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Record Kicks New 45 - The Devonns - Come Back / Think I'm Falling in Love

Those Record Kicks people have been in touch  and passed on news all about a brand new 45 that is out today.
The  Devonns - Come Back / Think I'm Falling in Love
It's the debut 45 from a new Chicago band, called the Devonns and is pushed out today the 1st June 2018, with an album lined up to follow this winter.
Here's the listen and read part...
Come Back / Think I'm Falling in Love by The Devonns
https://thedevonns.bandcamp.com/album/come-back-think-im-falling-in-love
LIMITED EDITION 45 vinyl black (500 copies worldwide) 
The Devonns are a new soul band from Chicago, Illinois. Raised on a strict diet of 60s and 70s Soul music, despite their very young age the lads have very clear in their mind what to do. Pulling from influences such as The Impressions, Leroy Hutson and Leon Ware as well as from contemporary acts such as Raphael Saadiq and Jamie Lidell, The Devonns' main focus is on exploring the elements of songwriting and arranging/production that made music from 1965 on. 
Wrote in 10 minutes, completely on a $300 Danelectro singlecut guitar and recorded at Kingsize Sound Labs in Chicago, the super soulful debut single "Come Back" sees the participation of some top-notch musicians such as Paul Von Mertens (Mavis Staples, Paul McCartney, Elton John) who arranged the string section and Ken Stringfellow (R.E.M) as a special guest on guitar and percussions. The single is appetizer of their debut full length which is scheduled to be released on Record Kicks next autumn. "Come Back" hit the streets next June the 08th on digital download and limited edition 45 vinyl. 
Started in 2016 by the singer and songwriter Mathew Ajjarapu who, after he dropped out of med school found himself drawn over and over to underground soul hits becoming hooked on their steady groove and impeccable production and arranging values, The Devonns see the rhythm duty entrusted to Khalyle Hagood (bass) and Khori Wilson (drums), while Cam Cunningham is on the guitar. 
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Book: Unknown for Six Decades by LaVern Jones Lemons

Unknown for Six Decades ( The rediscovery of Louis 'Blues Boy' Jones)  by LaVern Lemons 
LaVern Jones Lemons aka @LaVern Lemons recently joined Soul Source and took the time to pass on details to us all about a recent book regarding her father the late Louis 'Blues Boy' Jones.
Titled 'Unknown for Six Decades' this book is now available in both Kindle and paperback formats (the kindle preview follows below).
Enjoy life! Enjoy my stories about this dynamic blues singer from Galveston, Texas. Gone now 32 years. His music lives on...over six decades...
LaVern Jones Lemons
By Mike in News Archives ·

Soul Source Weekly Newsletter 28 May 2018

Soul Source Weekly Newsletter 
This weekly newsletter offers a quick and easy way for all Soul Source members to keep up with all that is happening on Soul Source.
Can catch up with all the highlights of recent soul content below...
Latest News and Articles
Let's Get Together - Jonny Benavidez - Timmion 45
Source News 3 hours ago
  Northern Soul Connections #15 - Ronnie & Robyn
Kenb Friday at 13:11
  Soul Source Weekly Newsletter 21 May 2018
Source News May 22
  Review: Spinning Around – A History of the Soul LP Vol 2 by John Lias
Roburt May 21
  New Soul Junction 45 Roscoe & Friends b/w Tojo
chalky May 20
  Southern Groove: Hotlanta Aware & Clintone Funk & Soul - BGP Release
Source News May 18
  Greg Belson European Club & Radio Dj Tour 2018 Details
Greg Belson May 17
  Forum Topics
Ann Bogus
22ndsoul 12 minutes ago 1 comments
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  A Few 45's To Go, Rosebuds, Lord Luther, 60's / 70's
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  5 very rare pressings .
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  2 little belters (in fine fettle)
jmuir 3 hours ago 1 comments
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Venus May 19 6 comments
  Latest Weekenders and Allnighters
Dance Dance Dance Worcester
Sat 20 Oct 2018 (GMT+1)

  BREAK IT LOOSE: Bay Area Soul Weekender (SF/Oakland, CA)
Wed 30 May 2018 (GMT-7) - Sat 02 Jun 2018 (GMT-7)

  6x6 Easter Wigan Allnighter
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  Oslo Soul Experience - 15th anniversary weekender
Fri 15 Jun 2018 (GMT+2) - Sat 16 Jun 2018 (GMT+2)

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  The Rhyl Weekender
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  EMPIRE SOUL ALL-NIGHTER WIGAN
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By Mike in News Archives ·

Let's Get Together - Jonny Benavidez - Timmion 45

News about a new Timmion Records 45.
Let's Get Together  - Jonny Benavidez (feat. Cold Diamond & Mink) (feat. Cold Diamond & Mink) - Timmion on a run....
 
 Let's Get Together  - Jonny Benavidez (feat. Cold Diamond & Mink)
Label: Timmion
Cat#: TR720
Formats: 7" Vinyl/Digital
Digital Release: 25th May 2018
Physical Release: 25th May 2018
About This Release:
After his debut single ”Tell Me That You Love Me” on Timmion's Stylart imprint, Jonny Benavidez is back with a tighten uppish slab of Texas tinged soul. In ”Let’s Get Together” Jonny pulls out his best dance craze chops and delivers a positive message over the rolling northern soul rhythm track by Cold Diamond & Mink. 
It doesn’t matter if you get down to soul music in leather soled slicks or sneakers, this 45 should be your ticket to dance floor heaven. With these two tracks under his belt Jonny is set to continue melting hearts and moving feet anywhere you hear him on record or a live performance.  
Bar by bar it starts to come clear that Jonny’s gentle voice has some of the same emotive depth as legendary cats like Richard Caiton, so it’s nice to know that he has fresh material in the pipeline. If you enjoy the crossover soul sounds of classic indie labels such as Ovide or San Antonio's Dynamic, you will undoubtedly get along nicely with this blast of sunshine.
 
Download & Stream: http://kud.li/tr720
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Northern Soul Connections #15 - Ronnie & Robyn

Northern Soul Connections #15 - Ronnie & Robyn
For those that need a read at bank holiday...or are waiting for Cleethorpes.
Northern Connections #15 
There is only ever one Single-Truth, and then versions, accounts and even faded memories. And unless you are 
"the subject or directly related to the subject in time" there is no way to be 100% sure about that single-truth. So although I believe I have the compelling evidence for my views...

On Ronnie & Robyn, Sidro, D'Orleons, and the rest, there are many sources of testimony, both verbatim & ancidotal. This is my version and it is anchored to primary printed documentary references. No other contributions, first-hand or otherwise from the past are disputed here or made to be less valuable. Instead i leave it to you to take what you wish. 
In a 1960's music business where almost everyone hos o 'nom de guerre' what follows may merely be a chance occurrence which is only remarkable for being apparently connected. Any corrections, or further enlightenment is encouraged and appreciated. 
She was a Michigan State ballroom Champion. 
He was a 1963-64 State champion drummer and singer with Bobby Dayton and the Daytonos. 
They were from Farmington, West Bloomfield.
Together they were Ronnie & Robyn. 
 

added by site to accompany the above....
 
By Kenb in Articles ·

Soul Source Weekly Newsletter 21 May 2018

Soul Source Weekly Newsletter 
This weekly newsletter offers a quick and easy way for all Soul Source members to keep up with all that is happening on Soul Source.
Can catch up with all the highlights of recent soul content below...
Latest News and Articles
Review: Spinning Around – A History of the Soul LP Vol 2 by John Lias
Roburt 6 hours ago
  New Soul Junction 45 Roscoe & Friends b/w Tojo
chalky Yesterday at 10:18
  Southern Groove: Hotlanta Aware & Clintone Funk & Soul - BGP Release
Source News Friday at 08:46
  Greg Belson European Club & Radio Dj Tour 2018 Details
Greg Belson Thursday at 20:07
  Mark IV - A New Album Release By Cordial Recordings
Source News Thursday at 08:49
  Reimagination by Lamont Dozier - Album Out Soon
Source News Wednesday at 09:00
  Eli Paperboy Reed / High & Mighty Brass Euro Tour
elipaperboyreed May 15
  Forum Topics
Source Summer Plan - the futures so bright...
mike Just now 1 comments
  RareMusicDirect - Sales - 21 05 2018
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GARY LEWIS & THE PLAYBOYS - MY HEART'S SYMPHONY
Venus Saturday at 01:11 4 comments
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polyvelts May 9 0 comments
  Tower of Power - On The Soul Side of Town - BBC Later
Source News May 9 0 comments
  Latest Weekenders and Allnighters
Oslo Soul Experience - 15th anniversary weekender
Fri 15 Jun 2018 (GMT+2) - Sat 16 Jun 2018 (GMT+2)

  TWISTED WHEEL *ALL NIGHTER*
Fri 06 Jul 2018 (GMT+1)

  The Rhyl Weekender
Fri 14 Sep 2018 (GMT+1) - Sun 16 Sep 2018 (GMT+1)

  EMPIRE SOUL ALL-NIGHTER WIGAN
Sat 19 Sep 2020 (GMT+1)

  WIGAN EMPIRE ALL-NIGHTER
Sat 14 Sep 2019 (GMT+1)

  EMPIRE SOUL ALL-NIGHTER WIGAN
Sat 28 Sep 2019 (GMT+1)

  Weymouth 2nd Grand Soul Weekender
Fri 07 Sep 2018 (GMT+1) - Sun 09 Sep 2018 (GMT+1)

  Latest Gallery Images
Latest Help/FAQ
How do I view Local Soul Events in the guide?

  How do I clear the text editors content?

  How do I get a members notice?

  Soul Map Members Adds
Manuel ELA Soul
Manuel ELA Soul 1 hour ago  
  Molly
Molly 15 hours ago  
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kowberlin 20 hours ago  
  Soul Source - A source for soul!
View all the above in full along with more soul content via...

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Can unsubscribe via...
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By Mike in News Archives ·

Review: Spinning Around – A History of the Soul LP Vol 2 by John Lias

I got to review Volume.1 of this book two years ago and now comes the concluding volume that takes us from L to Z. This weighty book kicks off with Patti LaBelle & the Bluebelles 1960's albums and speedily progresses right through to the end of the alphabet. Info on the output of Little Milton, Charles Mann, Curtis Mayfield and Ullanda McCullough follows on in quick succession. Until I started to peruse the details chronicled here, I hadn't realised that the McCrays had enjoyed 8 album releases down the years. This came as a surprise even though their late 70's Portrait release 'On The Other Side' has always been a favorite of mine.
Entries vary between the prolific output of the Meters (11 albums under that name + other work released under the Neville Brothers name) to the sole outing from the Metros. New Birth's underrated work benefits from a fully detailed rundown, whilst reference is also made to the associated recordings of Love, Peace & Happiness plus the Nit-Liters. Entries for Greg Perry, Oscar Perry Phil Perry and Perry & Sanlin follow on in order before pieces on Positive Change, Positive Express and Positive Force are reached. Where the info is known, the full list of each group's members is listed (a useful tool, especially where the lead singer later split to try a solo recording career).
There have been quite a few male singers in the soul world that had Robinson as their surname. The work of Alvin, Dutch, Johnny and Roscoe help highlight the fact that even the most talented of black singers weren't always well served (album wise) by their record companies. Alvin Robinson's only album is the 1988 UK compilation of old tracks pulled together by Charly, while Roscoe had three similar 'reflective compilations' issued in the 1980's to supplement his two 70's and one 80's gospel packages. It's obvious from many entries that John's opinion on what makes a good soul track align quite closely with my own. So not only do I find his reflections on the studio output of D.J. Rogers both detailed and informative but I find myself agreeing with his choice of the highlight cuts.
He certainly knows his subject and the depth of knowledge and passion for the music he enjoys comes out throughout the book's pages. A perfect example of his expertise shows in his entry for Roy C's only 1960's LP release. Roy C's biggest ever hit, “Shotgun Wedding” had charted internationally in the mid 60's. To benefit from the success of his 45, Ember here in the UK had released their 'That Shotgun Wedding Man' album in 1966. However, the LP didn't even feature one solo Roy C track but consisted entirely of 1950's recordings by the group he was then a member of (the Genies). It would be as late as 1973 (a full 14 years after he had first entered a recording studio with the group) before he got to enjoy a real solo album release ('Sex & Soul' on Mercury).
 
The many differing shades of soul are reflected on here. Everything from the gut wrenching strong southern soul of Sam & Dave, through the sophisticated late 60's solo outings of David Ruffin to disco soul from the likes of Shalamar. Both groups who took on the name of Lost Generations big 45 hit “Sly, Slick & Wicked” make it into the book as does Lost Generation's own album named after their 1970 anthem. Some artists and their recorded output have been well chronicled down the years, whilst an air of mystery still surrounds the work of others. This is illustrated well in the entries for Otis Redding and Rudy Love. Most facts connected to the Big O's album releases have been well documented, whereas the exact story behind Rudy's two UK album releases seems lost in the mists of time. Even Rudy himself has no idea how his British album releases came about, quite a mystery.
A similar story also attaches itself to the 'Great Scott' album by Peggy Scott, which for some unknown reason only ever found it's way onto Italian record shop shelves (that being in 1980). Likewise, Gwen McCrae's 1975 Dutch LP that contained her 10 earlier CBS cuts, though this release was obviously prompted by the success of her “Rocking Chair” 45 that year. McKinley Mitchell was another classy soul vocalist who was granted an album release in the UK and (later) Japan, even though no US album of his work ever materialised. Another soul outfit to gain a UK release without ever enjoying the same privilege back home were 100% Pure Poison.
If you're unaware of the fine tracks laid down by the likes of Marie 'Queenie' Lyons, David Oliver or Danny Pearson then you need look no further than here. I do however have to part ways with John when it comes to the O'Connor LP. I rate it a lot higher than he seems to. The entry for the eccentric genius that is Swamp Dogg occupies almost two full pages, the Jackie Wilson section runs to over two pages, with info on Bobby Womack's output filling over three pages. Earlier in the book, the O'Jays insert had taken up over four pages (even though it ignored all the group's compilation albums). Gino Washington also gets an entry, but strangely Geno doesn't.
Zingara, Zoom & Zulema bring the book to a close, with the narrative staying on track to the very end. John ensuring that readers know Zulema's 1975 RCA album is a must have item. As an added bonus, at the very end John lists the 125 soul albums from the book he couldn't live without. These include a few that I will now have to bring myself up to speed on. If soul LP's are your thing, you definitely need a copy of this 430+ page epic opus. I have to commend John for his detailed and diligent work, it can't have been the easiest of projects to complete.
                                                                          JOHN Roburt SMITH
 


 
By Roburt in Articles ·

New Soul Junction 45 Roscoe & Friends b/w Tojo

The capital city of Washington D.C was the home of many tiny independent record labels. It is from one of these labels Tec whose stable of artists included The Fawns, The Four Jewels, JJ &G, Roscoe & Friends, and Tojo, that Soul Junction have gone and licensed two Harry J. Coombs productions for release: 
 Roscoe & Friends    “Broadway Sissy” b/w Tojo   “Brocken Hearted Lover”   SJ1012
 
Your browser does not support the audio element
Have a listen while you read: Roscoe - Tojo.mp3

 
Release Date: Monday 4thJune 2018
Roscoe Bowie Jr was a talented horn and keyboard player who honed his skills as a jazz musician in and around Washington, D.C. As an arranger Roscoe Bowie’s name can be found on many generic Washington records such as Leroy Taylor’s sublimely soulful “Oh Linda/Nobody Can Love You” (Brunswick 55345), The Ascot’s Mir-A-Don sides Miss Heartbreaker, Anytime and Sometimes I Wonder.
 

When Knight Brother Jimmy Diggs (of “Temptation ‘Bout To Get Me” fame) briefly accepted an invitation to join Larry Bell and Jerry Norris in the vocal trio The Carltons, it was Roscoe who arranged the first two of their 3 excellent Argo 45’s “Can’t You Hear The Beat/Ooo Baby” (Argo 5470) followed by “Easy Living/Hey, Mr. Lonesome” (Argo 5482). Roscoe also featured as the arranger on another fellow Washington, D.C artist Andy Magruder’s 1964 outing “Later Than You Think/Do You Wanta Go” (Chess 1910) released under the artist name of Andy Mack, using The Carltons as backing vocalists.

During 1960 record producer Harry J. Coombs found and began managing five young men, two from Arlington Virginia and three from the Washington D.C area. Their performing name was The Versatiles, and their members included two lead singers, Jeyone (Jay) Wiggins and James (Buddy) Owens, 1sttenor Robert Barnes, 2ndtenor Victor Brown and Bass Bobby Douglas. The Versatiles were a working group who performed cover versions of the hits of the day. Harry later arranged for The Versatiles to enter an amateur talent contest at the world famous Apollo Theatre in New York with them winning a very creditable third place. Not strictly under contract to Harry Coombs and having not recorded any original material, The Versatiles signed a recording contract with a boyfriend of Jay Wiggins sister. The boyfriend being Philly producer and recording entrepreneur Richard Barret (who later managed the Three Degrees from the early 1960’s until the early 1980’s), again with no material being recorded and feeling somewhat disenchanted with their Philadelphia experience the group returned to Washington. 
At this juncture one of their lead singers Jay Wiggins left the group to pursue a solo career which saw him record the 1963 low rider classic “Sad Girl/No Not Me (IPG 1008) which was later picked up for national distribution by Amy, Mala, Bell.
 Harry used several local musicians such as pianist “Porkie” Johnson and guitarist Buzzy Bowie (who later toured with Major Lance)on his sessions. Following the departure of The Versatiles, Harry took another act under his wing, with their rehearsals often taking place in Buzzy Bowie’s basement, during one such rehearsal Buzzy’s older brother Roscoe then predominantly a horn player sat in on the session, with the scheduled session finishing early. Roscoe joined the band in a jamming session and it was here that “Broadway Sissy” and “Barnyard Soul” was first created. Before being recorded under the artist name of Roscoe & Friends and released on the Washington Tec label.
 
Harry had also been previously approached by former Versatiles 1st tenor, Robert Barnes to record him as a solo artist, Harry had always been impressed by the angelic quality of Roberts’s voice and as such was only too happy to record a 45 on him. The results of which being the pleasant ballad “Blue Lover” backed with the uptempo dancer “Broken Hearted Lover”. The song was released under the artist name of ‘Tojo’. With “Tojo” being Robert Barnes nickname back in the day. 
 Harry J. Coombs himself was to go on and enjoy a hugely successful career in the record business, firstly through promoting his own records that led to him securing himself a sales job at Washington’s famous Waxie-Maxie’s Record Store. Later moving onto Schwartz Brothers Distributors for awhile before leaving Washington for Chicago to set up and run Ramsey Lewis’s Ramsel Record label. It was Harry who was responsible for signing Wade Herbert Flemons to Ramsel. The Ramsey Lewis Trio, of Ramsey (Piano) Eldee Young (Cello) and Red Holt (Drums) had previously scored a hit with their instrumental version of Dobie Gray’s hit “The In Crowd” but in the aftermath of their hit a major dispute caused Young and Holt to Leave Ramsey (later forming their own Young-Holt Trio, Unlimited etc). Red Holt’s eventual replacement drummer with the Ramsey Lewis Trio was Maurice ‘Toons’ White (Later of Earth, Wind & Fire). Maurice although never credited had written a song with Wade Flemons (again later of Earth, Wind & Fire) entitled “Jeanette”. Harry liked the song and booked some studio time at the Chess studios. At the end of the session Maurice and Wade both agreed that the song lacked and needed some vocal harmonies. It just so happened that the Dells were in the building at the time, and upon being asked duly obliged in adding the vocal harmonies on the next take. Harry initially pressed a 1000 copies and through Phil Chess, secured some radio play with Herb Kent *The Cool Gent” on WVON AM. “Jeanette” failed to hit at the time, but eventually found a home within the UK Northern Soul Scene some 20 years later.

 
This is just one great memoir taken from Harry J. Coombs excellent book. Coombs “My Musical Journey” published by Ferncliff Music which features many highlights and anecdotes of Harry’s time as a Record Executive with CBS Records, Ray Charles, Capital Records, Gamble & Huff, including his own contribution to the Philadelphia International Records global success story and later his success with Levert. A highly recommended read for soul fans of all eras.

 
Words By: David Welding
With acknowledgments to: Harry J. Coombs.
 Soul Junction Website
http://www.souljunctionrecords.co.uk/SJ1012.html
 
 
 
 
 
By Chalky in News Archives ·

Southern Groove: Hotlanta Aware & Clintone Funk & Soul - BGP Release

A heads up on a recent BGP album release Titled 'Southern Groove: Hotlanta, Aware & Clintone Funk & Soul' and described as 'Masterful and obscure 1970s funk and soul from Georgia and Alabama', you can read and listen just what this album is all about below...
Southern Groove: Hotlanta, Aware & Clintone Funk & Soul BGP   CDBGPD 310
Release blurb
Masterful and obscure 1970s funk and soul from Georgia and Alabama.
You’ve all heard of southern soul, but southern groove? Is it even a thing? All of the attention today on the great studios of the southern United States tends to focus on a certain sound, a geographically specific soul that flourished in the 1960s and 70s and faded as corporate radio playlists began to emphasise national over local appeal.
But that’s only part of the story. Studios such as Fame in Alabama and Stax in Memphis, and many others in between, produced music that took account of what was happening around the country, and in the 1970s added a big touch of funk to the mix. In what we hope to be the first in a series focusing on different cities, we have delved into the vaults of Atlanta, Georgia-based GRC and associated labels for a mix of previously unreleased tracks, club classics and connoisseur choices ...
   ...Previously unreleased selections include David Camon’s ‘Keep On Doin’ Your Funky Thing’ and Johnny Jacobs’ ‘Ain’t It Funky (Doing Your Own Thing)’, both of which are hard-hitting street funk. Family Plann’s ‘Let’s Dance’ is a slice of pre-disco which sits nicely alongside underground heroes...
Above by Dean Rodland aka @Dean Rudland clipped from Ace records website. The full release notes can be read via https://acerecords.co.uk/southern-groove-hotlanta-aware-clintone-funk-soul  along with photos and purchase options
Preview Listen

Leaflet Scans


 
Track List
  1. Keep On Your Doin' Your Funky Thing - Dave Camon
  2. Ain't It Funky (Doin' Your Own Thing) - Johnny Jacobs
  3. Only a Fool - Loleatta Holloway
  4. Down at the Disco - Maggabrain
  5. Shuckin' and Jivin' - Family Plann
  6. The Bump - Floyd Smith
  7. I Don't Know What It Is, But It Sure Is Funky - Ripple
  8. Help Me (Pt. 1) - Archie Russell
  9. Help Me (Pt. 2) - Archie Russell
  10. When I Build My World - Jimmy Lewis
  11. Complain to the Clouds (But You Can't Change the Weather) - Black Velvet
  12. Let's Dance - Family Plann
  13. Seeds of Life - East L.A. Car Pool
  14. Spacewalking - Maggabrain
  15. Unknown Instrumental #2 - Ripple
  16. Funk Pump - The Counts
  17. The World Don't Owe You Nothin' - Loleatta Holloway
  18. Time - John Edwards
  19. Husband-in-law - C.L. Blast
  20. Shouldn't I Be Given the Right to Be Wrong - Joe Hinton
  21. Claim Jumpin' - Bill Brandon
  22. Checkmate - The Ebony Godfather
 

By Mike in News Archives ·

Greg Belson European Club & Radio Dj Tour 2018 Details

Here are the dates for my European DJ Club & Radio Tour 2018....check 'em out!
There's still a coupla TBC's to confirm and I'll get to that in due course. Meanwhile, this is how the summer is looking....hopefully get to see some of you out and about at one or more of the shows. Cheers all!
 

By Greg Belson in Event News ·

Mark IV - A New Album Release By Cordial Recordings

Cordial Recordings has just announced their first Lp release, Its a collection of previously unreleased recordings by the group Mark iv from the mid-1970s. Details, background and an audio preview follow below...
Mark IV - Signs Of A Dying Love - Cordial Recordings
Mark IV ‘Signs Of A Dying Love’ was recorded during the 1970s post their debut album on Mercury Records under the guidance of Donald Shaw & Otis Brown Jr. These songs were considered to be long forgotten about until Cordial Recordings forged a partnership with Donald & Otis to release these songs on Vinyl & CD.
A1 – I Got Everything
A2 – Give Me Just A Little
A3 – I Knew It Wouldn’t Last
A4 – All My Friends
A5 – How I Feel For You (Instrumental)
B1 – Signs Of A Dying Love
B2 – Another Day Another Dollar
B3 – How I Feel For You
B4 – I’ve Been Lucky
B5 – Hang Ups
B6 – Give Me Just A Little (Instrumental)

The first album on Cordial Recordings is a collection of previously unreleased songs by Mark IV that were recorded between 1974-78. This is my version of how the album was pulled together.
Mark IV Album Preview
  https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/1802feblv/CORDLP001+MP3s+Full.mp3
I originally contacted Walter Moreland from the group through his Reverb Nation page and he responded telling me that it would be best to speak with Roy Hammond because he owned the rights to their back catalogue. I spoke with Roy and he informed me that he didn’t know the two songs that I’d mentioned ‘If You Can’t Tell Me Something Good’ and ‘Signs Of A Dying Love.’ Roy’s association with Mark IV ended after Mercury Records didn’t take up the option of a second album. I don’t like to give in so I then tried to find the Otis Brown who had released ‘Signs Of A Dying Love’ on his own OTB label in 1977. I tracked down an Otis Brown from New Jersey on Facebook and sent him a message of enquiry. I didn’t get a reply until around six months later out of nowhere a message came from Otis informing me that he was the same person and would be interested in having a chat about his involvement with Mark IV.

The advent of Skype and Facetime is a great thing when speaking with artists or rights owners across in the States. Otis and I instantly bonded when we first chatted and he informed me that he had a series of unreleased songs by the group from those years. The first chat was in August 2016 and Otis told me that he would have the tapes baked for transfer to digital files. These things generally take a long time to materialise in my experience. The new year had just commenced when Otis contacted me and said that he was sending four songs over to me via email. These were ‘I Got Everything,’ ‘Give Me Just A Little’ and there were two versions of ‘How I Feel For You.’  I eagerly downloaded the four songs and played them over the Love Vinyl shop system. They sounded like really rough demo’s with no top and very little bottom. I liked the songs, but wasn’t too sure whether they could be released in that format or not. It was only four days when later when I realised that the files had got corrupted and tried once again to download them separately. This time all the download’s worked successfully and I had could hear the songs in full.  Otis then said that the next set of songs would be ready in a couple of weeks’ time.

The second set of songs that were sent included ‘Hang Ups,’ ‘Signs Of A Dying Love’ and ‘I Knew It Wouldn’t Last.’ I instantly thought that ‘I Knew It Wouldn’t Last’ would make a great single and cut some carvers for Soul Sam, Lars Bulnheim, Steve Clancy and myself. At this stage I wasn’t too sure of what other songs were left to come. Otis informed me that he would be sending across a hard drive with the multi-tracks for the first two songs that he’d sent and the multi-tracks for his own disco single ‘Strut On (Strut Your Stuff).’ When the hard drive arrived I was pleasantly surprised to hear the remaining songs that are now included on the album which included ‘Signs Of A Dying Love’ with the slower version of the album title, ‘All My Friends,’ ‘I’ve Been Lucky,’ ‘Another Day Another Dollar’ and an alternate take on ‘I Knew It Wouldn’t Last.’ I learned from Otis that he recorded alternate take on songs such as ‘Signs Of A Dying Love,’ ‘How I Feel For You’ and ‘I Knew It Wouldn’t Last’ to have choices on which would be the best version to release.

Now I had these songs in place I had the conviction that they would make an interesting album. I chose ‘Hang Ups’ and ‘Give Me Just A Little’ as the first 7” release on the label. We sold all 500 copies of the pressing. I decided that ‘Signs Of A Dying Love’ would make a great second single with the two previously unreleased versions on either side. After this was released I set about designing an album sleeve with Stoo Elvin. We didn’t have any images of the group because the only ones that were available included Lucky Antomattei, who was not involved in these recordings and for that reason I decided that we couldn’t use any image that included him on the sleeve. I knew that the 7” of ‘If You Can’t tell Me Something Good’ by the group is rated by Soul Sam as his favourite song of all time and for that reason I asked Sam to write some sleeve notes. He kindly agreed to write this and this is his opening paragraph which appears on the back of the finished sleeve.

“Roual Galloway of Cordial Recordings asked me to write the sleeve notes for this album – a labour of love for me as the group recorded my all-time favourite single, the 1982 Brite Lite masterpiece ‘If You Can’t Tell Me Something Good’ (LHL2001), which surprisingly appears on the ‘B’ side of their particularly emotive ballad ‘Take This Love!’ As well as it being the perfect production and such a wonderful tune[RG1] , I was entranced by the so soulful tones of the lead singer, Jimmy Ponder. While familiar with their early 70’s Mercury material, I was also more than impressed by their 1977 single ‘Signs of A Dying Love’, originally released on O.T.B. Records. Both were played contemporaneously at venues such as Cleethorpes Winter Gardens, Highwayman’s Halt, Snaith, Rotherham, Bradford and Rock City, and Nottingham in the early 1980’s. I remember it took me 2 years to prize the Brite Lite release out of Cleethorpes’ DJ Poke in 1984 and have not stopped playing it since then.” - Soul Sam

I also decided to print on a heavier board than normal (350gsm) and went for a white-white board whilst printing on the reverse side, mainly because I prefer the finish and because there were no pictures on the front cover. I’ve worked with most music industry printers over the past twenty and chose to print with Senol because I’ve always been happy with their work. I pressed with MPO because better the devil you know and I worked for them for five years at the turn of the century. I’m really happy with the finished product and hopefully others will be too.

On a side note all the songs have been licensed with the rights owners Otis Brown & Donald Shaw. I have since the project started tried to contact all of the members and Walter is the only one that has responded. Both Otis and myself have agreed to set aside some financials for the singers that contributed to the album because we both feel that is the right thing to do.  
You can read an interview with Otis on Mark IV via http://5767.co.uk/mark-iv/

Roual Galloway (Cordial Recordings)
The album is now available to purchase in both cd or vinyl formats
https://www.5767.co.uk/product/mark-iv-3/

By Mike in News Archives ·

Reimagination by Lamont Dozier - Album Out Soon

News of a new album release featuring Lamont Dozier and guests. Due out on 25th May 2018 in cd/vinyl/download formats, this forthcoming album is available right now to pre-order. The press release from Golden Lane records follows along with album details and purchase options...
Motown Songwriting Legend LAMONT DOZIER Reclaims His Most Iconic Hits, Assisted By A Host Of All-Star Guests!
Includes performances by Graham Nash, Todd Rundgren, Sir Cliff Richard, Marc Cohn, Gregory Porter, Lee Ann Womack, and more!
Los Angeles, CA - As one third of Holland/Dozier/Holland, perhaps the greatest songwriting trio of all time, Lamont Dozier is responsible for such timeless classics as “Stop In The Name Of Love,” “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You),” “Nowhere To Run,” “You Keep Me Hanging On,” just to name a few! These megahits changed the face of music forever, jumpstarting the careers of The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Martha & The Vandellas, The Isley Brothers and many more figures who defined the Motown Era of pop music.
Now, Lamont Dozier has gifted the world with a brand new project that reimagines these treasured classics using acoustic guitar, resonating piano and sparse arrangements, brought together by producer Fred Mollin to create a moving experience for audiences of every generation. Reimagination packs an enormous emotional wallop as Dozier, now several decades older and more mature as an artist, revisits his masterpieces with both reverence and affection. These new semi-unplugged arrangements bring out new depths of feeling and tenderness that audiences will immediately identify with and serve as a reminder of Dozier’s unparalleled talent as a songwriter. Indeed, one need look no further for proof of the universality of Dozier’s genius than the stellar guest artists who have lined up to lend their own unique voices to this project from Grammy-award winning singer Gregory Porter to rock icon Todd Rundgren, and from British pop idol Sir Cliff Richard to country superstar Le Ann Womack.
Producer Mollin summarizes the sentiments of many involved with the project, stating “I will never produce a more historic project, and I know how deep the music will resonate. Lamont and his music were critically important to the rise and continued success of Motown. It is a known fact that Motown changed the world along with the Beatles.”
Classic rock legend Graham Nash, of Crosby, Stills & Nash, offers this about the project, “When Fred Mollin asked me if I was interested in singing harmony on Lamont’s album, I just couldn’t wait. My former band, The Hollies, recorded ‘Stop In The Name Of Love’ in the early ‘80s and it was my absolute pleasure to be able to work with such an incredible writer. Well done, Lamont!”
And finally, Dozier himself is clearly struck by the significance of these recordings and how fans will react, saying “Who knew that after all these years that these songs would be revisited again in this form? We’re just having a ball with it and, we think that the audience and the fans of this music will get a kick out of it as well.”
Watch this exclusive behind-the-scenes video of the recording for Reimagination here:
 
Track List:

1. Supremes Medley: Where Did Our Love Go / Stop In The Name Of Love / Come See About Me / Baby Love feat. Graham Nash
2. How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You) feat. Gregory Porter

3. Reach Out, I'll Be There

4. Baby I Need Your Loving feat. Lee Ann Womack
5. Bernadette
6. This Old Heart Of Mine / My World Is Empty Without You feat. Sir Cliff Richard
7. Heat Wave / Nowhere To Run feat. Jo Harman
8. In My Lonely Room feat. Todd Rundgren
9. Take Me In Your Arms (Rock Me A Little While) feat. Marc Cohn
10. You Keep Me Hanging On feat. Rumer
11. Reflections feat. Justin Currie
12. I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)
BONUS TRACK
13. Reach Out, I'll Be There (Duet Version with Jo Harman)
Buy the CD:
https://www.amazon.com/Reimagination-Lamont-Dozier/dp/B07CCZY32J

Buy the digital version:
https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/album/reimagination/1380677059?app=itunes&at=1000lt9k

GOLDENLANE RECORDS

Facebook @GoldenlaneRecords
https://www.facebook.com/GoldenlaneRecords/

Twitter @GoldenlaneRecs 
https://twitter.com/GoldenlaneRecs
 

By Mike in News Archives ·

Featured Soul Source Articles - Front Page Highlight

Whilst browsing the site you may have noticed on your travels a 'new' highlight showing on the Soul Source front page.
Halfway down on display is a 'highlight' box featuring 3 past Soul Source articles, titled on pc desktops as 'Featured Articles'.
This 'highlight' will be used to both highlight and at the same time 'clean up' our fairly large few thousand strong archive of soul music related article/news items regularly over time.
You can check out the three current featured articles via the front page link below and will use this article comments below to announce rotations etc

https://www.soul-source.co.uk/
 
 
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Version Battles - Latest and the story so far

Just a highlight news item to let you know that  the latest version battle poll has just started running in the All About Soul Forum.
This time around its Johnny Hampton up against The Platters, you can read listen, vote and comments via the following link
 https://www.soul-source.co.uk/forums/topic/384547-poll-version-battle-not-my-girl/
 

It's the latest one in our almost regular series of 'just for fun' version battle/polls, you can revisit some of the recent polls and results via the below catch up list...
The Story So Far
Poll: Version Battle - Stubborn Heart
The Sheppards  34% v Ernest Mosley 66%
 
Poll: Version Battle - I Got The Need
Chuck Jackson 63% The Moments 25% Spooky and Sue 12%
 
Poll: Version Battle - Friday night
Johnnie Taylor 52% Steve Mancha 47%

Poll: Version Battle - Ever again
Gene Woodbury 41% Bernie Williams 59%
 
Poll: Version Battle - These Things Will Keep
Blue Sharks 12% The Velvelettes 88%
 
Poll: Which 'I hurt on the other side' for you?
Sidney Barnes 50.54% v Jerry Cook 49.46 Close!
 
Poll - A Which Version - I Can't Make It Anymore.... ?
Spyder Turners 90% Richie Havens  10%
There you go, that's the story so far.
If you do have any suggestions for future 'battles' or indeed any 'just for fun' soul polls...
...then just drop them in to us via a pm to @mike
By Mike in News Archives ·

Manchester Soul Weekender News 6-8th July 2018

Manchester Soul Weekender (6th July – 8th July) news release
The Manchester Soul Weekender (6th July – 8th July) is now under two months away. The idea behind the weekender was to create a soul weekender that will grow and develop each year with passionate DJ’s. We have learnt a lot from year 1 and have made changes to make year 2 even more enjoyable.
The DJ’s we have chosen will bring something different to the table and a play a cross-section of soul music for your enjoyment.  They are music lovers and collectors from UK, Europe and USA. All records over the weekender will be original vinyl.
We have handpicked the venues for their intimacy and sound systems.  Our Friday night venue is Revolution on Oxford Road, based in the city centre, where the evening commences at 7pm upstairs and then from 9pm we take over downstairs too. This gives you two venues under one roof. Saturday afternoon offers you the choice of 3 venues across the city centre – Cottonopolis, Jimmy’s and Dimitris.
Saturday evening is just a short taxi/bus ride away in Fallowfield at Revolution.  Where once again we take over the entire venue with two rooms offering a wide range of music, from 7pm to 3am. For those of you who are early risers or haven’t yet gone to bed the Sunday morning brunch session will be held in Cottonopolis where you can ease yourself into the final day.
The final session of the weekend takes place at Revolution Deansgate Locks from 4pm.  A venue which we used last year on the Friday night, which has the advantage of an outside area looking over the canal where you can still enjoy the music.  
Manchester is a fantastic city with a wide range of bars and restaurants covering a multiple of tastes.  The added advantage of a wide range of clothes shops, vintage shops and record shops.  If you fancy a bit of culture you will find plenty of this.
What more could you ask for?
Weekend passes are available for £30 which includes food and drink promotions at Revolution.
Individual day/night tickets are £12 each.
Tickets can be purchased via PayPal (Friends & Family) to Manchestersoulweekender@hotmail.com
 
Soul Source Event Guide entry  (comments inc plays/profiles)
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/calendar/event/56265-mancheter-soul-weekender/
 
By Little-stevie in Event News ·

John Simons A Modernist Film - Mono Media Films

From Mono Media Films a film about the man John Simons...
 
A Modernist – a film about the life and times of legendary clothing retailer John Simons.
Featuring exclusive interviews with musicians Kevin Rowland, Suggs and Paul Weller, broadcaster Robert Elms, art expert Ronnie Archer Morgan, advertising guru Sir John Hegarty and Sir Paul Smith as well as John Simons himself.
 
Directed by Lee Cogswell, Written by Jason Jules, Produced by Mark Baxter.
Exec. producers David Rosen, Emma ‘Queenie’ Smith’ Louise Baxter, Jean Baxter, Martin Freeman, Paul Weller and Mariana dos Santos.
Cover by Andrew Higginbotham. Illustration by Graham Marsh.
Music by Paul Weller and Lee Cogswell, Stone Foundation, The Nu’Rons, The Paradimes, Aunt Nelly, James Taylor, Johns Simons.
A Garmsville / Mono Media Films production 2018.
Out now, purchase and reviews via
http://monomediafilms.london/our-films/a-modernist/

By Mike in News Archives ·

Ebay Soul Records - April 2018 High Flyers - Tops

Highlights from last months EBay Soul Auctions results. Objects of desire?
 
 Soul Record Auctions - Recent Completed Soul Auctions [sorted by value]
Four Voices Your Love Is Getting Stronger Voice Mp3  $4383.00   ended 09 Apr   Little Nicky Soul I Wanted To Tell You You Said On Shee..  $3227.00   ended 17 Apr   George Lemons Gold Soul Fascinating Girl  $2850.00   ended 09 Apr   Energetics Summer 1973 Lp Unreleased Funk Soul Acetate ..  $2276.00   ended 09 Apr   San Antonio Joe Jama On Optimum 102 Hear  $2182.77   ended 13 Apr   Mocko Jumbie High High High Islands Disco Soul Funk..  $1913.88   ended 02 Apr   Ultra Funk Soul Hifidelics Hifidelics Groove Quip ..  $1900.00   ended 05 Apr   Differences Five Minutes Mon Ca Mp3  $1890.00   ended 09 Apr   Hott Butter Soul Special Edition Gettin The Funk Come ..  $1503.00   ended 08 Apr   Northern Mod Deep Soul Shades Hit It Country Color Hear  $1469.00   ended 24 Apr   Mocko Jumbie High High High Islands Disco Soul Funk..  $1447.00   ended 10 Apr   Darrell Banks - Open The Door To Your Heart 1966 Uk Lon..  $1420.79   ended 29 Apr   The Appointments-keep Away Funny Feelin Redd Coach  $1414.99   ended 16 Apr   Henry Nelson El Amor Es Un Bicho Monster Latin Soul Fre..  $1369.00   ended 22 Apr   The Grey Imprint Do You Get The Message Clear Hill 102  $1275.00   ended 05 Apr   Vintage Record Album Vinyl Lot Beatles Elvis More Mu..  $1234.93   ended 29 Apr   Soul Joe Clements - Ever Ever Uk 1969 Demo Promo ..  $1227.48   ended 01 Apr   In Love - Tony Galla - Very Northern  $1227.48   ended 26 Apr   Funk Harvey Averne Dozen Never Learned To Dance On Uptite  $1200.00   ended 17 Apr   Mocko Jumbie - High High High Lp Islands Funk Soul Disc..  $1199.99   ended 18 Apr   The Charades The Key To My Happiness Weeping Cup Origin..  $1175.00   ended 08 Apr   Bob Gene I Really Really Love You Sweet Soul Mo D..  $1136.00   ended 09 Apr   Emulations Move A Little Slower Sweet Soul Emulate Mp3  $1136.00   ended 09 Apr   Holy Grail Funk Anubis Ecology Original Mint- Pressing  $1124.99   ended 11 Apr   70s Soul Funk - Eddie Ray Funkshun Columbus Ohio Blue..  $1025.00   ended 30 Apr   Sun Ra Arkestra Great Balls Of Fire Soul Mod R B Ja..  $1009.99   ended 02 Apr   Sweet James Epps Love At First Sight Modern Soul Moto..  $1009.00   ended 09 Apr   Sweet Soul Darling Dears I Don T Think I Ll Ever Love O..  $992.00   ended 17 Apr   Dr Z Three Parts To My Soul Very Uk Vertigo Swirl  $983.85   ended 08 Apr   Jay T Party Time Private Grail Funk Jazz Shrink Soul P..  $980.00   ended 23 Apr    
By Mike in News Archives ·

New Cordial 45 - Ruby & The Mudflaps - Interview

Cordial Recordings has been in touch with us again and have asked us here at Soul Source to pass on the latest news about their next forthcoming 45 release. They have lined up for release two previous unreleased 1970s tracks from Ruby & the Mudflaps. Details and a preview follow below and you can also take in a full interview with Mel Canady on all things Ruby and Mudflaps.  Plus news also out about a brand new lp out of this collaboration in the near future.
Cordial Recordings Blurb
Cordial Recordings are proud to release on 7" vinyl two previously unreleased songs by Ruby & The Mudflaps with 'Is That Enough?' and 'Country Girl' that were both originally recorded in the 1970s. Ruby & The Mudflaps are best known for their song 'Breezy' which was released in 1977 on Jupiter records and was recently re-released in 2017 by Cree Records. Mel Canady and Cordial Recordings are currently working together for a future album release based around the southern musical roots of Mel.
 
You can order your copy via the following link
https://5767.co.uk/product/ruby-the-mudflaps/

Interview with  Mel Canady:

Mel you’re originally from Alabama?

Yes deep south, Alabama.
What was your introduction to music?

Actually it was of course as it was with most artists from the area it was the church and there was a couple of guys who played instruments when I as 12 or 13. I was in a vocal quartet. One of the older guys would accompany us when we did gigs. It was basically the church and a couple of guys on the corner playing blues. The old cliché I actually experienced that.
At that point you didn’t play a musical instrument! That came later in life.

That came much later. I of course picked up every instrument that I saw, just to see what it felt like. I actually started playing an instrument seriously about 12 years ago because growing up we couldn’t afford to buy a piano or that kind of stuff. I was lucky enough to get to college and whilst I was there singing in the college choir I formed a quartet in my very first semester when I was 19 years old with piano. I met a lot of musicians then and I got a scholarship to study natural science, but I got hooked up in the jazz scene of Greenwich Village in New York. In 1970 I got drafted to the army and have since spent most of my entire adult life in Europe where I was able to connect with musicians right away. My natural love of music and being around guys who could play actually taught me. I didn’t really start with reading notes or writing music for musicians until much later. The whole process in terms of musical evolution took place in Europe, but like I’ve said before you don’t ever get too far from your roots. What I learned as a child with music has stayed with me and I keep up with it as I grow older.
Didn’t you go to the same University as Fred Wesley?

Fred Wesley was in the army at that time and he was playing with a group on campus, a fantastic group. In fact I talked to Fred about a year ago when he played Munich about those times. I think it was around the fifth semester and I was on summer break in Long Island, New York. Whilst I was there James Brown was performing at the Westbury Music Fair where Fred was playing with James Brown. He also became later the band leader and arranger with Maceo Parker, they were actually the power behind the JBs. We had fun talking about the old times.
You came to Europe in 1970! How long were you in the army for?
I was in the army for three years. I was one year in the United States and two years here. When I finished I remained in Europe. Things were going a different way for me.

What was the attraction to Europe for you?

Germany especially. For me Germany is a safe, clean, fair, non-violent progressive and modern country. I fell in love with the whole idea of being here. It’s just what I need to do what I wanted to do. I was able to learn a lot of stuff here. I learned a lot of stuff in different fields. I did other jobs when there wasn’t enough jobs for singers or if you liked going on tour or doing a musical so I took other jobs as a sales man for consumer electronics as an example. I did that on and off for 35 years. I did have record offers, but there’s a strange mentality with the music that I wanted to do, that I can do, that suits me if you will has nothing to do with the way that people see music here. Music has a completely different function and is motivated for reasons that I don’t find legitimate, but I’m living here so I can’t complain about it. At the same time I didn’t sell out, wear certain clothes or make myself look this way or that way. I don’t want to insult anybody but I have to stick by my guns with that one. If people want to have a blues singer then i’m the guy. I won’t do this modern pop commercial stuff, for me it’s boring.
Who were the first group that you joined or formed after you left the army?

The first real group that I put together after jamming for three or four years in one club with changing musicians so the band never really got together. I was doing that for a while. Then a guy named Mike Thatcher, god bless his soul, asked me if I’d be interested in joining a pop choir. That group was called Family Tree and we had eleven singers with seven musicians. It was a huge production. After that died down we started a new group because we were all inspired by Buddy Miles, Blood Sweat & Tears, Chicago, James Blood Ulmer and Earth, Wind & fire of course. We put together a kind of jazz rock band more in the sense of Blood, Sweat & Tears but with a black singer. We were brainstorming about the name of the band with finding the name that would fit the kind of music that we were doing and with the way that we were dressing on stage, etc. After about two hours and around 25,000 beers somebody said “why don’t we call ourselves Ruby & the Mudflaps!” That was so funny at the time, so atypical. The problem started when people called me Ruby!
You released one single in 1977 with ‘Do The Boogie.’ How did that come about?
It started out when I did a German cover of Carl Douglas’ ‘King Fu Fighting’ and then I had the idea to record the tunes that I had written which were ‘Breezy’ and ‘Country Girl.’ Those two songs were submitted to Ralph Siegel, but they decided to go with a song that was written by Keith Forsey, who later became billy Idol’s producer. He was also the drummer in my band for a while. Keith had a song called ‘Do The Boogie.’ The record company decided to put that as the A Side with ‘Breezy’ on the flip. That meant ‘Country Girl’ never officially got recorded. It’s been on ice since then. We played at least half of the repertoire with our own material. It was a mixture of pop, soul and jazz if you will. I hate names, for me it’s all rock and roll. In the course of putting together a programme for concerts we had to work in clubs, so we needed a longer repertoire just to survive financially. We had to play the clubs and in those clubs we had to play at least four sets. It was a cool gig if there was only three. In the course of putting that programme together we would sit in the rehearsal room and write our own songs. We eventually had around fifteen songs with ‘Is That Enough?’ was one of them. It was also very personal because I was in an unhappy relationship as it always is with the blues.

At the time the label thought that ‘Breezy’ was too soulful for the German market and so therefore didn’t take up a follow up single.
No they didn’t. We did one single as Ruby & The Mudflaps with Jupiter Records which was an associate label of Ariola at that particular time. We got requests, but the record didn’t sell very well at all. This is what I meant before about the German music and all that with I cannot expect them with an audience here to understand that kind of music because classical music dominates over here and classical music has a different feel. It’s about different things such as a lot more notes to be precisely and the emotional part usually gets cut short. Beside that at that particular time you had groups like Santana, Chicago Transit Authority. Blood Sweat & Tears and over a hundred horn groups. The record company was right that if they could only sell 3,000 copies over all of Germany with Earth, Wind & Fire there was no way we were going to top that with no matter how good we could play. They were the ones on the radio. The radio play I got was with German songs or pop stuff because I worked years later as a studio singer. I was in a group of six people and we’d go from studio to studio backing other artists. I must be on at least 50-60 albums.
Back in the 70’s you were also in Donna Summer’s first group! Is that correct?

We were in a couple of groups together where we toured live. I met Donna after she’d done a tour with Hair. We were all over the place doing gala concerts with a big band and we also worked in the studio together in ’75 or ’76. Donna had the hit ‘Love To Love You Baby’ that was produced here with all local musicians and then of course she left to go to Los Angeles. That was the end of that.
When did Ruby & The Mudflaps split up?

We split up after around 3 or 4 years because musicians kept leaving the band because it was very difficult to support a band that size. We were eleven people, with two guitarists, four horn players and all that. The girl that was singing with us called Lucy Neale decided that she wanted to go back to the States. She got a contract with a female vocal group that was very successful. So musicians kept leaving the group and I kept replacing them with other guys. There was probably over 50 guys that have played with the band in various formats. The spirit of the band was Michael Thatcher and when he left it wasn’t the same without him so we decided to change the name of the group to Royal Flush, Rock Candy and so on. They were basically the same format. My idea was always four rhythm, four vocalists and four horns. We were a very hip band and we played most of our own material. You know how it is it gets lost over the years. We were lucky that what we’re doing here is that Lucy still had all the old tapes. I’m in the process of trying to make contact with all the musicians that are living to invite them to Germany to perform once again with the band.
We met up in December last year in Munich and we agreed to work together on some new recordings. Are you enthused about working on a new set of songs?

I’m very very excited. I’m ahead of myself and I’ve got to slow down because I’m getting so excited about this project. I get up in the middle of the night and I write a set of lyrics. Then the next morning they suck! I’m very excited about this and especially about playing the songs live again.
You’re an accomplished songwriter!

I wouldn’t say accomplished. I would say that I keep trying. I received recently a small royalty statement from Gema over here for ‘Breezy.’
When did you first become aware of ‘Breezy’ becoming popular on the soul scene in Europe?

Around three years ago a guy from Frankfurt approached me to enquire about Ruby & the Mudflaps. They wanted to do a production but it never took place because we were too far away. They didn’t seem to have the right spirit or the right drive. That just kind of died out. I was surprised because I went on the internet and saw that somebody had uploaded ‘Breezy.’ I watched it every now and again. I thought that this is nice. Then I got another call from Merten at Cree Records about ‘Breezy.’ Then six weeks later you called. That’s when I thought that maybe something could happen. Just to think that I could leave something for my grandchildren is enough motivation for me.
Interview from the 5767 Home Of Cordial Recordings website https://5767.co.uk/ruby-and-the-mudflaps/
 
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

North Lancs Soul Festival Event Programme 18-20 May 2018

North Lancs Soul Festival Event Programme 18-20 May 2018
So here’s our musical menu for your delectation. ALL the big names playing at this year’s North Lancs Soul Festival. From your daily starters through to our tasty desserts! Plan your weekend, follow your favourites - or lend an ear to something new... BUT don’t forget the amazing Arthur Miles live performances.  Limited tickets still available for the whole 3 day weekend at just £20 with no booking fee, plus single daily tickets also available.
For tickets and further information on this 3 room, 3 day celebration of soul music on the North Lancashire Coast go to: www.northlancs soulfestival.co.uk
Ticket Info:
THREE-DAY ALL WEEKEND PASSES JUST £20.00 (with NO BOOKING FEE)
FRIDAY ONLY PASS 12 noon - 2am. 3 ROOMS & 24 DJ’s spinning: Northern / Crossover / Collectors Soul / Soulful House / Jazz Funk / 70’s / Club Classics PLUS live P.A. with Arthur Miles.  On-line ticket £11.00 (including B/F)
SATURDAY ONLY PASS 12 noon - 3am. 3 ROOMS & 27 DJ’s spinning: Motown / Northern / Crossover / Philly Soul / Collectors Soul / Soulful House / Jazz Funk / 70’s memories & Funk / Club Classics PLUS live P.A. with Arthur Miles.  On-line ticket £13.75 (including B/F)
SUNDAY ONLY PASS 12 noon - 1am. 2 ROOMS & 22 DJ’s spinning: Northern / Crossover / Collectors Soul / Soulful House / Jazz Funk / 70’s / Club Classics PLUS ‘meet & greet’ with Arthur Miles.  On-line ticket £8.25 (including B/F)
Limited daily tickets MAY be available to purchase on the door subject to availability but as Smokey O’Connors has a strict capacity, to guarantee access we strongly recommend buying in advance. Once capacity is reached there will be NO further admittance.






By Mr Meadows in News Archives ·

Pratt & Moody - Word Word Words - Timmion Records - Out now

Follow up single from Timmion records vocal duo Pratt & Moody is now out, and yep it's everything it should be.
Listen and read below...
Pratt & Moody (feat. Cold Diamond & Mink) - Words Words Words (Vocal) - Timmion
Title: Words Words Words (Vocal)
Artist: Pratt & Moody (feat. Cold Diamond & Mink)
Label: Timmion
Cat#: TR721
Formats: 7" Vinyl/Digital
Digital Release: 4th May 2018
Physical Release: 4th May 2018
A while back Pratt & Moody hit the global soul scene with their Stylart debut 7” ”Lost Lost Lost”, leaving many exclaiming the words ”FIRME ROLA” on its tracks. Some even mistook it for a forgotten oldie. Now this vocal/guitar duo gets together with Cold Diamond & Mink for another dose of grade A soul music.
Not breaking the spell of tautology started with the first 45, ”Words Words Words” picks up the tempo from ballad territory into the beat heavy group soul category. The pulsing drum track is laced with majestic horn riffs, tremolo guitar, penny arcade organ, and over everything hover the beautiful lyrics by Pratt and his mysterious harmony singers.
If the first single by Pratt and Moody left you yearning for more soul, this one should blow away the rest of your corporal existence.
Vinyl & Digital purchase via https://kud.li/tr721
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Trending Videos - Soul Source Video Feature

Our Soul Music Video feature has just had a recent upgrade, one interesting 'new' feature is the primary display of what soul music videos are trending this week
Have highlighted the current list of trending soul videos below
 
Out On The Floor In The Out Of Sight Movie...  
 
Junior Walker - Ram Jam Club
 
Penny And The Quarters - You And Me - Blue... 
 
George Gently - Gently Northern Soul
 
Bbc Coast To Coast - Lenny Henry Film - 1987 
 
Gregory Porter - 1960 What? - Official Music... ·
 
The Soul Inn - Ian Wright Dj 
 
2003 - In The Club (Wigan Casino) - Granada itv ·
 
Breakaway - Tony Basil (Short Movie - 1966) 
Northern Soul Amsterdam Mini Weekender 2018
Black Sugar - Too Late 
WIGANS CHOSEN FEW - FOOTSIE (RARE CLIP 1975) 
THE TYMES - PEOPLE (RARE TOTPS 1969) 
JOE SIMON - NO SAD SONGS 
The Voices Of East Harlem In Prison Concert 
Betty Davis Nasty Gal - Teaser  
BARBARA LEWIS - HELLO STRANGER (RARE CLIP... 
The Beat (Tv Program) Show 8 
Jackie Wilson & Shirley Ellis - Gonna Mess Up A Good...
Little Anthony And The Imperials 
THE VIBRATIONS - KEEP ON KEEPING ON...
SOUL GALORE Folkestone Weekender 2017 
Stax Volt Revue Norway 1967 
Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio - Move On Up 
 
 
you can view the feature in full along with the latest trending videos via
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/videos/
 
any what vids should be trending recommendations?
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Richard Searling Book - Setting The Record Straight - News

News is about that signed deluxe hardback copies of the forthcoming book from Richard Searling are now available for pre-order from Anglo American.
Titled 'Setting The Record Straight' and with it having taglines such as 'Music & Memories from Wigan Casino 1973-1981' and 'The Sounds That Shaped My life' and being billed with enticing descriptions such as... 
'This unique account reveals many closely guarded secrets and delivers a fascinating insight into the thrill of finding rare American soul records and life behind the turntables in that most hallowed of halls...' 
...this book does seem to have the potential to be an addition to the must purchase list of 'Northern Soul' related books .
It's out in September 2018, guess we will find out then...
Promotional Blurb
Over 250 pages and 150 exclusive records that defined the glory years of northern soul 1973-1981
Renowned DJ and broadcaster Richard Searling relives the records that defined his career at the world famous Wigan Casino between the years 1973 to 1981.
Pre-order Details
The Deluxe Hardback Edition is now available for pre-order signed by the author. £29.99 (INC UK P+P)
Available from Anglo American https://www.raresoulvinyl.co.uk  Phone: 01 706 81 8604
See flyer below for more ordering info

By Mike in News Archives ·

Eccentric Soul - The Saru Label - Numero Group NUM071

Time still moves on, seems every week landmarks are reached and passed and as such here we have another one, the 20th Eccentric Soul release from the  Numero Group.
Eccentric Soul - The Saru Label - NUM071
25 tracks all available in various formats Vinyl (2 x lp), Cd and Download
Listen and Read...
 Eccentric Soul: The Saru Label by Eccentric Soul

The 20th volume of our flagship Eccentric Soul series has all the boxes checked: Gun-toting, skip-tracing record producers, child stars, rip-offs, the “World’s Greatest Bail Bondsman,” swindles, soaring falsettos, and a dwindling rust-belt cityscape offering mere glimpses of hope before the record industry escaped for the coasts.
Helmed by the O’Jays Bobby Massey, Saru was a creative vortex that pulled Cuyahoga County’s greatest talent in, making a strong case for Cleveland to contend with Detroit, Philly, and Memphis as America’s soul music’s capital.
Deluxe compact disc includes 25 obscure and unknown sides from the Out of Sights, the Elements, Pandella Kelly, David Peoples, Sir Stanley, the Ponderosa Twins + 1, Ba-Roz, Bobby Dukes, and of course, the O’Jays.
Tracks
1. Out Of Sights - For the Rest of My Life 03:03    
2. The O'Jays - Now He's Home 03:48    
3. Pandella Kelly - Stand In for Love 02:48    
4. The Ponderosa Twins Plus One - Bound 03:16    
5. Elements - Son In Law 03:19    
6. Sir Stanley - Are You Man Enough 02:42    
7. Bobby Dukes - Just to Be with You 03:07    
8. David Peoples - Got to Get My Broom Out 02:50    
9. Michael Bell - Can't Make It Without You 03:02    
10. Out Of Sights - I Can't Take It 03:17    
11. The Ba-roz - The Last Time 02:36    
12. Elements - Hey Lady 03:06    
13. The Ponderosa Twins Plus One - I Remember You 02:54    
14. Out Of Sights - My Woman's Love 03:10    
15. Out Of Sights - Baby You Got It 02:41    
16. The O'Jays - Shattered Man 03:36    
17. Sir Stanley - I Believe 02:49    
18. Out Of Sights - Tears Don't Care Who Cry 02:17    
19. Elements - Prove It 02:51    
20. The Ba-roz - Come Back Boy 02:28    
21. Out Of Sights - You Made Me Beg 02:27    
22. Out Of Sights - I Was Wrong 03:01    
23. Elements - Just to Be with You 03:06    
24. Pandella Kelly - Love's Needed 03:07    
25. Elements - Got to Make It Right 03:3
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

This is Trojan 50 - Trojan Records News

Trojan Records are spreading the word on their 50 year anniversary year, here's what they have to say...
'2018 marks 5 decades since our label changed the British musical & cultural landscape. To mark the occasion, we are plotting a year-long celebration, taking in a series of music releases, live events, a definitive coffee table book and documentary'
Here's the video
and here's the link...
 http://trojan.lnk.to/store 
By Mike in News Archives ·

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