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Explore a wide range of soul music articles, from breaking news to in-depth features on Northern Soul, Motown, Funk and Soul Music.
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UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08PPJZDVH
Northern Soul Connections #24 - Soul Reflections... who, where, what
Sonny Harris And The Soul Reflections, Vancouver Soul Reflections, Soul Reflections feat Carroll Jones, Beloit-Wisconsin Soul Reflections, North Carolina Soul Reflections
Ken B's latest northern soul connection #24
Northern Soul Connection #24 (click twice for best view)
Site info - You can check out Kens other quality 23 Northern Connections all available via his 'activity' profile page, the link follows below...
More articles from KenB
New Jazzman Record Cases Now Available
Their record case range has been upgraded and has now a more 'pro DJ' orientation as you can see/read below
Jazzman spiel and some choice reviews follow below,,,
Intro
Introducing our own exclusive range of brand new 7" hard-wearing wooden record cases, in equal measure stylish and functional, solving the age-old problem of storing, transporting & displaying your precious 45s once and for all!
Our new boxes come in 2 sizes, PRO Large and PRO XL.
The PRO Large holds 150x7" records, the PRO XL holds 300x7" records.
Both are available in your choice of 3 finishes: Antique Pine, Oak or Mahogany
Our new updated design is again custom made to our exact specification in limited numbers. They don't just look the business, they've been built for professional use and will last for many years to come.
Ugly, bulky industrial cheap n' nasty mass-produced flight cases they are not! No flimsy plastic, chipboard, MDF or cheap cardboard either! These cases are hand-crafted from ethically-sourced & hard-wearing wood, the ultimate 7" record cases for all serious record collectors & professional DJs....
Reviews
"I'm really impressed with this box, nobody's made them like this for years, a nice new home for my best stuff" - Mark 'Butch' Dobson (World #1 Northern Soul DJ)
"Jazzman are already known for making great records, well done to them for making the nicest record boxes I've seen in years" - Norman Jay MBE
"Sturdy and with a classic design, this is the best 7" box I have come across" - Eddie Pillar (Acid Jazz)
"Northern, Funk, Rockabilly, Garage - these are the boxes to keep 'em in, f*** marvellous!" - The Legendary Keb Darge
Full details, prices and more via the Jazzman Records Product page here
https://www.jazzmanrecords.co.uk/merchandise?format=20650
Bobby Parker - Soul Of The Blues - Cd and Lp
The below links will take you to the site of Rhythm and Blues Records who have just made available the wonderful recordings that Bobby Parker left behind. Bobby died seven years ago now and did not leave us that many recordings. Not only was he under-recorded, but most of what he did went unreleased in the UK.
http://rhythmandbluesrecords.co.uk/?product=bobby-parker-soul-of-the-blues-2cd
http://rhythmandbluesrecords.co.uk/?product=bobby-parker-soul-of-the-blues-lp
In spite of having a career that spanned more than fifty years, this new issue represents the very first vinyl album by Bobby Parker.
The seventeen tracks cover most of his singles from the 50s and 60s.
The expanded 2cd pack with fifty plus tracks unearths these and more gems from obscurity. All his known issues are here including his significant contributions to others` work. The largely chronological sequence follows his path through big band R&B , guitar-led rock, pleading soul and the ever-present blues. Nearly all the music here is from the 50s-60s-70s.......but a bonus is the inclusion of a U.S. radio show from the `90s when after a spell of retirement from music, he came back to form a regularly working blues band.
Just to clarify for the widely-knowledgeable Soul Source readers: This is the Bobby Parker of "Watch your Step" and "You got what it takes " fame. We are not talking about Robert "Barefootin` " Parker of New Orleans ...nor even Bobby Parker of Los Angeles soul group the Hi Tensions. And certainly not about the Bobby Parker who recorded countless vanity poems as songs for the Hollywood Artists label.
"Watch your Step" was made in 1961 and was a hugely influential record to the UK from the world of black music. It was issued here on both London American and Sue labels. It was widely played on pirate radio which was challenging the limited exposure of pop from the BBC.....and also at the all-nighter and Northern Soul clubs springing up in places outside London. The song was also prime material for the new style groups like the Beatles and Stones to rehash American R&B for us. And that was the only 45 that Bobby got released in UK. If you have never heard it , the screaming vocal and over-amplified guitar will take you to a new place.
One other familiar Bobby Parker song was "You got what it takes" - the Marv Johnson million-seller..............not that you would know it, because mysteriously the writers` credit was " given to "Gordy, Gordy and Davis". Bobby had earlier made it for Vee Jay in 1957 and spent the rest of his life telling people how they stole it, but he never could afford the expensive lawyers necessary to get him his fair dues.
You have heard of Little Bobby Parker from the Shrine issue. This is our man. And you may even be aware of the superb deep soul songs "It`s too late" and "Don`t drive me away " - made for Sabu and Frisky...two labels that each sported just three 45s in their short existence. Another soul masterpiece included here is Nat Hall`s Loop 45 of "Why (I want to know)"/"You don`t know (just how I feel)"which Bobby produced. That one last sold in auction for £1500 +.
Bobby operating out of Washington DC, seemed to specialise in finding labels without much more than local distribution. In his late life, Bobby was reluctant to see these records he had made as a young man re-released. As his own manager, he did not want to give potential bookers the impression that this was the act they would be booking. Into his 70s, he was not dropping to his knees and screaming in James Brown fashion. It is surely not now a bad thing to let people enjoy his talent and hear these performances.
One thing he did not lose was his skill with the guitar. As a blues guitar player he was in the top bracket with the Kings, Buddy Guy,Albert Collins ,etc . His playing was always recognisable and different. The cds are littered with Bobby`s unique contributions to the Nat Hall, Maskman and Billy Clark 45s and others included ......And for Bobby thirty years later, check out his appearance at the Monterey Festival with Santana and Buddy Guy on the great Eagle Rock DVD.
Virtuoso blues guitarist Bobby Parker inspired John Lennon, Eric Clapton, Carlos Santana, Jimmy Page and many others yet it has taken 66 years since his recording debut for a proper compilation to be issued under his name. The one you all know, Watch your Step was played on stage by the Beatles in their Hamburg days who by their own admission, took its riff to fashion the opening to I Feel Fine. And let’s not forget Led Zeppelin’s Moby Dick, which borrowed that same riff. What a great soulful blues singer Bobby Parker was too. From his 1956 recording of Titanic, to 1969’s It’s Hard But It’s Fair, we present some unforgettable vocal performances plus guitar instrumentals that showcase his unique way of playing the blues. And there are some unreleased live performances from a radio show broadcast in 1995. Bobby Parker originals are hard to come by – apart from the hit Watch your Step, everything else is a valuable collector’s item. But this compilation brings them all together in one set and we can promise a treat in store for you.
All in all the 52 tracks here are a veritable treasure trove of wonderful music. And the presentation of the CD set is superb with a sumptuous booklet…I can’t recommend (it) strongly enough…The definitive Bobby Parker is a dream come true for fans like me – this is the best reissue CD of 2020 for sure. Don’t you dare miss it! John Ridley
Within these 52 tracks you’ll find jump blues, novelty blues, rock ‘n’ roll blues, Chicago-style blues, gospel blues and funky blues…a fine start to a lovingly compiled set. Richard Williams
BOBBY PARKER – SOUL OF THE BLUES 2CD
Track Listing
Disc One
Sally Lou 1954
Why Must I Wonder 1954
I’m Looking For A Woman 1955
Titanic 1956
Once Upon A Time, Long Ago 1956
Suggie Duggie Boogie Baby 1956
Up, Up, Up 1956
Blues Get Off My Shoulder 1957
You Got What It Takes 1957
Foolish Love 1959
Stop By My House 1959
Watch Your Step 1961
Steal Your Heart Away 1961
Night Stroll (Pt. 2) 1961
I Got The Blues So Bad 1962
It’s Too Late Darling 1963
Get Right 1963
Gimme Some Lovin’ 1964
Do The Monkey 1964
Don’t Drive Me Away 1965
Keep Away From My Heart 1965
I Won’t Believe It Till I See It 1966
Hard But It’s Fair 1968
Couldn’t Quit My Baby 1968
You Don’t Know (Just How I Feel) 1966
Money, You Never Get Tired Of 1967
Hot Gravy 1967
In Be Tween 1967
Soul Party (Pt. 2) 1968
Both Eyes Open 1968
Disc 2
Born Under A Bad Sign 1995
Everyday I Have The Blues 1995
Bent Out Of Shape 1995
Break It Up 1995
I Call Her Baby 1995
Bobby A-Go-Go 1995
Chicken Wings 1969
Watch Your Step (take 2) 1961
Suggie Duggie Boogie Baby (take 2) 1956
There She Blows 1970
Talkin’ About Love 1967
Why 1966
Soul Party (Pt. 1) 1969
Night Stroll (Pt. 1) 1961
Funky Funky 1970
Bo Diddley 1955
Diddy Wah Diddy 1955
Dancing Girl 1955
Pass the Buck 1956
Give It Up 1956
Big Two Four 1956
South Shore Drive 1956
'All in all the 52 tracks here are a veritable treasure trove of wonderful music. And the presentation of the CD set is superb with a sumptuous booklet…I can’t recommend (it) strongly enough…The definitive Bobby Parker is a dream come true for fans like me – this is the best reissue CD of 2020 for sure. Don’t you dare miss it! ' John Ridley
BOBBY PARKER – SOUL OF THE BLUES LP
SIDE ONE
Watch Your Step
It’s Hard But It’s Fair
Titanic
I Won’t Believe It Till I See It
Don’t Drive Me Away
Do The Monkey
Blues Get Off My Shoulder
Keep Away From My Heart
Night Stroll (Pt. 2)
SIDE TWO
It’s Too Late Darling
Steal Your Heart Away
I Couldn’t Quit My Baby
Once Upon A Time, Long Ago, Last Night
You Got What It Takes
Gimme Some Lovin’
Get Right
Hot Gravy
Links
http://rhythmandbluesrecords.co.uk/?product=bobby-parker-soul-of-the-blues-2cd
http://rhythmandbluesrecords.co.uk/?product=bobby-parker-soul-of-the-blues-lp
Najaca Soul Album
I reposted the DEMOS / ROUGH MIXES of the first album of the hottest unsigned act worldwide for you to ponder!
NAJACA SOUL
enjoy...
New Diggin' Deep 45 - Alpaca Phase III / Frederick Knight
Sam Dees & Frederick Knight Productions - Birmingham, Alabama, Soul.
The newest ‘Diggin’ Deep’ limited edition 45
Release date Friday 11th December 2020
Available to pre-order now!
DD 013A - Alpaca Phase III - ‘Someone To Run To’
DD 013B - Frederick Knight - ‘It Ain’t No Fun’
Our latest 45 release is another Birmingham, Alabama, double-decker that Diggin’ Deep are extremely proud to be able to bring to you. This being the first time on vinyl for either of these superb Southern Soul tracks.
Of course, any release coming from the pen of Sam Dees is bound to cause a bit of a stir and here we have a real gem with a bonus flipside courtesy of his song-writing partner, on so many occasions, the great Frederick Knight.
Alpaca Phase III were a song writing and musical team headed up by Sam Dees, Wes Lewis and Collins Berry and this track might well be their finest hour as a group. But we’ll let you be the judge of that.
In the can, from the same session, was a take of this song with Sam Dees on lead vocal (which Ady Croasdell and I included in the final part of the Sam Dees previously unreleased CD’s ‘Its Over - 70’s Songwriter Demos and Masters’ CDKEND 426) but it is the Alpaca Phase III ‘group take’ which the fans have been drooling over for many years.
This version, we understand, features Wes Lewis taking his turn on lead. Lewis was a terrific vocalist and an artist with a much loved and in-demand Soul 45 on Black Kat Records ‘It’s Gonna Be Hard’ / ‘Best Of My Years’ from 1977. He recorded a subsequent string of Inspirational Music with the Gospel group ‘Faith’ on Malaco Records. His lead vocal recording of ‘Someone To Run To’ is a blistering, seventies soul, dancer, which only ever appeared on the Hotlanta Soul Volume Two set CDKEND 183, over 20 years ago. Wes Lewis passed away, sadly, in September 2005.
The third most valuable player is Collins "Bo" Berry, a Birmingham based horn player and session musician. Berry headlined the house band for Birmingham's 401 Club in the 1960s and was an original member of the Commodores back-up band in the 1970s. In 1975 he joined Alpaca Phase III, which had recorded the Northern Soul hit "I Like to Party" for Atlantic Records the year earlier. He toured with the group before returning to Birmingham where he recorded and produced Cleveland Eaton’s Garden of Eaton amongst others.
Sam Dees should need no introduction to fans of Diggin’ Deep Records. His work is revered in soul circles and with legions of music fans around the world. We are very proud, once again, to bring you another vinyl 45 from the pen and genius of the maestro, Sam Dees. It’s absolutely wonderful.
Promo Video
Frederick Knight is a singer, songwriter and producer, born 15 August 1944 in Birmingham, Alabama, best known for his 1972 hit "I've Been Lonely For So Long" which he recorded at Neal Hemphill’s Sound of Birmingham studio, where he worked as an engineer, and for writing and producing Anita Bell's 1979 #1 hit "Ring My Bell".
Here we revive Knight’s original take of ‘It Ain’t No Fun’ which received huge acclaim when recorded and included in the million selling, southern soul album ‘Woman To Woman’ for Shirley Brown. Beginning with the customary rap intro, Knight takes this sad ballad at a mournful pace which draws the listener into the song’s sorry tale. If you like your Soul on the deep side, unhurried and intimate, you’ll be floored by this.
So with the topside ‘Someone To Run To’ a highly regarded Crossover Soul midpacer and the flipside ‘It Ain’t No Fun’ having been an acknowledged Southern Soul classic song for over 45 years, we hope you will agree, this wonderful double-header is a slice of vinyl that every Soul fan will want in their collection.
The DD013 collector’s release is a limited pressing @ just £12 each plus postage and packing.
Avoid Disappointment. Pre-order now, while stocks last.
Note: Only one copy per person. First come, first served.
Diggin’ Deep Records - Making available a series of excellent Soul recordings from the 60’s and 70’s, most of which will be released as a limited edition 45 for the very first time, and the occasional, carefully selected, re-issue. Dozens more titles are lined up for limited future release. Keep informed by collecting the vinyl, joining the mailing list, visiting the website and social media pages regularly and ensure you’re among the first to know!
Avoid Disappointment. Pre-order now, while stocks last.
https://www.diggin-deep.com/
New - Source Store Gift Card Feature
Our site and store features continue to grow and develop. The latest addition is our Store Gift Card Feature
Now not only can you order brand new quality soul vinyl, you can also now purchase Store Gift Card
This feature makes maximum use of all our easy to use and familiar soul source features, easy pay and easy delivery. You can send the cards in a no fuss manner via the following suggested methods...
Soul Source PMs to members Via email to members or guests Print them out and send via normal land mail.
To Purchase
To purchase just go to our Store feature and hit the purchase links that show in our store sidebars. (see below)
Direct Gift Card purchase link
The direct link to the Card purchase page is https://www.soul-source.co.uk/store/gift-cards/
Using Gift Cards in Store
The recipients can then use gift cards using the redeem button (see image above).
They will then be asked for the gift card code which can be seen on the gift card itself.
Upon entering this, the credit will then be added to their Soul Source account for purchasing items in our store
Can check out the card feature in place via our store link below along with our ever expanding lineup of quality new soul 45s, Cds and more via
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/store/
Two New 45s From Super Disco Edits
Both are from Super Disco Edits , one available right now, the other next month/year, can listen and read below...
Before the 45 details here's a quick word from Super Disco Edits about themselves
About Super Disco Edits
'At first glance you may think Super Disco Edits is just another cut and paste record label, churning out disco fodder. But let me stop you there.
We morphed oursleves into our first true love. Sourcing long and forgetten Soul & Jazz artist so we could document their hopes and dreams once again on glorious vinyl.
From established artist like Leroy Hutson and Mike and Dennis Coffey to newly disovered acts like Between the two. Our aim is to dig deep into old studio archives and dusty lofts and basements of past record label owners to see if we can revive the magic that may lie in old studio reels they may have.'
Out now and on the shop floors
Onyx 'Help me' / 'Spellbound' Nia 45
Previously unreleased this up-tempo 70s track recorded in 1973 certainly is in contention for the most feel good 45 release of the year, both smile and feett moving inducing.
The group "Onyx" was formed in 1972 the members, were Aaron and Wendell Basey, Malvin Scott, and Ronald Busby. Ronald left the group to pursue other interests and was replaced by Cornelius Weekly.
We were reared in the San Francisco Bay Area, specifically Oakland and Alameda, California. We grew up singing in our School and Church Choirs. We all began singing in quartets while we were teenagers in Junior High School. Malvin sang in the group Morry Williams and the Kids. They had a national hit titled "Are You, My GirlFriend." The Basey brothers sang with several groups in California, none with any recording history. The Basey's were the founding members of the soul group Natural Four. After that, along with Malvin, they started the singing group "Onyx."
The Next Super Disco Edits 45 release from Phillip Ballou is due for release in early 2021
Phillip Ballou "We'll be together"/"I need you" Nefer 45 PRE ORDER
Another previously unreleased side making its vinyl debut. Listen below and you may hear just why there is a fuss about this one.
PHILLIP BALLOU Pittsburgh-born Phillip Ballou’s earliest years were spent in the gospel field; after he moved to New York City in the ‘70s, he teamed up with Bennie Diggs and Arthur Freeman, founding members of The New York Community Choir and singer Arnold McCuller to form the group Revelation. The quartet recorded for RSO Records, scoring some R&B success in the US with tracks like “Get Ready For This” and “You To Me Are Everything,” touring the Bee Gees among others. Phillip also sang on albums by NYCC recorded for RCA Records and continued with Revelation until 1982. Frequently hired for sessions in and around New York, Phillip teamed up with UK soul music journalist David Nathan (who he’d met in 1974 during Nathan’s first US visit) and John Simmons, formerly a member of The Reflections, another New York vocal group to write a series of songs for his own proposed solo record deal. Although a contract did not materialize, one of the songs – “Ain’t Nothing Like The Love” – got some interest from famed Philadelphia producer Thom Bell who presented it to The O’Jays. Ultimately, the tune was turned down by Kenny Gamble and John Simmons, by then musical director for Stephanie Mills, recorded his own version for a small independent label in 1981.
More info, background, purchase options and such can be had via Super Disco Edits page on the Big Cartel site
https://superdiscoedits.bigcartel.com/
Members may wish to be aware that they can take advantage of the features/benefits of our very own Source Store here
Big Crown Vaults Vol. 1 Lee Fields & The Expressions - New Album
BIG CROWN VAULTS VOL. 1
LEE FIELDS & THE EXPRESSIONS
OUT TODAY
Happy Release Day to Lee Fields & The Expressions. Big Crown Vaults Vol. 1 is out worldwide today. Enjoy the record at all digital outlets or visit your favorite record shop for the LP & CD.
We are always sitting on a handful of unreleased songs that didn’t make their way to albums. Listening back to these gems we decided to launch a new series entitled Big Crown Vaults and the first volume features the music of Lee Fields & the Expressions. These tunes were cut during the Special Night & It Rains Love sessions. When you hear these tracks you can imagine how difficult some of these decisions were in the first place to leave them off the albums.
Cover painting by Taha Clayton
That's the release blurb, highlights include the below track
Lee Fields & The Expressions - Thinking About You
all flavours streaming link
https://smarturl.it/BigCrown_vaults_vol1
Purchase vinyl lp cd, or mp3 via
https://leefieldsandtheexpressions.bandcamp.com/album/big-crown-vaults-vol-1-lee-fields-the-expressions
Broughton Wings Soul Club Update
I have left this posting until now as I thought there may have been a slim chance of having a slight reprieve, but I lost the fight and I am afraid COVID won.
This month of December would have seen our now famous Charity Night Special and Soul For Santa.
It is with a heavy heart that I must announce that Broughton Wings Soul Club will no longer be able to go ahead at the Sports and Social Club. Many of us knew that the club would have to close at the end of 2020 and a new club was being built. The new club is due to be completed sometime during January/February. When completed I have been asked to look at the new club and see if it would be suitable as a venue. I must be honest and say at this stage I don’t really know as the design concept is very different to the existing club. We will just have to wait and see.
It should have been the 20th Anniversary back in June and again because of the situation like all soul venues this could not go ahead.
Running consistently for 20 Years is something to be extremely proud of. So, I would like to take this opportunity to say a huge heartfelt thanks to the following,
To everyone who has given their support to put Broughton on the Soul Map. To the bar staff who kept the flow of drinks going all night. To all the Guest DJs over the last 20 years who have entertained everyone. So many to mention, but special thanks go out to Chico who we all miss so much.
To everyone who dug deep in their pockets and helped to raise just over £20,000 for the charity nights I arranged. Benefiting the likes of Breast Cancer Trust, Dementia UK, The Homeless Society Smiles For Miles Children’s Charity and so many, many more.
To everyone, who’s unbelievable generosity in donating toys for our Christmas Soul For Santa which went at Christmas to the sick children at Hope House Hospice and Wrexham and Chester Children’s Wards.
To Steve Thomas for running the Up, Up And Away Broughton Website.
Finally, to two people. My great friend of 50 years. Soul Sam whose enthusiasm, knowledge, and his ability to entertain everyone, no matter what soul music you like. To my wife Sue who has helped in so many, many ways, a personal thank you.
I know I have gone on a bit, but it had to be said. We all love soul music but staying safe and healthy in this current climate and these uncertain times is far more important.
Have the best Christmas you can possibly have and here is hoping for a better 2021 for all.
I hope to be spinning those pieces of plastic somewhere at some point in the future.
Kev.
New Release - Detroit's Secret Soul - Little Ann - Kent - Cd Release
A new Cd release from Kent Records. Detroit's Secret Soul is being billed as an 'extended' version of the vinyl lp album released last year. The previous vinyl release from Kent involved 13 tracks (full details of the lp version). This release ups the track count to 25 (alt versions, instrumentals and an a cappella version of a classic). Along with four rare Canadian sides appearing on cd for the first time, plus '19 of the 25 tracks are making their digital debuts', and if you then add to the 'extended' description, the many remastered vocals, the 'extended leaflet' offering 'the most detailed' sleeve notes on her career yet. Then you may start to wonder if that 'extended' tag may just be a bit of an understatement. Details and links follow below...
Release Notes Preview
The ultimate Little Ann collection – featuring alternate versions, rare 70s recordings, backing tracks and more.
In the last two decades, Little Ann’s music has gone from being almost unheard to celebrated widely across the world. Initially known only as a footnote for having one side of a Ric-Tic single in 1968, the discovery of her acetate of ‘What Should I Do’ at Wigan Casino in the late 70s led to her name becoming important to rare soul fans.
When Ace Records acquired Dave Hamilton’s Detroit studio tapes, more previously unheard gems came to light: eventually there were found to be nine songs recorded in 1967 and 1968 with Dave and his partner Darrell Goolsby. ‘Who Are You Trying To Fool’, ‘Sweep It Out In The Shed’ and ‘Lean Lanky Daddy’ proved to be perfect additions for the Northern Soul dance scene, while ‘I Got To Have You’ and ‘Possession’ wowed the funk crowd, and the beauty of ‘Deep Shadows’ got through to every type of soul fan.
Sleeve Notes Preview
You can read the lengthy informative release notes by @Ady Croasdell in full on the Ace Records Cd webpage (along with purchase options) via https://acerecords.co.uk/detroits-secret-soul-1
Detroit's Secret Soul - Little Ann Tracks
01 What Should I Do
02 Lean Lanky Daddy
03 Sweep It Out In The Shed (Master tape)
04 Who Are You Trying To Fool
05 I Got To Have You
06 One Way Street
07 Possession (Master edit)
08 The Smile On Your Face
09 Deep Shadows (Multi mix)
10 Lost A Lover (Need A Friend)
11 That's All I Want From You
12 Stand Together
13 I'm Doin' All Right
14 What Should I Do (Instrumental)
15 Lean Lanky Daddy (Instrumental)
16 Sweep It Out In The Shed (Instrumental)
17 Who Are You Trying To Fool (Instrumental)
18 I Got To Have You (Instrumental)
19 One Way Street (Instrumental)
20 Possession (Instrumental)
21 The Smile On Your Face (Instrumental)
22 Deep Shadows (Instrumental)
23 What Should I Do (Alt vocal version)
24 Who Are You Trying To Fool (Alt take)
25 Deep Shadows (A cappella version)
Available via Ace records (see link above), the usual suspects and for members a most recent addition to our very own Source Store Cd Section
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/store/category/11-cds/
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/store/product/171-detroits-secret-soul-little-ann-kent-records-cd/
Keith Minshull Funeral Details 3rd December 2020
Thursday 3rd December 2020
The journey commences from King Street Kidsgrove
At 10.45am along Market Street then down Liverpool Road to the lights then left along the Avenue Kidsgrove then making its way to Crewe Crematorium for the service at 11.30am. Finally after the service to the burial at Audley Cemetary on Nantwich Road.
The funeral service will be streamed live, details asap.
Keith Minshull At rest on 11th November 2020,
Keith aged 70 years of Kidsgrove.
"Internationally renowned Northern Soul DJ"
Keith will be greatly missed by all his family and many friends. Although there will be a private family funeral, you are welcome to pay your last respects to Keith as he makes his final journey through Kidsgrove.
The cortege will start from Joseph Edwards & Sons in King Street on Thursday 3rd December at 10.45am and will travel down Market Street, Liverpool Road and The Avenue.
Should you wish to make a donation in memory of Keith, the charity of choice is Children In Need.
All enquiries and any donations to JOSEPH EDWARDS & SONS, Independent Funeral Directors of King Street, Kidsgrove. Tel: 01782 775333
Bandcamp - A History of Street Soul, the Sound That Swept the UK Underground
A History of Street Soul, the Sound That Swept the UK Underground
Written By Andy Thomas · November 19, 2020
In the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, the UK was in thrall to the searing sounds of Acid House. But at the same time, another, more DIY sound was rising out of the Black inner city neighborhoods. That sound was street soul—and as the history of club culture has been written over the years, it still remains unjustly overlooked.
Full History of Street Soul article via
https://daily.bandcamp.com/features/uk-street-soul-history
Out Now - Paris Ford - Boogie On Down - 45 - Previously Unissued
PARIS FORD
A: Boogie Down
B: You Ask For It (Come & Freak With Me)
Limited Edition 7” Previously Unissued / Epsilon Records Co.
Modern New York Style Funky Disco Killer from 1977
Listen:
Buy It Now:
https://twilightrecord45.wixsite.com/website
MORE ABOUT PARIS FORD:
One of the most enduring Bassist of the past Three decade PARIS FORD ,has taken his place as one of the most groundbreaking “New Old School” session players in popular music, from sharing recording sessions with the likes of Marcus Miller and Anthony Jackson to Recording and/or touring with everyone from Punk/Funk R&B recording artist Rick James to Jazz Fusion Violinist Micheal Urbaniak to name a few.
FORD’s early days of Junior High School in the Bronx, playing in local bands with a great deal of his influences Larry Graham, Graham Central Station and Francis Rocco Prestia of Tower Power to name a few, makeup the unique style of his bass playing technique. His production combines the undeniably funky soulful song writing skills of R&B Jazz/Funk and Hip Hop.
Although PARIS FORD released several singles throughout the years in U.S. & Europe, this single remains close to his heart, straight out of the vault of his Master Recording, this is his very first recording, it was done in his teen years( In the 70s Disco era). Alberto Zanini & Yann Vatiste Cannon Ball Records decided to release it amongst the company of some major musician and friends, PARIS FORD, Back then he was known aka "Peewee" (Peewee Ford), it was Recorded in 1978 -77 in Brooklyn NY at Platinum Factory/MTR Studio Restoration Mall.
In 82’' FORD was signed as a solo artist to Arthur Baker’s record label, Streetwise Records, there Ford released his debut Dance/Funk 12inch single ”Be My Girl” f/ JAMES ROBINSON(of the group "CHANGE"), charted at # 69 on Billboard's Top 100 R&B/Dance charts also playing Bass on most of the Streetwise hits, "Keep Dancin" was his follow up release also featuring James Robinson.
PARIS FORD has played Bass for Rick James, The B.B.&Q Band, Johnny Gill, New Edition, Evelyn “Champagne” King, Lenny White, Tyrone Thomas& The Whole Darn Family, Norman Conners, Lonnie Liston Smith, Micheal Urbankiak, Urszula Dudziak, James Robinson, Invisible Man's Band, The Village People, Glen Jones, Vicki Sue Robinson, Jean Carn, Val Young, J Plunky & Oneness and many other well known major recording artist also playing on many Jingles.From Paris:“This Release is close to my heart, I was a teen when I recorded it, I've done many recording with groups between 1974 -77 But this was my very 1st solo project. Back then I was known aka Peewee Ford, it was Recorded in 1977 in Brooklyn NY at Platinum Factory/MTR Studio Restoration Mall”
Special thanks to Alberto Zanini, Joel Maslin & off course my friend the exceptional bass player Paris Ford!
Yann Vatiste
https://twilightrecord45.wixsite.com/website
Mister Good Times - Norman Jay - Kindle
A Sunday read type highlight of the Kindle preview of Mister Good Times - Norman Jay
Paperback version has been recently published, also available in an earlier hardback version and also via Kindle at £3.9. Details and Kindle preview below.
Amazon Blurb
THE ENTHRALLING LIFE STORY OF THE LEGENDARY DJ, NORMAN JAY MBE
'Norman Jay's contribution to club culture is immeasurable . . . He brought new life to undiscovered classics and in doing so turned on a whole new generation' David Rodigan
'Full of the heart and spirit Norman Jay brings to his music, but it also offers a salutary account of growing up as part of the Windrush generation in London's Notting Hill, the violence and racism he faced, and his success' Observer
Mister Good Times is the enthralling story of a black kid growing up in a (largely white) working class world; of vivid, often violent experiences on the football terraces; of the emerging club scene growing out of a melting pot of styles; of how Jay, with his contemporaries, took the music of Black America, gave it a distinctly London twist, and used the marriage of styles to forge a hugely successful career as a trailblazing DJ and broadcaster, becoming an inspiration to a whole generation of dance music fans, black and white, without ever compromising his integrity.
Along the way are tales of adventures across the country following Spurs; of Northern Soul nights, warehouse parties and illegal raves; of sound systems, the good and bad times of the Notting Hill carnival, the heady days of pirate radio, Rare Groove and the burgeoning British dance music scene.
Mister Good Times is the story of a man who has lived his life on his own terms, helping to define a new British culture.
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Tap the cover below to read a preview of ' Mister Good Times - Norman Jay '
Jackie Wilson Limited Edition 10 Record Box Set On Sale Now
Its my pleasure to announce the release of this great box set that was out together from my favourite Lp tracks that never got a 45rpm release all be it some did come out on the odd EP in Europe and odd re issue in Japan.
All tracks are licensed from Brunswick and MCPS writers paid and Re Mastered to the highest level on earth to bring perfect load and clear sound quality.
Why you may ask ??? Its simple I prefer DJing with 45s as the sound quality is better than Lps and they all fit in one DJ box !
LIMITED EDITION BOX SET FEATURING 10 SINGLE SIDED 45s
PRETTY LITTLE ANGEL EYES LETS LOVE AGAIN THIS LOVE OF MINE DONT YOU KNOW I LOVE YOU (FEATURED SOUNDFILE) HARD TO GET A THING CALLED LOVE ONLY YOUR LOVE CAN SAVE ME SOULVILLE OPEN THE DOOR TO YOUR HEART LIGHT MY FIRE GROWIN TALL Buy Now From
https://sonicwaxrecords.com
1186717539_BOOKBRUNSWICK27.pdf
VISIT SONIC WAX
Okeh Records - A Pictorial Discography - Out Now
Well it's taken a while but finally sending the first of these out.
A detailed discography of Okeh Records from 1962 until the labels demise in 1970.
Comprises 84 pages, including 21 full colour sheets, and details of every release from mid-1962 onwards.
Discography contains details of each record taken direct from the record label and includes Artist / Title / Writer(s) / Arranger(s) / Producer(s) and ZSP number where these details were noted.
£11.99 plus £2.14 first class P&P
For further details either email okehgaz@gmail.com or contact Mark Windle via https://a-nickel-and-a-nail.myshopify.com/
GLR Radio 1999 - Where's Wigan - a Londoners Guide to Northern Soul
Digging through the 6-pacs led to this packed away show from the late 1990s. Rather than just dump it on mixcloud have dug out the text that accompanied the show on here at the time...
As always with these type of digs, ask bear in mind that the text and the show are now over 20 years old
A radio show on GLR titled "Where's Wigan", subtitled "a Londoners Guide to Northern Soul"
The Capitol Soul Club is London based, devoted to spreading the soul in the capitol using a variety of methods with a great degree of success as proved by the dome event, with its all-ages crowd and fresh atmosphere. Much has been said about how can the scene move on, well here is a great example of soul fans spreading the soul... a radio show on GLR titled "Where's Wigan", subtitled "a Londoners guide to Northern Soul"
This one hour show ran weekly on Thursdays, for 2 months October to Dec in 1999 the shows were in Irish Greg's word "very funny and a very serious look at the music and interviews with celebrities that are into northern"
The shows were hosted by Matthew Priest who is a drummer with a certain band, won't say who cause every time i hear the name their biggest single starts playing in my head, and "H" a GLR Dj
On the shows as you hear, Matt P and Irish Greg discuss a lot of the scene main items, and as the show sub-titles suggests (a Londoners guide to northern soul) explains a lot of the "odd" things about northern, some off it is aimed at those who don't know a lot about northern (the band's name was Dodgy ...can you hear it in your head).
The clip consists of several clips of the show rolled into one 30 minute segment, clips inc interview bits from Keb Darge, Marc Almond
Broadcast 1999
Keeping the faith: A History Of Northern Soul - Kindle
Is this now the third university press related book in current times? Have to say am losing count/track of such going ons and the price does make me wonder about the aim/market of these 'University Press' books.
But anyway the purpose here is to inform and share and as with various past soul related kindle releases we can offer you below the chance to read the kindle preview of this book all from within the comfort of Soul Source and at no cost
Amazon Blurb
Drawing on an expansive range of sources, including oral histories, magazines and fanzines, diaries and letters, this book offers a detailed and empathetic reading of a working class culture that was created and consumed by thousands of young people in the 1970s. The authors highlight the complex ways in which class, race and gender identities acted as forces for both unity and fragmentation on the dancefloors of iconic clubs such as the Twisted Wheel in Manchester, Blackpool Mecca, the Torch in Stoke-on-Trent, the Catacombs in Wolverhampton and the Casino in Wigan.
Marking a significant contribution to the historiography of youth culture, this book is essential reading for those interested in popular music and everyday life in in postwar Britain.
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Tap the cover below to read a fairly lengthy preview of 'Keeping the faith: A history of northern soul'
New Kent CD Review - This Is Fame 1964-1968
As well as the hits the studio and label also had an amazing amount of material that didn’t make the charts or was simply left in the can. However Ace Records struck a deal to go through the vaults and subsequently many tracks have been rescued and issued thus further preserving the legacy Rick Hall and the extremely talented group of writers and musicians has left behind.
Compilations of Rare and Unissued, The Hall of Fame and The Fame Studio Story have all chronicled the amazing story and depth of music from the studio. Further compilations from its stars such as George Jackson, Clarence Carter & Jimmy Hughes as well as several 45s, EPs and box sets have introduced the studio, not just to seasoned collectors of Soul and especially Southern Soul Music but to a whole new generation of fans as well.
The latest offering, This Is Fame 1964-1968 is a compilation of the very best the label has to offer both released and at the time unreleased recordings. Dancers, ballads, heartbreakers and tearjerkers, hits, failures, obscure and unreleased. The studio and label have a vast wealth of material and this compilation highlights some of the Southern Soul and in particular The Sound Of Muscle Shoals the studio and label has to offer.
James Barnett’s “Keep On Talking”, Art Freeman with “Slipping Around With You” and June Conquest with “Almost Persuaded”, just three tracks from the label which were seized upon by the UK Northern Soul scene many years ago in the quest for obscure American Soul/R&B 45s and have since gone on to become scene classics.
Jimmy Hughes, one of the labels more prolific artists is represented with “Steal Away” a hit from the studio in 1963 and the R&B mover Hi Heal Sneakers”. The Del-Rays with more R&B Dancers with their take of “Fortune Teller”, members of the Del-Rays, Jimmy Johnson & Roger Hawkins would form part of the famed bunch of musicians Rick Hall would put together at the second time of asking when original members left for Nashville.
Recently discovered material from the likes of Dan & Spence “Long Ago”, James Barnett “It Tears Me Up” & Ralph “Soul” Jackson with “You Really Know How To Hurt A Guy” and more, all have featured in compilations since Ace and Kent Records delved into the Fame archives.
Fame songwriters Dan Penn and Spooner Oldham show there was more to them than writing but recording their own compositions for themselves too, Penn with “Take Me (Just As I am) and Oldham with “Wish You Didn’t Have To Go”, both tracks jointly penned by the pair. Both would continue to write many hit records for other acts, both at Fame and later elsewhere.
Soul Music giants, George Jackson, Otis Clay, Clarence Carter & Arthur Conley with tracks that exemplify the Southern Soul sound of the time. Jeanie Greene, a Muscle Shoals session singer is the second female on the compilation with another track that old saw the light of day in recent years with the down tempo “Don’t Make Me Hate Loving You”.
24 of the very best tracks the studio has to offer, compiled by Dean Rudland who also provided the extensive liner notes.
I realise I am preaching to many who are already converted to the church of Southern Soul, but the work Ace/Kent have put into showcasing the small studio on East Avalon Avenue in Muscle Shoals should ensure that its legacy is enjoyed by soul music lovers for many years to come.
Karl White
(November 2020)
Track Listing
01 Steal Away - Jimmy Hughes
02 It Tears Me Up - James Barnett
03 She Ain't Gonna Do Right - Clarence Carter
04 I Can't Stop (No, No, No) - Arthur Conley
05 That Kind Of Lovin' - Otis Clay
06 Fortune Teller - The Del-Rays
07 Slippin' Around With You - Art Freeman
08 Keep On Talking - James Barnett
09 Hi Heel Sneakers - Jimmy Hughes
10 Long Ago - Ben & Spence
11 Don't Make Me Hate Loving You - Jeanie Greene
12 (Take Me) Just As I Am - Dan Penn
13 Back In Your Arms - George Jackson
14 Feed The Flame - Billy Young
15 You Really Know How To Hurt A Guy - Ralph "Soul" Jackson
16 Thread The Needle - Clarence Carter
17 A Piece Of My Heart - Art Freeman
18 Wish You Didn't Have To Go - Spooner & The Spoons
19 Almost Persuaded - June Conquest
20 I'm Gonna Forget About You - Arthur Conley
21 Take A Good Look - James Barnett
22 Come On Home - Herman Moore
23 Blind Can't See - Richard Earl & The Corvettes
24 I Worship The Ground You Walk On - Jimmy Hughes
Buy direct from Ace Records (free shipping) https://acerecords.co.uk/this-is-fame-1964-1968-1
Soul Sanctuary Gospel Choir Video - Soul at Saint James
SOUL SANCTUARY GOSPEL CHOIR CHALLENGES RACISM WITH 'COURAGE'
'Courage’ is a collection of song and word which aims to challenge people of all backgrounds to play their part in dismantling racism and inequality. It was filmed at St James’s Church Piccadilly and released to watch on Youtube on 1st November 2020.
Between carefully chosen songs, ‘Courage’ features conversation between choir members about the events of the summer and how it affected them, and spoken word from poet and rapper Solomon O.B, the Bristol-based activist who is a visible figurehead at the front line of the Black Lives Matter movement there.
The opening song, ‘Strange Fruit’, was made famous by Billie Holiday, and profoundly protests against the lynching of Black Americans. Two other songs, ‘Change the World’ and ‘Pain’ are from Snoop Dogg’s 2018 release, ‘Bible of Love’, sung by John Kee and B Slade respectively. John Legend’s call to action ‘If You’re Out There’ and Whitney Houston’s ‘Step by Step’ bring energy and hope that change is possible.
Choir Director Clarence Hunte comments: ‘As an ethnically diverse choir, we wanted to respond to the events of the past few months by creating music that would draw attention, with depth and sensitivity to the issues and emotions associated with the fight against racial injustice. Many of us experience racism and we have talked together about the message we wanted to send and the changes we want to see in society.'
The Rector of St James’s Church, Lucy Winkett says: ‘It has been our privilege to work with Soul Sanctuary Gospel Choir for many years now, in our services, at concerts and in broadcasts. We are proud to host this ‘Soul at Saint James’ first event focusing on ‘Courage’. In co-creating this event, we pledge ourselves to do everything we can to confront and dismantle the scourge of racism, knowing that this has to start with the church itself’.
‘Courage’ is the first of a new series of events called Soul at Saint James, a collaboration between Soul Sanctuary Gospel Choir and Saint James’s Church, Piccadilly. For ‘Courage’ they are also partnering with Lyrix Organix.
Video Soul at Saint James - 'Courage' featuring Soul Sanctuary Gospel Choir and Solomon O.B
Soul Sanctuary Gospel Choir Bio
Soul Sanctuary Gospel Choir was founded by Miko Giedroyc and Tracey Jane Campbell in 2005. They are a diverse collective drawn together by a love of gospel music and the joy of singing and playing, most often at monthly services held in two central London churches (before March 2020 and the COVID-19 lockdown measures).
In recent years, they have used our resources to support social action causes: working with the fairtrade charity, Traidcraft, the Jesuit Refugee Service and the communities affected by the Grenfell tragedy. They have supported the chaplaincy at Wandsworth Prison, singing there in 2018. Last October, they ran a series of gospel singing workshops and led the music in a North London church service marking Black History Month. The new Bishop of Dover, Rt Rev Rose Hudson, the first Black female bishop in the Church of England, was the guest preacher.
Soul Sanctuary endeavours to explore creative expressions of faith, and in their 2018 appearance at the Greenbelt festival, the communion took as its theme the arrival of commonwealth nationals on the Empire Windrush. It featured Averill Wauchope, a stowaway on the boat played by a choir member, who challenged a romanticised account of her experiences living and working in the UK. She described the “mountain of unconscious prejudice” Black people still encountered.
Soul Sanctuary have produced two CDs, ‘With All Your Soul’ and ‘You Are The Key’. They sing regularly on BBC Radio and have recently worked with Mica Paris on her new album ‘Gospel’.
We are determined to spread the good news of gospel music and they have a set of resources to enable groups of all kinds to explore gospel music and start their own choirs. Get in touch via their website to use our lyric sheets, part learning audio files and chord charts.
Website: https://www.soulsanctuarygospel.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/soulsanctuarygc
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/soulsanctuarygospelchoir
New Modern Soul 45 - Natasha Watts - Love who you are / Waited for you - LRK Records
As always this is a limited edition release with only 300 copies being pressed (just over 100 left already) so be quick they are going fast!
"Love Who You Are" This stunning vocalised / produced track is as good as anything Natasha has ever put in these hands - Bluesandsoul
"Waited For You" Is a slick modern soul gem, with an irresistible B-Line - Soulbrother
Release date: January 31, 2021
Pre order a copy here:
https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/love-who-you-are-waited-for-you
NATASHA WATTS
MULTI AWARD WINNING SINGER SONGWRITER
Natasha Watts burst onto the UK Soul music scene back in 2009 with her first collaboration with Coolmillion with a track called ‘Show me’. This track was to become a firm favourite within the UK Soul music scene and subsequently setting the foundations for Natasha’s success and journey in becoming a well respected UK artist.
Teaming up with Coolmillion in the first years allowed Natasha to gain an insight of what it as like to be a recording artist, through this she discovered the magic that is the Soul music scene. This exposure really helped shape her decision in which musical direction she wanted to go in.
Tracks ‘You & Me This Christmas’ and critically acclaimed ‘Born a Star’ followed shortly after. ‘Born A Star’ became the first release off of her eponymous album in 2013 which catapulted her into the hearts and souls of the UK. The momentum from this track presented her with huge support from specialist radio stations with countless interviews, all crediting Natasha with a vivacious stage presence and bubbly personality.
Off the back of this album, Natasha became the support act for Soul Legend Ms Gladys Knight on her UK tour, performing to well over 30,000 people across the country. Natasha has also toured as a solo artist all over the world. From Angola to Moscow. Germany to Miami – the length and breadth of Europe!
Fast forward to 2016 – Natasha drops her 2nd album ‘2nd Time Around’ which propelled her on the journey that lead her to several UK #1’s, magazine covers, credible duets, and support slots with a number of notable soul artists: The Fatback Band, Shalamar, and Ms Gladys Knight, etc. In addition to her supporting artist work, Natasha performed a great deal of sell-out solo shows!
Natasha has written and released well over 100 tracks to date, She constantly strives to provide the audience and her followers with better songs and a better performance – doing so brings her great joy.
Natasha lives to be on the stage and without a doubt, she was Born to be a Star!
Follow Natasha on her social media account to see what she’s up to. She releases regular performance and event updates so make sure you keep an eye out for her next performance.
https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/love-who-you-are-waited-for-you
A New One From MD Records - Patty and the Emblems
Jordan Wilson has been playing this track for the last few months on his Tuesday night show- in fact since we licensed it from Frank Bendinelli. Some of you might be asking what is so special about this, well both sides of this have not had a release on vinyl previously.
Hailing from Camden in New Jersey, Pat Russell was the core of the Patty ( Patti) and the Emblems and was supported by Eddie Watts, Vance Walker and Alexander Wildes with the fantastic harmonies that showed the Doo Wop heritage of the band. This 45 brings together the heavyweights of Leroy Lovett, Frank Bendinelli and Leroy Huff ( of Gamble and Huff fame) all together with the beautiful vocals of Patty.
Both sides are taken directly from the tapes in Franks vaults and we were really pleased to be able to work with him to go through some of the fantastic music he has had a hand in producing over his career. The a side – Love will come was issued on CD format in 1999/2000 but now for the first time you can put the 45 into your collection. The vocals from Patty climb and soar with the harmonies from the Emblems holding her up and sounding as fresh today as the day they were recorded.
Flip it over and you can hear Patty at the start of the recording talking to Leroy Lovett about what she wants in the song, before clearing her throat and launching into a response song to mixed up, shook up girl. From the first beats, hand claps and doo wop inspired harmonies this track just bounces through as a motownesque dancer of the finest calibre. This is as close as you can get to being in the studio when a track is laid down!
So 2 sides on vinyl for the first time fully licensed as usual.
Sound files below so click play and enjoy.
Both available through the website https://www.mdrecords.co.uk/ for £10 each!!!!
Mark n Des
