February 2023
PLEASE NOTE: Integral interview to A. Gomez digital download included
Listen to the interview: https://youtu.be/Gw4o6KTsX-A
Preorder: https://cannonballsoul.com/streamrecords/
Boy, this Armour Gomez is something. From Vietnam to work 5 years in a coal mine to going underground in Las Vegas to found his own band The Accent, then up to New York to play his wildcard in the main business (to no success, as many other great artists like him), then back to Vegas and hit the road for many years as a musician. Three marriages (remembers me of someone I know very well haha…) until now well in his seventies yet playing everywhere day in day out.
FULL INTERVIEW DOWNLOADABLE VIA PREORDER LINK.
 
The Ritz Band “I Should Have Known” Mono b/w Stereo
 
Limited Edition Stream Records 7” 250 run (Bundle with Armour Gomez Available)
There have been many versions of the Ritz Band. The Charleston, WV Night Club opened in 1982 and over the years showcased many of the area's top musicians and vocalist. In 1985 club owner Dick Allen had a vision of releasing a single which led to the recording of the only original music ever recorded by one of the many versions of the Ritz band. There were a couple of different versions of the band in 1985 but the musicians listed below is the version of the group that recorded the single "I Should Have Known" featuring Raye Smith on lead vocal, written and produced by Raye Smith and Steve Johnson and recorded and mastered at Chandler Audio in Ashland Kentucky by Studio owner Denny Chandler.
Ritz Band Members:
Curtis Price Guitar Vocals
Jim Florkevich Drums, Vocals
Bobby Harrold Alto, Soprano, Alto Sax, Flute, and Vocals Raye Smith Bass, Vocals
Steve Johnson Keyboards, Vocals
Preorder: https://cannonballsoul.com/streamrecords/
By Yann V in News Archives ·

Mica Millar has announced her National Tour for 2023!

Releasing her debut album 'Heaven Knows' to critical review earlier this year, Mica Millar has quickly become the UK’s brightest new Soul star, picking up Jazz FM's prestigious 'Soul Act of The Year 2022' award alongside a nomination for 'Breakthrough Act of The Year' and featuring on the front covers of iconic magazines like Blues & Soul and Echoes, amidst an array of five star album and live reviews, plus champions at national radio including the likes of BBC Radio 2’s Trevor Nelson and 6 Music’s Craig Charles.
Following two monumental album launch shows in September including a sold out show at the capital’s prestigious Jazz Café and a special hometown performance filling out the iconic Albert Hall, Manchester, Mica has announced her first UK tour for May 2023. She’ll be returning with her hotly-tipped seven-piece band to Jazz Cafe London on 5th May with shows at Liverpool's Epstein Theatre on 21st May, Manchester’s Band On The Wall on 25th May and The Wardrobe Leeds on 30th May presented by Manchester and Leeds Jazz Festivals with additional UK and European dates still to be announced.
Self-written, arranged and produced, Mica’s debut album ‘Heaven Knows’ explores themes of human nature, spirituality, love, oppression, inequality and empowerment, drawing inspiration from a plethora of vintage soundscapes, most notably, soul, blues, gospel and jazz.
Since its release in June 2022, ‘Heaven Knows’ has achieved widespread acclaim, picking up five star reviews from the likes of Daily Express and Daily Mirror who called it "a classy debut" and rave reviews everywhere from Wordplay, Music Week, Fred Perry, 1883 Magazine, The Official Charts, God is in the TV, Backseat Mafia, Soul Jazz and Funk, Soul Tracks, Noctis Magazine, Louder Than War and many more. Mica also landed front cover features at Blues & Soul Magazine who credited her as “a star with intense emotional sincerity” and Echoes Magazine who championed ‘Heaven Knows’ as their ‘soul album of the month’ and one of 'The Best Soul albums of 2022’.
Mastered at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in late 2021 by Geoff Peshe who cited 'Heaven Knows' as "his favourite Abbey Road album project" of the year, and mixed by Brian Malouf (best knows for engineering Michael Jackson's Bad Album), other album credits including organist Rickey Peterson and producer David Z (both long term collaborators of Prince), guitarist Miles James (Michael Kiwanuka, Cleo Sol, Tom Misch) and bassist Jerry Barnes (Whitney Huston).
Mica’s distinct vision is one that’s earned her renowned credibility within the industry and it’s her creativity, drive and attention to detail that has made ‘Heaven Knows’ the album it is - a timeless collection of modern soul showcasing a confident new artist, quickly establishing herself as a new and unique voice in British Soul music.
***Tickets are now on sale for Mica’s 2023 Tour - GET THEM HERE***

By Goldenhourmusic in Event News ·

Sharon McMahan - Got To Find Another Guy - Big Man Records 45 - Out Now BMR 1011

After problems at the pressing plant, the latest Big Man Records release is now available, audio along with the 45 sleeve notes and more follow below...
Sleeve Notes
Sharon began her career, as a teen in Detroit, Michigan. She wrote her first songs at 12 years old. After auditioning her, Ollie Mclaughlin launched her writing career by publishing/producing, recording and releasing, several of her songs on his own record labels, KAREN, CARLA, MOIRA & RUTH RECORDS. McLaughlin recorded Sharon's songs on Barbara Lewis, Deon Jackson, Gracie Darnell, Johnnie Mae Matthews. He also secured a UK recording for Sharon's song, titled, "Someday We're Gonna Love Again" on the Liverpool based group, The Searchers. It charted to #11 in Billboard in several countries and to #23 here In the U.S. Thus, Sharon has a tremendous fan base In the UK. Later, another Detroit based publisher/producer became familiar with Sharon's writing skills. He was Don Davis, producer of Johnnie Taylor, executive producer of The Dramatics and many more artists. He recorded Sharon's songs on current Hall Of Fame artists, Etta James and Mavis Staples. He also recorded one of Sharon's songs on The Three Degrees. Please Note: Rappers, Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth sampled the track from The Three Degrees song, to record the title track for their CD titled: RETURN OF THE MECCA.
In 1973, Sharon was signed to Columbia Records, by then president Clive Davis. Her released single was titled, "Get Out Of My Life", produced by Toxey French and arranged by Philly master arranger, Bobby Martin.  Sharon later associated with NEA jazz award recipient, Benny Golson. Golsons album, "I'm Always Dancin' To the Music", contains a Sharon McMahan song, "Love Is The Key". Sharon later worked with Golson as lyricists on the NBC mini-series, "The Sophisticated Gents". Unfortunately, for Sharon, her screen credits were not published, as agreed but her lyrics speaks volumes in this film.
Soon after, Sharon was introduced to Otis Blackwell, writer for Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis and others. He recorded and released a McMahan country song, titled "I'm Happy Just The Way I Am" on his own Bullion label.
Thanks to Richard Johnstone for his contribution to this release, Ian Gregory at 'Soul Time Soul Flyers' for label and sleeve artwork, Karen Bentham for her support and label administration.
Sharon McMahan Discography
Love is Wonderful / Here Comes the Boy I Love Karen Records 1964
Got To Find Another Guy Karen Records 1966
Get Out Of My Life Columbia 1973
Get Out Of My Life/ Maybe You'll Be Back Expansion 2011
Where There Is Love /I Have No Choice Karen 2018
Release Notes
Sharon McMahan - Got To Find Another Guy / Love Is Wonderful - Big Man Records 1011
Both songs written by Sharon McMahan and owned by McMahan publishing company. Released with both her blessing and kind permission 
Sharon wrote songs for Barbara Lewis, Deon Jackson, Gracie Darnell, Johnnie Mae Matthews, and has appeared at the Cleethorpes Weekender to great acclaim.
The record will come in a custom picture sleeve, a6 collectors card personally signed by Sharon in a poly outer sleeve.
Listen
 
 
Images

Availability
Available now direct from @Mark Bicknell Big Man Records, or via the many records shops now, including our own Source Store - Tap to view Sharon McMahan - Got To Find Another Guy 45 Store page
By Mike in News Archives ·

Pre-Order: Joe Johnson 'What’s the Matter With You Baby' - Cannonball Records

Joe Johnson  'What’s the Matter With You Baby' / 'I Still Love you'
Pre-Order Now:
Limited Edition Cannonball Classic 7” 250 run + 10TPs
Out End of February 2023
'What’s the Matter With You Baby'
Listen:
'I Still Love You'
Listen:
 
Preorder: https://cannonballsoul.com/cannonballrecords/
You just can’t imagine how many Joe Johnsons soul singers were around on both coasts of the States at the crossing of the sixties and the seventies. And how long it took us to find the right one.
Double banger here out of a privately produced Long Player that never had a 7” vinyl to lead to its publication. Until now of course, with that Time Capsule feel as trademark of our flagship record label.
Huge thanks to John Browne & Ian Williams for their assistance too!
By Yann V in News Archives ·

Luxury Soul 2023 Box Set (3 x CD) Details

Luxury Soul 2023. The annual 3 cd box set from Expansion records.
Note no shipping till the second week of January 2023.
35 tracks in total, spread over 3 x cds, track listing below
Released to coincide with the 20th Anniversary Luxury Soul Weekender in January 2023 and includes tracks by three artists performing live at the event.
Event Guide - Weekender Section

https://www.soul-source.co.uk/events/2-weekenders/

CD ONE
Here We Go Again - Output / Input feat. Audrey Wheeler & Brent Carter
Now's The Time For Us - Julian Jonah
Say Yes (Metlife Remix) - Cornell C.C. Carter
If It Feels Good - We Are One X-Perience
I Believe - Khari Cabral & Jiva
This Is Of The Most High - Royalty Duo
Got Sweet Loving (Raw Soul Mix) - Brian Power
You're The Best Thing (Original Mix) - Sound of SuperBad
4EVER! - Richard Alexander Davis
What Can We Do - IshMaleSings
Moods - The R&R Soul Orchestra
What We Gonna Do By - Down To Earth Feat. Stacey Lee
CD TWO
Move Me No Mountain - Lisa Dietrich
Let Me Be the One - Rockie Robbins
Soul Steppin (Soul Syndicate Remix) - Shirley Jones
Light Up My World - John Reid
Touch and Go - Victor Haynes
Midas Touch [Nigel Lowis Mix] - Candace Woodson
Alone Again - Ernie & The Family Mckone
Sucha Good Feelin' (Don-E Chuffed Mix) - Rich Beggar
Don't Give Up - Robert IMtume Owens
While I'm Alone - Alton McClain Scarborough
This Is Worth It - Blue Soul Ten
CD THREE
Slow Motion – Kenya feat Noel Gourdin
How I Feel - Antonio McLendon
Dot Dot Dot (The Sequel) - Marqueal Jordan
Stargazing (Radio edit) - Kim Tibbs
Take A Walk With Love - Sheree Brown
When We're Together - Kloud 9
Don't Throw Our Love Away - Ashley Scott
Something Like This (Breakdown Remix) - Tristan
Go Right On (Steve Salvari Remix) - Patrick McLean
You Make Me Feel (Dance Version) - Marc Staggers
Place In My Heart - Matt Johnson
Love Can Make You Feel So Happy - Ipso Facto
 
 
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

The Flirtations @ The Night Owl Birmingham Sat 17th Dec 2022

On Saturday 17th December, famous soul trio The Flirtations are live at The Night Owl with a rare vocal performance plus support from rising soul singer Abi Farrell (Big AC Records), this is set to be The Night Owl's biggest show of 2022 and a great way to celebrate Christmas early!
Press release
1960s Soul icons The Flirtations to headline The Night Owl this December 17th
1960s soul sensations, The Flirtations, are set to headline Digbeth’s soul & retro venue The Night Owl for a very special Christmas show.
Support on the night comes from Abi Farrell of East London’s independent label Big AC Records.
Tickets are available now at £20pp.
This Christmas you can treat yourself to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the soulful American trio who took over the UK scene with their hits ‘Nothing but a Heartache’, ‘Changes Darkness into light’, ‘Little Darling’ and more! The Flirtations, FKA The Gypsies, have crafted a legacy that follows their name and have marked themselves as a must-see group.
The Flirtations’ album Sounds Like The Flirtations was recently reissued on vinyl via Decca Records. Originally released on Deram in 1969, Sounds Like The Flirtations features some of the group’s most beloved tunes, including ‘Someone Out There’, ‘Love is a Sad Song’, and the classic ‘Nothing But A Heartache’.
If you’re familiar with The Night Owl you may recognise opening act Abi Farrell from their Big AC Records Live Revue back in May. Hailing from Oxfordshire, Abi Farrell was raised on a soundtrack of female-driven pop, funk and soul. Influences from the likes of Aretha, Carole King, Eva Cassidy and Chaka Khan may all be present in Abi’s music but each song is brought into the here and now by her effortlessly pure voice and lyrical dexterity. Farrell has received great critical acclaim over her musical career:
“Great songwriting and a beautiful voice” Robert Elms - BBC Radio London “An artist on the rise... a considerable talent” Blues & Soul Magazine
Tickets are available here for the upcoming show. Saturday 17th December at The Night Owl.
Tickets are available now at £20pp.
 

 
By Maryam Snape in Event News ·

Kent Records 40 Years On - An Exclusive Four Month Digital Campaign

News from Ace Records of a four month celebration of the 40 year Kent Records landmark via an exclusive digital campaign. Details follow below.
To celebrate an amazing FORTY YEARS of unrivalled Kent Records releases under the watchful eye of Master Soul Curator Ady Croasdell, aided and abetted by Messrs Tony Rounce, Dean Rudland and Alec Palao, Ace Records have launched an exclusive digital campaign to commemorate 40 years since the first Kent compilation “For Dancers Only” hit the record shops of 1982 with resounding success.
During the next FOUR months, we will release no less than FORTY digitally previously unreleased Kent titles!
First up is a digital selection containing nine tracks taken from the LP and CD versions of the recent “Kent Forty Forever” compilations.
Tap below for an exclusive preview of ‘Selections from For Dancers Forty'
Listen here!
 
Kent Records Turns 40! Spotify Connected Playlist
Subscribe to this Spotify playlist to be the first to get all FORTY previously unreleased digital tracks that we have lined up for you!
 
 
Four decades of supplying soul and still so much more to come; here’s to the artists, writers, musicians and producers – CHEERS!

 
December 2nd Release - 'Selections From For Dancers Forty' – Various Artists
Walk The Chalk Line - The Teen Queens
Gonna Put It On Your Mind - Arthur Adams
You Changed Me - Teddy Reyonlds
Here Comes The Judge - Larry & Tommy
Tramp - Foxfire feat. Johnny Adams
Freedom & Justice - Pace-Setters
Mr. Busdriver - The Teen Queens
Stand Up Straight And Tall - Jackie Shane
I’ll Let Nothing Come Between Us - Billy Watkins
December 9th - Ike Turner & His Kings Of Rhythm
Camel Walking – Ike Turner & His Rhythm Kings
Daddy’s Blues – Ike Turner & His Rhythm Kings
 
Upcoming releases:
December 16th - Z.Z. - Hill
Knock On Wood
Midnight Hour
December 23rd - B.B. King
Flying High
December 30th – James Carr
What The World Needs Now
January 13th - Milton Bennett
What’s One More Lie
January 27th – Arthur Wright Orchestra
Arthur Wright Orchestra - If I Could Turn Back The Hands Of Time
Arthur Wright Orchestra – Before It’s Too Late
February 3rd – “Gimme Some Mod Jazz” - Various Artists
Johnny Talbot – Never Make Your Baby Cry
Chili With Honey - Danny Bell & The Bell Hops
Empire City - Gene Walker
Spoonful - Playboy Five
Mission Impossible - Johnny Gilliam
In The Dark - Dave Hamilton
El Tacos - Frenchy & The Chessmen
February 10th “Valentine’s Soul” – Z.Z. HILL
When A Man Loves A Woman
You Send Me
Nothing Takes The Place Of You
February 24th - Larry Banks
Don’t Pull Away
We Got A Problem
Let’s Roll Up Our Sleeves
March 10th - Jackie Shane:
You Are My Sunshine
March 24th - James Carr & Barbara Perry
I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)
March 31st – “More Masterpieces of Modern Soul” – Various Artists
Ray Godfrey – I Ain’t Givin’ Up
Ronnie Walker – You’ve Got To Try Harder
7 Days Unlimited – Trying (Pt. 2)
The Four Tees – One More Chance
The Moderations – Ride The Disco Train
The New Experience feat Elayne Starr – I Believe
Higher Feelings – I Wanna Stay High On You
 

By Mike in News Archives ·

When Tina and Motown Came To Britain

Two BBC Documentaries over Christmas and New Year.
When Tina Turner came to the UK on Christmas Day and then on New Years Day wehn Motown came to the UK.
BBC Two has revealed two documentaries on legendary singer Tina Turner and how Motown came to the UK in time for Christmas.
When Tina Turner Came To Britain will feature previously unheard interviews with the icon and will tell the story of her relationship with the UK when it airs on Christmas Day.
Speaking about the upcoming documentary, Turner said: “The love, energy and support I’ve had from Britain over the years has been amazing. I couldn’t have enjoyed the career I’ve had without my time spent in the UK and collaborations with amazing British songwriters, musicians and producers. From my very first visit to London in 1966, I always enjoyed visiting Britain and performing for fans across the country – it felt like my second home.”
The documentary will also feature contributions from those who have worked with Tina over the years, including Heaven 17’s Gregory and Martyn Ware, Skunk Anansie’s Skin and former Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips, who choreographed the music video to Private Dancer.
It will begin with Turner's first visit to the UK when she supported Rolling Stones on tour in 1966. The film will span more than five decades, with footage of her attending the world premiere of Tina: The Musical in London in 2018.
In the second documentary airing on New Year’s day, BBC2 will tell the story of when Motown came to the UK in the form of a tour in 1965. The likes of Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Martha Reeves and the Vandellas and Smokey Robinson and the Miracles arrived in the country and performed across the nation.
When Motown Came to Britain will also include commentary from a range of artists in Motown fans, including Otis Williams and The Supremes and the temptations manager Shelley Berger, plus many more.
Jonathan Rothery, BBC head of Pop Music TV, said: “Both films take a fascinating look at much-loved stars through the filter of the times they’ve visited our shores.”
When Motown Came to the UK airs on New Year’s Day on BBC Two and iPlayer.
When Tina Turner Came to Britain airs on Christmas Day on BBC Two and iPlayer.
https://virginradio.co.uk/entertainment/86795/bbc-announces-two-new-music-documentaries-on-uk-motown-and-tina-turner
By Chalky in News Archives ·

208 Fabulous Records: My Soulful Life by Adrian Corbin

If you like music, you will like this book; if you like Soul music, you'll love this book!

The Big AC, Adrian Corbin, has put pen to paper and compiled this excellent collection of stories and records about a life lived along to an incredible musical soundtrack.

Having received praise from Ady Croasdell, Eddie Piller and Dave Cole of 'In The Basement Magazine', this is a book you should definitely put on your Christmas list.

Introduction by John Lias, and beautiful full colour illustrations by John Sauverin. Limited copies of this soft back book are available on our website https://www.bigacrecords.com/
 
***** 
"A fascinating look at a great period in music through the eyes and ears of one inspired enthusiast."
Ady Croasdell - 6TS Rhythm 'N' Soul Society and Kent Records.

******
"I have been privileged to make a number of firm friends thanks to my Soul music magazine; Adrian is one of the best of them. This book is an enjoyable reflection of a colourful character's years in soul music with more than a soupçon of football added in for good measure."
Dave Cole - 'In The Basement' magazine.
***** 
"An incredibly evocative journey through life illustrated by music. From Mod to Soul, with everything else in between - essential."
Eddie Piller - Acid Jazz Records.

*****






 
https://www.bigacrecords.com/
 
 
By Big Ac Records in News Archives ·

New CD - For Dancers Forty - Kent Cd Out Now

A new cd release from Kent.
For Dancers Forty - Various Artists  - CDKEND 514
For Dancers Forty revisits the US Modern and Kent labels that started it all off
The Lp version was released last month, but this the cd version differs a great deal, from than the vinyl version, with only 3 tracks being found on both
As always, the cd comes with an informative 20-page glossy leaflet, with photos and notes by Ady Croasdell (see below for preview scans)
Release notes from Ace Records follow below
Release notes
Kent Records are commemorating 40 years since the LP Kent 001 “For Dancers Only” hit the record shops of 1982 with resounding success. Our new CD “For Dancers Forty” revisits the US Modern and Kent labels that started it all off.
We have already released a “For Dancers Forty” LP but though the compilations share the same celebratory title, only three tracks feature on both. We didn’t want to neglect our digital customers at the expense of the vinyl hounds.
The collection represents the breadth of label-owners Saul, Jules, Joe and Lester Bihari’s recordings, featuring stompers, Rhythm & Blues rockers, girl soul grooves group harmony and sublime ballads.
Several tracks are new to Kent CDs. There are previously unheard 1966 soul recording from 50s Modern R&B artists Aaron Collins and his siters The Teen Queens, guitarist/songwriter Arthur Adams and soul-crooner Billy Watkins. Kent stalwarts Mary Love and Z Z Hill are featured, musically and on the front cover, with a recently discovered studio shot. As with Kent 001 we feature the R&B sounds of the label from T-Bone Walker, Little Joe Blue, Flash Terry and the mighty B B King. There are underplayed tracks by Jeanette Jones, Lowell Fulson and Tommy Youngblood – whose moody LP-only track ‘Tobacco Road North’ has been sampled by US rappers.
As ever on our rare soul scene, it is the lesser-known artists who we spotlight - there are largely unheard tracks by Teddy Reynolds (from a very obscure Twist LP), King Solomon and a plaintive ballad from Beatrice Lee.  Northern Soul devotees will enjoy The Sweethearts’ Motownesque ‘No More Tears’, Jimmy Bee’s new and improved ‘Wanting You’ with added chorus, which has a digital debut and Clay Hammond’s cult mover ‘You Brought It All On Yourself’ reappears after several years absence. The funk-edged crowd get the first re-release of Foxfire’s manic take on Fulson’s ‘Tramp’, and new to Kent are Larry (Perault) & Tommy (Bush) doing a version of Shorty Long’s ‘Here Comes The Judge’.
Four decades of supplying soul and still so much more to come; here’s to the artists, writers, musicians and producers – CHEERS!
Ady Croasdell
https://acerecords.co.uk/for-dancers-40
Booklet Preview Scans



 
Track Listing
Side 1
01 Satisfied Feeling - Mary Love
02 You'd Be Good For Me - Jeanette Jones
03 Gonna Put It On Your Mind - Arthur Adams
04 Tobacco Road North - Tommy Youngblood
05 Jealous Woman - T-Bone Walker
06 Walk The Chalk Line - Aaron Collins & The Teen Queens
07 I've Got Papers On You Baby - B.B. King
08 You Changed Me - Teddy Reynolds & The Twisters
09 Wanting You - Jimmy Bee
10 That's It - Z.Z. Hill
11 Push Me - Lowell Fulson
12 Here Comes The Judge - Larry & Tommy
13 Tramp - Foxfire featuring Johnny Adams
14 Freedom And Justice - Pace-Setters
15 Jimmy's Special - Little Joe Blue
16 Remove My Doubts - Stacy Johnson
17 You Brought It All On Yourself - Clay Hammond
18 It's Crazy Baby - Ike & Tina Turner
19 On My Way Back Home - Flash Terry & His Orch
20 Mr Bad Luck - King Solomon
21 Mr Bus Driver - The Teen Queens
22 No More Tears - The Sweethearts
23 Help Me - Beatrice Lee
24 I'll Let Nothing Come Between Us - Billy Watkins
Availability 
In the shops now, including our own Source Store - Tap to view For Dancers Forty CD Store page
By Mike in News Archives ·

New Retro Soul 45 Paul Mac Innes - Falling by the Wayside (LRK 18)

LRK Records proudly presents the last release of the year Falling by the Wayside – A Motown flavoured uplifting, unmissable and irresistible new single by Paul Mac Innes

ORDER now! No long pre-orders on theses ones.
Shipping out by Dec 9th 2022 for everyone to get before Christmas and the UK postage strikes.
Only 300 copies pressed.
 
Singer Paul Mac Innes and producer Mattias Axelsson share a great love for the timeless Motown sound that led them to write "Falling by the Wayside" sometime before the pandemic.
The song was put on hold. But at a live performance, they chose to perform the song and then understood that the time had come to record this track for real.
They booked the new studio Skeppet in Gothenburg and brought along some of the city's best musicians.
Releases December 9, 2022

Musicians:
Producer & Drums: Mattias Axelsson
Keys: Markus Linnell Zovic
Git: Andreas Högberg
Bass: DavidGötvall
Engineer: Pär Hagström
Horns: Jakob Sollerman
Strings: Karl Johan Råsmark
Mastering: Hans Olsson
Vocals: Paul Mac Innes
Order here:
https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/falling-by-the-wayside-2
 

 



By LRK in News Archives ·

Welcome to Epsilon Record Co. latest Californian releases

Welcome to Epsilon Record Co. latest Californian releases
Two fantastic singles
EPS018 Natural Impulse (previously unissued)
A: “Let’s Get Together”(3:10)
B: “Let’s Get Together”(extended version 4:34)
Written by: Richard P Ramos
Bay Area 1976
Listen:
 
EPS017  James Hales
A: “Could It Be Joy”(3:12) Arranged by: James Hale / James Pasley / Rasha A Abdur
1982
B: “Cashing in My Memories”(3:40) Written by: James Hale / Nathan Musser
Los Angeles California
Listen:
 
PRE-ORDER NOW!
Release on 20th Dec 2022
(you should get them on time for Christmas)
Check out our special Christmas bundles!
https://www.epsilonrecord.com/
By Yann V in News Archives ·

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