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Jay Traynor Passed Away January 2nd 2014.

After a two year battle with an illness JAY passed away on the 2nd of January, he was still performing in December 2013. The original JAY of JAY AND THE AMERICANS, but will be remembered more for his legendary Northern Soul track "Up and Over". This record means so much to me and I'm sure to lots of people on Soul Source. God Bless JAY TRAYNOR.
 
Paul Kidd
 
 
mikeJan 03 2014 02:02 PM
 
Chalky passed on the news via the forum earlier - can read that thread via link below
http://www.soul-sour...and-rex-garvin/
 
 
 
 
wiganer1Jan 03 2014 02:49 PM
 
rip jay - thanks for the memories
 
 
 
 
mrtagJan 03 2014 03:02 PM
 
Hi Paul, A very sad start to the New Year!! R.I.P Jay
 
 
 
 
PhilReevesJan 03 2014 03:14 PM
 
R.I.P Jay. What a great record "Up and Over" is.Never tired of hearing it.
 
billywhizz likes this Like
 
 
 
 
billywhizzJan 03 2014 04:05 PM
 
R I P, JAY
 
Like
 
 
 
andys lockerJan 03 2014 04:50 PM
 
R.I.P,Jay. Yeah great record " Up and Over ".Had it in my box, before they all got nicked back in the early 80ts.
 
 
 
 
pk 22djJan 03 2014 07:36 PM
 
Sorry for not seeing yesterdays link, I had a quick search and couldn't see anything. Sad news all round.
 
 
 
ninjaJan 05 2014 04:11 PM
 
 
 
Sad News .............. Just listening AGAIN -
 
R.I.P JAY
 
 
 
 
charley1Jan 05 2014 08:53 PM
 
Very sad news, when i hear Up and Over it brings back some great memories. Thanks Jay, RIP
 
 
 
SoulStuJan 20 2014 01:37 PM
 
Very sad, I remember the first time i heard Up & Over as a 14 year old at Pleasley Verney 'teatimer'. Great intro, great vocals. R.I.P.
By Pk 22dj in News Archives ·

Baltic Soul #8 May 2014 Newletter

Baltic Soul Weekender #8 takes place over the weekend 23-25 May this year 2014
 
A quick grab of the line up...
 
 
 

LISA STANSFIELD
 
Vocal Artist
 
 
ARCHIE BELL
 
Vocal Artist
 
 
 
CANDI STATON
 
Vocal Artist
 
 
 
D TRAIN
 
Vocal Artist
 
 
 
 
previousnext
GLORIA SCOTT
 
Vocal Artist
 
 
 
NICOLE WILLIS & THE SOUL INVESTIGATORS
 
Vocal Artist
 
 
 
RHONDA
 
Vocal Artist
 
 
 
BALTIC SOUL ORCHESTRA
 
Live Orchestra
 
 
 
BERND NIEDERGESAESS
 
DJ Performance, Radio Host
 
 
 
CROUT
 
DJ Performance
 
 
 
DAN D.
 
DJ Performance
 
 
 
DJ FRICTION
 
DJ Performance
 
 
 
 
previousnext
GABRIEL BOUFFIERE
 
DJ Performance
 
 
 
HANS NIESWANDT
 
DJ Performance
 
 
 
HENRY STORCH
 
DJ Performance
 
 
 
IAN DEWHIRST
 
DJ Performance
 
 
 
KENNY B.
 
DJ Performance, Radio Host
 
 
 
LLOYD ATTRILL
 
DJ Performance
 
 
 
MICK FARRER
 
DJ Performance
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
MISS KELLY MARIE
 
DJ Performance
 
 
 
 
MR. BROWN
 
DJ Performance
 
 
 
 
ROB WIGLEY
 
DJ Performance
 
 
 
 
SMUDO
 
DJ Performance
 
 
 
 
STEVE HOBBS
 
DJ Performance
 
 
 
SUPERGID
 
DJ Performance
 
Decembers newletter was in deutsch, a brief snap of it shows below...
Can get full details and play with online translators via the Baltic Souls top quality website
link follows..
 
http://www.baltic-soul.de/
 
 
 
Liebe Baltic Soul Familie,
 
dieser Newsletter beinhaltet viele neue Informationen. Bitte sorgfältig lesen.
 
Im April dieses Jahres fand der Baltic Soul Weekender #7 statt. Seitdem gab es einige aufregende Monate. Nicht nur, dass der Baltic Soul Weekender umgezogen ist, er rückt auch näher an den Sommer. Der Baltic Soul Weekender #8 findet vom 23 - 25 Mai 2014 im Center Parcs Bispinger Heide statt und war, nach der sehr freundlichen Arte Dokumentation im Rahmen des "Summer of Soul", bereits im August ausverkauft.
 
Aus Rückläufern wurden in den letzten Tagen minimale Kontingente in den Kategorien 6 und 8 Personen Bungalows wieder frei und sind ab sofort über www.baltic-soul.de buchbar. Um von eventuellen weiteren Rückläufern profitieren zu können, solltet ihr Euch jedoch auch für eure Wunsch-Gruppengrößen schnell auf die Warteliste eintragen.
 
Sollte ein 6 oder 8 Personen Bungalow nicht das richtige Weihnachtsgeschenk für Euch und/ oder Eure Freunde sein, gibt es, ab sofort auch Tagestickets und Wochenendpässe zu kaufen, denn Ihr wollt das nachfolgende Line-Up bestimmt nicht verpassen.
 
Ebenfalls möchten wir Euch eine neue Veranstaltung vorstellen: Die Baltic Soul Charity Gala wird künftig jedes Jahr am 2. Oktober stattfinden und einen eleganten Abend mit bekannten Live Künstlern und DJs bieten. Die Festsäle des Hamburger Atlantic Hotels bieten dazu den passenden Rahmen. Mehr erfahrt Ihr in diesem Newsletter.
Wir danken für die Aufmerksamkeit und wünschen Euch und euren Lieben ein friedliches Fest.
 
Euer Baltic Soul Team
http://www.baltic-soul.de
 
http://youtu.be/iHrmOLZpwUI
By Mike in Event News ·

New Cultures Of Soul 7 Inch Coming Out!

We’re joining forces with the awarding winning Boston area soul and funk night, Soulelujah to put out a special limited edition 45.

The crew from Soulelujah have chosen their classic dance night floor filler — Irene Reid’s “Dirty Old Man” for the A-side. We chose the B-side which is often incorrectly credited as “I Keep Forgetting” by the Thornton Sisters. Dr. Yvonne Thornton and her sisters vehemently deny that they recorded this track which leads us to believe that Cuppy Records producer Sonny Casella brought in a studio band to lay down this track.

Soulelujah’s DJ crew has been bringing hot soul 45s to Boston dancers for over 10 years at the iconic Middle East rock club. Featuring two rooms and a jumping dance floor, it has been our go to place for guest DJing throughout the years.

Coming out February 4th on heavy vinyl and limited to 500 copies you can pre-order this special 7inch release here.



ajbJan 01 2014 08:04 PM

That “I Keep Forgettin'” by the Thornton Sisters, on Cuppy is seriously rare, with a serious price tag to match, and is very nice, so well done for bringing this to market place.
Ordered my copy, thank you.

deanosoundsFeb 02 2014 04:00 AM

Hitting your fine retailers this week!

roddersFeb 02 2014 08:10 AM

Sent for mine at the beginning of the year and have assured it'll be sent this week, can't wait
By Guest deanosounds in News Archives ·

The Last Twelve Months At Soulfusion!

Soulfusion yearly review
 
Well what a rollercoaster year its been at soulfusion!
 
The weather has played a major part of the success of this years 6 events
Its fair to say its been a very mixed year yet rewarding too
 
January promised to be the usual packer that an anniversary brings with SEAN CHAPMAN in the Northern room and PAUL GOLDSMITH one of the UKs finest modern DJs making his first visit to Our Modern room. So all looking good for a terrific night
On the day the UK was covered in a blanket of snow that closed many motorways and main arteries to Gloucestershire, Sadly Paul Goldsmith could not get his car off his drive in the south so had to cry off which I fully understood. but we had a tremendous turnout in spite of the weather and Sean Chapman had em rocking in the main room! so thankyou to everyone who made it along on the night to support us.
 
On to March now and we were again looking to make up for the bad weather we had suffered in January and with Bristols DEAN READ from GO GO children in the main room and South Coast Modern soul DJ MICK FARRER in the Modern room we had no doubt that it would be a great night!!
 
Again it snowed and caused us a few problems with many folks not wanting to chance the poor road conditions but we managed to attract enough folks along to create a good atmosphere in both rooms and musically it was as good as its always been and always will be so a BIG thankyou once again to all involved DJs and soulies alike
I very much appreciate your support .
 
On to May now and surely the weather is gonna be kind to us?!!
 
RESULT!!!
 
Thankfully it was very kind and the Alldayer proved to be probably our best attended event throughout 2013. not surprising really as we had such a great roster of both local and visiting DJs including DAVE EVISON,MAZZ from Oxford, ALAN POWELL plus GLEN WORTHINGTON on percussion to entertain and educate us all with their music choices. This event also saw the launch of our open decks room, purely because there were so many folks wanting to get involved. We have carried on with this idea and its been well received for the second half of the year!
Rest assured there will be another soulfusion alldayer in 2014 so if you fancy spinning a few sounds then please get in touch.
 
July is always a bit hit and miss with the school holidays just starting and folks jetting off to the med for some well deserved sun, also we had the best summer for a very long time so lots of folks were taking advantage of the long awaited sunshine and chilling out at home by the barbequeue. To be honest I don’t blame you all as we had had such a crap summer the previous year. But on we went and had two great new DJs as guests SAM EVANS in the Northern room and STEVE HOBBS in our modern room
 
Sam is one of the BIG characters on the scene these days and always entertains whatever room she is in and Steve is a gentleman and TOP Soul DJ from the South of England and both did great sets to entertain our crowd. They will both be coming back in the near future!!
 
On to September now and a visit from two old Soulfusion friends PETE LYSTER & NEIL RUSHTON both are terrific supporters of soulfusion and I have worked with both of them on many occasions so knew we were in for a belter of a night, Neil always keen to DJ wanted to do a Ritz northern set and an Upfront modern set too!! So we let him do his thing which worked well for the auduences in both rooms such is the legend Neil Rushton is!
Pete does what he always does entertains with a real mix of rare and unusual sounds typical of his excellent Soul night at Bridgwater! Thankyou both of you for outstanding sets!
 
Onto our November final event of 2013 which again looked like being another terrific event with the awesome JO WALLACE in the northern room and Bournemouth’s NEIL HANRATTY special guest in the Modern room
We wanted to finish the year with a BANG as its been a bit of a rollercoaster as previously mentioned and with the darker nights I was hoping to attract a decent crowd to support two terrific DJs. Sadly due to various reasons we had a low attendance and although it was a brilliant night musically it just wasn’t the way I would have liked it to finish, such a great shame as we had two DJs that had travelled long distances to be with us! But thanks go out to all who attended on the night.
 
A few thankyou’s to the soulfusion posse who without them the event would not be possible. Sara Baker, Dean Carr, Marc Moyse, Bev Short, Stella & Tim, Keith, Steve Bennett, etc
Thankyou to the staff and management of Dowty Sports & Social Club
Thanks to Don & Liz & Sue Taylor for help on the door
 
The resident dj’s who support our special guests, JERRY HIPKISS, JON WILLIS, JINKSY, MART & SUE TAYLOR, DON PALMER, STEVE LLOYD, GRAHAM & WILL
plus a special mention to PAUL GARLAND who not only DJs but supplies the kit for the modern room and keeps me abreast of all the best new soul material available. You are a special friend Paul!
 
One other person who needs a mention is my fiancé Gina who supports me and encourages me to keep it going!! Thanks love!
 
And the final thankyou goes out to everyone who has supported soulfusion by paying to come in throughout the last 7 years. Without you lot there would be no audience to play to so thankyou very much from the bottom of my heart!
 
On to 2014
 
Right here we go with the start of a new year and what a lineup to kick off the year!!
 
SOUL SAM & COLIN CURTIS!!!
 
After taking 6 months off due to a major operation SOUL SAM is back at soulfusion and it’s his first gig coming back so he is raring to go with his box of 45’s so get ready for the SOUL SAM experience in the main room.
As if that wasn’t enough to wet your appetite we have the awesome COLIN CURTIS headlining our modern room. Colin is without a doubt THE leading light on the modern soul/house/jazz dance scene and we are so lucky to get him on at soulfusion for his third visit to us!! It says a lot about our event that we have two TOP TOP DJs wanting to come and DJ for us so please make sure you come along and support them.
 
I have always stated that as long as you want soulfusion I will continue to put on the best event possible for you,
 
See you on the dancefloor on Sat 18th Jan 2014 for another spectacular soulfusion event!
By Neil Self in Event News ·

Motown's Black Forum Label - Bbc Radio 4 Jan 9th 2014

Motown's Black Forum Label - Documentary On BBC Radio 4
 
 
BBC Radio 4 has a documentary about the Motown Black Forum Label. It will be broadcast on Thursday 9th January 2014 at 11.30 am, presented by Alvin Hall. Show includes Suzanne de Passe
 
 
added by site
 
 
Black Forum was Motown's spoken word label. Its eight albums reflect African-American experience at a turbulent time in America. Alvin Hall talks to those behind the recordings.
 
In 1970, Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown, set up a Motown spoken-word label. It was called Black Forum and it recorded poetry, civil rights speeches, African-American soldiers in Vietnam and more. The label closed in 1973 after eight releases. In recent years, those releases have started to attract interest and some of them have been reissued. What has been revealed is a powerful testament to the African-American experience at a turbulent time in American society. Alvin, the financial educator and spoken-word record collector listens to the recordings and talks to those who were involved in their making.
By Guest in News Archives ·

Soulful Kinda Music Hits 1,700 !

I know I've been a bit lax in updating the site recently, but I've just added a few more discographies, and can now proudly say that the site contains 1,701 discographies and label listings !
 
Thanks again, to everyone who has contributed in the past, and keep the additions coming. I may be slow in adding some of them, but they all get there eventually.
 
Cheers
 
Dave
 
www.soulfulkindamusic.net
 
 
arnie jDec 24 2013 10:35 AM
 
well done dave,its a fantastic site full of knowledge and info,perfect for us anorak record nerds,thank you
jason
 
 
 
Andy KempsterDec 24 2013 11:20 AM
 
I use it all the time Dave, absolutely invaluable resource.
 
all the best and Merry Christmas to you both
Andy
 
Like
 
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Ian Dewhirst photo
Floor Filler
 
 
Ian DewhirstDec 24 2013 01:11 PM
 
I use it all the time too Dave. Fantastic resource. Well done for keeping it going.
 
Ian D
 
 
 
WindlesoulDec 24 2013 03:45 PM
 
Immensely useful resource Dave, use it loads too, very helpful for my book research etc. Thanks and congrats on a neverending job well done!
 
Mark.
 
 
 
 
GeoffDec 25 2013 03:30 PM
 
Thanks for the site Dave, I find it a very useful reference tool. Merry Christmas to you and Jessica.
 
 
 
billbDec 26 2013 12:02 PM
 
Great site Dave, well done and thanks!
 
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By Dave Rimmer in News Archives ·

Patrinell Pat Staten Wright - An Essay

Patrinell Pat Staten Wright - An Essay
 
While the story of the artist behind 'little love affair' has been documented a fair few times already, this 'essay' written by Peter Blecha, may still be worth a read/visit as it goes beyond the 45 story and concerns itself with a complete account of Pats life so far, and with parts concerning her earlier days that included moments in time such as her early days growing up in the 'hot dusty cotton country of Carthage' and singing at Jimi Hendrix funeral it does make an interesting and for me an enjoyable read.
 
The full length essay can be read via the History Link website which is is an evolving online encyclopedia of Washington state and local history. It provides a free, authoritative, and easily accessible history reference for the benefit of students, teachers, journalists, scholars, researchers, and the general public.
 
You can catch the link after the preview clips below...
 
"I was lying in my bed, minding my own business and my friend Freddie Mae Gautier [1930--2001] calls me up -- because she was one of the people who really knew the Hendrix family very, very well, and she in a way was a surrogate parent to Jimi. And she called me up and said: 'Pat Wright: you need to get up ... you need to come now.' And I said 'Where am I coming to?' She says 'You need to come to this church' ... she said 'They need some God up in here, so get up and come bring some God with you.' ... So, I got up and I went out there. And, it scared me to death. Scared me to death. All these people from England (and from other countries) ... they all had on black leather, and they all had long hair, and they all were high! I didn't realize at that time that people from other countries are a lot more warm. You know, I'm still fresh out of the south. So here's these tall white guys, and white girls, you know all around me and I'm goin' 'I. Don't. Feel. Comfortable. I just ...
 
... including jazz icon Miles Davis (1926-1991), drummer Buddy Miles (1947-2008), and Hendrix's boyhood friends from Seattle. At the proper moment, Wright walked past the lavender and white floral display arranged in the shape of a giant guitar and stepped up to the pulpit.
 
"I sang 'What a Friend We Have in Jesus' -- and it was very, very quiet as I began to sing this song. And then as I ended the song ...
 
... according to The Seattle Daily Times, "a sound that is as soft and smooth as velvet ... with the Casanovas' fine harmony and Patrinell's glorious voice, Sepia's boost should be all that is necessary to get them started on a good career. And watch out for Patrinell -- if she gets the right breaks, she could become another Nancy Wilson or Dionne Warwick" (Gressel, "New Local Label ... ").
"I left the R&B scene after three years. That was work that I didn't want to do anymore. It was just too hard. And, I wasn't really good at it anyway [laughter]. [Plus], my husband wasn't goin' for that, the church wasn't goin' for that -- and I had a really hard time in the black community, who knew me and weren't goin' for it...
 
 
Link to the full essay ...
 
Wright, Pat (b. 1944) HistoryLink.org Essay 10392 by Peter Blecha June 2013
 
http://www.historylink.org/index.cfm?DisplayPage=output.cfm&file_id=10392
 
 
Photo Credit
 
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Wheedle's_Groove_03.jpg
 
Wheedle's Groove performing at Neumos, Capitol Hill, Seattle, Washington. Pat Wright here on lead vocals, along with other members of her Total Experience Gospel Choir as backing vocalists.
Date 1 October 2010
Source Photo by Joe Mabel
By Mike in News Archives ·

York Sunday Chillouts 2014 - Changes for the Waterfront Blues and Soul Club

The Waterfront Blues and Soul Club (York) goes bi monthly in 2014, starting February, so its 2nd Sunday, every 2nd month .
 
1st 2014 date, Sunday 8th February . Info
 

 
Same venue, the cool and upmarket dedicated room and bar above the Pitcher and Piano cafe bar on the riverside, discretely tucked away in the centre historic York. Fabulous 'surround' sound system, comfy leather sofas, wooden floor should the urge to dance overcome you and a private open terrace downstairs.http://www.pitcheran...ere-are-we/york
 
Free Admission. 2pm -7pm. Usually drink promotions and comp cd for 1st 50.
Sunday lunch, sandwiches & bistro food also available
 
Music policy remains the same - 'freestyle , progressive soul'...'‘the soulful music of black America, Africa and Jamaica' - 'an eclectic mix of rare and underplayed soul, funk, jazz, reggae, ska, blues, x-over, modern & northern'
 
Resident DJs from , Chris 'Bearsoul' Morgan, Terry Finn, Andy Bellwood,
Mr Green & Jay Cee.
 
Dates & guest DJs:
 
Sunday 8th February. John Moffatt & Gary Smith (Washington & Darnall Horti Soul Club) plus ‘bring a box ‘ guest John 'Boy' Walton (Crescent Soul Club , York).
 
Sunday 13th April. Peter Bleasdale (Liverpool) & Dave Scott (Beatin’ Rhythm, Newcastle) plus 'bring a box guest' Paul Dickinson (Crescent Soul Club, York).
 
Sunday 8th June. Dave Ferguson (Burnley & Soulvation), Tracey Shaw (Tunbridge Wells) plus ‘bring a box’ guest Nicki 'playing records from Blake Helliwell's collection'.
 
Sunday 10th August. ‘Chappy’ & Shaun McPhail (Red Bar, Sheffield) plus 'bring a box' guest tba.
 
Sunday 12th October. Attic (Mansfield) DJ reunion — Steve L, Tony Mak & Kev H.
 
Sunday 14th December Xmas Special. Sean Hampsey (Just Soul) & Blake Helliwell (MK Soul).
 
For further info etc contact Jay Cee (promoter) jason.chinnian@btinternet.com, tel/text 07884367177
 
 
 
jasonsaxo photo
Semi known gem
 
 
jasonsaxoDec 22 2013 12:08 PM
 
Loads of excitement and soul as always.
 
Cheers Y'all
 
Jay Cee
 
andybellwood likes this Like
 
 
MarkWhiteleyDec 22 2013 12:43 PM
 
MUSt make a visit this coming year, heard some good things !
 
andybellwood likes this Like
 
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tracey shaw photo
Semi known gem
 
 
tracey shawDec 22 2013 12:45 PM
 
Really looking forward to playing at the Warerfront in June and meeting the Waterfront soul gang Tracey x
 
andybellwood and soulfulrosa like Like
 
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bri pinch photo
BRI PINCH
 
 
bri pinchDec 22 2013 01:08 PM
 
sure i'll be making a few visits thruout the year
 
 
 
 
glennDec 22 2013 05:14 PM
 
cheers andy I will defo come and pay a visit next year
 
 
 
 
andybellwoodDec 22 2013 08:46 PM
 
forgot to mention ...the early doors 'bring a box'session has also been re instated for 2014 -anyone with an ' interesting ' and imaginative play box and who fancies getting behind the decks drop Jay an email - Jason.chinnian@btinternet.com
 
 
 
 
ajbDec 22 2013 09:17 PM
 
andybellwood, on 22 Dec 2013 - 7:46 PM, said:
forgot to mention ...the early doors 'bring a box'session has also been re instated for 2014 -anyone with an ' interesting ' and imaginative play box and who fancies getting behind the decks drop Jay an email - Jason.chinnian@btinternet.com
 
mmmmmmmm, now theres an offer!
 
andybellwood likes this Like
 
 
 
andybellwoodDec 23 2013 02:07 PM
 
tracey shaw, on 22 Dec 2013 - 11:45 AM, said:
Really looking forward to playing at the Warerfront in June and meeting the Waterfront soul gang Tracey x
excellent Tracey- one of 11 new and different guests for 2014 - keeping the music played fresh, imaginative and soulful- certainly not the same old...
 
Like
 
 
 
 
andybellwoodDec 25 2013 10:25 PM
 
ajb, on 22 Dec 2013 - 8:17 PM, said:
mmmmmmmm, now theres an offer!
Go for it Alan - you've great taste in soulful tunes
 
 
 
ajbDec 28 2013 07:15 PM
 
andybellwood, on 25 Dec 2013 - 9:25 PM, said:
Go for it Alan - you've great taste in soulful tunes
 
all sorted Andy, can't wait now. roll on summer.
 
 
 
soulfulrosaDec 29 2013 09:42 PM
 
Looking forward to this local venue for us. A lovely location too :-D
 
 
 
andybellwoodJan 06 2014 01:57 PM
 
soulfulrosa, on 29 Dec 2013 - 8:42 PM, said:
Looking forward to this local venue for us. A lovely location too :-D
Look forward to seeing you when the Waterfront restarts with its 1st date in 2014, Sunday 9th Feb.
 
Like
 
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andybellwood photo
In-Demander
 
 
andybellwoodJan 12 2014 09:01 PM
 
MarkWhiteley, on 22 Dec 2013 - 11:43 AM, said:
MUSt make a visit this coming year, heard some good things !
Thanks Mark , hope to see you soon . Feb 9th gonna be a good un with John & Gary guesting.
 
 
 
andybellwoodJan 23 2014 03:36 PM
 
need to re arrange Dave Fergerson's spot in June as Dave's got himself double booked - watch this space for revised date. The lads from Selby Soul Club & Vixen Radio will now be making their debut on 8th June ( along with Tracey Shaw & Nicki).
 
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By Andybellwood in Event News ·

Respect Yourself: Stax Records and the Soul Explosion Kindle

Another Kindle pass on in the occasional series where the site makes the most out of the amazon "look inside" to provide some heads up reading on both old and new books available on kindle, thanks to member roburt (john s) for highlighting this one
Here's the soul source heads up read...
Respect Yourself: Stax Records and the Soul Explosion
Published: November 12, 2013
Author: Robert Gordon
The story of Stax Records unfolds like a Greek tragedy. A white brother and sister build a monument to racial harmony in blighted south Memphis during the civil rights movement. Their success soon pits the siblings against each other, and the brother abandons his sister for a visionary African-American partner. Under integrated leadership, Stax explodes as a national player until, Icarus-like, the heights they achieve result in their tragic demise. They fall, losing everything, and the sanctuary they created is torn to the ground. A generation later, Stax is rebuilt brick by brick and is once again transforming disenfranchised youth into stellar young musicians.
Excerpt: Respect Yourself: Stax Records And The Soul Explosion
CUTTING HEADS AND HAIR
1957—1959
Jim Stewart sat in his barber's chair. Jim's hair was short, his face boyish and scrubbed clean. He wore thick-rimmed glasses and a necktie, his jacket on the barber's coat hook. It was 1957 and Jim was twenty-seven years old, working in a bank and taking business classes at night on the GI Bill, with an eye toward becoming a lawyer. He played fiddle in a country swing band on weekends.
Within ten years, this man would be responsible for some of the most soulful, swinging, and hip music ever made. Black people – of which he presently knew approximately none – would be his closest associates. The Beatles, to be unleashed in just a few years, would reach the height of their popularity, and in the thick of Beatlemania, the Beatles would phone Jim Stewart and ask if they could record at his studio. In ten years,
Jim would have a hep goatee and his hair would be much longer than it was before he sat down for this trim. But in this barber's chair, 1957, there was no indication any of that would, or could, happen.
By Mike in News Archives ·

Oslo Soul Experience Video

In case you missed this in the video forum...
A stand up film all about Oslo Soul Experience who recently passed their 10th Anniversary lndmark
The Video is all about Oslo's "true underground soul club" Oslo Soul Experience
The 9 min video features interviews with the club's founders, djs, regs etc, telling the story how 3 soul fans made this club a fixture on the Scandinavian soul scene
here are...
 
By Mike in News Archives ·

Teakwood - New Unreleased Tracks Found

Meet up with two of the guys from this very talented group Fred Forsh & Gordon T Danniels, a few weeks ago in the U.S. Sadly the 45 below was all that ever made it to the streets, but they did cut 9 other tracks.
 

Fred Forsh
 

Gordon T Danniels,
 
The first cut 'Suddenly' at Perfection Sound in Smyrna, North Atlanta. They thought they were signing a deal to record, press and promote the two tracks. But Perfection were a contract studio and publishing house only, sadly this wasn't explained to clearly. So at the end of the affair they group were handed 500 copies of the 45 and wished well in their future endeavour, but now less the publishing on the two songs.
Slightly disillusioned they decided a year later, having scraped together enough money for more studio time, to cut 9 more songs they had written, under the project name of 'A Distant Star'. This set of songs were all recorded at ESP studios in Atlanta and again all written, produced and arranged by the group. At the same time they were in conversation with Bang & ABC-Dunhill, sadly neither conversation went anywhere. So with families and mouths to feed the group broke up.
 

 
Now in conversation with a few people to see if the LP can at last get publised
 
Will be playing some of these on my show 2nite on GFM 7pm-9pm GMT
 
http://www.gloucesterfm.com/
 
Highlight of the day was singing the Oh, Oh, Oh's on 'Suddenly' acapella with the guys, badly on my part.................
 
http://youtu.be/7YGJ2SsuFts
 
 
FlannyDec 23 2013 12:31 PM
 
Sadly moved my copy of suddenly on a few years ago nice to hear it again after all this time would be great to hear some more stuff by these guys , keep up the good detective work Dave Ps anyone with a spare cheap copy get in touch
 
 
 
 
polyveltsDec 29 2013 11:48 PM
 
We got a very sweet message from Fred and Berry on our 99p soul nites blogspot site when we posted up their track on a playlist a couple of years ago. Nice guys.
see link http://dusty7s.blogspot.co.uk/2011/04/suddenly.html
By Dave Thorley in News Archives ·

Bunny Sigler - Philly Soul Played Manchester

PHILLY PLAYED MANCHESTER
 
I wrote a feature prior to the New Century Soul 10th Anniversary Allnighter which related the story of the build up to the gig and thought it might be fun to relate a kinda Part 2. For many fans, it's the hour on stage that lingers in the memory banks and that's just how it should be. But I thought people might enjoy a behind the scenes kind of take of events too.
 

In the build up to The New Century Soul 10th Anniversary Allnighter there was a lot of 'cloak and dagger' needed to be undertaken. The reason for this was that Chris Waterman intended to surprise Marcelle with a hush hush appearance from her favourite singer Mr Ronnie Walker.
Although quite a few people needed to know about Ronnie's appearance it was to be kept under wraps until he actually appeared on stage. Not an easy task. In the months building up to the event, the band, (The Casino All-Stars from Stockport), practiced the playlist that Chris and I had selected for the event and once happy they sent me the recorded versions that I then forwarded to Philly for Bunny and Ronnie to peruse and comment on.
All went pretty slick and the arrangements for hotels, flights, rehearsals, transport etc were all put in place despite not being able to leave any messages on Chris' phone or an email trail and we all managed to keep everything under wraps until the night. On the Tuesday before the gig I called Bunny and Ronnie and ensured they were happy with all the arrangements, had their airline tickets in their hands and Bev and I flew to UK as the “Advance Party”.
The Wednesday night, we again phoned Philly to ensure the guys were airport bound, which they confirmed they were and settled down to a fantastic dinner at Dave and Janet Ferguson's Burnley home, where we were staying for the night.
A couple of other long time friends/couples completed our party and lots of wine later we retired with the laughter of our close friends still ringing in our ears. Many thanks to The Ferguson's, The Parkers and The Comers for what was a great night.
Up at the crack of dawn, Dave F, Bev and I set off to meet the Philly contingent at Manchester Airport. UK traffic being what it is and USAirways arriving a little early meant that we didn't get the chance to see them arrive which was a shame, as I'd have loved to have seen Bunny swoop through arrivals in his full length fur coat and matching hat! Ever the showman, Top boke!
A quick run to the hotel we were all staying at in Leigh, our esteemed visitors were soon 'tucked up in bed' whilst Bev and I retrieved another car from Burnley and after a dash back to Leigh in order to escort them to dinner we were all esconced in a good old English pub by 6pm. Fish, Chips, Pies and the obligatory mushy peas later, (accompanied by Marguerita in Martha's case bet that was a first for “The Singing Wren” hostelry!) we embarked on the ring road to Pear Studios in Stockport where we were to meet the band and run through the programme for the upcoming Saturday nightshow .
 

 
Now I'm gonna be totally honest here and admit that when Chris told me that the band was a local group called the Casino All-Stars that I had my reservations. (Although I'd previously met Paul Kidd in Valencia at the Allnighters there). A quick wander round Google and Youtube gave me an idea as to their skills but I was still a little apprehensive about whether a local combo of limited exposure to the material would be able to do it justice. I needn't have worried. During that first rehearsal it was clear that they'd worked extremely hard in the build up and were more than capable of recreating the music of Madara/White/Huff/Wisner and Len Barry.
 

 
By 9pm that evening I was completely confident that The Casino All-Stars would do us (and Stockport), proud. Ronnie ran through his two numbers first and only needed the odd tweak, mainly in relation to how the songs would finish before declaring himself happy with the proceedings and handing over to Bunny. A couple of hours later Bunny was also happy with the edits he and the band made and at the final run through of the session they all sounded great together.
We all retired to Paul and Tina Kidd's place for a bite to eat, a quick drink and then made our way back to Leigh for a well earned night's sleep!
 

 
The following day Bunny, Ronnie and I met up in the hotel restaurant, ordered a large pot of coffee and spent a few hours running over details about their careers in the new book I'm working on, whilst Bev and Martha went to spend the afternoon together at a Christmas Market nearby. It's these sessions with the artists, that have for me at least, given me the most pleasure over recent years. Sure, the 45s are still important and the collector gene will always be there but spending time with the creators of our music has now become the focus for me. It was a great few hours listening to them reminiscing about their time in Philadelphia in the sixties and seventies. Their tales littered with legendary names like Buddy Caldwell, John Madara, David White, Jimmy Wisner, Phil Gaber, Clarence Williams, Morris Bailey, Bobby Martin and Leon Huff. Fantastic stuff.
 

 
Later that evening John Kane, local collector and the BBC Radio Leeds DJ arrived to conduct an interview with the guys which took place in a quiet corner before we headed off into Manchester City centre for dinner with John and his partner Tracy at PapaG's, which tumed out to be a great choice by John. Great food, great surroundings and even greater company made for a great way to finish off the day. Bunny, ever the showman, latched into a group of young ladies out celebrating one of their birthdays and, after a great meal he entertained them with his acapella version of 'Love Train' surrounded by youngsters who weren't even born when the song was written! Great stuff! We all slept soundly that night before an early breakfast prior to returning to Pear Studios for a final run through of the entire show.
 

 
People who know me well will know that it's these rehearsals that really get me tingling. Watching musicians and singers create the sound, layer by layer, is a great experience for me and this session was electrifying. Aware of every nuance of the songs, and of who played the instruments I feel I can actually sense how it must have been back in the day when the early incarnations of MFSB and other musical craftsmen first lifted the notes from the charts and breathed that vibrant life into the music.
Now fully rested, Bunny and Ronnie were full on, the band had now been give a confidence boost from the earlier session and were also now 'going for it'. They had that small room absolutely rockin'! Myself, Bev and Martha were clapping and cheering them on after every number and the end result was a band and their singers all in harmony! Perfect. It was now time to get back to Leigh, shower, change and make our way to the Zinc Bar and Grill in Manchester City centre's Triangle to meet up with fellow 'Hitsviller's' who were hosting a 'Pre Match Dinner' for our guests before the gig.
 

 
Somehow 14 of us managed to squeeze into the meagre space the restaurant had allocated us and everyone managed to chat to our guests despite a long oblong table not being an ideal seating arrangement. Bev Parker did eventually lean over and whisper to Bunny “Girl, Promise Me, That One Day You'll Be....” and Bunny being Bunny needed no more encouragement to start singing and the whole table joined in “Girl Don't Make Me Wait Too Long”, much to the puzzlement but pleasure of the rest of the restaurant!
 

 
A great moment, that is stored alongside many others that this particular group of friends have enjoyed together over the years. Towards the end of the dinner, Bunny and Ronnie signed some vintage photos for us that I'd put together and everyone took away a couple of signed photos as a momento on the evening. It was now time to get on the road to Radciffe...
 

 
The cloak and dagger mission to hide Ronnie from Marcelle continued as Sean Haydon and I drew the cars up outside, met up with Chris and continued round the back entrance. A quick shuftie around to make sure no one was about and we were in. Straight up the stairs and into the dressing rooms and bingo! So far so good. The place was filling up nicely and the band were already there, soundchecked and ready to go. All we needed now was an hour more of secrecy and ít would be mission accomplished. Once I got Bunny and Ronnie settled I took Martha down onto the dance-floor area, hooked her up with Bev Parker and Janet Ferguson and left an excited Mrs Sigler to check out her very first Northern Soul Event! Complete with a glass of British beer! A hectic spin round the bar area and foyer to say hello to a few people I hadn't seen for a while and it was almost showtime!
 

 
A quick change into the Monkey Suit for the MC duties whilst DJ Tim Brown introduced the band allowed them to open up with the Van McCoy classic, “You Gonna Make Me Love You”, before delivering their own renditions of “You Shook Me Up” and a solid version of Rose Batiste's “Hit And Run”, on which the group's lead female Sarah Dickens did a more than credible job. The plan was, once the opening numbers were done the band would introduce Chris as a surprise member singing one of Marcelle's favourite songs by Ronnie Walker “You're The One” before substituting Chris for the real thing performed by the man himself. It worked a treat as Marcelle hadn't a clue that her musical hero was in town. As the band struck the opening chords Chris stopped the show and introduced the evening's special guest. Ronnie Walker showed why he's so popular with the UK soul crowd as he opened up his superb high tenor based song with complete aplomb. Marcelle's surprise was complete!
 

 
Ronnie then treated us to his Impact Sound Studio classic “Trouble”, a song which of course he wrote and also demo'd up in the famous Castor Avenue studio.
 

 
As the applause faded it was time to introduce Mr Sigler. He strutted out on stage, resplendent in his famous all white suit, to the uptempo and raucus “Let The Good Time Roll”. And roll they certainly did. His repertoire of songs first recorded in New York and Philly whilst with John Madara's Double Diamond set up and we enjoyed a great arrangement of “Comparitively Speaking”, a superb, playful interpretation of “For Cryin'Out Loud” and of course the ever popular, “Follow Your Heart”. In between these Northern favourites Bunny also interplayed with the crowd on an acapella version of the Goffin and King standard “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” which of course is the flip to “Comparitively Speaking” and is a song that Bunny is quite well known for in his US homeland.
 

There was only ever going to be one song that he could finish with and I have to admit to a small smile of satisfaction when the keyboard and sax player opened up that brilliant intro by Leon Huff that I've loved for over 35 years and Bunny milked “Girl, Don't Make Me wait To Long” before leaving the stage, waiting a moment or two and then returning to treat us to one more verse. As the band finished the song Dave Raistrick took up the mantle of DJ and, as the night returned to vinyl formats, it was great to show Bunny the dance floor reaction to a song he'd written that was recorded by his late brother. Benny Sigler “Who You Gonna Turn To” - Phil LA of Soul 314. (This 45 was then given to Bunny by Steve Frear which was a great gesture on Steve's part). I allowed myself another small smile as Bunny and I watched from the stage-wings as the dancefloor filled up to his brother's 45.
 
 
Once regrouped Bev and Martha established a point in the foyer where the guys could sign photos, memorabilia and have their photos taken with people although it took me a full 15 minutes to get through the foyer with them as people grabbed the opportunity for a pic and chat. Both Bunny and Ronnie were overwhelmed with people's reaction to their performances and by 3am it was obvious that they needed to get some rest. Martha and I went back to the dressing room and packed everything up (including fellow 'Hitsviller' Denny Johnson's jacket and newly purchased 45!) and by 0330 we were en route back to the hotel in Leigh. On the journey, it was great to hear Bunny and Ronnie talking about the reception they'd received, the respect they had for UK fans and how they'd like to do gigs like NCSC every weekend! By 5am the artists were in their rooms and Bev and I sat having a final coffee before heading off to our room to catch some shuteye too.
 

 
A restful Sunday than slipped by until Chris and Marcelle arrived around 530pm, booked in and we all met up in the foyer ready for an early dinner just up the road at a local pub. That evening's dinner was a chance for us all to relax, job done and the conversation reflected this. With no Margueritas available Martha resorted to UK beer and I enjoyed a couple of scoops myself having been the designated driver for the week! As Bunny, Ronnie and I talked about the heyday days of Philadelphia, the conversation meandered to the Chitlin' Circuit and the subject of Southern Soul food after which the string of theatres was nicknamed came up. At this stage things like pig's feet, grits, scrabble and chicken's feet were mentioned and Bunny delivered the quote of the trip with the quip: “Man... I didn't know chickens had bodies 'til I was almost fully growed!” Fantastic and it ranks alongside a number of others that the Hitsvillers have experienced on our trips.
 
After a great meal, served by some great people who Bunny cemented a relationship with, especially Laura the young waitress, we all retired back to the hotel to pack for an early move to Manchester Airport the following morning. Despite a 3 hour delay and our guests being sad to leave, they were all looking forward to getting home to Philly. Martha and Bunny had only moved house a couple of days before arriving and were still half unpacked! Bags checked in, boarding passes in hand, final group-shot photos taken and it was time to say farewell. As the three of then went up the escalator to the departure lounge and dropped out of sight, I couldn't help but feel a glow that they'd had such a wonderful time. I couldn't help but think of my old Mates Alan Pollard, Dave Pointon and Glenn Hunter and how they'd have enjoyed it all. It was great week for me. It's really what I still find exciting about the souls scene. It's a regular comment I make but it gets stronger for me as the years pass, even as an avid record collector for over 35 years. The records are still important, but it's the people who created the music that are REALLY important.
 
Of course these events can't be conducted by only a few people, not only would it be logistically impossible but financially it would be too much of a strain and so to the following people I offer our (Chris, Bev and mine), heartfelt thanks. For helping to making two of our heroes feel so special, without you it simply couldn't have happened. From lending your car to a simple phone call it was all very much appreciated: Janet and Dave Ferguson, Bev and Kev Parker, Sean Haydon and Jayne Hope, Paul and Tina Kidd, Billy Foster, Denny Johnson , Chris Dalton, Keith Money, Steve Frear, John Kane, Rob Wigley and of course The Casino AllStars.
 
For next year? Who knows......but I have got one or two things up my sleeve if Chris and Marcelle are up for it 😉
 
Dave Moore : Dec '13
 
 
 
added by site
 
Dave's earlier article
 
Soul Legend Bunny Sigler En Route to Manchester Allnighter 30th Nov 2013
 
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/soul-articles/soul-legend-bunny-sigler-en-route-to-manchester-allnighter-30th-nov-2013-r2794
 
Chalky posted videos from the above via this thread in the Video Forum
 
http://youtu.be/atwW40UUVqs
 
 
http://youtu.be/5FiBHSSYKv8
 
 
 
 
Jerry HipkissDec 16 2013 05:16 PM
 
Great article Dave - well done!
 
 
 
 
pk 22djDec 16 2013 06:47 PM
 
Thanks Dave for bringing back the memories of a fantastic night for me and the band. Hope to meet up in Spain next year mate.
 
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jockoDec 16 2013 06:55 PM
 
Top write up, top sentiments and just plain dogs bollocks of an experience.
 
Lucky man!
 
 
 
 
stevie frearDec 17 2013 03:36 PM
 
Brilliant review Dave,Thanks for sharing those magnifico memories.It was a great pleasure and honner for me to be apart of that fantastac story and meeting Bunny himself.... handing over the 45 give me great pleasure and was nothing compared to to joy Bunny as given me and many of us over the bygone years !
Backstage
 
 
 
 
jerrioDec 17 2013 03:40 PM
 
Well done to all concerned,A brilliant Night,Many Thanks.Wrighty.
 
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Keep the Boy HappyDec 17 2013 09:11 PM
 
Great article as usual Mr M, and a pleasure to be invited along to join in. Great stuff x Bev & Kevin
 
 
 
 
chalkyDec 18 2013 08:00 AM
 
Great article Dave and a great night.
 
Here are his other videos of his performance. I have "Comparatively Speaking" to convert and upload when I get some time.
 
 
 
His first track of the night....
 
 
 
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Dave MooreDec 18 2013 10:01 AM
 
Great videos Chalky, thanks for adding them Mate.
 
Regards,
 
Dave
 
 
 
 
souldivawaxDec 18 2013 05:22 PM
 
Loved it. Was right next to Marcelle when Ronnie Walker came on. Her face was a picture.
 
 
 
Keith MoneyDec 18 2013 10:06 PM
 
Dave
 
Thanks for a very special night, it was brilliant meeting up for the meal and having some great conversations about our favourite subject soul music.
 
If you had said to me when I was younger I would be having a meal with Bunny Sigler sitting next to me I would never have believed it.
 
A truly brilliant night from beginning to end so thanks again to you and Mr Waterman for arranging it.
 
Thanks also for the pictures of Bunny and Ronnie it is very much appreciated,
 
Hope to see you soon
 
Keith
 
 
 
dennyjDec 19 2013 03:16 PM
 
Great read as usual Dave. Easily one of the most memorable nights I've ever had, with the added bonus of catching up with the Hitsville mob again and meeting Keith M - see you all in September if not before. Chris W deserves a special mention for his 50 mile round trip to deliver my cashmere overcoat that you "looked after" for me .... 8-)
 
 
chalkyDec 21 2013 06:40 PM
 
Here is the final video...
By Dave Moore in Articles ·

Special Screening - Legacy In The Dust - The Four Aces Story

Exclusive Private Screening: Legacy In The Dust - The Four Aces Story
 
The Four Aces was the first club in east london started in 1966 and remained at the forefront of the London Club Scene until its eventual demise in 1999.
 
This films includes lots of rare archive footage much of which has never been seen before.
 
Charting the Life and Death of the legendary 'Four Aces Club' started in the entrance of the 1886 Dalston Coliseum and theatre buildings.
 
It introduced and launched new music genres in the UK and played host to some of the most influential musicians of its time.
Home to many legendary Reggae Sound Systems including Count Shelly and Sir Coxsone.
 
The infamous talent competitions discovered and launched the career of Louisa Marks in so doing created the Lovers Rock genre.
 
Artists who performed live included Stevie Wonder, Ben E King, Otis Redding, Desmond Decker etc. Regular patrons included Bob Dylon, Bob Marley and Billy Ocean.
In the 80s it became home to Labyrinth one of the first 'rave' clubs pioneering Acid House and Drum & Bass. Notourious for providing the Prodigy the opportunity to do their first Live performace.
Including an exclusive Q&A and DJ set from the Four Aces Owner: Newton Dunbar
 
 
Soul Source members can get a free invite here
By Jmsoul in News Archives ·

Northern Soul Cover Versions? Love Or Hate ?

Northern Soul Cover Versions?
 
Firstly let me introduce myself my names Lee Jeffries and I work for http://www.wholesale...oming-home.html
 
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CunnieDec 14 2013 08:43 PM
 
Northern Soul records are found & not made Lee.
 
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Soulman58Dec 14 2013 08:58 PM
 
Cunnie, on 14 Dec 2013 - 7:43 PM, said:
Northern Soul records are found & not made Lee.
I'm sure that's what the artists thought when they made them!!!
 
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peruxDec 15 2013 04:35 PM
 
Fao cunnie sadly if your digging for new ones you need deep pockets and you gotta be fast on ebay as 99% of them turn up on there and your up again all the usual suspects, so even if your mr or mrs money bags your chances are slim. I'm giving 50 chances ! more generous than mr wonkier himself. Only 15 liffords left now and when there gone there gone
 
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CunnieDec 15 2013 06:10 PM
 
Sorry Lee but like I said 'I prefer to search for original vinyl'.
People have had their reputations bably damaged in the past by so called 'tailor mades'.
IMO if you must play cover versions play one's that were not tailor made for the scene as 99% of them fail.
Try this for size, a cover version that is getting more & more play's & rightly so as for me it's as good if not better than Millie's version.
Some might love it & some may hate it but the point I'm making is it was not falsely made for the so called Soul scene.
 
 
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BecketDec 15 2013 08:57 PM
 
I wondered why the label was covered in "test pressing , audition record , advance copy , DJ only demo". How many times do you need to repeat the same thing really. It isn't a DJ Only item anyway is it ? Vocal take 1 - was this the best take or is there to be others ? The labels all cluttered up - does it need all that stuff on it. I also keep seeing the word "copys" which grates with me.
 
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Second Issue
 
 
marktsoulmanDec 15 2013 11:42 PM
 
Sorry guys, as much as I respect some of the taste that Steve has, these are just a sham of the real thing. I understand the spirit, and in a strange way admire it but truthfully these are awful and that is why they are still for sale weeks on at only £50 a pop. If we loved them, you would be fighting us off.
 
Mark T
 
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soulontopDec 16 2013 09:13 AM
 
I think I will hang on to my money you know what they say a fool and his money are easily parted.
 
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peruxDec 16 2013 10:36 AM
 
I have the mark williams and do prefer it . humm well think this post real sums up the market and pressing in demanders for the mass market is the only way to go. as you can bag a licence for 300 notes miles cheeper than 3k for making a new version.
 
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Getting spins again
 
 
sharmo 1Dec 16 2013 12:38 PM
 
Hi Lee , Sir your a real man coming on here and admitting defeat in front of the northern soul community , only a man could do that and I for one applaud your integrity Sir. I'm under no illusion Lee that these will sell eventually but I was with your dad last week and as I said if someone finds 10 hours of unissued material and legally or otherwise have say 500 hundred made you'll do well to sell half . If you reissue the snake yet again it will sell and sell and sell. I never like to see anyone who's put time and effort and a great deal of money into a project and it not work out , I sincerely hope they eventually sell best regards Simon.
 
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peruxDec 16 2013 01:47 PM
 
Many thanks Simon Ill sell them no problem as not that many left and at least it will go rare and sure will be discovered in 30 years time when I get contacted by some young soul Dj Offering me £££ to buy my last 3 copys. Warm Regards Lee
 
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eddiepDec 16 2013 01:56 PM
 
Lee,
 
I think in any genre of music cover versions of established tunes will always be frowned upon and no matter how much time, money and effort you throw into them you will neither get the respect or appreciation your efforts deserve.
 
From my own point of view a far more credible, rewarding and creative project would be to throw all the energy and money into making original recordings by new upcoming artists and bands with original material. (In the vein of Sharon Jones , Dap-Kings etc.)
 
These will only work and take off if the material is good enough of course and appealling to the spectrum of the soul scene if that's the audience you want to aim for?
But then again why pigeon hole yourself?
 
Ultimately this is a commercial project as is every record that is wrote, produced, marketted and packaged to be sold to punters out there. To have a tune composed and performed with substance and artistic creativity surrounding it will not go unoticed and can only benefit reputations.
 
I'm no expert on this subject but from personal experiance in playing in local bands on and off over 25 years there are plenty who would love the chance to record and spread their music to the masses with the kind of financial backing you have put up for this project.
All this is just my opinion of course but maybe food for thought??
 
Good luck in your future ventures mate.
 
ATB,
Eddie
 
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peruxDec 16 2013 02:46 PM
 
sadly we find that new material is tuff to shift as no one knows them our best sellers have been bob sinclar and lisa stansfield already established tunes
 
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Getting spins again
 
 
sharmo 1Dec 16 2013 04:16 PM
 
One Day young man Alan sugar will be working for you best of luck son , every day's a day at school and every day's the last round in the ring , something tell's me your going to be successful one of these five minutes , all the best simon.
 
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shineheadDec 16 2013 04:26 PM
 
perux, on 16 Dec 2013 - 1:46 PM, said:
sadly we find that new material is tuff to shift as no one knows them our best sellers have been bob sinclar and lisa stansfield already established tunes
 
 
Ive already moved on lol this boy never stands still check it out
 
http://www.jeffriesvintagedrinks.com
 
just built a 2000 sqr foot automated bottling plant in london
Are they re - mixes ?
 
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Getting spins again
 
 
sharmo 1Dec 16 2013 04:53 PM
 
shinehead, on 16 Dec 2013 - 3:26 PM, said:
Are they re - mixes ?
Brilliant sir.
 
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peruxDec 16 2013 06:02 PM
 
lol ha ha ha
 
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staceys dadDec 16 2013 08:18 PM
 
lou pride ( original ) one of the greatest records ever.....your re-mix bloody awful....
 
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staceys dadDec 16 2013 08:26 PM
 
perux, on 13 Dec 2013 - 08:58 AM, said:
the 50 copys of each will be break even as studio time and artists and real musicians especially from the royal philharmonic cost a fortune so no we wont be making a penny. but will be all the richer for the experience . Lee
 
so are your saying you not out to MAKE money......
 
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peruxDec 17 2013 10:01 AM
 
Hi staceys dad may I point out that these are not remixes they have been produced from scratch with real instruments.
 
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peruxDec 17 2013 10:11 AM
 
I do feel most people have missed or not read the reason for doing this I was looking for critic on the quality of vocals and production with the view of making fresh stuff see quote
 
(The driving reason for re producing these exquisite productions was to try my hand at creating recordings using the old methods of 100% real musicians, and the only way to measure this was to cover original records with different arrangements with the view of writing new material down the line once I had mastered this unbelievably skilled craft.)
 
SO I ASK THE QUESTION FORGET THE SONGS AND THAT THEY ARE COVERS AND LETS TALK PRODUCTION ! ANY FEEDBACK ?
 
I ask this question if you don't in brace the youth and ENCOURAGE AND WELCOME THEM all collections will be worthless in 20 years as there wil less numbers on the scene and no new scene people to buy them. ITS TIME TO CHANGE OUR MIND SET AND SECURE THIS WONDERFUL SCENES FUTURE AND LIGHTEN UP BABY X
 
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Soul Source - A KTF Way of Life Forever Group
 
 
Pete SDec 17 2013 03:08 PM
 
Could you point me in the direction of the tree which the money grows on? :-)
 
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Getting spins again
 
 
polyveltsDec 17 2013 03:19 PM
 
Hi Lee, Are you planning on playing any of these on Saturday night ?
 
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steve woombleDec 17 2013 04:03 PM
 
Just do your thing Lee.
 
I can see what you mean about using these as 'experiments', and good luck to you. Rather than 'cover versions' I'd love to hear you have a go at something credible and newly written with big production values. Why not?
 
I'm sure we can all remember when we first heard our own individual 'that record' and how it totally killed us. So, what would have been different about it if it had been made last week? It would still be 'that record'
 
Get on with it Lee! Carry on regardless!
 
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steve woombleDec 17 2013 04:11 PM
 
(btw - when I say 'credible' above, I'm not suggesting that these current efforts are not credible, if you know what I mean! :-) )
 
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peruxDec 17 2013 05:49 PM
 
Cheers steve nice words from a credible guy
 
and they may get a spin saturday who knows
 
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Hunter QuintDec 19 2013 09:37 PM
 
hate hate hate
 
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By perux in News Archives ·

New 45 from Melvin Davis via Gure Gauza Records

Gure Gauza Records exclusively presents a double sided 45 release of two classic songs just recorded by Melvin Davis in a Detroit studio in the spring of 2013
Available at 7 euros via the website

MELVIN DAVIS

A Side: Chains Of Love

http://youtu.be/51gGL07FLn4

B Side: I'm Gonna Love You

http://youtu.be/dQ27KREJVoE

BRAND NEW RECORD / DISCO COMPLETAMENTE NUEVO


Press Blurb


Melvin Davis´ vast contribution to the birth and development of Detroit's music makes his name synonymous to legend in the annals of the Motortown's music history. It is well-known that he put his multi-faceted talents to work with every relevant figure in Detroit's soul music heydays, from Johnnie Mae Matthews to Smokey Robinson.

But Melvin prefers not to look back to his past, he feels as relevant in today's music scene as in any other time in his career. Anyone who has witnessed any of his live shows around the U.S. and Europe this past decade will undoubtedly agree.


Liner notes written by Rob Wigley

A Side: Chains Of Love

Melvin Davis, Singer, Musician,Songwriter and Detroit Soul Legend, pulls no punches on these definitive recordings of his own compositions debuting here on vinyl 45.

Energy pulsates from “Chains of love”, the horn section delivers a solid, perfectly timed right hook to compliment Melvin s gritty, jabbing vocal. The song has also been covered by J.J.Barnes, Mavis Staples and by The Dirtbombs which featured in the Golden Globes & Bafta winning film “The diving bell & the Butterfly”.

B Side: I'm Gonna Love You

Flip the 45 over and “I'm gonna love you” soars from the grooves. An instant dance floor winner, the pace never lets up as Melvin declares unconditional love for his girl.
Pat Lewis & Edward Hamilton (who recorded the original on Mary Jane Records) provide backing vocals to ensure we are indeed in the presence of Detroit Soul Royalty on this historic recording.



Website

http://www.guregauza.com/eng/gure-gauza-records/

Purchase Link

http://www.guregauza.com/cas/gure-gauza-records-1/melvin-davis/



SteveJohnstonDec 09 2013 02:59 PM

Loving this Mike,
one on its way to me!

Steve J

Rob Wigley likes this Like




Rob WigleyDec 10 2013 10:01 PM

Only just seen this link, the carver promo has gone down really well at the venues I have played it. This is a very limited edition 45. get it while you can !

Like




wilxyDec 12 2013 05:05 PM

Just purchased my copy......Great stuff!!!

Like




richo991Dec 12 2013 06:28 PM

Love B side more than A side but both r Excellent"

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71 Steve photo
Tape swappers fav


71 SteveDec 12 2013 09:22 PM

Had this through the door today and top quality it is too, much quicker than I expected this time of year! Both the heavy vinyl and cover look and feel great and sound is superb. If this is the first of more to come from this label then I for one look forward to it!

Like




Rodney LeePeaceDec 14 2013 11:40 AM

Mine is already on the way no hesitation,not just buying this out of respect for mr Davis it really is "Da bomb" lol did I really say that, anyway it truly is great.(both sides).

SteveJohnston likes this Like



jasonsaxoDec 22 2013 12:11 PM

Just got it yesterday. Not had chance to play it because I was at the Eiger Music Studios in Leeds. It's going on the wheels of steel shortly.
By Mike in News Archives ·

Northern Soul Video Girl - Interview with Levanna Mclean

Looks like the story with this series of vids just keeps on growing
 
 
 
May have seen them mentioned in various threads on here, the first just only 3 months ago
 
 
 
The first...
 
 
 
http://www.bristolpost.co.uk/Southern-soul-Levanna-dances-way-video-hit/story-20269027-detail/story.html<>
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
82 Comments
 
Comments
 
Photospot
 
Dec 07 2013 02:14 PM
 
WTF, no wonder people laugh at our scene, 1 stupid girl jigging about in the street looking like escapees from an asylum, next they'll be dancing in a kebab shop. Anything for 15 minutes of fame, once again I'm starting to tire of this scene & all the tourists & idiots visiting.
 
Photo drewid
 
Dec 07 2013 04:41 PM
 
I couldn't agree more mate,attention seeking or what ! , she isn't that good a dancer anyway , sick of this kind of shit. It's the bad old days again , wish it were back underground again
 
PhotoMal C
 
Dec 07 2013 05:07 PM
 
Miserable old sods..
 
 
 
I wouldn't do that on film, but what the ekk, she's a pretty cool girl isn't she?
 
PhotoSteve S 60
 
Dec 07 2013 05:10 PM
 
Just a sign of the times. People like to post their exploits whether that be dancing around the streets of Bristol or inside a kebab shop, be it for self promotion or the amusement of others. Welcome to the 21st Century.
 
Photobillywhizz
 
Dec 07 2013 05:40 PM
 
Least shes got the bollix to do it, and she is a good dancer also. To me the scene went under when that hit the tv on top of the cocks, you get my drift. Now off to the 100 club have a good one yourself. Billy
 
PhotoJohn May
 
Dec 07 2013 06:11 PM
 
Power to ya Girl, better than being boring & posting miserable posts on soul websites.
 
Photoshinehead
 
Dec 07 2013 06:21 PM
 
I quite like seeing her videos she is having some fun , thought that was life was for especially when you are young . And at least the music with them isn,t the usual dross.
 
Photosharmo 1
 
Dec 07 2013 06:21 PM
 
To be fare she seams to be enjoying herself and she's a good dancer . nothing wrong with people expressing freedom , .
 
Photoady croasdell
 
Dec 07 2013 06:42 PM
 
That's a good article on an interesting and enjoyable subject. I've seen two of the videos and they are great fun and both had excellent choices of music that I didn't know that well; I recognise Happy but didn't know the unreleased Detroit one. Levanna obviously enjoys her dancing and feels it and the music, it's understated and her enjoyment is infectious and obviously comes from within.
 
 
 
As far as I'm concerned this could only do the scene good and if a couple of grumps dropped out because of it, it'd be a bonus. It's not been underground since 1975.
 
PhotoThe Phantom Janitor
 
Dec 07 2013 06:43 PM
 
She's a great dancer and a lot better than some people dancing at soul nights at the moment, it's also good to see young people getting into Northern and keeping the scene going, keep it up girl.
 
PhotoDesert51
 
Dec 07 2013 07:22 PM
 
Under ground! (Drewid) If the music stayed under ground by now that is exactly where it would be dead and gone . The music is now liked by many ages, not just the old farts that grew up with it in the early years. (Spot) The girl dances better than half the old foot shufflers On the scene ,now.
 
Photoscal
 
Dec 07 2013 08:40 PM
 
What has this nonsense got to do with us......utterly pointless.....
 
..."i'm not a celebrity, but I wanna be!"
 
Photosoulhawk1960
 
Dec 07 2013 09:37 PM
 
I think she's lovely and I think she's a good dancer.
 
PhotoMark S
 
Dec 07 2013 10:35 PM
 
We,re a funny old bunch on one hand some of us want new blood then we dont like it because they do it their way .
 
Photoscal
 
Dec 07 2013 10:40 PM
 
Did you appreciate how good the animations were on the Felix cat food adverts or how beautiful the models were on the sodding KFC commercials.....let's not forget the Gas adverts with John Humphrys voice over to The Fiestas?
 
Photospot
 
Dec 08 2013 12:53 AM
 
Exhibitionist,look at me having such fun, I've gone viral. BTW it did stay underground through the 70's,80's & most of the 90's, it's only the recent films etc that have taken it back to Pye Disco Demand era, I don't mind any new blood but don't make the scene look like a joke & I'm sick of travelling around this Country to share space with pi**heads & Soul Tourists, it's what almost killed it in the late 70's.
 
PhotoPatto
 
Dec 08 2013 12:58 AM
 
There is a clip on the tube of her dancing on a proper floor at the Rugby nighter and she is an excellent dancer.Just the sort of youngster we should be encouraging.The unissued tune on the first one blew everyone away
 
Photoscal
 
Dec 08 2013 02:16 AM
 
I just give up......ffs!!!
 
PhotoDesert51
 
Dec 08 2013 10:50 AM
 
spot, on 07 Dec 2013 - 11:53 PM, said:
 
Exhibitionist,look at me having such fun, I've gone viral. BTW it did stay underground through the 70's,80's & most of the 90's, it's only the recent films etc that have taken it back to Pye Disco Demand era, I don't mind any new blood but don't make the scene look like a joke & I'm sick of travelling around this Country to share space with pi**heads & Soul Tourists, it's what almost killed it in the late 70's.
 
 
 
Dude open your eyes, all the piss heads , are over 50
 
The young peeps are in it for the dance and the music.
 
Stoke last night young guns , dancing all night long.
 
Then the soul tourist as you call em pissed, spilling beer
 
On the floor, at the bar end ,all over 50 might I add.
 
Photosoulvillecol
 
Dec 08 2013 11:56 AM
 
ady croasdell, on 07 Dec 2013 - 5:42 PM, said:
 
That's a good article on an interesting and enjoyable subject. I've seen two of the videos and they are great fun and both had excellent choices of music that I didn't know that well; I recognise Happy but didn't know the unreleased Detroit one. Levanna obviously enjoys her dancing and feels it and the music, it's understated and her enjoyment is infectious and obviously comes from within.
 
 
 
As far as I'm concerned this could only do the scene good and if a couple of grumps dropped out because of it, it'd be a bonus. It's not been underground since 1975.
 
Agree Ady, Would be good to get rid of some the glad bag and hand baggers , fair play to her and great choices of music.
 
Photospot
 
Dec 08 2013 12:21 PM
 
Desert51, on 08 Dec 2013 - 09:50 AM, said:
 
Dude open your eyes, all the piss heads , are over 50 The young peeps are in it for the dance and the music. Stoke last night young guns , dancing all night long. Then the soul tourist as you call em pissed, spilling beer On the floor, at the bar end ,all over 50 might I add.
 
Rubbish, total bo**ox. I might be old but I'm not blind or stupid, seen all the student types at Stoke & had my Baracutta nicked by a youth. F**kin Young Guns (What's all that in aid of?), a handful dance all night & good on em but theres more 50+ old farts dance all night, most 50+ people are polite & have etiquette on & off the dancefloor, the youth (In general) don't. I know a lot won't go to 100 club cos of the youth & people coming in off the street, I just won't go to London but then I'm a miserable grump, I'm out EVERY week to a nighter & have been for the last 15 years, I've noticed the changes & the influx of Tourists, Trend follows & Handbaggers. Bah Humbug!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
 
Spot.
 
PhotoDesert51
 
Dec 08 2013 12:37 PM
 
spot, on 08 Dec 2013 - 11:21 AM, said:
 
Rubbish, total bo**ox. I might be old but I'm not blind or stupid, seen all the student types at Stoke & had my Baracutta nicked by a youth. F**kin Young Guns (What's all that in aid of?), a handful dance all night & good on em but theres more 50+ old farts dance all night, most 50+ people are polite & have etiquette on & off the dancefloor, the youth (In general) don't. I know a lot won't go to 100 club cos of the youth & people coming in off the street, I just won't go to London but then I'm a miserable grump, I'm out EVERY week to a nighter & have been for the last 15 years, I've noticed the changes & the influx of Tourists, Trend follows & Handbaggers. Bah Humbug!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
 
Spot.
 
Agree mate there is more 50 plus on the dance floor, and doin a good job of it, hey am one of em lol, just sayin only
 
Peeps I saw staggering after to many beers
 
We're deffen overs...also spot sorry if I got your back up
 
a bit I didn't mean to .
 
Photocarty
 
Dec 08 2013 01:42 PM
 
Enjoyed the videos
 
PhotoThe Phantom Janitor
 
Dec 08 2013 02:50 PM
 
She appears briefly in the BBCs Culture Show Northern Soul, dancing to you should o,held on, she's in a white T Shirt.
 
PhotoSallieJane
 
Dec 08 2013 04:30 PM
 
Agree 100% with Ade....commercialism of the scene started in the mid 70s...and when they let cameras in to Wigan that was the last straw for me...never went on a Saturday nite again...only on Friday's. Sounds snobbish but not meant to be just didn't like the 'daytrippers' it attracted.
 
 
 
But surely that is not the main point. For the scene to survive it needs to evolve and bring in new people along the way as it did with us when we were young. If we don't embrace change it will die with the old farts shuffling along in their high waisted baggies listening to Frank Wilson and such like for the millionth time.
 
 
 
Levanna is a lovely girl who is very passionate about the music and I think this comes across in her vids. I have met her on several occasions, including GoGo Children last night, and her enthusiasm for the scene reminds me of when I was her age. Keep at it girl....respect !
 
PhotoMark S
 
Dec 08 2013 05:36 PM
 
musically the quality control has been shot to shit on that last video ( Pharrell W,,,,,wtf )
 
PhotoMal C
 
Dec 08 2013 05:52 PM
 
Ive just had this great idea, to deal with a split in the dancing age.
 
 
 
We'll get onto Kings Hall and arrange to get all you lot that are over the hill, one dance floor, and us young guns another, they can be parallel, divided by a badminton net...
 
 
 
Lavenna and the Young guns can dance at ya from the one side, Oh and by the way, we've bagged the bar side so if you want drinks you will have to write it down, and slip a note under the net...
 
 
 
but we cant guarantee any of you will be served quickly cause well all be watching Lavenna dance!! I'll be there, happy as Larry!!!!
 
 
 
Mal>.C
 
Photospot
 
Dec 08 2013 07:38 PM
 
Mal C, on 08 Dec 2013 - 4:52 PM, said:
 
Ive just had this great idea, to deal with a split in the dancing age.
 
 
 
We'll get onto Kings Hall and arrange to get all you lot that are over the hill, one dance floor, and us young guns another, they can be parallel, divided by a badminton net...
 
 
 
Lavenna and the Young guns can dance at ya from the one side, Oh and by the way, we've bagged the bar side so if you want drinks you will have to write it down, and slip a note under the net...
 
 
 
but we cant guarantee any of you will be served quickly cause well all be watching Lavenna dance!! I'll be there, happy as Larry!!!!
 
 
 
Mal>.C
 
Good idea but won't you & the other half dozen school leavers feel lonely over there on your own, ooh don't forget Larry, at least he'll be happy.
 
Photosunnysoul
 
Dec 09 2013 07:30 AM
 
Can someone confirm what is the unreleased track used with Levanna in the Russian
 
video ? And where is it available?
 
PhotoJames Trouble
 
Dec 09 2013 09:12 AM
 
There's always something to moan about. Keep The Faith (Secret?).
 
 
 
I think it's an interesting commentary about Northern Soul getting under your skin and in your blood and you take it with you everywhere you go. Once it's got you, you can't get away from it. Sometimes, when walking down the street, a tune pops into your head and the tingle you get and you feel yourself dancing inside, but of course you don't dance because you'd feel a plum?
 
 
 
Well, she's doing it, she doesn't look like a plum, and it's kind of saying something about the scene, the music, life in general and it's getting cool tunes heard by people who have not heard them before.
 
 
 
What's not to like?
 
PhotoDrewtg
 
Dec 09 2013 11:27 AM
 
FFS, It's a young girl dancing and enjoying soul music! What's not to like. I'd be chuffed if my daughter did it - wouldn't you?
 
 
 
Get a life.
 
Photodavebanks
 
Dec 09 2013 01:10 PM
 
James Trouble, on 09 Dec 2013 - 08:12 AM, said:
 
There's always something to moan about. Keep The Faith (Secret?).
 
 
 
I think it's an interesting commentary about Northern Soul getting under your skin and in your blood and you take it with you everywhere you go. Once it's got you, you can't get away from it. Sometimes, when walking down the street, a tune pops into your head and the tingle you get and you feel yourself dancing inside, but of course you don't dance because you'd feel a plumb?
 
 
 
Well, she's doing it, she doesn't look like a plumb, and it's kind of saying something about the scene, the music, life in general and it's getting cool tunes heard by people who have not heard them before.
 
 
 
What's not to like?
 
Totally agree. What are we all moaning about. Its just young people enjoying soul music their way.
 
 
 
wish I was 17 and not 60!!!
 
PhotoDerek Pearson
 
Dec 09 2013 01:49 PM
 
I just wish she'd stop ringing me up........
 
 
 
Derek x
 
PhotoThe Phantom Janitor
 
Dec 09 2013 04:58 PM
 
sunnysoul, on 09 Dec 2013 - 06:30 AM, said:
 
Can someone confirm what is the unreleased track used with Levanna in the Russian
 
video ? And where is it available?
 
It's Sharon McMahon Where there is love, not sure if it is available though.
 
PhotoSteve S 60
 
Dec 09 2013 07:11 PM
 
I hope a more suitable location is chosen for the next video, somewhere away from the traffic. The driver of the black VW Golf was so distracted that he almost didn't stop for the red light at the pedestrian crossing. Very irresponsible indeed.
 
 
 
R Molehusband
 
PhotoDesert51
 
Dec 09 2013 09:59 PM
 
Steve S 60, on 09 Dec 2013 - 6:11 PM, said:
 
I hope a more suitable location is chosen for the next video, somewhere away from the traffic. The driver of the black VW Golf was so distracted that he almost didn't stop for the red light at the pedestrian crossing. Very irresponsible indeed.
 
 
 
R Molehusband
 
WHAT!!! So he crashes his car,who ya gona blame .
 
Jeeze..
 
PhotoMatt
 
Dec 09 2013 10:31 PM
 
Well done Lev- great to see you dancing all nite long at Go Go Children on Saturday nite in Bristol- ktf!
 
PhotoTets
 
Dec 09 2013 10:38 PM
 
Puts a smile on my face. Lets not end up a snobbish music genre full of Victor Meldrew type followers. Nice to see a younger face enjoying "our" music.
 
Terry Lee
 
Photosoulontop
 
Dec 09 2013 11:28 PM
 
Who cares shes a bit of dish thats good enough for me would rather see her on the floor than some old trout.
 
Photopolyvelts
 
Dec 10 2013 09:37 AM
 
I like the old boy in the background ! (from 1:38 in the bottom vid) Go Granddad !!!!!
 
And as for the young girl, I hearby give her permission to enjoy 'our' music, what a joke that term is !!
 
Photomanusf3a
 
Dec 10 2013 10:08 AM
 
Young Guns?????????agreed with what someone else said"Whats that all about",Seems like someone has a hankering for even more an even more"internecine",soul source,sceme?Also how funny would that be a dividing line ",combatants grouped by "Young Gun", or so called"Old un" on either side ready for a big cheesy "Dance off", a la "soul boy the movie",style,after all the suggested venue is the "Kings Hall",Will the "Young Guns ,choose oldies to dance to ,will the old uns choose newies,My bet is that seeing ii the venue is where it is both sides will be equaly wearing baggies and bowling shirts though the "Guns" look ,better in it, as well as the buttons,pockets,chest high waist bands etc the "Guns",may also have made to measure holsters sewn on to hold their containers of "talc",
 
 
 
Its only common sense that among groups of new folk coming to the scene some will be really good dancers others average but all loving doing it.The girl is nice looking and not a bad dancer but there are also many long term on the scene ladies going every week who in my opinion are the biz,really good dancers who can really turn it on regardless of years.
 
I have seen the young lady while out and about on the floor along with lots of other folk, some being the younger people on the scene and its good to see growing even though imo slowly,numbers of younger folk the scene.They seem pretty well into it and know about the music etc.
 
 
 
It may be though that after the coming long awaited film there will be a fllood of potential"Young uns",its then that you could well see a lot of younger piss heads",and obnoxious behaviour devoid of any ettiquette that could match and then go beyond any seen so far being done by older folks.Although of course a percentage may come on board for the right reasons.
 
 
 
It would be nice to think that the Young Guns who live longer than Billy the Kid did may in decades to come may themselves be a target of thens "Young laser pulsar guns",who are all standing behind the latest hologram to go viral on the 3d phone system showing a good looking young girl dancing around the waiting areas of the London teleporter station,good luck to them,for the scene will still be as in group out group conflicted as ever,maybe morePhook,unscupulous promoters may even be revivng the dead who are in cyrogenic storage to boost the numbers at their events just to say theirs is the most popular,then you could have really old oldies in attendence..Its natures way,the young turn on the old lol.
 
PhotoSteve S 60
 
Dec 10 2013 10:20 AM
 
manusf3a, on 10 Dec 2013 - 09:08 AM, said:
 
 
 
It would be nice to think that the Young Guns who live longer than Billy the Kid did may in decades to come may themselves be a target of thens "Young laser pulsar guns",who are all standing behind the latest hologram to go viral on the 3d phone system showing a good looking young girl dancing around the waiting areas of the London teleporter station,good luck to them,for the scene will still be as in group out group conflicted as ever,maybe morePhook,unscupulous promoters may even be revivng the dead who are in cyrogenic storage to boost the numbers at their events just to say theirs is the most popular,then you could have really old oldies in attendence..Its natures way,the young turn on the old lol.
 
 
 
This needs to be in the "Future of Northern Soul" thread, Manus. I'm going into Cryo this afternoon. Wake me when Christmas is over.
 
Photospot
 
Dec 10 2013 10:49 AM
 
Desert51, on 09 Dec 2013 - 8:59 PM, said:
 
WHAT!!! So he crashes his car,who ya gona blame . Jeeze..
 
GHOSTBUSTER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
 
Photospot
 
Dec 10 2013 11:02 AM
 
My last thoughts on this (As 2 once upon a time regulars have commented), it's not the fact that she's dancing, it's where she's dancing & if it wasn't a young attractive girl doing it you'd all be saying "What a wa**er,looks like an idiot", just look at the person at the crossing checking out her arse & the old guy doing the same earlier or are they thinking "What drugs is she on?????" I'm off down the Kebab shop for a dance now,bye.
 
BTW does anyone on here use spell checker? Plumb is to measure the depth of something, so I think someone meant plum, which we all know is a fruit.
 
Spot.
 
Photomanusf3a
 
Dec 10 2013 02:27 PM
 
spot, on 10 Dec 2013 - 10:02 AM, said:
 
My last thoughts on this (As 2 once upon a time regulars have commented), it's not the fact that she's dancing, it's where she's dancing & if it wasn't a young attractive girl doing it you'd all be saying "What a wa**er,looks like an idiot", just look at the person at the crossing checking out her arse & the old guy doing the same earlier or are they thinking "What drugs is she on?????" I'm off down the Kebab shop for a dance now,bye.
 
BTW does anyone on here use spell checker? Plumb is to measure the depth of something, so I think someone meant plum, which we all know is a fruit.
 
Spot.
 
As in regards to the use of a spellchecker on this forum,myself I dont use one and it no doubt shows,also depends how early in the hours of the morning I am on the keyboard as to my extent of mispellings,(grapheme phoneme conversion errors and vicsee verse ah)word exchange errors or simply pressing the key next to the one I wanted and carrying on with out noticing.I am not very computer aware apart from a bare knowledge of how the one in my head works,or doesnt as the case may be.my internalmusic centre seems to be in working order although if writng a bit of music ,scale of use of the the staff representation also sometimes results in dysgraphia,weell partial and temporary(wonder if I spelt that word
 
Photospacehopper
 
Dec 10 2013 02:49 PM
 
shes a nice girl who is out everyweek ..stoke,london,rugby,bristol..more than some on here!...she hasnt got attitude..whatever the reason for doing theses vids is i dont see it in the same light as pissed up people dancing round a kebab shop...her mum was on the scene for years and has dj'd and promoted lots of things in bristol...we have youngsters at our night an almost all are well behaved and learn and respect the etiqette (drinks on floor etc)...i can think of many other nights where 'older' people are not so well behaved..and not all of them newcomers to the 'scene' either!...
 
Photospot
 
Dec 10 2013 08:51 PM
 
manusf3a, on 10 Dec 2013 - 1:27 PM, said:
 
As in regards to the use of a spellchecker on this forum,myself I dont use one and it no doubt shows,also depends how early in the hours of the morning I am on the keyboard as to my extent of mispellings,(grapheme phoneme conversion errors and vicsee verse ah)word exchange errors or simply pressing the key next to the one I wanted and carrying on with out noticing.I am not very computer aware apart from a bare knowledge of how the one in my head works,or doesnt as the case may be.my internalmusic centre seems to be in working order although if writng a bit of music ,scale of use of the the staff representation also sometimes results in dysgraphia,weell partial and temporary(wonder if I spelt that word
 
Sorry I only speaka de Inglish not Latin with a touch of Lunacy. Sorry but I've read it twice & it still makes only the slightest sense, I can understand someone having a key slip whilst typing but to misspell the same word over & over is bad, the incorrect word spelling is even underlined to prompt you to check & if not corrected sometimes it makes the passage unreadable or unintelligible , bloody hell someone spelt organisation with a x in the middle on one post & not a comma or full stop anywhere in the write up, even at the end.
 
God Nut, Spot.
 
Photospot
 
Dec 10 2013 08:56 PM
 
spacehopper, on 10 Dec 2013 - 1:49 PM, said:
 
shes a nice girl who is out everyweek ..stoke,london,rugby,bristol..more than some on here!...she hasnt got attitude..whatever the reason for doing theses vids is i dont see it in the same light as pissed up people dancing round a kebab shop...her mum was on the scene for years and has dj'd and promoted lots of things in bristol...we have youngsters at our night an almost all are well behaved and learn and respect the etiqette (drinks on floor etc)...i can think of many other nights where 'older' people are not so well behaved..and not all of them newcomers to the 'scene' either!...
 
Don't think anyone said she had attitude & why is it any different from people dancing in a kebab shop & how do you know they were pissed up, because you can't tell from the video but wait her Mum's been on the scene for years so it ok then, got it now.
 
Spot.
 
Photosoulontop
 
Dec 11 2013 01:27 AM
 
spot, on 10 Dec 2013 - 7:56 PM, said:
 
Don't think anyone said she had attitude & why is it any different from people dancing in a kebab shop & how do you know they were pissed up, because you can't tell from the video but wait her Mum's been on the scene for years so it ok then, got it now.
 
Spot.
 
 
 
The video with the people in the kebab shop dancing I know a few of them and they have been on the scene for years and are good people . As regards the girl dancing she aint got an attitude problem she is enjoying life. People seem to get so hung up on the slightest thing on here some times this site brings such negativity at times.
 
PhotoSteve S 60
 
Dec 11 2013 10:38 AM
 
soulontop, on 11 Dec 2013 - 12:27 AM, said:
 
The video with the people in the kebab shop dancing I know a few of them and they have been on the scene for years and are good people . As regards the girl dancing she aint got an attitude problem she is enjoying life. People seem to get so hung up on the slightest thing on here some times this site brings such negativity at times.
 
 
 
Well said, from the same man who couldn't be arsed to walk the couple of hundred yards to his local soul night the other month, as I seem to recall you posting. Glad to see you've got a new lease of life.
By Mike in News Archives ·

Sharon Jones - 2014 - New Album and Europe Dates

After the serious illness announcement regarding Sharon in 2013, its good to be able to say that after a successful operation Sharon Jones is back and plans on hitting the ground running in 2014. With the release of the album Give the People What They Want in January and then starting in February a Worldwide Spring tour
Album Info
The new album is titled Give the People What They Want and is scheduled to be released on January 14th, 2014
The Album details are below and it may be worth checking the links out as Daptone have some attractive pre-release deals going on
The album lifts off with “Retreat!," an up-tempo stomper with ominous, thundering arrangements, and marches directly into the pulsing Detroit-flavored soul of "Stranger To My Happiness" before easing back down into the mellow feel-good anthem “We Get Along”. Track after track, Give the People What They Want delivers every bit of the unbridled soul and studio acumen that defines this bands’ universally loved sound
Tour Info
Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings return to the stage in February at New York City and then a spring tour taking in USA and Europe (see below)
European tour dates below.
05/06/14 - Paris, France @ Olympia TICKETS
05/08/14 - Munich, Germany @ Tonhalle TICKETS
05/10/14 - Berlin, Germany @ Astra Kulturhaus TICKETS
05/13/14 - Koln, Germany @ E-Werk TICKETS
05/14/14 - Amsterdam, The Netherlands @ Paradiso TICKETS
05/16/14 - London, UK @ Roundhouse TICKETS
05/18/14 - Brussels, Belgium @ AB TICKETS
05/19/14 - Hamburg, Germany @ Grosse Freiheit TICKETS
05/20/14 - Copenhagen, Denmark @ Vega Main Hall TICKETS
05/22/14 - Helsinki, Finland @ Circus TICKETS
all USA and Europe dates and purchase ticket options
http://www.sharonjonesandthedapkings.com/splash.html
Mal C
Dec 11 2013 11:52 AM
Happy Days!! Just booked our tickets for May, which they throw in a digital download of the new LP in with, I'm sure I got that right....
Have you seen the new video? How good is that..,. Concerts Gonna be a cracker!!!
Mal.C
By Mike in Event News ·

J B Bingham - Soul Junction 45 - 2 x Unreleased Tracks Out Today

Two previously unissued tracks from J B Bingham now out on 45 release via Soul Junction


J.B. Bingham

Side A - People On A Ego Trip

Side B - She’s On Strike

Catalogue # SJ525

Release Date: December 9th 2013

Listen
http://www.souljunctionrecords.co.uk/musica/JBBingham-SJ525.swf

Press Blurb

J.B Bingham is best known for his 1976 modern soul anthem “All Alone By The Telephone/Live And You Learn” on United Artists Records. A second U.A. release “She’s Gone/Keep On Walking” also received some attention from the modern soul fraternity but never reached the popularity of his aforementioned release. Both of these releases were recorded under the auspices of H.B. Barnum and Steve Binder. These sessions yielded a total of 7 tracks which Barnum and Binder then took to U.A.

The powers that be at U.A chose the four tracks previously mentioned for release but declined on the other three.

So these three tracks then remained unissued until 2011 when we at Soul Junction contacted J.B Bingham asking the inevitable question did he have any unissued track’s?

J.B then hooked us up with H.B Barnum and a licensing deal was done.

The result of which you now have before you two out of the three unissued tracks, back to back on a 45. The excellent upbeat message song “People On A Ego Trip” backed with the more mid tempo offering “She On Strike” (SJ525).

Have no fear the third remaining track will not be left “all alone” for too long as it too will also be gaining a belated release sometime in the near future.

Purchase

Now available via soul junction website (direct link below) and all the other usual suspects

http://www.souljunctionrecords.co.uk/buydirect.html




Biography

A extensive J B Bingham biography (with great photos) can be read via Soul Junction website

J.B.Bingham Jr was born on the 1st of September I945 in Chicago. He was the second eldest child of four raised by Thelma and James Bingham Sr. As a teenager JB cut his teeth singing lead vocals and playing guitar with several neighbourhood groups. One group in particular under the unlikely name of “The Vermacharms” also featured Walter (Simtec ) Simmons, his brother Ronnie Simmons...



...James reached the age of 20 his family moved to Los Angeles but after a short time there they decided to return home to Chicago. James though decided to stay and try his luck in the music business. His first job came in 1966 when he signed to Johnny Rivers Soul City label as a staff songwriter and ...

read full bio at
http://www.souljunctionrecords.co.uk/ArtistsBio.html#JBB



Eddie HubbardDec 10 2013 03:09 PM

Excellent release , especially the flip side...

Louise and tfk like Like




Mark RDec 10 2013 06:27 PM

Ya'll know me more as contemporary recording new release kinda fella, but this is superb. It's fair to say that someone at Soul Junction has an ear..........

Miss it at your peril!


Cheers,
Mark R

Louise, Jerry Hipkiss and tfk like Like




71 SteveDec 12 2013 09:28 PM

Just brilliant (again!)....one after another. Not sure how many more recordings like this and other SJ projects are out there to still be discovered and released for us to enjoy, but please keep up what you're doing for as long as you can.

Cheers, Steve




tfkDec 28 2013 10:55 AM

Great article on JB Bingham and love the full biography on your website ... Fabulous double header on this release .and still hard to decide which my favourite side is .. another one that am tempted to purchase a second copy of ( just in case I wear my 1st copy out before they sell out )

Keep um coming Soul Junction Records and here's to soul music in 2014 and beyond !!!

tfk
By Mike in News Archives ·

In Memory of Oliver Cheatham

Site note
This was submitted last week, but due to technical reasons it could not be posted as a front page news article until now.
 
I have jus' spoken to Oliver Cheatham Jnr on the phone who informed me that the news filtering through from across the Atlantic of his fathers death is indeed true.
Oliver recently played at SSW on November 2nd which turned out to be his last gig but it's reassuring to know that he was among folk that knew every word of every song and had he sung some of the Mad Dog & The Pubs tunes they would of known the lyrics to those cuts too. He was surrounded by real fans.
 
He hung out ALL weekend and sang to anybody that asked him to blast out a rendition of a tune and he sat with the soul fans and chatted away as an old friend would.
Ollie passed away due to heart failure in his sleep and will be sadly missed by soulies and disco fans alike.
 
Soul Source Forum thread
 
 
 

 
RIP Oliver. Man, did I enjoy playing out your tunes - and still do sometimes actually. May eternal peace & love rest upon your soul.
By Guest Yogi Haughton in News Archives ·

Togetherness 2013 DVD now available

Hi!x At long last... just in time to make the 10th Anniversary of the making of the Togetherness ‘fly on the wall’ documentary filmed at Kings Hall, Stoke...is now available for the first time ‘officially’ on DVD to order for a guaranteed Xmas delivery! You heard it here first on Soul Source! We have managed to secure a stock of 500 for distribution before Xmas. However there are only 227 copy’s left for those not already ordered from this initial Xmas stock!

What’s on it...? I will leave that to independent ‘reviewers’ from the Soul Scene to share with you! Why release it now? Why not?!x The documentary was made ad-hoc at the time without any intention other than for me to personally capture the scene...as it happened! As a consequence and due to the ‘quality’ on offer by the film...Kev Roberts distributed 1000 copies of it on VHS and that was that in 2003! There hasn’t been an ‘official’ DVD made to date and no further copies on VHS have been available for 10 years. Based on the feedback of the reviewers below.....my decision to release it again....has been justified...I reckon!x
It was done as a labour of love...for me...and that ethos continues with this new DVD!x The profits after DVD production and distribution costs are going to recognised Charity’s and the like...and here’s some up to date info on them...!x

“I found it an interesting and enjoyable reflection of the scene, even although it was filmed in 2003. Some of the comments, however, could well have been filmed last week, as they still apply today”...”Quality was excellent and it was well produced.”...“You should make more.”
(Souled Trafford on Soul Source)



The first of interest to most Soulies will be ‘Charity Soul’....a relatively new concept driven by dedicated Soulies/Promoters and DJ’s coming together nationally to raise funds via the Scene for stem cell research to tackle the big C and other worthwhile causes. I was invited to review their concept and actions to date and was so impressed I have arranged for £1 to go to that growing pot from every official DVD that is sold. Their money as a collective is currently going directly to the renowned Professor Maitland’s own research project that is a world leader in such things.

Upon meeting those involved and further discussions with University and medical folk based in Cambridge whom i’ve worked with in charitable ways and means over time...I decided his efforts are certainly worth supporting. The ‘Charity Soul’ folks motivation was based on their friends who have been lost to this diseases which is so close to being addressed to a resolve which will save thousands of UK lives...Soulies or not. I felt it a worthwhile cause...and hope you agree...X

“Having watched the DVD twice I feel confident to review it with an open mind. I found the whole package to be professional, informative and very entertaining with numerous interviews that were Humorous and light hearted but at the same time delivered with Passion and Fact.
It was nice to see an Interviewer with great knowledge of the scene pose questions that are relevant and thought provoking, although the filming was done 10 years ago it’s still valid today. The film also captures very well the passion and excitement of the whole experience of a Nighter, from the queue outside to the action on the dance floor and of course The Music.” (Brav on Soul Sauce)



The 2nd Charitable cause connected to the Scene has just ‘come on top’ this last week! Soulies successfully raised funds to ensure an ‘official’ Plaque was done for posterity commemorating the Wigan Casino and where it once stood. The surplus funds raised are being donated to a rehab centre in which a now departed Soulie worked at helping drug dependent victims some of which started their battle with drugs as a direct result of their involvement with the Scene back in the 70’s. I was made aware of this facility and intend to visit on the 12th December to meet its operators and patients to see if 50p from every DVD can go there to assist them with their good work on behalf of suffering Soulies and all. I will report back via SS as to the outcome of that meeting and hopefully UTUBE some interviews I hope to capture from folks who frequented Wigan and other fine venues back in the day and have their perspective on life for you to hear and add to your knowledge base of the scene...it’s folk...the positive...and collateral...out there. Another worthwhile cause methinks. The above intentions have been confirmed with those responsible for them.



”From start to finish I found it really engrossing”...”Having been there that night myself, and multiple times before and since, the buzz which the King's Hall has, was undoubtedly captured, not least by seeing Derek Allan dancing away behind the decks in the first few moments. Later on there's an interview with him, and the never ending enthusiasm that personified Derek, and one of the things we all remember so well about him beamed out. There is also a nice little RIP tribute to him, which quite moved me.”...”There are a number of interviews, Richard Searling, Ian Levine, Ginger, Sean Chapman, Chris King, Shifty (nice to see that) Kenny Burrell, Terry Davies to name but a few,”...”...all of which are worth a listen too.”....”Overall the balance of the film for me (I'll emphasise from my point of view) was excellent, in fact the best I've seen of its type.”.........”I'll say now that in my opinion, it's aimed squarely at the mainstream northern soul scene so I'd estimate at least 90% of people currently attending, who watch it, will enjoy it and of the other 10%, if you're open minded, there'll be something about it you'd like.” (Winnie on Soul Source)



A 3rd potential benefactor I will mention here is the ‘Wigan Young Souls’. I have discussed with other Promoters and those responsible for Charity money the possibility of assisting these Young ‘uns and their future endeavours in some way. A further meeting in which this will be discussed is taking place the weekend of 8th/9th December and afterwards I would like to make an approach to develop such links with WYS....assuming they have a need! As yet I have not approached them ‘officially’ and so will report at a later date as to that outcome. I would like to think charitable proceeds could go to encourage Youth involvement in the scene in some way to assist with its long term continuation. They...along with other kids...are who we are all relying on to continue the longest running underground scene Britain has ever known. Those of us already initiated who were ‘there’ and kids at the start...have perhaps 20/30 years available to ensure that survives. After that...is where my focus is on with this ‘investment’. As said...I will report back via SS as soon as I have had a friendly meeting with those involved...hopefully before Xmas...or soon after!x



“Unlike most of the “in the club” video footage that I’ve seen, here we have interviews with both the punters and the DJ’s and promoters on the night, nicely threaded together by DJ turned media man Sooty.”...”From the collector’s point of view, the film captures Kenny Burrell’s suppressed delight on acquiring a copy of the Mello Souls on the night. There’s footage outside the Kings Hall asking where folks had travelled from, what they make of the event and free tickets are on offer if they can name the labels on which a well-known oldie was released, which keeps an amusing, light hearted thread, running through the film. Would make a stocking filler to watch whilst the wife’s burning the Christmas pudding! (Back Street Blues Soul Source)
“I loved the DVD”...”The deejay interviews were fantastic (all of them)”...”It is what it is, a perfect peep into a part of the scene from 10 years ago, a DVD that I enjoyed thoroughly, and that you made funny with your little captions and quiz in the queue ha ha ha!!” (Alison H on Soul Source)

“I would like to say i enjoyed the DVD , thought Sooty did a excellent job of presenting it”...the people interviewed showed their passion for northern soul and there was a great soundtrack...” (Gogger on Soul Source)



There are other charity/worthwhile causes benefitting from this DVD but I will explain more about that in a minute! For those who weren’t aware of this DVD...the backdrop to it was this! I had a Media Company rapidly expanding and a new cameraman who was gethering experience. On the day in question in 2003...without planning but pure circumstance...we ended up at Kings Hall for him to ‘train’! I didn’t know what I was going to film or who I was going to speak too if anyone! I had permission from Kev Roberts and Richard Searling to film something and that was it! I was genuinely gobsmacked at what had been captured when reviewing it all later! It included ‘Chats’ with Nationally recognised DJ’s/Promoters...and feedbck from Soulies in the behind the scenes build up that has perhaps never been captured on film in the way it has been before!

As a Soulie...I was excited by the result and so was Kev! 1,000 copies were made available and sold back in 2003....and that was it! So...to release it now after 10 years is based on the truth that not many folk know of its existence really...or may have come back to the scene since! It is ‘unique’ as far as available products covering the scene goes...and therefore want to pass that gathered footage on.....and...an Anniversary excuse seems good enuff for me....as it has been for all of us on the scene celebrating this or that!!x

As there was no ‘planning’ or real ‘professional’ approach to it....here and there....the footage is less than what anyone should expect from a DVD purchased in the shop and creaming you for your dosh! Nope...you have a warts and all job...which had to address the lighting issues on offer and the innocence of the cameraman who wasn’t confident enough to walk around the floor in your face so to speak! I’m glad he didn’t really. As a Soulie...I go to dance....and would have been put out if i’d have had a light or camera shoved in me face at 3/4am in the morning! So...respectfully done given the circumstances! Having said that....all the interviews done on the stage at close hand and chats with Soulies are of quality picture and sound and all is as you’d expect! I’m just being honest based on some of the ‘reveiwers’ comments!x

“Yes some of the lighting was a little iffy, but it was made in 2003, so can you expect anything else? It didn't to me, dwell on any one element for too long and looks like a labour of love made for the people” (Winnie)

“Loved it ! The rawness of it was refreshing.”...”Only real negative was the quality of the picture but in a backhanded kind of way gave it that lived in feel and like you were in the moment.”... ” Nice to see Sean nearly smiling and Terry, Kenny and Chris ( and the rest ) giving an honest response without being guarded or trying to impress.”...Loved the laid back nature of Sooty's technique and he looked as though he was thoroughly enjoying it.” (Tezza on Soul Source)

“The actual dancing footage is used to segway between the interviews and is almost incidental to the gist of the film, which works for the initiated but is probably a little too vague and grainy for anyone buying the video to see that side of the niter.” (BSB)

“The dance-floor shots pulled at my heartstrings, just a bunch of folk dancing their hearts out with only the music in mind and none of the tomfoolery you sometimes see today. The background music was right up my street (CD please Sooty :o) ) & it was nice to hear it subtly throughout the DVD.”...”There were so many other things I could have commented on (in a good & funny way) but didn't want to recite it all & spoil it for those who haven't had the pleasure of watching it yet. (Alison H)”

So it isn’t a ‘dance lessons’ DVD’!!!x I hadn’t been to a function for 3 years and indeed surprised many friends on the night whom I had shared the floors and Decks with around the UK as a Promoter/DJ and Soulie through the 90s. Our friendship...banter and genuine ‘Togetherness’ came through I feel! It certainly epitomised what memory and feeling I had been left with by them all a few years earlier! How much is it for this 1 hour and ½ + Hours of excitement...knowledge and fun?

“Would I pay £10 for it??? A big fat YES all day long.” (Brav)

”price i think mentioned was 10 pound bit pricey maybe but most is going to charity so who knows?”...”would definitely advise people to watch it...” (Gogger)

“If I had paid for this DVD I would not be rushing back demanding a refund.”(Tezza)

In conclusion I was given this video to review, the question is would I have bought it, and the answer is a resounding YES...(Winnie)

“I personally will be buying a few DVD's to give to my friends as Christmas/birthday presents who appear on the flydoc as they will be thrilled & maybe horrified
to see how they were 10 years ago.” (Alison H)

Purchase Details

£10 + £2.50 P&P for UK delivery...to include safe Xmas packaging....for Xmas!x

€12 Euros + €5 P&P for Mainland Europe Delivery

$16.50 + $9 P&P for USA wide Delivery


For other destinations such as Australia/Asia and the African Continent etc please E-mail zoots@matso.tv for more details.

Paypal payment goes to:- ZOOTS@MATSO.TV

Address to send registered cash/postal orders etc:-

Vertical Zoots, Unit 6 Road Farm, Ermine way, Arrington, Herts, England, Sg8 0aa

PLEASE NOTE: The current available Xmas stock is PAL only and not NTSC format. However...I have 187 orders for NTSC copies prior to this launch and If you want an NTSC copy then they will be available in limited quantity in January/February 2014. Or...as soon as we have 250 ordered they will be produced and delivered....whichever comes sooner!x
Payment can be made by cash/postal order sent by registered post...Paypal or Bank Transfer.

The PAL DVD is intended to be off the production line on the 12th December 2013 when we hope to collect and start distributing that day or the next! I have taken on a young Lad called Sean who suffers with turrets and has had difficulty in getting a job since leaving school in the Summer.

I look forward to hearing his profanity as he posts up to 500 hundred DVDs....meticulously!!! It will earn him some Xmas money and certainly keep a smile on his face doing the envelopes and things as he sweats away! Sean is as I say meticulous with his effort so please ‘chill’ with the delivery and it will get there for Xmas...I promise’!x


UTUBE CLIP with snippets of the DVD!!x

http://youtu.be/leJzCNWSyTo



THE FREE BONUS!!!

In addition to the above quality film...as a bonus...for free...we have added 4 brand new ‘tunes’ with vids made by The Zoots Collective....!! My friend Pete who is a successful Producer was inspired by my Northern Soul and general obscure 45s collection from the 50s, 60s, & 70s...20 months ago. It led to him making an album consisting of 16 new tunes! 3 of them are derivatives of Northern! Out of respect to you Soulies...and the scene...we present them here...for free...for yours and your kids/Grandkids delight...or scorn!!hehe!x

We feel they ‘unite’ or connect generations ‘together’...and hope you see there is a place for them out there....somewhere!x At the very least we feel they pay respects to the originals...and as a Soulie...I wouldn’t have it any other way!x Enjoy them....as they are ‘free’!


The Zoot tunes - Love those. (A.K.A Tezza on SS)

I asked Lacey my 24 year old step-daughter for her opinion….she loved “competition liquidated” (T. Williams sample) and “Fred’s Rap” (Fred Hughes sample) and thought they were ripe for airplay on BBC Radio One Extra as she felt that they have enough currency a la RizzleKicks/Dizzy Rascal to go down well with the kids!!

The other two tracks, she said, needed stronger and more emphasised rap-lyrics to elevate them beyond “TV advert backing tracks”…..and who am I to argue? (BSB)

Now to the 4 bonus tracks at the end of the film, I’m not sure they have any relevance to the film but I found tracks 1 and 3 to be really good especially the video to track 3, tracks 2 and 4 I didn’t like very much but that’s not to say other people wouldn’t like them, purely personal taste. (Brav)

Good luck with this and the Zoots Collective Work. I wasn't sure I would like how the tracks had been sampled but they were actually quite good, not "traditional" dance-floor material, but if you're looking for a younger and more commercial audience then you could be on to something. (Alison H)

...not sure about the zoots collection , i always say leave the original alone , but today’s youngsters may enjoy them and create some interest , not saying they were bad though, (Gogger)


The Zoots Collective is Pete...a.k.a ZOmbie boy...and me soOTS...hence ZOOTS!!! There is a 4th track added stemming from a late 50’s bluesy instrumental which explains our feelings about the music industry today...Mr Cowell liked it!!!!x

The Zoots first album will be available soon and we feel it will be of interest to Soulies and those who grew up in a ‘Soulful’ environment....whether you made your kids listen to your tunes or not!!!hehe!!x Talking of ‘kids’...the other charitable causes that this DVD is supporting are 3 Fans Trust organisations! Cambridge Fans United was donated the ‘Competition Liquidated’ tune....Cambridge City Trust have ‘Fred’s Rap’ and HIST...Histon FC’s Fans group...have ‘Hopez n Dreamz’ as their tune!

We gave them the tunes over a year ago and as they are on this DVD...£1 from each DVD is going to each Trust.
All cash raised for them I will ensure is invested into Community stuff focused on local kids connected to all 3 clubs! On that basis...currently....up to £5 is spoken for from any profit each sale generates to charitable causes! A respected Soulie...collector...record dealer and DJ...said this just this week....and it comes better from him...
”...anyone bootlegging a charity DVD is on the same level as someone stealing Poppy Day money from a collection box”...Pete S of Planet Records
(posted 30th November on Soul Source)

This ‘promotion’ is for the available Xmas stock...which is going FAST.....! There will be more after Xmas....but that’s it!

STOP PRESS!!.....a late decision made this Monday 2nd means that 100 copy’s of the available 227 left will be held back and available to order at KINGS HALL THIS SATURDAY for the All Nighter! It began there...was filmed there....and when we thought about it...it’s respectful to ‘re-launch’ it there!!!

We look forward to discussing any of the above with those attending and as said....there will be 100 available to you that night for guaranteed Xmas delivery!

We will be there from 9pm start....until 2am...as i’m DJing at a Dayer on Sunday and need me Booty sleep...fank u!!!x





Merry Xmas All!!!!x


LUV
SOOTY
X

@

*
/
@@

~

The ‘Togetherness’ 2013 DVD is an independent product produced by Matso.TV and The Zoots Collective.
No other person/Company or collective has any claim or responsibility for it! So there!!!x


Mal C Dec 05 2013 09:01 PM

Well, I'm simply Gobsmacked..
Mal.C




Peter99Dec 07 2013 12:56 PM

Yes Sooty - but how do you order one?


SOOTYDec 07 2013 05:23 PM

?!x Erm.....depending on how u wanna do it Pete?!x Paypal pay zoots@matso.tv and leave your details which usually come to us for posting too! Send payment to the address featured! Send me an email to zoots@matso.tv to sort any other method out!x Currently...I put 350 available of the 500 for you folk via Soul Source first. That has been dwindled since the launch to now before I go to Stoke of 173 copy's left for guaranteed delivery for Xmas...including the 100 i'd set aside for anyone at Stoke! I have MY 150 for friends/family and free loaders unconnected to the scene.......which I can break into if I need too.....but....that's it before a proper Facebook/Ebay campaign or ad which will run from next Wednesday until the Xmas 350...or so.,..have gone!x

Folk have PM'd me with an order/reservation too before the launch proper.....quite a few....ain;t figured their payment yet....but have their delivery details.......!!! Luv it!!x
@@
~
LUV
SOOTY
X


Like
By Sooty in News Archives ·

100 Club Allnighter - News and Stuff

Just a quick call to both highlight this weekends allnighter at the 100 Club but also to remind/inform you all that the Jan 2014 event has been cancelled due to improvements
The website will no doubt have full info, so just a quick email grab below...
 
100 Club Nighter this Sat 7th Dec 2013
 
It's guests a go-go with Chris Dale joining A-D for full sets and cameos from Cristina, John McCann, Frank Webster, Roddy Brass and Charlie Rees.
 
The Xmas party is on Thurs Dec 19th
9pm-2am with Mick Smith, Irish Greg and Ho Ho Horace.
 
 
Dates for the rest of the year as at Nov 2013 are....
 
Feb 15
Mar 22
May 3
July 5
Aug 16
Sept 20th, Anniversary 10pm-6am
Nov 1st
Dec 13th all 11pm-6am except anniversary 10pm-6am
 
 
http://6ts.info/
 
By Mike in Event News ·

Bill Spoon Passed Away Today

Sadly Bill Spoon the former lead singer of the Soul Notes passed away today.
 
He had been ill for awhile with Kidney and Diabetes problems, but he suffered a massive stroke last wednesday. Bill was probably one of the most humble guys you could ever meet a true gentleman.
 
R.I.P Bill
 
Dave & John
 
Soul Junction
 
 
 
Bill Spoon and the Soul Notes by JR Smith
 
https://www.soul-source.co.uk/soul-articles/bill-spoon-and-the-soul-notes-by-jr-smith-r236
By Louise in News Archives ·

A Quick Soul Train Cruise Lookback - San Diego Oct 2013

This was the 2nd annual Soul Train Cruise to set sail, this time from San Diego. It was incredible value for money, not only to travel to the Mexican Riviera & stop off in Puerta Vallarta & Cabo San Lucas, but to see the legendary Earth, Wind & Fire, Gladys Knight, The Whispers, Jeffrey Osborne, Billy Paul, The Ohio Players, Con Funk Shon, Lakeside, The Bar Kays, Dazz Band, Regina Belle, Freddie Jackson, Jonathan Butler, Jennifer Holiday & Joey Diggs all hosted by Tony Cornelius.
 
There were 37 concerts over 7 days with the chance to meet these legends while dining in the restaurant, sitting by the pool, or having a drink at one of the many bars on board the Holland America Westerdam Cruise ship.
 
The food was outstanding, the ship was first class & the entertainment was better than having your own private party with 150 of your friends....
 
I highly recommend The Soul Train Cruise.....next one leaving March 2014 from Miami
 
Shelia
 
Above from Shelias Gallery and more photos can be viewed via the link below
Soul Train Cruise October 2013
 
 
 
By Sheila Hart in News Archives ·

SJ Release - Coalitions - Colour Me Blue LP Out today

Yet another Monday morning being brightened up by Soul Junction sunshine release news. This release takes us onto the lp side of the street with a first time out album from The Coalitions titled Color Me Blue

Read below the as per usual informative release notes, listen to the samples via the link below, and then if it your button has been pushed get yourself over to the Soul Junction site to grab one...
vinyl and cd available

https://www.soul-source.co.uk/uploads/SJLP5006.mp3

http://www.souljunctionrecords.co.uk/buydirect.html


Press Release: The Coalitions, “Colour Me Blue” SJLP/CD5006

Release Date: Monday November 4th 2013



The Coalitions story began with Philadelphian William Anthony Anderson who under the Stage name Of “Little Tony Talent” recorded “All That’s Good Baby/Your Too Young” for Juggy Murray’s Sue Label in 1966. Tony recorded a second and final solo release the Van McCoy penned and produced “Gotta Tell Somebody (About My Baby)/ Hooked On You” a 1967 release on the New York based Vando label, which McCoy co-owned with partner Jocko Henderson.
Tony who was still only fifteen at the time continued to enter local talent shows in and around Philadelphia and after being beaten on a couple of occasions by vocal groups, he thought the best way forward was to form a group of his own.So with high school friends Alan Williams, Bruce Dunbar and Carl Smith, Tony formed a group known as the “Deltones”.

Due to a conflict of names with another Philly harmony group “The Delfonics” a change of name was soon to follow with the guys choosing a name that they thought was more relevant to the times they were living in, thus the name of “The Coalitions” was agreed on, at this juncture Carl Smith left the group to be replaced by the late Dwight Mitchell.

The Coalitions first recording “Instead … How Are You/I Don’t Mind Doin’ It (Instrumental)” appeared on the local “Re Dun” label in 1974. This release was picked up later in the same year by the nationally Jamie/Guyden distributed Phil. LA Of Soul label (367) a second release (371) of “Instead … How Are You” was issued in early 1975 this time dropping the instrumental flipside in favour of a vocal outing “Later Than You Think”. After the Phil. LA Of Soul adventure The Coalitions entered a barren period recording wise during which time Bruce Dunbar left the group. His position would later be filled by Bruce Fauntleroy, with a fifth member Stephen Ferguson also joining the group.

In circa 1979 with a group line up of Tony Anderson (Talent), Alan Williams, Bruce Fauntleroy, Milton Williams and Stephen Ferguson The Coalitions began recording their “Colour Me Blue” album project. Although after two years in the making the finished product was never issued. Following a lead 45 featuring two of the tracks from the album “The Memory Of You/On The Block” SJ512 which were released in 2011. You now finally have before you the much anticipated “Colour Me Blue” album which is available in both vinyl and CD format.

For further information please contact Soul Junction

Tel: +44 (0)121 602 8115 E-mail sales@souljunctionrecords.co.uk


Background Info:

Mastered by Nick Robbins at Sound Mastering Ltd. Manufactured by GZ Digital Media a.s. (Czech Republic).
Compiled by John Anderson.
Cover & Artwork Angelo Acanfora.
Photographs courtesy of The Coalitions.

Track Listings

Side 1
1. Didn’t We Almost Make It. 4:50
Writer: William A. Anderson, Copyright Control

2. On The Block 3:58
Writer: William A. Anderson, Copyright Control

3. I Thank God 5:50
Writer: William A. Anderson, Copyright Control

4.The Memory Of You (Full length Studio Version) 5:11
Writer: William A. Anderson, Copyright Control

Side 2

1. Colour Me Blue 4:52
Writer: William A. Anderson, Copyright Control

2. Funky Groove 3:15
Writer: William A. Anderson, Copyright Control

3. I’m Your Gentleman 3:58
Writer: William A. Anderson, Copyright Control

4.The Memory Of You (Radio Edit) 4:01
Writer: William A. Anderson, Copyright Control

5. Boogie Shack/Honey Hunting (At The Disco) 4:42
Writer: William A. Anderson, Copyright Control Mixed by: Stuart Anderson
By Mike in News Archives ·

Soul Legend Bunny Sigler En Route to Manchester Allnighter 30th Nov 2013

Philadelphian Legend En Route to Manchester Allnighter 30th Nov 2013
 
In a few weeks, on the 30th November to be precise, New Century Soul will celebrate its 10th Anniversary Allnighter at Radcliffe Civic Suite in Manchester, UK. As part of the celebration, soulfans Chris, Marcelle, the founders of the New Century Soul events alongside fellow promoter, respected DJ Andy Dyson, decided that the occasion required marking in a fitting manner and, as I’m sure you’ll agree, the result of that decision turned out to be a blinder! When Chris first mentioned the event to me and relayed he was looking for a performer with the status and back catalogue to carry off such a prestigious event I knew straight away who he should try and book. It will come as no surprise to people that know me that, in my opinion, he should look no further than the City of Brotherly Love - Philadelphia and I had just the artist in mind. This man was a legend in soul music and a performer who had striven throughout his career to master all aspects of his musical trade. A musician, a singer, a songwriter, a producer, a mentor to others and a man who had rubbed professional shoulders on an equal status with such legendary Philadelphia icons as Bobby Caldwell, Bobby Martin, David White, John Madara, Len Barry, Linda Creed, Cindy Scott and of course The Mighty Three triumvirate of Gamble, Huff and Bell. Step forward: Mr Bunny Sigler.
 

 
I had met Mr Sigler a few years earlier in Philadelphia when my fellow soul detective Dave Ferguson and I spent time in the City visiting and photographing important locations and interviewing many of the participants, in what became known worldwide as ‘The Sound Of Philadelphia’, the results of which will shortly be available in a new book entitled Philadelphia Soul — It’s Roots and History. Bunny had proved to be a genial host who was more than happy to spend time with us and recounted anecdotes from his musical past that were littered with other legendary names. When I asked him, whilst we were having dinner in a Chili’s Restaurant in his local West Philly neighbourhood, if he still had the pipes, his answer was delivered as only a true showman can. He sang to Dave F and I there and then, in the booth, over dessert! For guys like me and Dave, who constantly pinch ourselves when on our soulful adventures to ensure that our meetings with artists aren’t some weird dream, it ranks up with singing “I’ll Always Need You” with Dean Courtney whilst I sat on his weekly vegetable shopping in his car on the Las Vegas strip! I can now confirm 100% that Bunny’s ability on the vocal department is as good as it ever was and then some!
 

 
Bunny Sigler was born as Walter Sigler to Mr Henry and Susie May Sigler on 27th March 1941, was one of eight siblings and, due to his birthday being close to Easter, was afforded the nickname of Bunny. Even as a youngster Bunny was musically attuned and it wasn’t long before the local churches were applauding the precocious pre teen as he belted out his version of Gospel standards of the time. Regular performances at The Rome Emmanuel Baptist Church at 1100 West LeHigh Avenue in North Philly in the mid fifties, soon led to him joining a series of Doo Wop singing groups including a group named The Opals who also included his brother James and future Philly recording icons Richie Rome and Jack Faith, who would both go on to huge success with MFSB, Philly International and The Salsoul Orchestra. (Richie Rome would arrange/produce some great 70s titles including records by The Tymes and was the leader/founder of The Richie Family).
 
Before leaving school Bunny had aspirations to be a sports star and was an accomplished basketball player but a serious leg injury put paid to that particular ambition and the young High School graduate decided to put his eggs into a musical basket instead. Learning piano and guitar he developed his act playing the supper clubs in the area. As well as practicing and performing with The Opals Bunny would strike out alone as a singer and such was his ambition to make it in the business that he would regularly be booked under a number of pseudonyms to gain as much work and exposure as possible. On Friday you could catch Bunny performing at a Bar Mitzvah as Bunny Sligowitz, whilst 24 hours later he would transform himself into Bundino Sigolucci, whilst plying his craft at an Italian wedding!
 

 
A long and prolific recording career that saw Bunny record with most of the Philly notables began when he was signed by local Tri State Radio DJ Jimmy ‘Cannonball’ Parsons who secured a couple of initial releases, one on the local Hi-Low imprint and the much sought after Bunny Sigler - “Laddy Daddy b/w Square From Nowhere” — Bee 114. (1) The 45 gained some local plays and whilst not managing to make any impact on the National chart of the day it did garner enough interest to ensure a further release that Parsons placed with for Bunny on the New York based Craig label. This 45, Bunny Sigler — “Come On Home b/w I Don’t Want To Cry” — Craig 501, is a tough one to find nowadays and is one of Bunny’s rarest outings on vinyl, delivering a couple of back to back plaintive ballads. Bunny of course was also still honing his craft in the supper clubs of Philadelphia and had gained a reputation as such an emotional performer, often falling to his knees and reputedly almost bringing even himself to tears that he was tagged as “Mr Emotion”. In 1961, Bunny recorded another 45 that over the years has become a sought after item, when he was signed by Bobby Caldwell’s V-Tone set up based on 2034 Ridge Avenue in 1959 resulting in his inaugural 45, Bunny Sigler — “Happy Dance b/w Hold On” — V Tone 500. (2) (Venton ‘Buddy’ Caldwell was a local businessman who owned an upholstery company and would give a number of Philly’s future stars a leg up early in their careers including, Billy Harner, Herb Johnson, Bobby Parker and Bobby Bennett). The 45 is a great uptempo rocker penned by Bunny, on which he more than tips his hat at the then en vogue Little Richard and his successful “Tutti Frutti” that had delivered him an international smash hit a few years earlier.
 

 
In the mid sixties, with a number of releases under his belt and a thriving live act, Bunny found himself appearing at the Ambassador Hotel in Atlantic City and it was whilst rehearsing for this show that a piano playing songwriter from New Jersey first heard Bunny and recommended to his employers that they catch his next show at the Red Hill Inn. They took the piano players advice, did so and it was during this show that a couple of hot independent record producers would catch his act, resulting in them putting forward a proposal that they produce some sessions on the now seasoned, but as yet relatively unknown nationally, singer. It was at this stage that Mr David White and Mr John Madara entered into Bunny’s story. (3) The pair were currently riding high with the ex lead singer of the late 50s Philadelphia singing group The Dovells, a certain white, blue eyed soul singer named Leonard Boriskoff who had changed his name to Len Barry. Madara-White and Boriskoff had launched Len Barry into the charts in July 1965 with a song called ‘123’ and were about to follow up that initial success with a similar one in ‘Like A Baby’. Both were leased to the Decca label and delivered tracks based on a pounding, crashing drum beat forming the platform for a tight horn section to float above it supporting Len Barry’s impeccable vocals. The productions of Madara/White also benefitted from having a young, aggressive piano player/song writer on their books, (he was signed to John Madara’s Double Diamond publishing company), that young pianist was none other than Leon Huff, the very same piano player that had caught Bunny’s act in Atlantic City.
 

 
It was this heady mix of talent that Bunny found himself becoming the focus of and with Len Barry’s 45s producing worthwhile chart positions and guaranteeing them a Decca release, the team, from their offices in the famous Shubert Building opposite Cameo’s recording studio at 309 S Broad St, set about recording Bunny on a number of compositions. (4) Four songs were released on two Decca 45s in late 1965 and the spring of 1966 respectively. Both would become sought after by record collectors on the other side of the Atlantic. Employing a similar style to the Len Barry 45s, the flip side of the first one, Bunny Sigler — “Everything’s Gonna Be Alright b/w For Crying Out Loud” — Decca 31880 delivers a crashing drum and horn combo over which Bunny relays the dark tale of how, as a circus clown, he lost his woman to a trapeze artist! The second one is, for your author at least, one of the team’s pinnacle musical moments as Bunny’s vocal really gets a workout over a driving beat, especially on the B side to the Goffin and King classic. This time, although the top side is Jimmy Wisner, it’s arranged by Leroy Glover. The drums and horns are still omnipresent but this time flattered by vibes and a great sax break. Bunny Sigler — “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow b/w Comparatively Speaking” — Decca 31947 is just an all round — great record!
 

 
When Northern Soul lists of favourite 45s are compiled it’s not often that people can agree with all the choices so to claim iconic status takes balls of steel. Well, my nether regions must be made of titanium ‘cos I’m gonna make that claim right now. When the first bars of the hypnotic Leon Huff piano pounding intro to Bunny Sigler — “Girl, Don’t Make Me Wait b/w Always In The Wrong Place” — Parkway 123 came blasting out of a venues speakers, the rush to get to the dance floor was by all accounts like the proverbial herds of John Cleeses’ migrating Wildebeests! Its right up there with anything that Beethoven put on a stave and is completely instantaneous, once heard it’s never forgotten. (5) Over the years the 45 has perhaps gained that dubious title of overplayed oldie on the Northern Soul scene and I think that accusation could well be justified, but there’s a reason that records like these are demanded by dancers as they are...they’re bleedin’ fantastic records!
 

 
Bunny would release a number of great records on the Parkway arm of the Cameo company and the next one, Bunny Sigler — “Let The Good Times Roll And Fee l So Good b/w There’s No Love Left (In This Heart Of Mine” - Parkway 153 would once again be embraced by fans half a world away a few years later whilst languishing in the cut out bins of local record stores. Bunny’s effervescent interpretation of the Shirley and Lee, New Orleans recorded classic delivers an up to date exciting dancer that once again has maybe suffered due to its availability to fully satisfy the recent Northern scene, but when dropped in amongst fresher 45s can still enthral long time collectors/dancers. Someone at Cameo must have thought it had hit potential as it gained a release in UK, Canada, Australia and on the European continent and as far as I know, this is the only Parkway outing of Bunny’s to achieve that, whilst in the US it gave Bunny a Top 30 bona fide hit peaking at #22 in August 1967. His penultimate Parkway outing is unusual in that it’s the only one that came with a picture sleeve, (which was a version of the cover pictured on his only LP, Parkway #500, for the company) and also had two tracks on the flip. Bunny Sigler — “Sunny Sunday b/w A - Lovey Dovey, B — You’re So Fine” — Parkway 6000, saw yet another legendary Philly music maker join the fray and the A side which is another fantastic collaboration that produced a great dancer that enjoyed the benefit of an equally great arrangement by Joe Renzetti (6)
 

 
Bunny’s final release for the Parkway label was released in the final weeks of 1967 and was a joint effort from John Madara and Leon Huff with Joe Renzetti’s arrangement at the core. Revived by some DJs over the past few years, Bunny Sigler — “Follow Your Heart b/w Can You Dig It” — Parkway 6001was penned by Leon Huff and it will come as no surprise to people I’d wager, that Huff was already collaborating on many projects with Kenny Gamble by now and would shortly leave the Double Diamond set up in order to solidify and eventually realise their dreams of The Mighty Three.
 

 
So, if the records are of such quality, especially the “Girl, Don’t Make Me Wait” outing, then why didn’t it/they sweep the international charts? Well the answer isn’t really one of a lack of a distribution network, or lack of radio outlets available to promote it/them, or even a small initial run that led to it/them not being available. The answer is simply really... the Beatles! As the Fab Four came to dominate the US music market and the subsequent Brit Invasion, the resultant panic by the majors to find the next Mop Tops came into being and Cameo found its position as the leading major independent under stress. In fact, it was more than stress. As the sixties progressed and the Beatles led the way many US record companies almost shelved their existing A& R rosters in a way and were determined not to get caught out again. With Bernie Lowe the original owner no longer at the helm, the matinee idol roster that the company was founded on now way past it’s sell by date and the formulaic dance craze led releases that had provided the company’s meteoric rise to its zenith no longer en vogue, the writing was on the wall and it was in amongst this resulting turmoil that Bunny’s iconic 45 was left sinking. Despite a great showing on the Eastern seaboards radio stations, the company was concentrating on other artists that it felt would deliver the necessary chart positions that would return its revenue to its previous record highs. They were of course wrong in that respect and the company went to the wall shortly after, its back catalogue littered with embarrassing failed outings like “The Boy With The Beatle Hair” “Let’s Do The Freddie” etc that highlight the importance that the company placed on their search for the next pop phenomenon. Although some fantastic RnB/Soul records were produced towards the end of the company’s life, by then the game was up I reckon and the wind down was already underway by at least the new owners, if not the creative people.
 

 
As Cameo’s grip on Philly music faded, there was a new company appearing on the horizon that would return the city’s musical reputation to its former glory and it was with the young black entrepreneurs Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff that Bunny now chose to hitch his musical wagon. Their Neptune label was a natural addition to their original Gamble logo and, in 1968, they were garnering the likes of Bunny Sigler, The O Jay’s, Linda Jones and The Vibrations as vehicles for their new kind of music based upon their vision of a new urban sound which the studio band of MFSB were so adept at delivering. With a recent distribution deal signed that put them alongside Chess Records all would seem in place for real success for “Mr Emotion” (7)
Bunny’s tenure at Neptune delivered four singles, two of which were duets with yet another Philly songbird with a special place in fan’s hearts: Ms Cindy Scott. Cindy was born Sondray Tucker and was the daughter of Ira Tucker, a member of the legendary doo wop singing group The Dixie Hummingbirds and was an initial member of The Blue Belles (Patti Labelle and The Bluebelles), albeit prior to their recording career. Her journey to Neptune had seen her record for the Peacock label and of course she is revered for her Northern outing I Love You Baby on Veep Records. The two duets with Bunny Sigler are worth tracking down especially Bunny and Cindy — “We’re Only Human b/w It Sure Didn’t Take Too Long” — Neptune 15 on which the pair deliver a great dancer on the flip side. I can’t recall ever hearing this track out anywhere so it’s ripe for some discerning DJ to give it an opportunity. Bunny’s solo performances are equally impressive, especially his version of a song written by Dee Irwin and made big on the circuit by Chuck Jackson as “I Only Get This Feeling”. (Although the Rd Coach original by Dee Irwin actually reduces even the mighty Chucj Jackson to a silver medal position. Bunny Sigler — “Don’t Stop What You’re Doing b/w Where Do The Lonely Go” — Neptune 25 delivers the classic — MFSB style! Bunny’s vocal is tip top! The whole production is slightly tempered in pace compared with Dee and Chuck’s versions and is a quality outing from the guys who were about to launch The Sound Of Philadelphia on an eager world.
 

 
Once plugged into the emerging Gamble and Huff operation, Bunny would remain at the heart of the creative core of the company, establishing himself as a premier singer/songwriter. Not only would he record his own songs but, during the hey days of Philly International would also pen songs for The OJays, Patti Labelle, Billy Paul, Lou Rawls, The Whispers, Ecstacy, Passion and Pain, Lolleata Holloway, Carl Carlton amongst a long list of others and would mentor and develop another group with Northern soul connections from across the Delaware River: The TNJs, and would, when Norman Harris et al set up their own production company, furnish hits for Instant Funk, a group of musicians that often backed him at live shows. (8) When the legendary rhythm section of MFSB Norman Harris, Ronnie Baker and Earl Young established their own musical production operation Sigler would play a part in song writing and producing for them on an independent basis and when Lebaron Taylor, the former Detroit DJ and owner of Revilot Records moved to Philadelphia and was setting up his new venture for CBS The Young Professionals, it was to Bunny and fellow Philly song writing icon Phil Hurtt to whom he turned. Bunny’s collaborating song writing partners over the years reads like a who’s who of seventies soul and include the likes of Ron Tyson, Maurice Bailey as well as Gamble and Huff. Bunny would also hook up with Phil Hurtt years later when the pair was at the heart of the Soulful Tale Of Two Cities, an amalgamation of Detroit and Philadelphian music makers. (9)
 

 
Bunny’s singing career has never faded. He regularly releases CD material often including his favourite Gospel songs alongside his own material, Christmas songs and just about everything in between. He is also still in demand as a performer and a noteworthy live performance was when he sang the 23rd Psalm at the ceremony awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to The Tuskegee Airmen on March 29th 2007 at the White House, a performance that Bunny, quite rightly, feels immensely honoured to have been selected for.
 

 
So... on 30th November, Manchester will play host to Bunny and his wife Martha when ‘Mr Emotion’ plays the New Century Soul 10th Anniversary Allnighter at the Radcliffe Civic Suite. The song list has been thrashed out, the band is booked, the backing tracks have been furnished and the anticipation is now building. When Bunny Sigler hits the stage, I think you’ll agree that, as I said at the beginning Chris, Marcelle, and Andy, who have played a blinder for the past decade, will be proud to present a living legend, live on stage to entertain their loyal crowd. With three rooms on offer and a DJ line up to rival anything in the country, it’ll be a great night I’m sure. See yah there!
 
Dave Moore
Oct 2013
 
 
 
NOTES:
 
(1) Bee Records was a local enterprise based at 664, Schuykyll Ave, Reading PA. It was an offshoot of and operated out of Barbour’s Society Cleaners, a dry cleaning business and the Laddy Daddy track was co-written by a certain Mr Barbour. Grover Barbour, who co-owned the logo alongside Russ Golding, a local song writing talent, also owned a local gym and a stable of boxers but had always wanted to be in the music business. The site at Schuykill Ave became, reception, rehearsal room and part time recording studio for the label which, although like many others, operated on a somewhat cottage industry basis, stayed in business from 1957 until 1964.
 
(2) The backing singers on Bunny’s V-Tone 45 were The Cruisers who would also release their inaugural 45 on Bobby Caldwell’s imprint and can be found in a supporting role on many of the labels outings including Herb Johnson amongst others. They would of course later sign with Gamble and Huff’s Gamble logo and enjoy a reasonable albeit sporadic career under the mentorship of the two maestros.
 
(3) David White was a member of Danny and The Juniors who had enjoyed such a smash hit with the song he and John Madara had written whilst at Temple University in Philly, ‘At The Hop’. The pair of singer/songwriters then set up their musical production and publishing company and based it at The Shubert Building on Broad St. The building is almost opposite 309 S Broad St which was back then the Cameo Parkway main recording facility and would later be overhauled by legendary sound technician Joe Tarsia and become Sigma II or, as it was better known, Philadelphia International Records. John Madara would be the catalyst that put together Daryl Hall of The Temptones, (Arctic Records), with John Oates of The Masters (Crimson Records) whilst the team of Madara — White-Boriskoff-Billy Jackson and Jimmy Wisner would go on to produce a huge catalogue of many sought after Northern Soul 45s including the classics by Johnny Caswell, Joey Heatherton, The Sweet Three, Bunny Sigler and whole slew of others.
 
(4) The Shubert Building played a pivotal role in the emergence of Philadelphia as a soul producing city. Many of the city’s musical ‘movers and shakers’ would spend time working there including Jerry Ross, Billy Jackson, Madara/White, Gamble and Huff amongst others. Such was the importance of the former theatre that it was dubbed: Philadelphia’s Brill Building after the New York location that was at the heart of Tin Pan Alley.
 
(5) I got into the upstairs studio at 309 South Broad St a few years ago and was ecstatic to find an old upright piano still in there. Whether or not this was the actual piano that Huff battered about the place with complete aplomb I’ll never know but for this fan I convinced myself it was! Sitting at the piano and imagining Madara/White/Huff and Bunny belting out this legendary song on that old upright, was a thrill and a bit, I can tell you.
 
(6) Joe Renzetti was/is a guitar virtuoso who, through the years gained a reputation for his arranging skills. He was the man behind such fantastic arrangements on records like The Sapphires, The Yum Yums, (Which he co wrote) and a whole host of Philly Northern Soul 45s.
 
(7) Although Gamble and Huff signed a deal with the Chess company, the company was, soon after the deal was struck, purchased by US conglomerate GRT. To cut a long story short, some great music was still being produced but GRT had bought into Chess studio and its back catalogue. It wasn’t really interested in promoting independently produced product and consequently Neptune’s output was kind of lost in the shuffle.
 
(8) The TNJs were a vocal quintet that Bunny discovered being backed by The Music Machine (the first incarnation of Instant Funk) that used the initials of their home time Trenton New Jersey as their group name. They initially recoded and released 45s on Lucky Lou and Newark Records, where they released the popular The TNJs — “She’s Not Ready b/w I Didn’t Know” — Newark 228 before landing a deal with GRT owned Chess Records and releasing the equally popular, The TNJs — “Don’t Forget About Me b/w Falling In Love” — Chess 2155, in 1974.
 
(9) The full story including some fantastic studio photos of the Soulful Tale Of Two Cities project was told in There’s That Beat! Issue #1 Dated September 2006.
 
 
By Dave Moore in Articles ·

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