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Jai Alai - New 45 Release - Tommy McGee (Jar 03)

New 45 from Jai Alai Records
Tommy McGee - We Ought To Be Together/ Make Sure -Jar 03
The world of soul music has always been full of stories of bad luck, if-onlys and might-have-beens, and Tommy McGee has certainly had more than his fair share of all three. Bad timings with record deals, contract arguments, label cash-flow problems, a payola scandal, getting squeezed out by deals for other artists such as The Ohio Players, Johnny Bristol and William DeVaughn, have all added to his frustrations.
Tommy McGee - We Ought To Be Together - Video
Tommy McGee - Make Sure - Video
Amazingly, McGee had the drive to keep going as he was determined to release an album with his band The TMGs. Writer/producer Palmer James, also from his home town Grand Rapids MI, convinced him to sign as a solo artist instead, although he continued to work on the (then unnamed) "Positive-Negative" album from 1970-72. James had been in The Creations with Al Green (then Greene) and in trying to market and release Greene’s "Back Up Train" album on his label Hot Line Music Journal almost went bankrupt; McGee’s debut single, "Give & Take" / "To Make You Happy" on Golden Voice Records, got lost in the process.
McGee finally got the funds to release "Positive-Negative" on his own label MTMG Records in 1976, pressing 500 copies, and whilst not a commercial success, this highly collectable album brought him recognition on the underground soul scene. It was reissued on Chicago imprint Numero Group in 2016 and he is probably best known for the fabulous single "Now That I Have You" on another of his labels, TMG.
For their third release, Jai Alai have taken the two cream cuts "We Ought To Be Together" and "Make Sure", showcasing McGee’s production skills and his wonderful Curtis Mayfield styled falsetto vocals. This limited edition 7” single will quickly disappear, so make sure you don’t miss out.
𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗩𝗘 𝗛𝗢𝗕𝗕𝗦
(Solar Radio, Totally Wired Radio)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Remastering by Jorge Muñoz-Cobo. Label design by Jordi Duró.
𝗣𝗥𝗘 𝗢𝗥𝗗𝗘𝗥 𝗡𝗢𝗪 for 7th January 2022
13 𝗲𝘂𝗿𝗼𝘀 + postage as it follows:
1 to 5 copies: 6,80 euros UK & Europe
1 to 5 copies: 2,50 euros Spain
1 to 5 copies: 10,45 euros USA & rest of the world
𝗣𝗮𝘆𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗯𝘆 𝗣𝗔𝗬𝗣𝗔𝗟 𝗮𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀 & 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆:
soul4realrecordlabel@gmail.com
Check previous releases: www.soul4real.es
 
 
 


By Alexsubinas in News Archives ·

North Wales Soul Club 1973 - Local Newspaper Feature

As the years past it seems more and more archival material is becoming available online, local papers just being one available source for looking back.
The British Newspaper archive being just one current source, be a bit wary as once you start digging the hours may fly past.
https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/
 
Used the North Wales Soul Club as an example as it did play a part in my own soul youth, while just a 13 year old kid at the time of the article, memories of a few visits up the stairs to the offices, opposite The London pub on a Saturday do linger along with later trips to the Riverboat.
North Wales Weekly News Thursday 16 May 1974
North Wales Club is hub of soul
Mention "soul" and you can guarantee the attention of most young people interested in music. So it is not surprising that the following in this area is enough to warrant a soul club the North Wales Soul Club. 
On Saturday the club opens an office at 100 Upper Mostyn Street. Llandudno. The premises will put not only Llandudno but the whole of North Wales well on the map as a "soul scene." 
The club already boasting a membership of 200 is the brainchild of Robert Redhead and Gilbert Gilian of Discos Incorporated (Entertainment) Ltd. Llandudno who have been responsible for several promotions during the year, featuring many top name artistes from Britain and the United States. For Robert and Gilbert. May" 18 will see a dream come true. In recent months they have done more for soul fans In North Wales than anyone in the last decade. 
Discos Inc. started just over two years ago when Robert and Gilbert Joined forces to provide top .line disco entertainment. They do this using SAI (Sound Advice Installations) equipment, of which they have two independent units, coupled with comprehensive lighting effects. Single records which they carry with them number approximately 1.000 and albums total 50. The transportation of all the equipment could become quite a nightmare, but as it was explained. everything is under control thanks to Robert's father, Mr. Roy Redhead described as "road manager."
Discos Inc. soon became recognised as.one of the leading soul discos in the area, as well as being able to provide music for any occasion, and they decided it was about time fans were given the chance to see the artistes on stage without having to travel considerable distances. Their first promotion was in October of last year when Major Lance made a big impact at the Dixieland Showbar. Colwyn Bay. As Gilbert explained promotions of this nature require a considerable amount. of administration and therefore on March 28 the North Wales Soul Club came into being and presented their first promotion featuring "Limmle and Family Cookin."
As well as providing such entertainment Robert and Gilbert opened a record and badge bar at the dances which proved successful and have now become a feature of their promotions.
Annual membership of the North Wales Soul Club costs 15p and enables soul fans to buy records which they would normally find difficult to obtain without such a service as provided by the club. Soul "packs" will be on sale along with American imports and albums. 
Members will also be able to buy ticket in advance for dances in and out of the area, as the promoters are official ticket agents for the Northern and International Soul Clubs, with whom they will be in close contact.
 

 
By Mike in Articles ·

Mr Ms - Wigan Casino - New Blue Plaque

Wigan Today running a feature on the unveiling of a new blue plaque dedicated to Mr M's near its former site
 
Wigan Casino: New plaque dedicated to Mr M's unveiled near former site
A new plaque dedicated to a beloved part of Wigan Casino has been unveiled near its former site.
Former DJ Steve Whittle, who has recently released a book about Mr M’s, said: “It was a successful weekend, even though it was raining, and we did get cold and wet.
More via
https://www.wigantoday.net/news/people/wigan-casino-new-plaque-dedicated-to-mr-ms-unveiled-near-former-site-3498640
By Mike in News Archives ·

Northern Soul a Wigan Casino: Ffordd o fyw

Northern Soul a Wigan Casino: 'Ffordd o fyw'
BBC Cymru running 'Northern Soul a Wigan Casino: 'Ffordd o fyw'' on their website featuring Vaughan Evans 
Video

'Ffordd o fyw'
I Vaughan Evans mae Northern Soul yn "ffordd o fyw" ac yn Wigan Casino wnaeth pob dim ddechrau pan agorwyd hi yn 1973.
"Ro'n i tua ugain oed a es i i mewn i siop Guests yn Llangefni ac roedd 'na magazine Blues and Soul ar y shilff. Nes i jest darllen hwnnw a ffeindio tudalen 'Wigan Casino All Nighter' ac mi oedd Edwin Starr yn chwarae yno," meddai Vaughan, sefydlydd gorsaf radio Môn FM.
 
The full article with images can be read via https://www.bbc.co.uk/cymrufyw/59681953
By Mike in News Archives ·

Soul Direction - New 45 - Legacy SD-007

News just in all about the latest release from Soul Direction Records...
Legacy - 'Boy, You've Been Acting Strange' / 'Celebrate (Legacy To The Bone)' - Soul-Direction SD-007
Due for release on 3rd January 2022. Available for pre-order from Friday 17th December
 
Info
Legacy was formed around 1975 by Eddie Watkins Jr who started the band.
Legacy recorded very few songs under the guidance of Don Davis. The only two songs to be released were: “I Must Confess” and “Believe In Yourself” on Tortoise International Records. Soul Direction having purchased the master tapes found that there were two other songs on the same master tape entitled “Boy, You’ve Been Acting Strange” and “Celebrate (Legacy to The Bone)”.
After tracking down Eddie and several conversations later, Eddie Watkins who wrote all the songs agreed to license the tracks to Soul-Direction for a 7” Vinyl Release.
 
Promo Video
 
Legacy Background
The original members were: Eddie Watkins Jnr, Brenda Evans, LaMarvin McMorris, Delbert Nelson, Butch Small, Mark Johnson on keyboards, Ricardo Rouse and Anita Baker the iconic vocal artist who did some vocal performances with the band. Some of the band members were originally from The Undisputed Truth.
Eddie N Watkins Jr was born & raised in Detroit MI. He started his music career playing piano for a bingo game at 10 years old. His grandmother “Big Mama” bought him a piano at age 7 and his parents forced him to take piano lessons apparently against his will. As it turned out they were right cause by the age of 13 Eddie had switched to bass guitar joined the Musicians Union and got hired by the Jonny Trafton big band performing with seasoned local Motown musicians. At age 17 still in high school Eddie was noticed by legendary Motown producer Norman Whitfield at a Undisputed Truth band rehearsal. A few day later he got the call from Motown to play for Norman Whitfield’s new  Temptation album Masterpiece.
Lead Vocalist Brenda Joyce Evans was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. After high school Brenda became a part of the group called the Delicates (Brenda, Michelle and Dale). The manager for the Delicates was Bobby Sanders. He was known for working with local male singing groups, like the Younghearts.  Around 1969 during a performance Bobby Taylor of the Vancouvers heard the Delicates sing and invited them to open up for him at the 20 Grand, in Detroit, Michigan. The Delicates eventually signed with Motown Records. After signing with Motown Records; the Delicates received more opportunities to sing background in the studio for other artists.
 
Purchase Options
Due for release on 3rd January 2022. Available for pre-order from Friday 17th December via
https://soul-direction.co.uk/
 

 

 

 
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Competition - 1975 - A Year In The Life Of Northern Soul - Win Book!

A 48 hour Soul Source fast and furious competition to get this Christmas is almost here week going...
 
Yep the Soul Source competition makes an overdue return. This time around we have up for grabs, thanks to those Anglo-American people, a brand new copy of the just released book '1975 - A Year In The Life Of Northern Soul' by Tim Brown
The book has already picked up reviews from our members such as 'a beautifully illustrated and content rich book' 
The official release blurb follows below...
The first ever detailed look at a specific year in the life of Northern Soul focuses on its most important year. It was the year when seventies soul was embraced to sit alongside traditional sixties stompers in all dancehalls and venues such as Cleethorpes Pier and The Ritz ,Manchester as all-dayers took a hold on the scene. Wigan Casino and the Blackpool Mecca remained as twin towers of the nightlife however. Television, radio and newspapers were fascinated by the ultimate underground music scene and this book analyses their interest. Tim Brown, author of "The Wigan Casino Years" details all the events and records that make 1975 Northern Soul`s most important year, many of which are recounted for the first time. A definitive account of a year in the life of Northern Soul, richly illustrated in full colour.
 
Competition
To enter the competition all you have to do is simply answer these 5 x Northern Soul 1975 related questions 
 
1975 A Year In The Life Of Northern Soul by Tim Brown Competition Question
1 The first label for The  Chosen Few`s “Footsee” was?
2. The International GTO`S recorded under two other names. What were they?
3. The co-writer of which famous Northern Soul song that was big in 1975 also co-wrote “Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini”?
4. Lou Pride`s label Suemi stood for what?
5. In 1975 the location for the “new” Torch club was at what venue?
 
Just send your asnswer into the site via 
 
The competition will close at 9am Tuesday Morning 14 Dec 2021
The person with the most correct entries will be declared the winner (if a draw the winner will be drawn out of the Soul Source hat) and will very shortly receive a copy of 1975 A Year In The Life Of Northern Soul book 
 
 
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Welcome Stream Records!

Tesla Groove, Cannonball Records and Epsilon Record Co. join forces to create a little imprint dedicated to bring a STREAM of the most elusive sounds on Earth to the decks of Black Music fans around the world.
We’ll pick from our collections, we’ll license directly from the Artists or the rights holders and we’ll deliver to your turntables at the best sounding conditions we are allowed to pull. One in every home!
STR001 - Johnny Horton and Nature
“I’ve Got You” b/w “Shake Your Booty”
Fully Licensed 7”/45 rpm - 200 copies - out February ’22
Free Digital Download included!
Listen:
 
Preorder: https://cannonballsoul.com/streamrecords/
Preorder: https://www.epsilonrecord.com
IMPOSSIBLY RARE and extremely obscure 45 that almost never turns up. A monstrous modern soul dancer with a funky edge on the a-side and a great boogie banger on the flip side now available to soul and funk fans around the globe at the price of a pizza for one. This version comes out of a fortunate demo on a 1/4” reel tape which is the only recording that survived a car crash Mr. Horton was involved in many years back. Johnny kindly allowed us to license this beautiful piece of music and we are very proud to bring to your decks such a testament to the Alabama sound of the seventies. One in every home!
STR002 - The Nombres
“Trivialities” b/w “Todos”
Fully Licensed 7”/45 rpm - 200 copies - out February ’22
Free Digital Download included!
Listen:
 
Preorder: https://cannonballsoul.com/streamrecords/
Preorder: https://www.epsilonrecord.com
 
One part War, two parts Santana, and a dash of Motown, immersed in a rich Puerto Rican stock, Los Nombres were the undisputed kings of Northern Ohio’s Rust Belt barrios. Following successive explosions of brown-eyed and Latin soul in Los Angeles and New York during the mid and late ’60s, Willie Marquez led a rotating cast of Latino teens through numerous underfunded recording sessions for the Day-Wood, Beth, and Lorain Sounds imprints. “Trivialities” was initially recorded in 1972 for release on Beth label and was again re taken in 1977 for the Lorain Sound imprint. Both releases are today as rare as Caribbean pirate’s doubloons and were backed on the flipside by the incredibly groovy barrio banger “Todos”. Here we present the 1977 version of Trivialities and the only existing take of Todos, finally affordable. One in every home!
By Yann V in News Archives ·

Northern Soul Calendar 2022

It's that time of year...
and after two previous releases it's looking like that this the 2022 edition may be the third and final Northern Soul Calendar
Following the same format as previous years its now available at £12.99 online.
Blurb and pictures follow below

NORTHERN SOUL CALENDAR 2022  
...make a date with Northern Soul
PERFECT FOR A WALL NEAR YOU!
FEATURING MANY NEW HISTORIC DATES
CURATED BY RICHARD SEARLING
This unique full-size (600mm x 300mm), full-colour, wall calendar is a collectable guide through 2022 featuring month-by-month information with over 2,000 key birthdays of the legends of Northern Soul, Modern Soul and Motown, plus other historic dates from the timeline of this incredible scene!
 
Purchase online via the below link
Tap to buy
 

 

By Mike in News Archives ·

Review of Tendavillage - A Tenda Universe - New Ep

Bit of a delay with this pass on of a review of a current release, Tendavillage EP A Tenda Universe....
 
I had a recent conversation with Kate Melvina, lead singer/writer/producer of Calgary's Tendavillage about her new EP to be released on Nov 26, A Tenda Universe.
Below is the EP review resulting from our conversation.
- - - - - - - - - - - -
Review of Tenda Village EP A Tenda Universe
Mike Lauchlan
 
Kate Melvina curls up in the corner of a thick couch, a Griffin tattoo curling up one arm and her cuddly orange and white cat Willis claiming the space on the other. It’s a sunny but cool late fall afternoon in the foothills west of Calgary and we’re talking neo-soul music.
“There are some playful moments, but I wrote many of these songs during a dark period, you could say.”
Yes, Covid-19. 
“The pandemic didn’t bring much light to the world, but it did provide plenty of time for songwriting!”
A Tenda Universe, veteran Calgary musician Kate Melvina’s sophomore Tendavillage EP, takes us on a stunningly relatable emotional tasting tour across our inner spaces. Circumnavigation of this project leaves the listener sparkling, with every nerve touched, every memory activated.
We spin through the tracks as we chat.
Right off the top we find ourselves engulfed in the pure sensorial pleasure of Waiting for your Love. The experience offers a beautifully balanced 60s Motown groove, exotic highlights in drifting synthesizer runs, a driving beat, and Kate’s honey-smooth lead gliding over a supporting cast of wawa guitar, bass, strings and complex backing vocals.
“The saying timing is everything is really true. To be honest, I’ve been thinking that this song should come with a disclaimer to not do this (a long story). But this is still one of my favorite songs on the EP.”
Mad finds us hurtling through rumination space, still stinging from a recent explosion. The feel is Louisiana bounce, imparting notes of DiAngelo, Beyonce, and Dr. John. There’s a clear edge here in Kate’s composition and production, featuring enhanced rhythmic components of a skilled ensemble. Try sleeping on this one.
I comment that the sound feels bigger than the first EP.
“I see this second EP as an improvement over the first. I put a lot more effort into production elements, adding many more layers to the sound this time. It feels more fully fleshed-out.”
Frequent Tendavillage listeners will recognize the next two tracks. Released as singles in the spring of 2021, Escargot & Risotto and Sprung observe love’s light and dark sides, acceptance and despair, movement and paralysis. The former is funk-driven, crisp and clean with a Stevie Wonder feel and elevated rhythms, delivering notable depth. The latter is dark in aspect, well-structured with a distinct Solange feel, and classic neo-soul character framed within a tenacious, but relaxed beat.
“The common thread in my music is R&B and soul,” Kate offers. “Many have an element of funk and jazz as well. I’m inspired by many genres really.”
Tide provides us with the thousand light-year view on our own personal journey. Introspective and disarmingly melodic, it leaves the listener both uplifted and on the verge of tears. Tide possesses elegant, Jamie Lindell-like character with Moonchild influences and hints Mac Ayres, all in balance, ultimately drifting to infinity at its close.
At the EP’s end we embark on a frantic spin around Mac’s Galaxy. The bonds of close siblings are unbreakable through time or space, or crazy rhythmic changes, or soaring synth solos. Mac’s Galaxy, dedicated to Kate’s big brother, is an explosion of joy and fun. It is expansive and complex with spicy jazz ingredients, sparkles, pops, fizz and flavors enhanced by a next wave, new world style and character.
Where Tendavillage’s self-titled premier EP celebrated life through fun and frivolity, A Tenda Universe serves as Kate’s rite of passage into a thematically broader, richer place, experienced through skillful and challenging composition, arrangement, and production.
“This is why I idolize Stevie Wonder so much. He just had so many different influences and so many flavors running through his music. I honestly think that’s the way to do it.”
“I just write from the heart. I guess we’ll see if it’s commercial.”
I say that the universe is her oyster. 
Mike Lauchlan
https://www.instagram.com/tendavillage/
https://www.facebook.com/tendavillage
https://bfan.link/a-tenda-universe
 
 
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Taxie Eps008: Rock Don't Stop: I Think I'm Falling In Love 45 Alternative mixes Epsilon Records Co

TAXIE EPS008: ROCK DON'T STOP/ I THINK I'M FALLING IN LOVE Epsilon Records Co
T.A.X.I.E In 1978 ,three friends.
Woody Whittaker, Ronnie Arch, and Wayne Chatman
Came together with their musical ideas and talents to form the music production company, “Cabfare Productions”. Under that parent company, the performing group
T.A.X.I.E.
Talented Artist Xclusively In Entertainment
Archwoods Productions and Archwoods Publishing was born. Eventually adding musicians/song writers, Charles (Ice Cream) Williams, Oneida James, and the amazing vocalist, Carlita Durhan, the original guitarist for the R&B group Taste Of Honey.
T.A.X.I.E. performed many engagements through out the Los Angels Hollywood circuits. Opening and appearing with renowned artist such as Stevie Wonder, Dennis Edwards, and the Mary Jane Girls. The members of T.A.X.I.E. are not only great musicians and performers, but also are very talented and awesome song writers. Some of their compositions have been performed and recorded by, Grammy winner Diane Reeves, Tahj Mowry, AlfredaJames, Greg Rose, and musical groups such as Infinite. Archwoods Productions also produced, published and promoted music and live concerts throughout the United States and Europe. Over the years, this partnership has developed a music catalog of over 100 songs, compositions, and videos. In the future, they will continue to write and produce excellent music, promoting new and established artist.
Buy it now:
https://www.epsilonrecord.com
Contact: epsilonrecord45@gmail.com
Limited Edition 7" :
Alternatives Mix Re-Mastered by Steve Fuji
 
By Yann V in News Archives ·

Our Soul Music Journeys : A Collection of Personal Soul Stories

This is John Warren an (Australian soul music lover) 2nd book titled '' Our Soul Music Journeys '' which will be released in December 2021.
Being dyslexic made it very difficult writing a book so Soul music lovers I have met on my music journey have contributed with their own personal stories .
The main object of our Soul music books is to gain awareness that a lot of soul music artists, especially in the USA find it difficult to survive.
Hopefully all music lovers will understand this sad fact and as the project evolves so we can publish more Soul music journey books to help them.
Music has been my passion for 46 years from being a DJ (Johnny ''Redpants" Warren) to a collector of vinyl soul music. I am currently living in Scarborough village Queensland Australia. I have been blessed having 3 daughter's & 1 son.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0646850369
By Rushden8 in News Archives ·

Kimberlite New Release - The Estimations - Heart of Stone b/w Don't Go Kissin' My Baby

IT'S BEEN A LONG TIME COMING, but... THE ESTIMATIONS ARE BACK WITH A SECOND RECORD!
The A side, Heart Of Stone brings fuzz guitar, 4/4 drums, and a Levi Stubbs lead with haunting backing vocals to set a Norman-Whitfield-psychedelia-inspired soundscape for repressed lovers.  If you’ve spent your life getting hurt, it’s near impossible to trust and give yourself to someone completely.  This song is a hymn for the inhibited, rejected and pained out there who aren’t ready to get back in “the ring”. 
Turn over the disc and Don’t Go Kissin’ My Baby maintains the Motown theme with a bouncy bubblegum-soul arrangement, this time more typical of mid-60s Frank Wilson or Smokey Robinson productions.  Not only are we still in Mr. Gordy’s sphere of influence, but we’re also keeping the continuity here with the subject of trouble in relationships.
Between being withholding and being jealous, this release shows that Jory and Co. might not be scoring high on the next Facebook relationship quiz, but musicians aren’t supposed to be good role models anyway, so who’s really surprised?
So where’s Kimberlite been for the last two years?  Let’s please just accept that it’s been a hard time for everyone, and understand that real life has gotten in the way of a lot of passion projects.  We’ve got a lot in the works and are trying to get ourselves back together.
Hand printed sleeve designed by the inestimable graphic artist Elaine Banks.
You can pre-order now at
WWW.RARETOONES.COM
Release Date - 10th Dec 2021
 
 
 
By Rare Toones in News Archives ·

New Kent Cd - This Is Lowrider Soul Vol 2 - VA - Kent Records CD

This Is Lowrider Soul Vol 2 - VA - Kent Records CD
A brief clip from the release notes by Ady Coasdell tells the story.
It’s been almost three years since Sean Hampsey and the Southern (California) Soul Spinners created “This Is Lowrider Soul” for Kent Records, and the ensuing acclaim and enjoyment have made this second volume essential.
The full release notes can be read via the Ace website - tap here
 
Booklet Preview
 A glossy 24-page booklet featuring images and informative notes written by Sean Hampsey

 

 
Tracks
Side 1
01  So Much In Love - The Exceptions
02  Please Say It Isn't So - Lee Williams & The Cymbals
03  Somebody Please - The Vanguards
04  Yes I'm Ready - The Hesitations
05  You Never Loved Me (At All) - Barbara Mason
06  Sad, Sad Story - The Ethics
07  Try Love (One More Time) - The Sparkels
08  Follow Your Heart - The Manhattans
09  Someone - The Lovers
10  Little Girl - Darrow Fletcher
11  I Want You - Dee Torres
12  It Hurts So Much - The Superbs
13  I Want You (Back) - The Larks
14  Trust In Me - The Magicians
15  Believe In Me - The Hyperions
16  Here It Comes - The Persians
17  Can't Nobody - Brothers Of Soul
18  That's The Way Our Love Is - The Radiations
19  My Sweet Baby - The Mark-Keys
20  Don't Take Your Love From Me - The Perfections
21  (I'm Not Ready To) Settle Down - Little Ben & The Cheers
22  You Can't Blame Me - Johnson, Hawkins, Tatum & Durr
23  What Am I Going To Do - Houston Outlaws
24  A Man That Is Not Free - Soul Sensations
 
CD Availability 
Available now at all your usual soul stockist including your own Source Store here...
 
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Judy Freeman & Blackrock - Lp - Digital release - Hold On Original 4 min Mix

Long time readers of Soul Source may sit up to this heading. Back in the 1990s here on Soul Source, one member aka @Benji told us how he had got hold of the original test pressing copy of this never released lp. Sourced from the producer/engineer (memory) and of course the lp contained the 'original never released mix' of 'Hold On' a powerful 4+ minutes long version, which went onto be a classic play at the Capitol Soul Club Dome events in London for Irish Greg at the turn of the century.
Well, 20 odd years since then and 50 plus years since the lp was recorded the lp has finally had a (digital) release and is now available via the likes of Spotify and so on
Judy Freeman & Blackrock - Lp - Digital release -1971
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

New Book - 1975 - A Year In The Life Of Northern Soul

1975... the year that broke the mould! 12 months that saw the musical direction of the scene broker two different styles, acceptable to many, hard to swallow for some.
208 pages determining exactly where allegiances would lie...fully documented, many photographic items never in print before, along with media coverage of those heady times and the advertising to go with it.. the banality, the fun and the vociferous voices..
a year in the life of the devotee to the ever changing, constantly strange world of Northern Soul...and its Modern bedfellow!
Tim Brown, puts it all into sharp focus and perspective. The real world through the eyes of one of the scene's foremost experts on not just the vinyl but the history as a whole.
This will make a fascinating read for any collector and a momentous year end addition to your personal library!
Official Description:
The first ever detailed look at a specific year in the life of Northern Soul focuses on its most important year. It was the year when seventies soul was embraced to sit alongside traditional sixties stompers in all dancehalls and venues such as Cleethorpes Pier and The Ritz, Manchester as all-dayers took a hold on the scene. Wigan Casino and the Blackpool Mecca remained as twin towers of the nightlife however. Television, radio and newspapers were fascinated by the ultimate underground music scene and this book analyses their interest. Tim Brown, author of "The Wigan Casino Years" details all the events and records that make 1975 Northern Soul`s most important year, many of which are recounted for the first time. A definitive account of a year in the life of Northern Soul, richly illustrated in full colour.
Check out the Anglo American website (link below) for full details of how to purchase
https://www.raresoulvinyl.co.uk/
or email : raresoulvinyl@btconnect.com
Or call: 01706 818604

By Agentsmith in News Archives ·

Soul Up North #110 Autumn Issue 2021 Out Now

Autumn arrives and so does... 
The Soul Up North #110 Autumn 2021 issue is now out and about, as always brimming with soul related words and info
Contents of this issue follow
Soul Up North #110 Autumn 2021
Issue Details
OPENING PAGE : CONTENTS – EDITORIAL & INFO
GOOD TOONS & GREAT GROOVES
Dave Halsall
TRACK LISTING FOR COLLECTORS CD – ‘ACROSS THE BOARD & BACK’ (PART 2)
Steve ‘Waggy’ Wagstaff
FUNK IN YO’ FACE – “NOT SUCH A NASTY GAL – AN APPRECIATION OF BETTY DAVIS”
Howard Priestly
SOUL SPOTLIGHT – B.R.C RECORDS (PART 1)
Steve Guarnori
HOT OFF THE VINYL PRESS
Howard E
FIVE TIMELESS GEMS REVISITED – THE SEVENTIES
Martin Scragg
HOT OFF THE VINYL PRESS -- EXTRA
Howard E
SOUL IN A DIGITAL AGE
John Farrar
THE LADIES CHOICE – COLLECTING RARE SOUL
Julie Molloy
THOSE LITTLE SILVER DISCS
Howard E
SOULFUL SEVENTIES SPINS aka ‘PLUMB’S PEACHES’
Steve Plumb
SOUL IN PRINT – MAGAZINES & FANZINES (Part 13)
Iain McCartney
1964 – THE YEAR BILLBOARD ABANDONED R&B
John Smith
MD RECORDS CONTINUED - 2021
Mark Anderson
COLLECTING BRITISH
Lord Snooty
HEAVEN IN THE AFTERNOON – HIBS SOUL CLUB
George Reed
FLASHBACK FEATURES – BILLY YOUNG
Terry Hennessey
VIEW FROM THE APE HOUSE
Tim Brown
And finally…DEEP SOUL CORNER
Mike Finbow
Cover Photo – Betty Davis
 
 
Available now via all your usual outlets and of course your very own Soul Source store (link below)
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/store/product/454-soul-up-north-110-autumn-2021/
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Soul 4 Real New Release - Patti LaBelle & The Bluebelles (S4R17)

𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗠 𝗦𝗢𝗨𝗟4𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗟 𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗢𝗥𝗗𝗦!
𝗣𝗔𝗧𝗧𝗜 𝗟𝗮𝗕𝗘𝗟𝗟𝗘 & 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗕𝗟𝗨𝗘𝗕𝗘𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗦
How Can You Throw My Love Away / When Joe Touches Me (S4R17)
Listen here:
 
 
The Patti LaBelle and The Bluebelles period in Atlantic wasn't a success story. According to Jerry Wexler, neither the material nor the promotion was right for Patti, Nona and Sarah, pigeon-holed into some sort of Supremes role which did them no good, especially after Cindy Birdsong, the fourth Bluebelle, left the group to replace Florence Ballard.
However, their later recordings for Atlantic didn't lack quality. Some fine examples are the unreleased tracks featured on this record, two fabulous slabs of crossover soul produced by Don Davis and (presumably) Curtis Mayfield.
"How Can You Throw My Love Away" was also recorded by Carla Thomas on her "Memphis Queen" LP, although this unissued take has Detroit stamped all over it, a perfect example of 1968 Motorcity sound. The bizarrely named flip, though, has all the warmth and sophistication of a Chicago production. Recorded in 1969 at the same session as their Curtis Mayfield-produced 45 "Trustin´ In You / Suffer", it's pretty safe to think that he was also involved, as it was even produced at Chi-Sound Inc.
𝗘𝗗𝗨𝗔𝗥𝗗𝗢 𝗗𝗢𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗢
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Presented in a beautiful picture cover laminated 7" designed by Jordi Duró. Liner notes by Eduardo Domingo.
𝗣𝗥𝗘 𝗢𝗥𝗗𝗘𝗥 𝗡𝗢𝗪 for 25th November 2021
14 𝗲𝘂𝗿𝗼𝘀 + postage as it follows:
1 to 5 copies: 6,80 euros UK & Europe
1 to 5 copies: 2,50 euros Spain
1 to 5 copies: 10,45 euros USA & rest of the world
𝗣𝗮𝘆𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗯𝘆 𝗣𝗔𝗬𝗣𝗔𝗟 𝗮𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝘀 & 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆:
soul4realrecordlabel@gmail.com
Check previous releases: www.soul4real.es




By Alexsubinas in News Archives ·

Lorraine Silver A Catch Up and New 45 News

A letter from Lorraine Silver was featured in an early days article on here via Pete Smith (link at bottom), fast forward 24 years and here's what shes up to today in 2021
Had the below press release sent in to us...
Lorraine Silver  - Fever Raging Out Of Control - The Brand New Single  Impacting 3rd December 2021 
Northern Soul legend Lorraine Silver recorded Lost Summer Love when she was just 13 years old in August 1965. Whilst not a chart hit on its release, the track did become a massive anthem at the iconic Wigan Casino and was reissued on the Casino Classics label in the late 70s selling in excess of 30,000 copies. However, Lorraine knew nothing of her heroic Northern Soul status until the late 80s.
23 years after the original recording, Lorraine’s husband, agent Barry Collings, was reading Blues & Soul magazine which featured a top ten selection of favourite Northern Soul tracks that included Lost Summer Love. Lorraine called the editor and was flabbergasted to discover it really was her song. Following this, her story was told in a whole selection of Northern Soul publications. She contacted the original record company PYE and was told that the track had sold some 34,000 copies worldwide and she could claim her royalties!
At around the same time Barry was involved in promoting Northern Soul weekends across the country and Lorraine was able to meet all the DJs who had been playing her record for years. She was persuaded to get up and do a couple of PA’s of Lost Summer Love much to the delight of the audience who were queueing for autographs.
Since then, Lorraine’s resurrected career has gone from strength to strength, with airplay on BBC Radio 2, performances at Northern Soul events, and an appearance at the Edwin Starr Memorial Concert alongside the likes of Clem Curtis, Geno Washington, and Jaki Graham. In 2011 she was asked to join the line-up of a new touring show ‘The Mod All Star Band’ with artists she herself had idolised in the 60s including Steve Ellis and Chris Farlowe.
Now, at the age of 70, Lorraine continues to perform, record, and release new material in a career that now spans an incredible 57 years. Her brand-new single Fever Raging Out Of Control was produced by legendary Northern Soul DJ Ian Levine who has also produced pop hits for Take That including ‘A Million Love Songs’ and ‘Could It Be Magic’. The final mix of the track was done by Nigel Lowis who has also worked with Burt Bacharach, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, Mariah Carey and Celine Dion to name just a few.
And…that original recording of Lost Summer Love, has now become quite the collector’s item, with a recent copy selling on eBay for some £700.00! 
Video Lorraine Silver  - Fever Raging Out Of Control
 
UK TOUR DATES
 
2022
MINEHEAD, BUTLINS, MADNESS HOUSE OF FUN WEEKENDER
Saturday 5 Feb
TAMWORTH, ASSEMBLY HALL
Saturday 12 Feb
BASINGSTOKE, HAYMARKET THEATRE
Saturday 5 Mar
DEAL, ASTOR THEATRE
Saturday 12 Mar
FELIXSTOWE SPA PAVILION
Friday 29 APR
PRESTON, RIVA
Friday 6 May 
RHYL, PAVILION
Friday 20 May
BASILDON, TOWNGATE THEATRE 
Saturday 28 May
ISLE OF WIGHT, SHANKLIN THEATRE
Saturday 9 July
MILTON KEYNES, STABLES THEATRE
Friday 22 July
STOCKPORT, RUGBY CLUB, NORTHERN SOUL ON THE PITCH
Friday 29 July
EASTLEIGH, CONCORDE CLUB
Saturday 17 Sep
SCUNTHORPE, BATHS HALL
Friday 30 Sep
CHRISTCHURCH, REGENT CENTRE
www.lorrainesilver.com
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION & INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES: 
Please contact Barry Collings 07717848115
By Mike in News Archives ·

Laura Rain and The Caesars - 'Rise Again' - Full length LP on LRK Records up for PRE- ORDER

LRK Records have their first-ever full length LP (LRKLP-01) by Laura Rain and The Caesars up for pre-order.
8th April 2022 release date.
All Formats available (LP/CD/DIGITAL) and a 45 of the hit and the first mix of "I Am" and a brand new mix of "In My Life"
Pre-order here: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/rise-again
Laura Rain and The Caesars have returned with their fifth full album:
Rain is able to convey an inspiring vocal as the song evolves, with her soprano lifting through the melody, encouraging the listener that "it's gonna be okay.....we will rise again." - SoulTracks
Thet title track Rise Again is an organ-led, old school Detroit flavoured. Busy and bustling, it’s bound to add momentum to Laura’s upward career trajectory and once again it underlines Ms. Rain’s soul credibility as it builds to a powerful climax.  We look forward to the album which, we’re told, is named for this single! - SoulFunkandJazz
The haunting piano refrain meets the gospel tinged voices and Hammond organ effortlessly, giving Rain the space to deliver her inspirational message of hope, equality, healing and triumph. I think this could be the best single to date! - Soulstrutter
 
CHANNELING VINTAGE SOUL AND R&B:  DETROIT'S LAURA RAIN UNLEASHES FIFTH ALBUM "RISE AGAIN"
The last year and a half was quite a flurry of activity for husband and wife songwriting team George Friend and singer Laura Rain. Their smashing Motor City soul band Laura Rain and the Caesars released a non-stop carousel of new singles, signed a UK record deal, collaborated on a successful sample collection, took home three Detroit Music Awards, and recorded their fifth full length album "Rise Again" to be released sometime in 2022.
The pair navigated the pandemic working from home non-stop; writing, recording, and collaborating with other artists. Landing a vinyl deal in the UK, and a placement with producer Jermaine Dupri's artist LaTheGoat on "You Wouldn't Believe Me", proved the songwriters they were getting somewhere.
"The pandemic has been tough on everyone" says Rain. "We used our time wisely to connect with others, and keep our music flowing. We write and record a lot of music at home, but reaching out and collaborating really helped keep us focused. Without being able to perform live, it felt good to be creating with others while stuck at home".
Following up a series of singles released in 2020, "Rise Again" is the culmination of the songwriters' recent inspiration. Channeling the spirit of vintage soul, Laura Rain delivers her music with a fearless sense of emotion and range, offering up a signature blend of contemporary soul and vintage R&B. From the Detroit flavored northern soul opener "I Am" to the synth driven retro dance music of "I'm Yours," Rain uses the power of her own voice to deliver the group's unique vision.
Producer and songwriter George Friend says "Since our very first album, we have always tried to stay true to ourselves and remain authentic. We mix a lot of music in interesting ways. We write and perform blues, dance music, soul...there's a lot of variation in styles, but we tend not to worry too much about the categories imposed on the music". Laura adds "We don't imitate, we originate. When performing, we really want to keep the audience engaged and excited. It's tougher to do that in the studio, but we've written our music with the live show in mind".
Vocalist Rain is known for her melismatic, and gut-wrenching delivery live. From the heartfelt, romantic grooves of "Take My Hand" and "Bring it on Back", to the hard-driving rock/soul strut of "Diamond in the Rough", Rain sings with authentic passion, and uses her voice to effortlessly guide the melodies and dynamics. Both "I Can Fly" and "Runnin' in Circles" demonstrate her acrobatic vocal finesse, while gliding over a funky backbeat from the Caesars. The music is diverse, and the group demonstrates a versatility few can ignore.
The title track "Rise Again" is a focal point for the production, resulting from a collaboration with Seattle based beatmaker/producer UNKWN. "We were fortunate to meet, and write a bunch of material together" says Friend of their album "Garnet", a sample collection which was released early 2021. The song was composed around a sample from the release, and arranged with the addition of the full band in the recording. Rain sings a personal message of triumph and hope, climaxing with an inspirational note of unity and equality. "The world is clearly out of sorts with itself" says Rain, "the song embodies an idea of what I wish us to feel as humans, and to know we're not alone...
We're all here together to comfort and take care of each other, and to lift each other up".
Scheduled for 8th April 2022 release date
 
PRE-ORDER HERE: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/rise-again
Rise Again by Laura Rain and The Caesars
 
 

By LRK in News Archives ·

Soul Direction - 2 x New 45s On New Imprint Label - Origins

Been dropped news about Soul Directions new label imprint 'Origins'
Soul Direction Label 'Origins'
'This label will focus on rare and obscure soul releases and bringing them to a wider audience in the soul community. All releases are licensed through the proper channels and are hopefully giving back to the writers and artists that deserve it.'
Audio and scans of the first 45s lined up for a mid November release follow below
The Combinations - Too Long (I've Been Waiting/ Please Don't Leave Me - Soul Direction Origins SDO-1001
SDO-1001- Combinations-Too Long Ive been waiting.mp3

 

 
 
 
 
Sir Joe - Nobody Beats My Love/ If You Give Up Your Love - Soul Direction Origins SDO-1002
SDO_1002A_SIR_JOE_Nobody_Beats_My_Love_M_2496_29-06-2021.mp3


https://soul-direction.co.uk/
 

 
 
Video Promos
 
 
 
 
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

R.I.P. Dr Edward J Wolfrum

This evening brings the sad news of the passing of Dr Edward J Wolfrum. Ed was the man behind the screen, the engineer for Motown, Golden World, and United Sound Systems studio, and from the very late 60s running his business from home under the name of Audio Graphics until recently. It's a sad day for music, in the UK we know and take for granted songs such as The Tomangoe's. I Really Love You. Washpan.  Norma Jenkins. The Airplane Song. Maltese.  The Utopias. Girls Are Against Me. La Salle. Marva Whitney. Savin' My Love For You Baby. Federal.  Edwin Starr. Stop Her On Sight/Headline News. Ric Tic. Larry Wright. Sweet, Sweet Kisses. Ago go. Brothers of Soul, Candice Love.. and hundreds more.
The passing of Ed has a personal connection with myself, I, Chris King, and Guy Hennigan visited his house in 1985. And later trips I made with Andy 'tats' Taylor, Rob Wigley we found the un-released version of My Dear Heart. Barbara Mercer, and Gwen Owens. You Better Wake Up (before we break up) Candy. Ben Knight. Popcorn Wyley's Sweet Understanding. Got 3 Golden World acetates. Gwen Owens. Hit and Run, Heart Trouble, and Daddy-O.
Visited Ed +Sue Wolfrum with John Kingan in 94 Each time went out for dinner, alongside Artie Fields (Top Dog) and heard some wonderful stories, and not all musical.
 
Rest on Ed, you did your bit, and more
 
                            Gonna miss you
                                    Gilly 

By Gilly in News Archives ·

Ella Woods & Miss Lady by Kenb

Ella Woods & Miss Lady by Kenb
Ella Woods was born in Lexington, Mississippi and moved with her family to L.A when she was 5 years old. She studied opera/classical at U.S.C and majored in English Literature at Redlands. In 1970 she spent 18 months with The (Buck Ram} Platters.
It's said she completed a love song for "Slaughter", a 1972 blaxploitation low-budget film starring Jim Brown. However no soundtrack LP was ever issued. (The theme song for Slaughter was written and performed by Billy Preston which went on to feature in Quentin Tarantino's
lnglourious Basterds 2009 film}.

 
 
 
 
 
By Kenb in Articles ·

New 45 - Last Bastion - Lou Pride - Unreleased Version of I'm Com'un Home In The Morning

Over last year or so you long time member @Andybellwood has been working on a new label, looking like it's all coming together as we have just had details of the first release for 2022!
A limited release of a previous unreleased version of 'I’m Com’un Home In The Morn’un' recorded all the way back in 2004
Here's the blurb, flyer and can check out the video below...
Sleeve Notes Clip
How this release came about, was that musically, on fire and inspired by words and advice from his friend Curtis Mayfield, veteran Chicago soul/blues vocalist Lou and a backing band, visited David Earl's Severn Record studios, Maryland USA In 2004. There he recorded a treasure trove of soul for the 'Keep on Believing' (Severn Records) cd release, plus remarkably a complete remake of his 1972 Northern Soul classic 45 "I'm com'un home in the morn'un" which was originally released on El Paso (Texas) label, Suemi and now commands in excess of £7k.
In addition to the full length 2004 recording which forms the flip side, the A side (also produced by David Earl) is a new Dj /radio station edit destined to be a dance floor and Northern Soul favourite.
Detour Records in conjunction with Last Bastion Records brings you this Monster Northern Soul release....
Pre-Orders being accepted now for this MUST HAVE 45. 
RELEASE DATE IS: FRIDAY 25th FEBRUARY 2022
LOU PRIDE - I'm Com'un Home In The Morn'un 7"
PRESENTING.....
Last Bastion Records ‘Making Music Matter’.
A new indie label committed to making recordings available for the first time, on limited edition 45s.
First up on our label is Lou Pride’s sensational 2004 unreleased recording of ‘I’m Com’un Home In The Morn’un” This is not a reissue of the 1970’s Suemi 45.
“It's been my pleasure and privilege to have had the opportunity to release this limited edition 45 and in doing so, launch Last Bastion Records. Hopefully it's also a fitting tribute to George Louis Pride” Andy Bellwood (Last Bastion Records)
Neither track has previously been committed to vinyl, with the A side previously unreleased in any format. Only 300 Copies being pressed and once they are gone they are gone!
FEATURES
I'm com'un home in the morn'un (Radio edit Version)
I'm com'un home in the morn'un (Full Length 2004 Version)
 
£12.00 Plus delivery via http://shop.detourrecords.co.uk/epages/es785745.sf/?ObjectPath=/Shops/es785745/Products/LOUIMC-45
 

 

By Mike in News Archives ·

New Kent Cd - People Get Ready: The Curtis Mayfield Songbook - VA (Songwriter Series)

People Get Ready: The Curtis Mayfield Songbook - VA (Songwriter Series) is Kent Records latest addition to its long running 'Songwriter Series'.
Billed as 'An extensive overview of the words and music of Chicago’s Gentle Genius Of Soul', this cd focuses on Curtis Mayfield. Offering a select selection from his vast catalogue of songs.
A brief clip from the release notes by Tony Rounce says it all.
The “Gentle Genius” from Chicago’s Cabrini-Green projects wrote for the romantic, and also for the revolutionary. His songs spoke to his people, and for his people. Many of his biggest successes as writer carry important social messages, others simply say “you are beautiful and I love you”. All of them are finely crafted masterpieces that confirm Curtis’ standing as one of the great creators of 20th century popular song.
The full release notes can be read via the Ace website - tap to visit
 
 People Get Ready: The Curtis Mayfield Songbook - VA (Songwriter Series)  CDTOP 506
Booklet Preview
A glossy 20-page booklet featuring images and detailed notes written by Tony Rounce.

 

 
Tracks
01  Gypsy Woman - The Impressions
02  The Monkey Time - The Miracles
03  Behind The Curtains - Jan Bradley
04  Rainbow (Alt) - Gene Chandler
05  Mama Didn't Lie - The Orlons
06  Um, Um, Um, Um, Um, Um - Major Lance
07  I've Been Trying - Jerry Butler
08  Queen Majesty - The Techniques
09  It's All Over - Walter Jackson
10  He Will Break Your Heart - Freddie Scott
11  People Get Ready - Dionne Warwick
12  That's What Love Will Do - The Gaylads
13  Man's Temptation - The Jackson 5
14  Give Me Your Love - Barbara Mason
15  Need To Belong To Someone - Isaac Hayes
16  I'm So Proud - The Main Ingredient
17  Make Me Believe In You - Patti Jo
18  Keep On Keeping On (UK single edit) - Curtis Mayfield
19  The Makings Of You - Gladys Knight & The Pips
20  Let's Do It Again (Single edit) - The Staple Singers
21  Look Into Your Heart (Single edit) - Aretha Franklin
22  Never Stop Loving Me - Keni Burke
23  Giving Him Something He Can Feel - En Vogue
24  Hard Times - John Legend & The Roots featuring Black Thought
 
Availability 
Available now at all your usual soul stockist including your own Source Store here...
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/store/product/447-people-get-ready-the-curtis-mayfield-songbook-va-song-writer-series-kent-records-cd/
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

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