A heads up on an interesting upcoming album release from Ace Records, due out at the end of March 2025.
Cd and Vinyl format
Paul Weller Presents That Sweet, Sweet Music - CDTOP 1655
Label notes
Soul music has always been in Paul Weller’s blood from early Jam covers of Martha & the Vandellas 1963 classic ‘Heatwave’. Along with other forms of music, soul found its way into Paul’s record collection, nourishing his ears and informing his own songwriting.
Side 1
01 God Made Me Funky - The Headhunters
02 Spanish Twist - The I. B. Special
03 Breakaway - The Valentines
04 Top Of The Stairs - Collins & Collins
05 Dont Let The Green Grass Fool You - The Spinners
06 Black Balloons - Syl Johnson
07 Soulshake - Peggy Scott & Jo Jo Benson
08 I Can't Make It Anymore - Richie Havens
09 You Got To Have Money - The Exits
10 Pull My String (Turn Me On) - The Joneses
11 Run For Cover - The Dells
12 On Easy Street - O.C. Smith
13 It Ain't No Big Thing - The Radiants
14 Summertime - Billy Stewart
15 In The Bottle - Brother To Brother
16 Hard Times - Baby Huey
17 Maggie - Johnny Williams
18 When - Joe Simon
19 Pouring Water On A Drowning Man - James Carr
20 That's Enough - Roscoe Robinson
21 Blackrock Yeah Yeah - Blackrock
22 Golden Ring - American Gypsy
23 Search For The Inner Self - Jon Lucien
24 Life Walked Out - The Mist
25 In The Meantime - Betty Davis
26 Beautiful Feeling (Single Mix) - Darrell Banks
https://www.acerecords.co.uk/paul-weller-presents-that-sweet-sweet-music-1
A new album by Uk artist Brooke Combe has been picking up interest in the msm, with the track 'This Town' also picking up mentions on here and elsewhere. Details and audio follow below
Brooke Combe - Dancing At The Edge Of The World - Modern Sky Uk
Release notes
Brooke Combe, a rising Scottish singer-songwriter, delves deep into her soulful roots with her new album 'Dancing at the Edge of the World'. This album marks her most authentic work yet, blending rich, emotive vocals with contemporary soul sounds. Brooke's music captures the essence of heartbreak, empowerment, and self-discovery, resonating with a broad audience. 'Dancing at the Edge of the World' is a powerful showcase of Brooke's artistry, highlighting her evolution as a leading voice in modern soul music.
Various Formats: cd/vinyl/streaming
Info, streams, sounds, purchase options and more via
https://brookecombe.os.fan/
Youtube Complete Album Playlist
(use arrows to play all tracks)
Track Listings
1 Prelude
2 This Town
3 Guilt
4 Shaken By the Wind
5 L.M.T.F.A
6 The Last Time
7 Pieces
8 If I Could Only Be Yours
9 Laneswood Pines
10 Butterfly
11 Dancing at the Edge of the World
Spotify Embed
Out this weekend a 'new/reissue' album release from BGP Ace Records, available right now on vinyl and cd.
The Brides Of Funkenstein - Funk Or Walk
Details below...
Release Notes Preview
George Clinton’s imagination knew no bounds and, defying normal music industry convention, by 1978 had five bands signed to three different record labels. One of these comprised of three other Parliament/Funkadelic female backing singers working under the name of Parlet, whose debut single, ‘Pleasure Principle’ was released on Casablanca Records in March 1978.
It was Clinton’s idea that two other backing singers, Lynn Mabry and Dawn Silva, become the Brides Of Funkenstein, a character he invented for the 1976 Parliament LP, “The Clones Of Dr Funkenstein”. “I have to be honest – at first, I hated the name and I thought George was kidding,” Mabry told Blues & Soul, “But I have gotten to like it – especially just the Brides.”
Clinton got the Brides signed to Atlantic Records and their first single was ‘Disco To Go’ / ‘ When You’re Gone’. The A-side was written and produced by Clinton and Bootsy Collins and had originally featured in live shows by Collins’ live band. Clinton was asked by Black Echoes why the song was recorded by the Brides rather than Bootsy. “He could, and it would have been a smash too,” he replied. “But we thought it sounded too much like James Brown, so we gave it to the girls. Now it don’t sound like James Brown.” It certainly did not and this electronic bass and horn-powered banger – complete with an Old MacDonald nursery rhyme refrain – debuted on the Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart at #80 on 30th September 1978. By the time the P-Funk crew were flying across the Atlantic in early November it had peaked at #7. Sadly for UK fans, ‘Disco To Go’ was only available on import although a Black Echoes review stated it was a “Slow chunky handclapper. It sounds not unlike Funkadelic’s own ‘Coming Round The Mountain’”....
.... and Ace are delighted to put it out again. It comes with an inner sleeve with notes written by Ace’s Ian Shirley.
Full notes, purchase options and more available via Ace Records website
Cd
https://www.acerecords.co.uk/funk-or-walk-1
Lp
https://www.acerecords.co.uk/funk-or-walk
Track Listing
Side 1
01 Disco To Go
02 Warship Touchante
03 Nappy
04 Birdie
05 Just Like You
06 When You're Gone
07 Amorous
Details of the 2025 release, the latest in this long running series from Expansion Records
Luxury Soul 2025 3 x CD Box Set
Release Notes
Expansion Records commences each year with the label’s most anticipated collection, “Luxury Soul”. The success of the series comes down to the quality of tracks sourced from independent soul music artists, often unsigned or with recordings previously unissued or on limited release elsewhere.
Included on this unique collection are exclusives by Kloud 9 ft Shalamar’s Howard Hewett, first time on CD releases by Diplomats Of Soul (produced by Incognito), Julian Jonah, Steve Nichol (formerly of Loose Ends), Kim Tibbs, Gwen Dickey (originally from Rose Royce), Devon Howard, Dee Lucas, Ronald Isley with Robin Thicke’s mother Gloria Loring and more of the finest soul releases of the past 12 months by Michael Gray, Jessie Laine Powell, Shaun Labelle, Matt Cusson and so many more.
Released January 13, 2025
Luxury Soul 2025 by Luxury Soul (Various Artists)
Track Listing
CD ONE
Everyday-Cornell C.C. Carter
I Love You-Diplomats Of Soul
The Power Of Love-Will Downing
What The Heart Wants-Steve Nichol feat. Debby Bracknell
I Love My Life With You (feat Brian McKnight)-Jeff Lorber
Soul Night-The Groove Association feat. Georgie B
It's Alrght-Kim Tibbs
Let the Lovin' Start-Victor Haynes
Water-Gwen Dickey
I Do, I Did, I'm Done-Natasha Watts
Treat Your Right (T-Groove Remix)-Devon Howard
Back In Tha Day-Hill St. Soul
CD TWO
I Want You For Myself-Patrice Isley
Let's Not Say Goodnight-Julian Jonah
Unite & Heal-T.I.L.A.R
Nights Over Egypt-Castella
Weak Spot (feat. Kevin Bennett)-Dee Lucas
Smile-Lucita Jules & Foster Rogue
I Love You -Steven Thad
Can I Get Ur Numba-Everis
Why-Alli' Starr
Fallin In Love (Rob Hardt Remix)-David A. Tobin
I Wanna Be Loved By You-Full Flava feat. Angela Johnson
CD THREE
Back Against the Wall-Kelyn & Keite
Fire and Ice-Jessie Laine Powell
She Don't Mind (feat. Yulia Musayelyan)-Matt Cusson
Next Move-Jarrod Lawson
All I Want Is You-Michael Gray feat. Lex Cameron
Ain't No Sunshine-The Paradise Projex
Falling in Love-Kloud 9 feat. Howard Hewett
Your Love Kept Calling My Name-Shaun LaBelle
No To Heartbreak-Benjamin Race
Will You Ever Stay-Tristan
Love Is Still The Answer-Ronald Isley & Gloria Loring
My Love-Peggi Blu feat. Rockie Robbins
Intro
Bill Buckley from Souljazzandfunk.com recently got in touch with us regarding a recent (Nov 2024) Ep release from James Hovay, that he thought deserved exposure. You can read Bill's review further below
Long time readers may be familar with James recent 2022 releases, this time around the five track EP does take a similar path and would say that the description 'the soundscape is the classic sound of 60s Chicago' is a most valid take.
Review, details and video clips follow below
James Holvay – Working Man Label: MOB Town Records – MTR 003
1 Working Man 2:41
2 Don't Take Your Love 3:13
3 Bring It 3:10
4 Love That Lady 2:34
5 Grace Of Your Love 04:25
Format wise, the EP can be found on most of the major streamers, a while a cd is mentioned am currently trying to track down purchase details if any, anyone know?
Video Track - Love That Lady
Review of ‘Working Man’ by Bill Buckley
Chicago-born JAMES “SOUL” HOLVAY is a veteran singer, songwriter and guitarist. His biggest success as a writer was ‘Kind Of A Drag’ – a US pop no. 1 hit for the Buckinghams but he also led his own band, the Mob. They gigged hard through the late 60s and 70s playing their take on soul but as musical tastes changed the band split up and James turned away from the music business.
A career in sales followed but back in 2020 Mr. H decided to make a musical comeback. He’d been listening to plenty of young, new artists and bands delivering their take on classic, retro soul so he decided he’d join them. The thinking being that if these youthful artists could do it, then why couldn’t someone who was there in the golden age of soul do it too!
Thus in 2021 he started to release new music – but a very special new music. He released an EP called ‘Sweet Soul Song’ which channelled the classic Chicago soul sound that he’d grown up with – the sound of Curtis Mayfield, Major Lance, Gene Chandler and Johnny Pate. Indeed when James played the demo tapes to Pate, the veteran arranger/producer was amazed that James and his musicians had managed to recreate so successfully the sounds of 60s Windy City Soul.
The EP made James Holvay something of a cult figure amongst 60s Chicago soul collectors and they’ll be delighted to know that our man has just released a brand new five track EP, ‘Working Man’. Again, the soundscape is the classic sound of 60s Chicago. The songs, four written by James, could’ve come from the Curtis Mayfield catalogue while the productions and arrangements are true to the craft of Johnny Pate.
The EP begins with the title track -a strident workout maybe more redolent of Mayfield’s solo work. That’s followed by ‘Don’t Take Your Love’ which sounds like a long lost Curtom artefact. Next up is another strident cut, ‘Bring It’ – big and brash. The fourth cut Is the mini album’s standout – a gorgeous, feel-good ‘Love That Lady’ – a tune that embodies all that was good about 60s Chicago soul! The EP is rounded off with a lush balled ‘The Grace Of Your Love’ which even incorporates dear Curtis’ ‘Need To Belong’ in the fade out. This one was penned by Al Ciner.
This ‘Working Man’ EP is quality retro soul and it’s good to go now via your preferred streaming/download platform. You can learn more @ https://jamesholvay.com/ while you may want to check our 2021 interview with the man – https://www.soulandjazzandfunk.com/interviews/sweet-chicago-soul-the-james-holvay-interview/ . In the meantime, our “one to watch” video box presents the video for ‘Working Man’.
(BB) 4/5
Posted via Bill Buckley, article originally on SJF
https://www.soulandjazzandfunk.com/reviews/james-holvay-working-man-windy-city-soul/
Out Now - Soul Up North Magazine #122 - The Winter 2025 issue
This issue goes like this...
GOOD TUNES & GREAT GROOVES
Dave Halsall
#FUNK IN YO’ FACE – QUINCY JONES – THE DUDE
Howard Priestly
#CHICAGO SOUL
Shane Cox
#CISSY HOUSTON - RIP
David Nathen
#SOUL SPOTLIGHT – FLORIDA’S TEMPTATIONS (PART 2)
Steve Guarnori
#COLLECTOR’S CD – TRACK LISTING
Karl ‘Chalky’ White
#THE LADIES CHOICE – COLLECTING RARE SOUL
Julie Molloy
#CODY MILLER
John Smith
#SOUL IN A DIGITAL AGE
John Farrar
#SOUL IN PRINT – MAGAZINES & FANZINES (Part 25)
Iain McCartney
#1970 – A VIEWPOINT
Steven Riley
#SOULFUL SEVENTIES SPINS aka ‘PLUMB’S PEACHES’
Steve Plumb
#COLLECTING BRITISH
Lord Snooty
#RICHIE MERRETT – THE ‘VOICE’
Ed Salamon
#LP SPOTLIGHT
COLOR ME BLUE – THE DECISIONS - SOUL DIRECTION
#HOT OFF THE VINYL PRESS
Howard E
#CHICAGO SOUL SPECIAL - THE ARTISTICS
Shane Cox
#LP SPOTLIGHT
ASKING FOR THE TRUTH (BUT PAYING FOR A LIE )– VARIOUS ARTISTS – SOUL 4 REAL
#OFF THE SHELVES
Martyn Bird
#STEVE CROPPER – THE NEW LP & MORE
Ed Salamon
#VIEW FROM THE APE HOUSE
Tim Brown
#LITTLE SILVER DISCS
Howard E
#HOT OFF THE VINYL PRESS – LP extra
Howard E
#AND FINALLY – DEEP SOUL CORNER
Mike Finbow
Availability
Available now from all the usual stockists including our very own Source Store
Tap here to purchase Soul Up North 122 Winter Issue via our Source Store
Wade in the water
Wade in the water children
Wade in the water
God said He’s gonna trouble the water
We are the sons and the daughters
We gotta stand up and make it loud
Just like our God told the Pharaoh
Let my people go
We are a new generation
From the ones who have gone before
He’s calling us out of bondage
Let my pеople go
“Every tone was a testimony against slavery, and a prayer to God for deliverance from chains. Those songs still follow me, to deepen my hatred of slavery and quicken my sympathies for my brethren in bonds.” (Frederick Douglass; 1845).
E. Mark Windle 23 January 2025.
For over forty years now I’ve been immersed in a community that celebrates and explores Black music; placing emphasis on a history that remains largely unfamiliar to mainstream society. If there’s any common ground, it’s the assumption that the advent of jazz, R&B and soul represented a release from the constraints of the Church. Irony then, that Ramsey Lewis’ 1966 take on the spiritual Wade in the Water was among the first of countless vinyl record acquisitions as I set out on my journey of musical enlightenment. Wasn’t this stuff supposed to be all about the Devil’s music?
Don’t be fooled by the popular misconception that Black America has always had a strong connection with the Church. Much to the frustration of white antebellum society, the reality was that Christianity was a slow burner. It took at least a hundred years and multiple institutional influences before any significant religious transition was evident. Scholars suggest that even then, the attraction lay in the Old and New Testament tales of struggle, hope and freedom – themes that paralleled the African American plight.
There should also be no surprise that when this ‘new’ religion was ultimately embraced, bible teachings and prayer were heavily complemented by music and song. Of course, these elements had always been an integral part of ritual celebration and worship of spirits and gods back in the homeland. And pre-emancipation, countless original Christian spirituals were composed by enslaved communities, or existing hymns modified to speak to a different audience. Wade in the Water, one of the most recognisable of spirituals, was first recorded by the Sunset Four Jubilee Singers. At least a dozen other versions followed in what could be described as the golden age of Black gospel between 1925 and 1960. To date, well over 300 published versions of the song sit on the of register of BMI.
But let’s backtrack. Nashville’s Fisk Jubilee Singers were the first to rescue slave songs from obscurity. In the late 1800s, and with direct access to oral history from free and formerly enslaved individuals, the student choir built a repertoire of around 40 spirituals and work songs, including Wade in the Water. The purpose was to perform these across the US and overseas as a means of raising money for their financially struggling school. The upshot? Nashville got its Music City moniker from Queen Victoria (so the story goes), and its first historically Black university. Brothers John and Frederick Work brought things further into public consciousness in the early 20th century, when the lyrics appeared in New Songs as Sung by the Fisk Jubilee Singers of Fisk University. If it wasn’t for the efforts of Fisk University, these spirituals may well not have been preserved in their original form, if at all.
Other than providing a means of religious expression, spirituals were associated with escape from slavery. Opportunities for escape from plantations and farms which followed Native American raids or spontaneous internal uprisings were invariably ill-fated. The Underground Railroad provided a much more organised option for flight, by employing coordinated systems of passage. The Appalachian Mountains offered indirect access to the northern free states and Canada. Mexico was a more logical destination for the enslaved on Texan or Louisiana soil. In any direction, journeys remained extremely perilous – especially for women and children, the weak and the elderly – but by the time of Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, some 100,000 slaves sought passage through the Underground Railroad.
Part of its success was the use of code. ‘Passengers’ (escapees) rode the Underground Railroad under the instruction of guides, known as conductors. ‘Stations’ were safe places for rest between each run, taking the form of cellars, churches and rendezvous points in marshland or woods. For communication, the use of code within song was also key; folk songs and spirituals could regularly be heard by slave owners on the plantations and fields, so would give no cause to raise suspicion. Some biblical lyrics doubled as warnings to potential passengers. Others were instructions from guides or co-conspirators to prepare for flight: being “bound for the land of Canaan” referenced a flee attempt to Canada. In Sweet Chariot, “Swing low to carry me home” indicated the imminent use of escape routes to the south. Steal Away meant, well, just that. As far as Wade in the Water is concerned, the literal biblical narrative is the story of the Israelites crossing the River Jordan to enter the Promised Land. For Mama Moses, one of the Underground Railroad’s most notable conductors, it was also code for escapees to enter the streams and rivers, thereby minimising scent and diverting the slave hunter’s bloodhounds from the trail.
With the origins of Wade in the Water in slavery, and the uprising of the civil rights movement of the early 1960s, it was a given that there would be a cross-over to a secular setting. Call-and-response has a way of unifying people, whether for religious or political purposes. The Chambers Brothers frequently included Wade in the Water in their performances at music festivals and freedom marches. Prior to the Civil Rights Act of 1964, gospel groups including Sam Cooke and the Soul Stirrers, and The Pilgrim Travellers featuring Lou Rawls fuelled the cause with their versions. The Staple Singers secured its status as a song of solidarity with their take towards the end of the decade, as racial tensions were coming to a head in the urban areas of the North. Outside of the political arena, the musical transition of Wade in the Water to popular music featured folk, jazz, and R&B interpretations. Instrumental versions were popular, doubtless a hang-over from gospel church renditions, and the song was easily adapted for the organ. Ramsey Lewis’ infectious piano and horn-driven jazz / R&B version for the Chess label subsidiary, Cadet, took it to new heights. Political timeliness, shrewd marketing techniques and not least dancefloor appeal ensured it reached peak positions in the US R&B and pop charts and across Europe.
Marlena Shaw’s 1966 vocal version for the same record label was also popular at the time. Lyrical content was swapped from the spiritual narrative to one of an intense, seductive and stormy relationship. As Fiona McQuarrie noted in Shindig magazine, this wasn’t well received in some parts: “(The Ramsey Lewis version) inspired vocalist Marlena Shaw to adapt the song’s lyrics for her ‘66 single… an updating which, she said, was put down by the church people in the South who felt that some of the lyrics were a little risqué “. Two years later, Big Mama Thornton presented another alternative lyrical take – and a dramatic switch in tempo – on her rousing recording for Arhoolie, the Californian blues and R&B specialist label.
Thanks then to the unknown composer and the conductors of the Underground Railroad; to the Fisk Singers and the Work brothers of Nashville; and to the activists who adopted Wade in the Water as a civil rights anthem. Let’s not forget the record-buying public either. Perhaps the ultimate recognition of the song’s lasting significance is inclusion in Celebrating Fisk! The 150th Anniversary Album. The Fisk Jubilee Singers picked up the 2021 Best Roots Gospel Album Grammy Award for that one. Messages of hope and freedom from oppression clearly still resonate. Two centuries on, the enduring legacy of Wade in the Water is assured.
(Copyright 2025; E. Mark Windle)
LRK Records is excited to announce the highly anticipated reissue of Claire Davis' iconic single, 'Thrive/Playground.' Originally released as a limited edition black vinyl 45, this pressing sold out in just 24 hours and has since become a highly sought-after collector’s item. Due to overwhelming demand, we’re bringing it back for a limited repress on blue coloured vinyl—so don’t miss out again!
Featuring Claire’s signature blend of emotive lyrics and captivating melodies, ‘Thrive/Playground’ showcases her undeniable talent and artistry. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering Claire’s music for the first time, this repress is a must-have for any vinyl collection.
Pre-order now to secure your copy—limited stock available! Shipping begins around early February 2025, with a release date set for 3rd Feb 2025
Credits
Releases February 3, 2025
Music & Lyrics by Claire Davis & Scott McCannell
Produced, Mixed, & Mastered by Scott McCannell
https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/thrive-playground-reissue-45
Press Release: The Scott Brothers “My Sweet Polly” (Previously Unissued)/Judson Moore & The Al-Tog Staff “Everybody Push & Pull” (Previously Unissued Studio Version) SJ559
Release Date: Monday January 27th 2024
Once again Soul Junction have dipped back into the Scot-Tees Capri master tapes to bring to you two previously unissued tracks, the late 60’s dancer “My Sweet Polly” performed by The Scott Brothers coupled with a previously unheard studio version of Judson Moore’s popular crossover dancer “Everybody Push & Pull”.
The Scott Brothers began as a vocal quartet formed during 1958 under the performing name of the “Elpeccios” after a subsequent name change to the ‘Masquerades’ they were discovered while singing in a North Side Club during 1960 by Don Talty. Talty as the owner of the Formal Record label signed the group up and recorded two 45’s on them. Further 45’s appeared on the Boyd and Joyce labels before in late 1963 the group made the decision to quit as a vocal only ensemble and learn to play some instrument’s thus becoming the ‘Scott Brothers Band’. The Scotts went through many changes of personnel (including other family members) and names changes, The Scott Bros Orchestra, Scott Brothers World and Howard Scott & The World Band. Another family connected ensemble was Scotty & The Rib Tips led by brother Kenneth “Buddy” Scott husband of Irene Scott. The ‘Irene’ in question being ‘Irene’ of ‘Irene And The Scotts’ of “I’m Stuck On My Baby/Why Do You Treat Me Like You Do” (Smash Records) fame. Irene later recorded the excellent solo outing “Everyday Worries/Your No Good” for the Leaner Brothers Midas label. The late Buddy and Irene’s son ‘Hollywood’ himself a talented musician featured in many of the Scott family’s later ensembles but he too has recently passed. As a mainstay of the Chicago club scene for many, many years, family loyalty always came first with the Scott’s, even while performing as part of Chicago legend Tyrone Davis’s Band they wore their distinctive black silk “Scotts Brothers World jackets with Tyrone Davis’s name relegated to the back.
During 1968 Howard Scott (sometimes credited as Sephus Scott) formed Capri Records which operated as a recording and production company not just for themselves but for other local independent artists. Acting as songwriters and music publishers in their own right, as Scot-Tees Publishing Co, BMI. Howards writing credits can be found on Sly Johnson’s “Do You Know What Love Is” (Special Agent) and “I’ve Got To Get Over” TMP-Ting) the latter brought Howard into contact with respected arranger Johnny Camerson whose arrangements can be found on several Capri productions including Cam Cameron’s “They Say/I’m A Lonely Man”. One of the Scott’s own vocal outings “We Like Girls/Magic Wand” gained a release on the local Zachron label which was owned by John Zachary and Johnny Cameron. Another Howard Scott production of note is “I Won’t Stop To Cry” for Twinight Records recorded by the artist ‘Stormy’ a.k.a John Colley who later, with two former members of the C.O.D’s (Kellmac Records) Carl Washington and Robert Lewis became the group ‘The Lost Family” who recorded the Scott/Capri co-productions “Blow My Mind/Pretty Face” for International Music Bag and Innovation II labels respectively. Scot-Tees writing and publishing credits can also be found on Garland Green’s third Revue single “Ain’t That Good Enough”.
Howard Scott always believed in sharing the credit for productions with his fellow musicians who were collectively referred to as the ‘Al-Tog staff’ (although often thought of in the past as an abbreviation of a single person’s name, Al-Tog was in fact an abbreviation of the word ‘Altogether’ which Howard Scott used to encourage and create a sense of togetherness within the Capri Productions studio). The mainstays of the Al-Tog Staff were an exceptionally talented horn section of Bill McFarland, Claude Williams, Johnny Jackson and a drummer Ira Gates, who together complimented the Scott family guitarists. Al-Tog Staff arrangements and songwriting credits can be found throughout the Capri catalogue of works with no finer example being the Soul Majestics excellent double sider “I Done Told You Baby/Missing You” released on the Scott’s appropriately named Al-Tog and Chicago Music Bag labels respectively.
The Scott’s also become heavily involved with the Leaner Brothers, the respected owners of One-derful, Mar-V-Lus and M-Pac group of record labels etc and the Va-Pac Music Publishing Company. George Leaner later chose to retire from the One-derful label to concentrate on the publishing side of the business with his brother Ernest and his son Tony Leaner then concentrating on a new record label, Toddlin’ Town. The Toddlin’ Town label is littered with many of the Scott’s productions and writing credit’s, examples being, Alvin’s Cash’s “Keep On Dancing” (later covered by The Commodores on Atlantic Records), the ‘Toddlin’ Town Sounds’ “The Dud”, the powerhouse instrumental “They All Came Back” backed with “Hunk OF Funk” recorded by the Scott Brothers Orchestra and the early 70’s midtempo vocal outing “Top Of The Mountain(Part1 & 2)”credited as just the Scott Brothers.
Returning to the aforementioned “Irene And The Scotts “I’m Stuck On My Baby” which was one of two releases that the Scotts recorded for the Mercury subsidiary Smash label. The second being The Scott Brothers (this time without Irene) recording the excellent mid-tempo “My Day Has Come” backed with the funk dancer “Got To Get A Groove”. Both Smash 45 releases were recorded using some of Detriot’s finest session Arrangers Mike Theodore and Dennis Coffey and Motown bassist Bob Babbit. The performers line up on “My Day Has Come” was Charles Scott (drums), Howard and Tommy Scott (bass guitarists), Walter Scott (rhythm guitar) and bass vocalist Ike Hickman.
The above, mentioned productions are only a small part of the Scot-Tees/Capri Records story with plenty more to acknowledge. While playing through numerous tape reels a few previously unissued productions came to light, from one of their earliest recording sessions came the soon to be released “My Sweet Polly”. A simple, yet catchy little song performed by Howard Scott, with the Sweet Polly in question being none other than a former girlfriend of Howard’s from Rockford Illinois, belated fame for Howard’s former main squeeze has finally arrived!
Judson Moore was born in Forrest City, Arkansas. Following his graduation from Lincoln Senior High School he entered military service in the United States Air Force. Following his honorable discharge from the service he met and married his wife Barbara and together they had one daughter. It was around this time that Judson’s interest in performing as a singer grew. During this initial period of performing in several Chicago Night Clubs Judson was introduced to the Scott Brothers who invited him to join their Capri Productions company. While with the Scotts, he had two 45 releases, the self- penned songs “Everybody Push & Pull/Confidence” released on the Capri label and the A.C. Carson penned “Lisa/Groovy Thing” which appeared on another Scot-Tees label imprint Chicago Music Bag. Judson’s records gained a fairly good following throughout the Midwest with Chicago’s WVON radio station presenter Herb Kent ‘The Cool Gent’ being a great supporter of Judson’s records.
“Everybody Push And Pull” is a joyous dance instruction song thought to have been influenced by Rufus Thomas’s hit of the day “Do The Push And Pull”. this featured version of “Everybody Push And Pull” is a previously unissued studio version with vocal accompaniment by the Al-Tog Staff. Judson is still residing in a Care Home in the Northside of Chicago.
Words By: David Welding
Acknowledgements to: Howard Scott, Bill McFarland, Johnny Coleman & Lee Moore.
For further information e-mail: sales@souljunctionrecords.co.uk
or visit the website for more details https://www.souljunctionrecords.co.uk/SJ559.html
News on Dean Chalkley's new short film 'Good For The Soul' which is now available to watch online via Nowness
Information
GOOD FOR THE SOUL sets a blistering pace! The film is a joyous celebration of dancing to Northern Soul. This modern, vibrant and fast paced short taps right into the emotional and cathartic nature of the music, a high powered firecracker of a film that’ll turn your heartbeat up.
Originally created and exclusively screened in the ’50 Years On The Soul Stays Strong’ exhibition in Wigan, Lancs. The film was one of the five installations director/photographer Dean Chalkley presented in the show that explored the lasting influence and love of Northern Soul. The month long exhibition coincided with the golden anniversary of the first of the legendary Northern Soul all-nighters that took place at the iconic Wigan Casino between 1973 to 1981.
The music in the film titled ‘True True Love’ is a very rare soul recording performed and co-written by Tobi Lark, Tobi also went under the name of Tobi Legend and her track ‘Time Will Pass You By’ was famously one of the ‘three before eight (a.m.)’ records always played at the end of the Wigan Casino all-nighter sessions.
Dean met featured dancer Durassie Kiangangu shortly after completing his 2011 film ‘Young Souls’ (a short film dedicated to the experience of going to a Northern Soul all-nighter). Between then and now they have worked together on a several photographic projects but Dean bided his time and waited for the right moment to make a short film with Durassie, GOOD FOR THE SOUL is it, a project that fused together many creative elements in the process of it's creation.
Since the ’50 Years On The Soul Stays Strong’ exhibition in Wigan this evocative film has screened in the Doc’nRoll and Southend-on-Sea film festivals as well as the Doc of the Bay film festival in San Sebastián, Spain.
We are all very excited that the film has premiered on-line at NOWNESS a platform and movement that presents emotional and sensorial stories designed to provoke inspiration and debate.
Full info via
https://www.deanchalkley.com/news/2025/january/nowness_good_for_the_soul_
Video Embed
Video Nowness Link
https://www.nowness.com/series/just-dance/good-for-the-soul-dean-chalkley
Upcoming Kent Related 45 Release Info
TOBI LARK / THE DAVE & DARRELL BAND – TRUE TRUE LOVE / INSTRUMENTAL
‘True True Love’ was released as the first Kent Select single in 2006 and original copies sell for £300 plus − if you can find one. Ace are delighted to re-issue ‘True True Love’ on vinyl paired with an unreleased instrumental version by the Dave & Darrell Band.
The single comes in a picture sleeve featuring a still from Dean Chalkley’s amazing film along with liner notes written by Ady Croasdell.
New single from LRK Records released Friday 10th Jan 2025
The 7:45s - The Way that I Love You
Manchester-based original soul collective
The 7:45s release their debut single. Named after 7-inch 45-rpm vinyl, The 7:45s write short and snappy soul singles. Inspired by Charles Bradley, 'The Way that I Love You'is full of contrasts: the piano chimes and horns respond, a man calls and a woman answers. It's laidback then intense, major then minor, nostalgic then heartbroken. Songwriter and bassist Sam Flynn formed The 7:45s, inspired by the house bands of soul labels like Motown to Big Crown. The young collective feature some of the finest musicians in the Manchester scene, spotlighting guest vocalists such as Martin Connor and Yemi Bolatiwa. Named after 7-inch 45-rpm vinyl, The 7:45s write short and snappy singles influenced by soul, funk and disco. They blend the vintage sound of northern soul and rare groove with the songcraft, hooks and arrangements of perfect pop – then add autobiographical lyrics and rhythmic twists. Live, The 7:45s are an eight-piece. Boasting male and female vocalists, harmonies, horns and a tight rhythm section, the band produce a wall of sound that's built for the dancefloor. In the studio, the collective feature a bespoke line up for each track, ranging from dozens of musicians to an intimate five-piece..
News regarding a new album and 45 release from The Altons via Penrose/Daptone, due out next month
45 Info
The Altons - 'Waiting / Teach Me (exclusive, non-album track)' - Penrose 1026
A side: "Waiting"
B side: "Teach Me"
Album Details
The Altons - Heartache in Room 14 - Daptone DAP 079
After several wildly popular singles out on Penrose Records, The Altons gear up to release their debut album on Daptone Records. With lead vocals shared between Adriana Flores and Brian Ponce the interplay between their unique timbres brings a romantic quality to the music that is absent in many of today's soul offerings. Steeped with moody ballads, soulful, tejano-kissed duets and Bond theme psychedelia–Heartache in Room 14 is poised to be the "must have" album of 2025.
Preview
Heartache in Room 14 by The Altons
Purchase Options
45
https://shopdaptonerecords.eu/products/the-altons-waiting-45
Album
https://shopdaptonerecords.eu/products/the-altons-heartache-in-room-14
Tour Dates - The Altons & The Sinseers
May 26 London
Mon 19:00 · Jazz Cafe
Usa Dates
Events - The Next 100 Soul Nighters as at Jan 2025
2025 is here and so a heads up Event Guide Nighter shout for all you nighter types
Direct from our Source Event Guide a dynamic grab of the next upcoming 100 Soul Allnighter Events
Upcoming release from Kent Records
Soul Harmony - Sweet Soul Vocals 1961-1984 (In Perfect Harmony) CDKEND 513
Glorious soul ballad harmonising from black American combos - both celebrated and unsung.
Over a third of the tracks are recent, tantalising tape discoveries.
Release Notes Preview
This year’s “in” black music style is the slow, sweet groove of soul harmony ballads. Interest has grown over the last decade and now the rarer of these records regularly reach four figure prices.
This interest in Soul Harmony has led to Ace forming its own singles label of that name for the purpose of issuing tracks on vinyl for DJs and collectors of this genre.
Link for further info and purchase options (Pre-order - Release date 31st Jan 2025)
https://www.acerecords.co.uk/soul-harmony-sweet-soul-vocals-1961-1984
Track listing
01 I've Never Found A Girl - The Mad Lads
02 Instant Replay - 87th Off Broadway
03 Just Because He Wants To Make Love (Doesn't Mean He Loves You) - The Moments
04 I'll Be Gone - Lee Williams & The Cymbals
05 Let It All Out - Jimmy Conwell
06 Mr Lover Supreme - Ramona King
07 The Wind Is My Only Friend - The Four Tees
08 For The Love Of You - Natural Resources
09 I Still Love You - The Exclusive
10 My Friend Heartaches - The Soul Interiors
11 Ooh Baby Baby - The San Francisco TKOs (featuring Penny Lewis)
12 Forever - The Diplomats
13 Moon Out There - The Puffs
14 Ain't That Kinda Sad - The Question Marks
15 The Greatest Love - The Four Sonics
16 You Still Need Me - Johnny Wesley & The Four Tees
17 Something In My Eye - The Music City Soul Brothers
18 Take Me Back - The Three Reasons
19 Girl I Tried - The Performers
20 Love Don't Let Me Down - Nightchill
21 You Look Like A Flower - Richard Caiton
22 Palms Of Paradise - Ray & Bob
23 Who Do You Love - The Imperialites
24 The Story Says - The Tokays
Samples
Let It All Out - Jimmy Conwell
SH03A-CLIP.mp3
87th Off Broadway - Instant Replay
soul-harmony-sh01-a-clip.mp3
I Still Love You - The Exclusive
soul-harmony-sh02-a-clip.mp3
A quick info type posts for promoters to raise awareness if their event has been cancelled due to the adverse Uk weather today
Of course it makes sense to tag your event 'cancelled' in our Source Event Guide and comment if on/off first, then once done do feel free to post a comment below as well to help raise awareness of your events status
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/events/
Please note that the above image is just a screengrab of our feature and so it is a static overview of this weeks Uk events
To view the most up to date and the dynamic Source Events weekly map just go to our Event Guide page (link below) and then tap the orange 'Launch Map View (Weekly)' button
The latest and dynamic map view will then popup ready for you to drill down to all the events full details
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/events/
With 2025 coming up fast, it's that time of the year to wish all Source members the best for 2025
May 2025 be a most soulful one for all!
Happy New Year, see you all on the other side
Soul Source team
Christmas over, looking for a bit of weekend soul relief before the new year?
To help you get organised here's a map grab from our free and easy busy event guide...
Seasons Greetings to all
Uk Map Screenshot
Please note that the above image is just a screengrab of our feature and so it is a static overview of this weeks Uk events
To view the most up to date and the dynamic Source Events weekly map just go to our Event Guide page (link below) and then tap the orange 'Launch Map View (Weekly)' button
The latest and dynamic map view will then popup ready for you to drill down to all the events full details
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/events/
The Chicago Readers great feature 'The Secret History of Chicago Music; has had a few articles added by Steve Krakow since our last visit...
Dee Clark bridged doo-wop, rock ’n’ roll, R&B, and soul
This underappreciated Chicago singer had his biggest hit with “Raindrops” in 1961, but everything he recorded deserves to be heard.
Soulful singer Paulette McWilliams belongs at center stage
In her six-decade career, she’s made countless stars sound better—but too few people know how great she sounds herself.
Both worth the walk over to the Chicago Reader site and am fairly sure that there may be more of interest articles via the listing below...
The Secret History of Chicago Music (link)
https://chicagoreader.com/category/music/the-secret-history-of-chicago-music/
We’re thrilled to unveil the professionally produced trailer for The Embers: The Bobby Tomlinson Story!
This video captures the heart and soul of Bobby’s journey with one of the most iconic bands in Carolina Beach Music history.
Take a sneak peek into the stories, the music, and the legacy that have inspired generations.
So you like beach music1+++.mp4
Friday's here but if you haven't sorted your weekend soul activity out, here's a helping shout directly from our Event Guide
Please note that the below image is just a screengrab of our feature and so it is a static overview of this weeks Uk events
To view the most up to date and the dynamic Source Events weekly map just go to our Event Guide page (link below) and then tap the orange 'Launch Map View (Weekly)' button
The latest and dynamic map view will then popup ready for you to drill down to all the events full details
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/events/
Uk Map Screenshot
Soul Direction are pleased to announce their next release in the Contempo Series.
Ebony Evans “Loving You (Is All I Wanna Do)” SDCO1002-A
Lewzarius “Step Up” SDCO1002-B
Release Date – 9th December 2024
To some these won’t seem as contemporary as they have been digital since around 2006 (Ebony’s song getting a limited pressing for a weekender anniversary in Oslo in 2013) and Lewzarius coming much later. However, here at Soul Direction we loved both tracks and felt a 7” vinyl release would be a perfect double header.
Ebony Evans “Loving You Is All I Wanna Do” is a prefect example of this soul lady’s talent. Recorded and released in 2004 and with the help and guidance of Manny Campbell who Wrote and arranged the song featured on this Soul Direction release. The track was originally available on the “Luv’s Fire” CD Maxi Single and later a full CD album in 2006 distributed by Coastal Records which are part of the Manny Campbell umbrella of companies.
Lewzarius “Step Up” is one of those recorded songs, written and produced by Manny Campbell of (Emandolynn Music) and Haran Griffin of Haran Griffin and The Explosions (most noted for his single “Movin Much Too Fast” release on Bama records). Haran was also involved in composing some additional tracks for the singer.
Lewis Jones, or stage name Lewazarius was an Atlanta born singer who was under management of Manny Campbell at Coastal Records in the late 90’s.
Ebony Evans “Loving You (Is All I Wanna Do)” SDCO1002-A
Lewzarius “Step Up” SDCO1002-B
Release Date – 9th December 2024 (Shipping 12/13 December 2024)
Soul Direction Website
http://www.soul-direction.co.uk/
Time for a quick heads up on all the Soul Events occurring this weekend, taken directly from our busy Event Guide and presented in a map view for ease.
100+Events this week...
Uk events below, check the dynamic map out for the rest of world events happening this weekend
Please note that the below image is just a screengrab of our feature and so it is a static overview of this weeks Uk events
To view the most up to date and the dynamic Source Events weekly map just go to our Event Guide page (link below) and then tap the orange 'Launch Map View (Weekly)' button
The latest and dynamic map view will then popup ready for you to drill down to all the events full details
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/events/
Uk Screenshot
New Comp Lp from Soul4Real Pre-order now for 15th December 2024
NEW COMPILATION!
𝗔𝗦𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗧𝗥𝗨𝗧𝗛 (𝗕𝗨𝗧 𝗣𝗥𝗔𝗬𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗔 𝗟𝗜𝗘) (S4RLP06)
Pre-order now for 16th December:
www.soul4real.es
Tracks
𝗗𝗢𝗥𝗢𝗧𝗛𝗬 𝗠𝗢𝗢𝗥𝗘 - GIRL OVERBOARD
𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗙𝗟𝗢𝗬𝗗 - I´M FOR REAL
𝗥𝗔𝗬 𝗖𝗥𝗨𝗠𝗟𝗘𝗬 - GOOD GUYS DON´T ALWAYS WIN
𝗚𝗘𝗢𝗥𝗚𝗘 𝗝𝗔𝗖𝗞𝗦𝗢𝗡 - PLAY SOMETHING PRETTY
𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗲𝗱, 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝘁 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼𝘀
𝗕𝗢𝗕𝗕𝗬 𝗕𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗗 - MY HEART´S BEEN BROKEN AGAIN
𝗝𝗜𝗠𝗠𝗬 𝗝𝗨𝗟𝗘𝗦 - HAVING A LITTLE TALK WITH LOVE
𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗹𝘆 𝘂𝗻𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱, 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝘁 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼𝘀
𝗖𝗛𝗨𝗖𝗞 𝗕𝗥𝗢𝗢𝗞𝗦 - I BELIEVE IN LOVE
𝗝𝗢𝗘 𝗪𝗜𝗟𝗦𝗢𝗡 - SOUR LOVE, BITTER SWEET
𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗲𝗱, 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗼 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼𝘀
𝗧𝗘𝗗 𝗧𝗔𝗬𝗟𝗢𝗥 - CAUGHT UP IN A GOOD WOMAN´S LOVE
𝗘𝗗𝗗𝗜𝗘 𝗚𝗜𝗟𝗘𝗦 - I CAN´T GET OVER YOU
𝗥𝗘𝗨𝗕𝗘𝗡 𝗕𝗘𝗟𝗟 - ASKING FOR THE TRUTH
Soul4Real returns to the south with a selection of eleven songs from Malaco, Muscle Shoals Sound Studios and Alarm Records.
There is no doubt that in the 1970s and 1980s, Malaco in Mississippi and Muscle Shoals Sound in Alabama were both highly significant in defining the southern soul sound. Malaco’s Studio had opened in 1967, while Muscle Shoals Sound Studio opened its doors for business in 1969, when four musicians left nearby Fame Studios to go it alone. Alarm Records, meanwhile, based in Shreveport, Louisiana, provides us with four of the tracks on this album.
Independent producers and major record companies sent their artists south to record, taking advantage of both Malaco and Muscle Shoals Sound’s talented array of musicians, writers and producers. Muscle Shoals Sound, in particular, started to receive artists from Atlantic Records from the get-go; R.B. Greaves, Baby Washington, Sam & Dave and Solomon Burke led the way, along with Scotland’s Lulu. The first relesase on their own record label was the timeless “It Hurts So Good” by Katie Love. Meanwhile, Stax (amongst others) sent some of their artists to record at both studios, and Malaco would also lease some of its own productions out to Atlantic. Alarm Records was a smaller set-up which also produced some wonderful records.
This album opens with the only female singer featured – Dorothy Moore. Her exquisite “Girl Overboard” has been justifiably popular on the soul scene for decades. The other ten tracks showcase an array of fine male singers, most of whom (Bobby Bland and King Floyd aside), sadly and perhaps unjustly, never really made the big time. It is the first showing on vinyl for three of the tracks here (previously having only been issued on CD), and Jimmy Jules’ reading of “Having A Little Talk With Love” has never appeared anywhere before. As always, sit back and savour the music!
𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗩𝗘 𝗚𝗨𝗔𝗥𝗡𝗢𝗥𝗜
Two new release 45s announced from Daptone Records...
Jalen Ngonda - Illusions b/w Rapture - Daptone
Out December 6th. Available to pre-order now.
It is our distinct pleasure to present another massive double-sider from Jalen Ngonda and Co.. With their sophisticated arrangements and infallible, soulful grooves courtesy of some of the best musicians in the game, Jalen's voice shines through–exuding the class and maturity of an artist who has refined their craft on the road. Two sides sure to fill dancefloors at discerning soul nights around the globe.
Purchase Link @ £7
https://shopdaptonerecords.com/products/jalen-ngonda-illusions-45
New Single From The Altons
The Altons - Waiting b/w Teach Me - Penrose £6.00
Pre order - Released 14th February.
"Waiting" b/w "Teach Me" available on standard and colour vinyl.
Featuring a non-album exclusive track "Teach Me"
After several wildly popular singles out on Penrose Records, The Altons gear up to release their debut album on Daptone Records. With lead vocals shared between Adriana Flores and Brian Ponce the interplay between their unique timbres brings a romantic quality to the music that is absent in many of today's soul offerings. Steeped with moody ballads, soulful, tejano-kissed duets and Bond theme psychedelia–Heartache in Room 14 is poised to be the "must have" album of 2025.
Listen to "Del Cielo Te Cuido" and pre-order the upcoming album, Heartache in Room 14, now.
https://daptone.ffm.to/thealtons.GTQ
New 45: Lights Out - Tonight - Soul 7 - 7"
Lights Out - Tonight b/w Surrender Your Love - Soul 7 - SOUL7048
Singer Andy Stokes, billed as the 'Northwest King of Soul Music', may have recently worked with such industry luminaries as Snoop Dogg but, way back in the late 70s, he was fronting a hopeful Jazz-Funk group struggling to break into even just the Oregon circuit. Despite boasting members from internationally successful acts like Fantasy Records' own Pleasure, Lights Out never saw their one demo – cut in 1982 for the well-established Solar Records – even get a promo pressing.
Two of the tightest and busiest of their dancefloor wreckers from the session now grace their only 7” to date.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The B Side is entitled 'Surrender Your Love' and not 'Take It' as printed on the label
Tonight
SOUL7048A Tonight.mp3
Surrender Your Love
SOUL7O48B Surrender Your Love.mp3
Info and purchase options
https://jazzmanrecords.co.uk/lights-out-tonight-soul7
Just released, a brand new 7 disc box set from Kent Records, the title says it all......
Goldwax Records - Memphis Soul Rarities 1964-1969 - 7 x 45 Box Set LTDBOX 022
Goldwax was the ultimate southern soul label. Here are some of the finest discoveries from their vaults, on the 7" vinyl they were intended for.
Release Notes Preview
This is the third in our series of limited edition 7x7" Box Sets.
The renowned Memphis 60s soul label Goldwax was a medium-sized operation with just short of a hundred releases. Though it ran a tight ship, inevitably some of their recordings fell by the wayside.
The label is revered by fans of the classic age of soul music around the world. In the late 70s the Japanese Vivid Sound label contacted Goldwax owner, Quinton Claunch and accessed his tapes. They found a dozen excellent, previously unheard, tracks and issued them, along with Goldwax favourites on a short series of LPs in 1977. In 2000 Ace Records purchased the label from Claunch and his partners gaining full ownership of the tapes, which lead to more musical discoveries.
Our releases on Ace and Kent over the past twenty plus years have seen most of these recordings featured, primarily on CD - the medium of the early years of the 21st century. More recently the renewed demand for vinyl has led to new 12” compilations and to augment those we have come up with a neat, boxed collection of seven singles that will appeal to the soul collectors who live for this format.
Of the 14 tracks, only three have been singles before - the sublime harmony vocals of the Vel-Tones and the Lyrics with their mid-60s Goldwax releases and Barbara Perry’s R&B explosion ‘A Man Is A Mean Thing’ first released on Kent but now long gone and craved for.
Goldwax’s star James Carr kicks us off with ‘Your Love Made A U-Turn’, a funk groove from 1969. This would surely have prolonged his and the label’s lifespans had it been issued at the time. Our flip however would have needed to be an underground hit; it is doubtful that any radio station would have entertained such smutty lyrics in the 60s.
Connoisseurs of the mid-60s Detroit soul sound will be thrilled to have the Ovations ‘I Miss You’ on a 45 at last; it really has all the ingredients of a Motor City classic. ‘What Did I Do Wrong’ makes a great stomping B side - complete with virtuoso harmonica.
The label was known for its gritty southern sound, so ‘To Me It’s Storming’ is an atypical, softly melodic, mid-tempo song sung by, but oddly not penned by, George Jackson and Dan Greer. George does get to sing his own, tougher, composition ‘Let The Best Man Win’ on the flip.
Full release notes and more available via Kent Records Website (link below)
Track Listing and audio
1.a Your Love Made A U-Turn James Carr
"A Man Needs A Woman" CD Vivid Sound VGCD 005 (1995) 2.11
LTDBOX_022-1-1.mp3
1.b Who's Been Warming My Oven? James Carr
"You Got My Mind Messed Up" CD Vivid Sound VGCD 002 (1991) 2.24
LTDBOX_022-1-2.mp3
2.a I Miss You The Ovations featuring Louis Williams
"Peace Of Mind" LP Vivid Sound VG 3003 (1077) 2.40
LTDBOX_022-2-1.mp3
2.b. What Did I Do Wrong The Ovations featuring Louis Williams
"Peace Of Mind" LP Vivid Sound VG 3003 (1977) 2.53
LTDBOX_022-2-2.mp3
3.a. To Me It's Storming George & Greer
"Goldwax Northem Soul" CD Kent COKEND 313 (2009) 2.43
LTDBOX_022-3-1.mp3
3.b Let The Best Man Win George Jackson
"Memphis 60 CD BGP CDBGPD 201 (2000) 2:42
LTDBOX_022-3-2.mp3
4.a Welcome Home Baby Barbara Perry
"The Goldwax Story Vol 2 CD Kent CDKEND 225 (2004) 2.08
LTDBOX_022-4-1.mp3
4.b A Man Is A Mean Thing Barbara Perry
"New Breed R&B With Added Popcom CD Kent COKEND 291 (2008) 2.04
LTDBOX_022-4-2.mp3
5.b You Gotta Have Soul Lee 'Shot' Williams
"Goldwax Northern Soul" CD Kent COKEND 313 (2000) 1.43
LTDBOX_022-5-2.mp3
6.a So Hard To Get Along The Lyrics with The Top Notes
Goldwax 105 (1964) 2.01
LTDBOX_022-6-1.mp3
6.b I Do The Vel Tones
Goldwax 301 (1966) 2.18
LTDBOX_022-6-2.mp3
7.a If You Love Her Phillip & The Faithfuls
"Goldwax Northem Soul" CD Kent CDKEND 313 (2009) 2.37
LTDBOX_022-7-1.mp3
7,b It's Really Alright (45 edit) Unknown Artist
"The Goldwax Story Vol 31 CD Kant CDKEND 335 (2010) 2.38
LTDBOX_022-7-2.mp3
Images
Availability
The Goldwax Box set is available right now via Ace Records Website - (tap), and various record stores including our very own Source Store - (tap)
Northern Connections #38 Aqua Lads re-visited, taking in the Chantells & Twighlights
The most recent issue of this long running informative series courtesy of Ken b aka @Kenb
Intro
sparked by the Soul Source topic “What goes up must come down” of Nov 2024… …about The Charms Unlimited and Soul Inc and very good it was too, got me thinking about a re-visit of The Aqua Lads, Chantells, etc.
It’s worth pointing out at this juncture that some written information about those that follow is published, (but skip Discogs) go straight to E. Mark Windle’s Interview & book “It’s Better To Cry”. It has a worthy section, and I recommend it. Albeit I’ve never found Mark’s reference “and a later band member Ken Hatley (bass guitar, 1967) “ when searching
for band members. Also, as of writing and due to serious illness, Mark Bicknell’s release on Big Man Records of Aqua Lads backed with Twighlights with notes by Mark Windle hasn’t yet to hit the shops. That all said, I've tried where possible to bring new information and pictures without compromising their work.
Northern Connections #38 (tap images for full view)
As always you can check out all Kens other quality 36 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
Our irregular Friday weekend Soul Event shout
This weekends top Uk soul Events
Please note that the above image is just a screengrab of our feature and so it is a static overview of this weeks Uk and Irish events
To view the most up to date and the dynamic Source Events weekly map just go to our Event Guide page (link below) and then tap the orange 'Launch Map View (Weekly)' button
The latest and dynamic map view will then popup ready for you to drill down to all the events full details
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/events/
Two new 45s mark the (delayed) launch of a brand new Ace/Kent imprint... Soul Harmony
It's looking like this 'Soul Harmony' main thrust will be all things low-rider. The first two 45s are now out, with the third release due to follow at the end of this month (Nov).
Details and the release notes of the first new releases follow below...
87th OFF BROADWAY / LARRY SANDERS – INSTANT REPLAY / I’M IN LOVE - SOUL HARMONY SH 01 - Out Now
We launch our Soul Harmony label with a fabulous tape discovery from Golden State Recorders. At the time of recording, 87th Off Broadway lived in the small town of Seaside, California and were based in Monterey. They wrote their own songs, four of which were recorded at an April 1972 session, arranged by Los Angeles Rene Hall. The tape lay dormant for decades. ‘Instant Replay’ is the final of the four to belatedly be issued; the others being funk released on Ace’s BGP label. The group morphed into another outfit called Welfare who had ‘What About The Child’ released (with a name change to Gold) in 1977 on the MRC label. This song is of the highest quality as are the intricate harmony vocals. Advance plays on the Lowrider scene have been very well received.
soul-harmony-sh01-a-clip.mp3
Larry Sanders ‘I’m In Love’ is already revered by that California soul ballad crowd, which has caused the cost of an original Modern copy to rocket. It is another harmonious sweet soul ballad, redolent of a lovers’ tryst on a lazy summer’s afternoon.
soul-harmony-sh01-b-clip.mp3
THE EXCLUSIVE / THE D C BLOSSOMS – I STILL LOVE YOU / THIS IS YOUR LAST CHANCE - SOUL HARMONY SH 02 - Out Now
Eddie Singleton had a musical career in Los Angeles after his Shrine Records venture had bloomed then died. He cut this heart-felt soul ballad on an undocumented group called the Exclusive around 1969, but it was left on tape only until now.
soul-harmony-sh02-a-clip.mp3
Some three years earlier in 1966, Eddie and his production team of Keni St Lewis and Dale Warren recorded Washington’s DC Blossoms on ‘This Is Your Last Chance’, the third track from a Shrine session that didn’t make it to the single. Since it was released on the Kent CD “Shrine, The Rarest Soul Label Vol 2” it has picked up a strong following, particularly among Latin American soul fans on the West Coast: now at last a 45.
soul-harmony-sh02-b-clip.mp3
JIMMY CONWELL - LET IT ALL OUT / I'M AM SO GLAD - SOUL HARMONY SH 03 - Out 29 Nov 2024
Jimmy Conwell is a big name in Los Angeles soul music, either as a solo singer on 4J, Gemini and Mirwood or as lead singer of the Exits on Gemini and Kapp, the Tripps on Soundville or with Smoked Sugar on Teri De. ‘Let It All Out’ was written in conjunction with his two main producers Len Jewell Smith and Hank Graham, though Jimmy couldn’t remember Hank’s contribution. It is a stunning ballad that was originally overlooked by Northern Soul fans for the stomping 'Too Much' flip.
A similar situation has occurred with his Kapp 45, the mid-tempo ‘Another Sundown In Watts’ attracting much of the attention and the superb ‘I’m So Glad’ ballad only recently picking up deserved admirers.
Both sides of our 45 will go down well in the Lowrider stronghold of Conwell’s native city. No coincidence, I’m sure.
Availability
First 2 x 45s are now available via Ace Records website - (tap), and various record stores including our very own Source Store - (tap)
Weekends here and just enough time for a rushed heads up...
A quick heads up on the Soul Event Map this weekend
109 Events this week...
Please note that the above image is just a screengrab of our feature and so it is a static overview of this weeks Uk and Irish events
To view the most up to date and the dynamic Source Events weekly map just go to our Event Guide page (link below) and then tap the orange 'Launch Map View (Weekly)' button
The latest and dynamic map view will then popup ready for you to drill down to all the events full details
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/events/
'Black Moses on 45 - for the first time in the same place, the single edit of every one of Isaac Hayes' A and B-sides from 1969-1972'
A new album from Ace Records, released in cd and lp formats
Hot Buttered Singles 1968-1972 - Isaac Hayes CDTOP 1650
Release Notes
Sixteen years may have gone by since Isaac Hayes’ untimely passing at the age of just 65, but he remains one of the most popular and Iconic singer-songwriter-arrangers in the history of Soul music.
The albums Hayes’ made for Stax’ Enterprise label remain the benchmark in ‘symphonic soul’, and sound as breathtakingly brilliant as they did when they were new releases.
As well as being one of a small group of artists who expanded the growth of the soul albums market, Ike was a consistently successful singles artist, who placed 16 consecutive 45s on the R&B chart between 1969 and 1976 – most of which also crossed over to pop.
The biggest hits have been anthologised on previous occasions – but “Hot Buttered Singles” is the first series to present the A and B sides of all of Hayes’ ‘Yellow Stax’-era 45s in chronological order, and in their original singles versions – several of which have not appeared on CD before. Many of these tracks are among his best loved recordings. Here you will hear them as you would have heard them on soul and pop radio over half a century ago.
Extensively annotated, handsomely illustrated and coming to you – on CD AND double vinyl - in a package that an artist of Ike’s stature thoroughly deserves…
Watch out for volume 2 – which carries Hayes’ singles story through to 1977, and which includes all the early singles on Ike’s own HBS label – in 2025!
More info, images and purchase options via
https://www.acerecords.co.uk/hot-buttered-singles-1968-1972-1
Leaflet Preview Scans
Track listing
Side 1
01 Walk On By
02 By The Time I Get To Phoenix
03 The Mistletoe And Me
04 Winter Snow
05 I Stand Accused
06 I Just Don't Know What To Do With Myself
07 The Look Of Love
08 Ike's Mood Pt 1
09 Never Can Say Goodbye
10 I Can't Help It (If I'm Still In Love With You)
11 Theme From Shaft
12 Café Regio's
13 Do Your Thing
14 Ellie's Love Theme
15 Let's Stay Together
16 Soulsville
17 Ain't That Loving You (For More Reasons Than One)
18 Baby I'm-A Want You
19 Soul-A-Lujah (Instrumental)
Geoff Waddington Feat Tameka Jackson - All That You've Got - New Single Release
Latest news from Geoff Waddington, info and sample of his upcoming release...
'My new track will be released next Monday,18th Nov 2024 and then be available at online stores'
Listen below
'ALL THAT YOU'VE GOT' featuring TAMEKA JACKSON.
'ALL THAT YOU'VE GOT-FT-TAMEKA JACKSON.mp3
News about a upcoming re-issue from sam@equalsmusic.co.uk
The re-issue of influential jazz/folk/blues singer Barbara Dane's rare original 1960 recording of “I’m on My Way”, produced by Lee Hazlewood and Lester Sill on their label 3 Trey / Gregmark.
Coinciding with the re-issue is a feature film about Barbara’s life that's making waves on the festival circuit, generating renewed interest in her remarkable story.
Barbara's music is intertwined with compelling narratives that link her career to significant historical events, political activism, and other notable jazz and blues luminaries of her time, as well as modern pop culture. “I’m on My Way” has also become a cult classic amongst the Northern Soul Community and the original 7” is very sought after by collectors.
The most recent coverage of the film and music was on Cerys Matthew’s Blues Hour for BBC Radio 2.
Text from the press release follows...
Press Release
October 16th 2024 – Some six decades after its debut, Trey Records (“3 Trey”) and Gregmark Music are reintroducing the rare original recording of Barbara Dane’s iconic “I’m On My Way”. Coinciding with the release is the October 27 Doc n’ Roll Film
Festival London premiere of The 9 Lives of Barbara Dane, a documentary that traces the remarkable journey of this musical maverick. “I’m On My Way” is powerfully illustrated three times in the film.
“Barbara Dane’s story is a masterclass in musical integrity,” says documentary director and editor Maureen Gosling. “She’s someone who never compromised her artistic vision, even when it meant taking the road less travelled.”
“I’m On My Way” was an early defining moment in Dane’s legacy of artistry and activism, and is deeply rooted in blues and gospel traditions that have long served as vehicles for social commentary and calls for justice. From her early days to her groundbreaking performances alongside legends such as Lightnin’ Hopkins, Willie Dixon, Earl Hines, and Louis Armstrong, The 9 Lives of Barbara Dane paints a vivid portrait of an artist who charted her own course (produced by Jed Riffe and exec produced by Nina Menéndez, Danny Glover and Jonathan Logan).
Adding another dimension to Dane’s legacy is her portrayal in the upcoming film A Complete Unknown starring Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan. In this cinematic exploration of a pivotal moment in music history, Sarah King takes on the role of Barbara Dane, further cementing her influence on he American folk and blues scene of the 1960s.
In Barbara Dane’s own words “The blues were born out of the worst conditions one people can force upon another —out of slavery and exploitation— and were given to the world in the spirit of turning madness into sanity, pain into joy, bondage into freedom, and enmity into unity. This is music for survivors, and this spirit is something to be learned from, shared and spread as far as it will go!” Throughout the 1960s and ‘70s, Dane sang at demonstrations in Washington, at the gates of military bases in Japan and Europe, and in small towns across America, including the Freedom Schools of rural Mississippi.
This landmark release of a song that stirred hearts in the 1960s, transcends time with Dane’s powerful voice and its enduring message. Her story and music are now poised to engage with a new generation of listeners. A raw and soulful rendition of “I’m On My Way”, which catapulted Barbara into the public conscience, is for the first time to be officially re-introduced on 7” vinyl and made available to stream on all major platforms. The original B-side, “Go ‘Way from My Window,” will accompany it offering a fuller picture of Dane’s musical beginnings.
“In revisiting Barbara’s work, we’re not just preserving history – we’re keeping great music alive,” says Gregmark Music CEO Lonnie Sill. “I’m On My Way” isn’t just a song from the past; it’s a living, breathing piece of art that continues to move and inspire. For those who appreciate music that stands the test of time, it offers a listening experience that’s both a historical journey and a present-day revelation.”
Bob Dylan on Barbara Dane
“The world needs more people like Barbara, someone who is willing to follow her conscience. She is, if the term must be used, a hero.”
About Barbara Dane
Barbara Dane made her mark in history by involving herself in the civil rights and peace movements of the 1960s. Pete Seeger appointed her to head the People’s Songs Organization’s Detroit chapter, and on a brief stay in California, she studied the music and methods of Malvina Reynolds. In the New York Times, Dane is quoted as saying “If you see your country making horrible mistakes, you have to speak up. You’re colluding with it if you don’t speak up.” Dane’s willingness to record and preserve protest songs, now in the Smithsonian, combined with an illegal trip to Havana, Cuba, earned her the ire of one J. Edgar Hoover. Her copy of her (four-inch thick) FBI dossier is among her treasured possessions. Dane, whose singing was once described by Time magazine as “pure, rich and rare as a 20-carat diamond,” has made an indelible mark on American music and social culture.
Combining the people-powered connectivity of folk, the defiance of blues, and the cool of jazz, she cut through commercial artifice while documenting major historic events. Born in Detroit in 1927, her riveting 2022 autobiography This Bell Still Rings recounts, “encouraged by Pete Seeger, she discovered the power of her voice to move people to action. Such artists as Bonnie Raitt, Janis Joplin, Judy Collins, Tracy Chapman, Linda Ronstadt, and Jackson Browne, among countless others, owe Dane a sensibility that is as necessary as it is inspiring. A younger generation of troubadours like Mary Gauthier, Leyla McCalla and Marta Gonzales are part of Dane’s legacy.”
About Gregmark Music
Founded by music industry legends Lester Sill and Lee Hazlewood, Gregmark Music became an indie pop powerhouse in the early ’60s, launching acts like The Paris Sisters and helping shape the career of Phil Spector. In addition to its success as a record label, Gregmark continues to manage key publishing rights, including the iconic blues classic “Stormy Monday” by T-Bone Walker. Dane’s “I’m On My Way” was originally recorded for 3 Trey in 1960, and was produced by Sill and Hazlewood.
Today, under the leadership of Lester’s youngest son Lonnie Sill, Gregmark is reviving its storied legacy. Drawing from its diverse catalogue, which includes hits on labels including Gregmark Records, 3 Trey and Jamie Records, Gregmark is reaching new audiences through reissues, re-mastered digital releases, and licensing in new media.
https://www.gregmarkmusicinc.com/
For those seeking a fresh take on this soulful classic, a bonus-enhanced version will be made available, featuring a re-recorded rhythm section revitalising the track while preserving its authentic spirit.
Label: Trey Records / Gregmark Music
Formats: 7” Vinyl, Digital (all major streaming platforms)
Important Dates: October 25th, 2024 (“I’m On My Way” - vinyl re-issue available for pre-order) / November 22nd, 2024 (“I’m On My Way” - single release on streaming platforms)
Original Release: 1960
Press Release: Tearra “Just Loving You/Teeah-Louise You Happened To Me “ SJ558
Release Date: Monday 25th November 2024
Tearra’s “Just Loving You” on it’s original U.S Midtown label due to its quality and desirability continues to regularly achieve four figure sale prices on the rare occasion that a copy comes on to the open market. Soul Junction through a licensing deal with Emandolynn Music first reissued this modern soul anthem back in 2017 as part of a dual 45 package that included the previously unissued Delights track “Listen To Me Girl” with the limited 500 copy pressing run selling out in a matter of days. Since then, copies of that Soul Junction release have regularly sold for circa £60 a copy with sales enquiries still being received for either side of this 45 to this day. Therefore, we at Soul Junction have decided to fulfill this continued demand by reissuing “Just Loving You” for the second this time paired with Teeah-Louise’s “You Happened To Me” as the featured flipside.
Tearra, real name Teeah-Louise a native of Mobile, Alabama was offered a recording contract by Philadelphian Record Producer/Label Owner Manny Campbell Jr during 1980. Campbell himself had relocated his Emandolynn Music operations from the city of Brotherly Love to Atlanta, Georgia some two years earlier. Campbell had planned to record a whole album on Teeah-Louise under the working title of “Great Love”. He firstly released a lead 45 single, the mid-tempo “You Happened To Me/Got To Keep You Mine” on his Coastal label logo with the artist credited as Teeah-Louise. Teeah’s fiancé didn’t share his future wife’s ambitions of a recording career and her prospective album project faltered and was never completed. Although as a further two tracks had been recorded this allowed a for second 45 release to follow “Ooh Let This Feeling (Last A Long, Long Time)” backed with the desirable “Just Loving You” these were released on the Midtown label, with Midtown by then being Coastal Records main record distributor. This second release was credited under the artist name of Tearra, due to Teah-Louise by now not wishing to use her real name. Both the Coastal and Midtown releases were only ever pressed in 500 promotional copies runs. Teeah-Louise left the recording business for good soon after her marriage.
In addition, a later 12” Coastal Records single issued on the group ‘Tomorrows Wish’ featuring the song “My Love For You” which shares the same backing track as Tearra’s “Just Loving You”. All four of Teeah-Louise’s songs were wrote by Manny Campbell, with Manny sharing the songwriting credits on “Ooh Let This Feeling (Last A Long, Long Time)” with his cousin, Keith “Toppie” Hill notably a former group member of the aforementioned ‘Delights’.
For further information e-mail: sales@souljunctionrecords.co.uk
or visit https://souljunctionrecords.co.uk/SJ558.html
Soul music lovers, The Embers: The Bobby Tomlinson Story is now officially available as an eBook and paperback through online retailers worldwide including Amazon. This comprehensive biography traces the rise of The Embers, led by original drummer Bobby Tomlinson, who steered the band through six decades of Beach Music history. But for Northern Soul enthusiasts, this book offers something especially compelling. Inside are numerous nods to the fervent UK Northern Soul crowd, who championed The Embers’ soul-infused sounds as early as the 1960s.
The book explores The Embers’ connection with soul aficionados on both sides of the Atlantic, showcasing stories from collectors, DJs, and fans who helped bring songs like Just Crazy 'Bout You and Aware of Love to prominence in Northern Soul clubs. The final chapter, dedicated to this transatlantic appreciation, features a special shoutout to Big Man Records, the UK label known for remastering and re-releasing these rare treasures on 45. Their careful restoration has breathed new life into classic Embers tracks, making them once again essential spins on UK dance floors.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, The Embers: The Bobby Tomlinson Story is a testament to the timeless power of soul and a vibrant reminder of the Northern Soul crowd’s vital role in The Embers’ enduring legacy.
A highlight of a Event Guide Feature that may be of interest to Soul Event Promoters wishing to raise awareness of their soul events...
The 'Featured Events' feature allows event promoters/organisers to 'upgrade' their Event Guide listing on our Soul Source Event Guide.
After purchasing a 'Featured Event Slot, the chosen event will then be listed at the top of various events listing in a highlighted manner (see images below), offering better exposure and so making the 'Event easier to find while raising awareness.
Featured Events also shows on both our front page and the forum index (see images below)
It's set up to be an affordable and worthwhile feature and we do offer 1 to 4 week slots
More details can be read here along with purchase options...
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/store/category/13-event-guide-featured-event-slots/
Happy to announce pre-order for volumes 5 & 6 of "From Detroit With Love", a series of EPs containing some of the best originally unissued Motown tracks, now available on vinyl / 7" for the first time.
PRE ORDER NOW FOR 15th NOVEMBER
https://soul4real.es/
FROM DETROIT WITH LOVE V
DAVID RUFFIN ANYTHING THAT YOU ASK FOR
Produced by Clay McMurray & Martin Coleman
Recorded in 1969
BRENDA HOLLOWAY DON´T STAY AWAY
Produced by Marc Gordon & Hal Davis
Recorded in 1964
MARVIN GAYE YOU´RE THE ONE
Produced by Ivy Jo Hunter & Marvin Gaye
Recorded in 1968
FOUR TOPS JUST YOUR LOVE
Produced by William “Mickey” Stevenson & Ivy Jo Hunter
Recorded in 1965
FROM DETROIT WITH LOVE VI
GLADYS KNIGHT & THE PIPS SHOW ME THE WAY
Produced by Richard Morris
Recorded in 1968
MARTHA REEVES & THE VANDELLAS THIS IS THE LOVE (I´VE BEEN WAITING FOR)
Produced by Deke Richards
Recorded in 1969
THE TEMPTATIONS SINCE I DON´T HAVE YOU
Produced by Deke Richards
Recorded in 1967
BLINKY & EDWIN STARR NEVER GONNA GIVE YOU UP
Produced by Richard Morris
Recorded in 1969
Details of a new podcast from Charly Records
Youtube based, looks like plans are for it to be a series of soul related podcasts.
Promotional details from Charly Records follow below, along with a shorts trailer and the placeholder for the pilot show, which premieres 31 Oct 2024.
Thursday 31st Oct 2024
"NORTHERN SOUL TIME"
Join Charly for the exciting launch of the new podcast, Northern Soul Time – A Rare Soul Legacy, exclusively on the Charly Records YouTube Channel! Dive deep into the captivating world of Northern Soul as we explore its rich history, influential artists, and timeless tracks that have shaped the genre.
In the pilot episode you'll discover the roots of Northern Soul as host KEV ROBERTS talks at length with the British Ambassador of Soul DAVID NATHAN, a fascinating and entertaining journey into the UK's most enduring sub-culture. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering this incredible music, there’s something for everyone.
Tune in now and don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes filled with soul, passion, and rhythm! Let’s keep the Northern Soul spirit alive together!
Short Trailer
Recently posted in our event guide...
We are unveiling a blue plaque in Sheffield in tribute of DAVE GODIN. Dave adopted Sheffield as his home and was actively involved in both the soul scene locally and globally. This is the first time he has been recognised for his huge contributions to the Deep soul and his longstanding connection with Tamla Motown and other genres of black music. Anyone with any love of the music should be aware of Dave's influence.
You are all welcome to attend this event in Sheffield at the Picket Music Park, Charter square in Sheffield. We will be holding a small tribute at the Frog & Parrot nearby where we will be playing some of Dave's deep soul.
Please try to join us in the important milestone
The Event Guide post and details via the below...
Ace Records release day with a hat full of 45s let loose.
Two additions to the Kent Select Imprint
Kenneth Wright / Miss Louistine - The Souls Of Black Folks / Extra-Extra - City 097
Soul connoisseurs are adventurous folk and the emergence of a previously unknown singer/songwriter is big news among the cognoscenti. The only trace of Atlanta’s Kenneth Wright is a handful of unrecorded song titles on BMI represented by Aware’s
publishing company Act One. At least a dozen of his recordings have recently been found in the Aware tape vaults and ‘The Souls Of Black Folks’ is the pick of them. It features Kenneth’s vocals and an equally impressive unknown female lead who adds more mystery to the project.
From the same Atlanta label source comes Miss Louistine’s take on the Sam Dees’ song ‘Extra, Extra’. Originally recorded by Ben E King as an album track, Louistine’s punchier take featured on a recent 100 Club Anniversary 45 and is well in-demand.
keneth-wright-kent-clip.mp3
Miss-Louistines-clip.mp3
Berna-Dean - Don’t Try To Tell Me / Laughing On The Outside - City 095
Bernadine or Berna-Dean Washington recorded seven singles for producer Dave Bartholomew in New Orleans in the early 60s.
A protégée of Earl King, her final single was released on Los Angeles’ GNP Crescendo label in 1964 and is stylistically similar to her previous Imperial and Post 45s. ‘Don’t Try To Tell Me’ and ‘Laughing On The Outside’ were cut for GNP but the company never followed up on her ‘This Is The City’ single.
Both tracks are in a more soulful style than her released sides and are attracting much attention on the current retro R&B scene and with the rare soul crowd also. This is their first public hearing.
Berna-Dean-a.mp3
Berna-Dean-b-clip.mp3
One new Kent Repro 45
Richard Temple / Jimmy Conwell - That Beatin’ Rhythm / Cigarette Ashes - Repro 21
Little needs to be said about these two Mirwood Monsters, but to have both tracks on the same 45 is a righteous luxury. ‘That
Beatin’ Rhythm’ is the epitome of the Northern Soul dance scene and has been a call to the floor for fifty years now.
The instrumental flip (credited to the actual singer of the A side) was equally massive at the time, but has been somewhat neglected in recent years - the vocal version gaining most DJ spins.
One New Deep Soul 45
Miss Louistine / Sam Dees - Con Me / Con Me Kent - Deep Soul 18
Miss Louistine’s version of ‘Con Me’ was one of the best Deep Soul finds of recent years. The Paragons smooth Chicago reading of Dees’ composition that came out in 1975 has long been admired, but this southern soul treatment of the now-classic is jaw-dropping.
To really focus on the masterpiece of a song, we have added Dees own take as the flip. That also remained unissued until Kent accessed the tapes in 1998 and is finally a single.
Miss-Louistine-deep-clip.mp3
sam-dees-deep-clip.mp3
Availability
45s available via Ace Records website - (tap), and various record stores including our very own Source Store - (tap)
Milton Davis - Headed for the Disco / All I Want to Do - Soul 7
Artist: Milton Davis
Title: Headed for the Disco
Label: Soul 7
Catalogue #: SOUL7047
Though allegedly a Texas native, Milton Davis first recorded in Los Angeles in 1967 as a member of The Four Tempos. When that act split, he trekked up the coast in stages, eventually settling in Portland. Here he secured the lead vocal role for local scene heroes, Slickaphonic. Though a full album of their own was taped, another reel of material was cut centred on Milton as a solo artist. Neither set of tracks saw release in their day, but from the latter collection we've pulled a bona fide 1977 disco-soul smasher and a mid tempo flipside with a sheen that belies its depth.
*First time ever on 7" 45, dinked centre hole with picture sleeve, 500 numbered copies only.
It's available exclusively on our website this week, and will be in the shops from the weekend
https://jazzmanrecords.co.uk/milton-davis-headed-for-the-disco
Milton Davis - Headed for the Disco
1.mp3
Milton Davis - All I Want to Do
2.mp3
This is a story of perseverance. This is a story of how a bandleader and aspiring singer from Philadelphia discovered a young group from Camden NJ, wrote and produced their first single, and then watched the group’s career take off in someone else's stable. There were many lessons learned the hard way; the most poignant was finding out the record business in Philly during the 1960’s and 70's was a hard nut to crack, especially when you're an unknown in the R&B world.
Post Barbara Mason (Yes I'm Ready, 1965) and just before The Ebonys (You're The Reason Why, 1971) there was a little known Philadelphia singer, songwriter, and producer named Raymond Waterhouse. Ray was never given his due for discovering one of the biggest groups to come out of the Philadelphia International Records (PIR) roster. We will be discussing his group, The Soul Set - Gary Volpe (drums), Jerry Marlo (bass & vocals), Tommy Davidge (guitar & vocals), and Denny Collett (Hammond B-3 organ) as well as the group whose career he launched - The Ebonys, (Clarence Vaughan, David Beasley, James "Bootie" Tuten, Jennifer Holmes)
Hailing from Bristol Township, outside of Philly, PA, Ray (known as Ray Sharp while performing) and The Soul Set played every small club from Philadelphia, PA to Somers Point, NJ and up and down the coast from Washington DC to New York. Week in and week out, they played mostly covers of the day, some James Brown and local groups like Chubby Checker, and the mighty Delfonics.
The Soul Set was a rough and tumble crew, clean-cut looking, but vicious instrumentalists. After three singles on B.B Records (a subsidiary of Swan) and years of playing around Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, some industry folk started to take notice. In 1968, Ray Sharp and The Soul Set signed a singles deal on the small label Sock & Soul Record Corp. run by Nat Segall & Howard Michaels (respectively producer & manager of the Soul Survivors).
Earthquake B/W She Needs Love (H-104) was released in late 1968 and soon gained traction locally. The Soul Set had a hit on their hands. Ray knew he needed a follow-up, and quick. He formed his own label with co-songwriter Paul Prospero and financier Avis S. Joy (Avis Records) and immediately signed The Ebonys.
Avis would see two releases in total, a Ray Sharp solo record (AVIS-1002) but more relative to our story, The Ebonys - Back In My Arms B/W I Can't Help But Love You (AVIS-1001). Recorded in 1968 and released in 1969 the record failed to chart, or maybe get radio play at all. This was the very first release for Clarence, David, James, and Jennifer as The Ebonys. Written and produced by Ray and arranged by the late, great Roland Chambers, the single seems to have long been forgotten. Perhaps it was overlooked, or overshadowed by the very successful career The Ebonys would go on to have at PIR, under Gamble & Huff. In 1971 The Ebonys single You're The Reason Why was in the ten on the U.S. R&B Charts, a first for PIR.
Fifty-five years later, after a seemingly endless effort by Raymond Waterhouse to relive some of that late 1960’s glory with later bands like Waterhouse, Live A Little, Profit, The Four Accents, The Ebonys original reel to reel master tapes from the Avis label sessions have been found and remastered and sound as good today as they did back in 1969. In that original session for Ray at Sigma Sound Studios with Joe Tarsia doing the mix, there were three songs done in total, all of which will finally see a proper release on a 7" / 45rpm for the first time in half a decade.
A quick heads up on the Soul Event Map this weekend
101 Events this week...
Please note that the above image is just a screengrab of our feature and so it is a static overview of this weeks Uk and Irish events
To view the most up to date and the dynamic Source Events weekly map just go to our Event Guide page (link below) and then tap the orange 'Launch Map View (Weekly)' button
The latest and dynamic map view will then popup ready for you to drill down to all the events full details
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/events/
The most recent issue of this long running informative series courtesy of Ken b aka @Kenb
Northern Connections #37 Zodiac international – Jack Gillen, artists, writers, publishers, labels
The private press Aquarious 1 album feels like it was maybe inspired shortly after the 1969 Woodstock festival, Bethel, NY. The Aquarian exposition. It takes on a similar astrological theme. However short-lived, the driving force behind Zodiac International, Jack Gillen, must have always felt a strong entrepenurial desire and also a knack for trying to make money. Music producer, label owner, custom record service, ‘Elvis sound alike’ crooner, astrologer and insurance agent, to name a few...
As always you can check out all Kens other quality 36 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
added by site
Two new exciting releases. Thanks so much to Friendly Womack for his help in licensing the Valentinos tracks
𝗣𝗥𝗘-𝗢𝗥𝗗𝗘𝗥 𝗡𝗢𝗪 for 25th OCTOBER: https://soul4real.es/
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2 of Candi Staton´s best tracks finally available on 7"
CANDI STATON (S4R35)
I CAN´T STOP BEING YOUR FOOL / YOU BET YOUR SWEET, SWEET LOVE
Born in Hanceville (Alabama), Canzetta Maria “Candi” Staton possesses one of the most recognizable voices of southern soul due to its characteristic and unmistakable tone.
Her musical journey began in the 50s as a teenager singing gospel with the Four Golden Echoes and the Jewell Gospel Trio. In 1967 she made the transition to secular music and two years later started an artistically and commercially successful recording career with Fame Records, under the umbrella of Rick Hall, recording a dozen singles and three outstanding albums. Candi was introduced to Hall by Fame’s main artist Clarence Carter, who eventually married her in 1970.
A new chapter began in 1974 at Warner Bros, from which the two songs paired on this record originated. They are now available on 7” for the first time. “Can’t Stop Being Your Fool” is a powerful composition by Phillip Mitchell perfectly suited for her; on the flip side we find “You Bet Your Sweet, Sweet Love”, a country soul masterpiece produced by Dave Crawford. Another essential release on Soul4Real.
JADD
2 originally unreleased tracks finally available on 7"
THE VALENTINOS (S4R44)
I´VE GOT LOVE FOR YOU / I´VE GOT A GIRL
Despite their early success, The Valentinos’ story was, like many other groups, a ‘what might have been’ story. But there could not have been a more hardworking group. Every night, Friendly Womack Sr. taught his boys all the gospel songs he knew before he kicked them out of the house because they wanted to switch to secular singing.
“Bobby, you’re singing too church!” shouted Sam Cooke across the recording desk at the United Recording Studios in L.A. to Bobby and his brothers…
Still torn here between gospel and secular singing, Friendly “June” Womack told me about both these two lost tracks from the group: “Between you and I, we were looking hard to get another ‘Looking For A Love’. We were desperate for that, as that was such a big seller for us”.
Ultimately these sides failed to be released, yet they were both great tracks. Wouldn’t it be great though if, this time around, Soul4Real Records were able to hang out the ‘sold out’ banner that all the Womack brothers really deserved?
GRAHAME JOYCE
All the events taken directly from our long running dynamic Source Event Guide
We have 116 events showing for this weekend, as always you can drill deeper on all the events shown via our Source Event Guide, the link is below
Uk Screen Grab
Please note that the above image is just a screengrab of our feature and so it is a static overview of this weeks Uk and Irish events
To view the most up to date and the dynamic Source Events weekly map just go to our Event Guide page (link below) and then tap the orange 'Launch Map View (Weekly)' button
The latest and dynamic map view will then popup ready for you to drill down to all the events full details
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/events/
