Hitsville Soul Club

[Guest Tommy]

I've just posted up a review for the Hitsville Soul Club on my website, including my play list. It's in the Events section.

www.tommysrecords.com

Enjoy,

Tommy

[Dave Moore]

Everyone is either home, en route home, or safely moved on to phase II of their trip. As the organiser of the event I'm probably a little too close to be objective about the event but from my point of view... WOW!

I'm sure people who attended willl post their thoughts when they recover.

Few personal highlights:

The music on Friday Night. This night ranks in my top 10 nights of all time. The guys just didn't let up. Top class traditional Rare/Northern soul record after record. First record dropped 8.30 - first dancers hit the floor 8.30. Fantastic night.

The Harthon Hour on Saturday Night. The informal Qand A on Saturday afternoon was fantastic and then to play their catalogue whilst they were in the room signing posters and CDs at the Allnighter was a real thrill. Despatching them back to the airport in the biggest limo I've ever seen was a great feeling. The whole crowd just made them feel very special. Tremendous. Well done to all.

The Young Guns of US Soul. The Central Soul club (California), The Rare Soul Millionaires (Chicago) - DJs Tommy, Mike, Ben, Aret and Hitsville's own Jeff Lemlich blew me away, especially at the Saturday Allnighter. Young, aggressive, in yer face guys with great collections and the balls to play to each other and well as the dancefloor. No frills with these lads, just the real deal. It's a pleasure to be around them. They impressed everyone.

Playlists are starting to appear at

https://www.hitsvillesoulclub.com/Forums/Topic5426-9-1.aspx

The Harthon Q and Answer session and all the DJ sets will appear on the Hitsville Website once we get time to sort it all out.

Off to Philly now to meet up with Dave and Janet Ferguson, Billy Jackson, Jimmy Wizner and hopefully get a few moments with Mr Kenny Gamble. Report to follow on return.

The US Rare Soul scene is not only alive and kickin', but it's growing... and in the right direction.

[Newer]

What an absolutely great weekend, from the Friday night (Howard's spot was f#*king superb), to the Harthon guys, the Sat Niter (with Pie, Peas and Gravy break at 2:00) to Sunday chill out at the Villa. As Dave has already said musically it would be hard to better.

The spontaneous round of applause when the Harthon guys left on Sat was heart felt and sincere.

Just a great weekend, great people, great music, great facilities and from Mili and me BIG thanks to Dave, Bev, Mark and Jason for all the effort put into it.

[Dave Moore]

Kev,

Great to see you and Mili again. Glad you enjoyed it all. It was a bit special eh?

Your salesbox was a sight for sore eyes. Had I not had the drama with the equipment to sort on Saturday I would have bought them all. All Canadian 45s, minters in mint sleeves. Really nice to see someone looking after the records as they should be cherished.

The REO 45s are now esconced in my Canadian box looking respendent in ther refinery!

Thanks for the 8x10s too. They'll get used.

[coops]

Everyone is either home, en route home, or safely moved on to phase II of their trip. As the organiser of the event I'm probably a little too close to be objective about the event but from my point of view... WOW!

I'm sure people who attended willl post their thoughts when they recover.

Few personal highlights:

The music on Friday Night. This night ranks in my top 10 nights of all time. The guys just didn't let up. Top class traditional Rare/Northern soul record after record. First record dropped 8.30 - first dancers hit the floor 8.30. Fantastic night.

The Harthon Hour on Saturday Night. The informal Qand A on Saturday afternoon was fantastic and then to play their catalogue whilst they were in the room signing posters and CDs at the Allnighter was a real thrill. Despatching them back to the airport in the biggest limo I've ever seen was a great feeling. The whole crowd just made them feel very special. Tremendous. Well done to all.

The Young Guns of US Soul. The Central Soul club (California), The Rare Soul Millionaires (Chicago) - DJs Tommy, Mike, Ben, Aret and Hitsville's own Jeff Lemlich blew me away, especially at the Saturday Allnighter. Young, aggressive, in yer face guys with great collections and the balls to play to each other and well as the dancefloor. No frills with these lads, just the real deal. It's a pleasure to be around them. They impressed everyone.

Playlists are starting to appear at

https://www.hitsvillesoulclub.com/Forums/Topic5426-9-1.aspx

The Harthon Q and Answer session and all the DJ sets will appear on the Hitsville Website once we get time to sort it all out.

Off to Philly now to meet up with Dave and Janet Ferguson, Billy Jackson, Jimmy Wizner and hopefully get a few moments with Mr Kenny Gamble. Report to follow on return.

The US Rare Soul scene is not only alive and kickin', but it's growing... and in the right direction.

nice review david.... just a question..... did your hitsville have anything to do with promoting said "WOW" event ..... just asking

[Dave Moore]

nice review david.... just a question..... did your hitsville have anything to do with promoting said "WOW" event ..... just asking

As you asked... I don't 'promote' as in your definition of the word. I simply organise the event on behalf of the group. It's a club in the real sense of the word. A group of record collectors from both sides of the Atlantic. It's certainly not "My" Hitsville. It's OURS. Hope that clears things up for you.

[Munchkin]

Dave

Really glad this went well, we missed it by a week we arrive this Sunday bad timing or what. Kev managed to come over last year but we didn't know the dates for this year when we booked our holiday.

If you know of any soul nites that are on in the next two weeks can you please let us have details as we'd like to go somewhere if there is anything on.

Thanks in advance

Sharon & Kev Spittle

[Guest]

nice review david.... just a question..... did your hitsville have anything to do with promoting said "WOW" event ..... just asking

With the advertising and Bumping on this site thought it would be a full blown weekend event

but with a total of 45 to 50 people in the friday night half djs and partners

and less in for the all nighter Sat Night WOW factor doesnt come in to it and with the dance floor,venue and sound system as Chris King said he didnt believe it and was like he was back in the youth club days

2 speakers on the floor 200 watt ?? possibly higher

Musically could not fault it

sad that the record fair was cancelled without notification to the few paying public.

And no atmosphere in the venue as the "Organiser"says it was for the soul club members

Thats what should have been made clear to all and sundry. That it was a get together of like minded individuals and the public entered at their own violation.

Must admit I was expecting something bigger and better.

Disapointed socially and after naming yourselves after detroits famous daughter (Motown) not a lot was played.

Would I reccomend Hitsville sorry to say a no

but will say this knowledge wise excellent individuals

And a New Yorker called Kieren o Connor whose knowledge of Doowop and all that goes with it excellent.

Doug

Harthon Guys with Andy Tats Taylor

full dance floor

[Guest Mark Holmes]

Yer Havin a Laff!

I feel I have to pop a note through.

If the event had a 25,000 square foot dance floor, 3 balconies, 4 clones of Hilda Woods on the door, 10 single fluorescent bulbs, 1,000,000 watts of sound and a chemist at the door handing out Billy Whizz would you have generated a smile, danced, involved yourself? Didn't see you do much of it all weekend.

You spent many hours missing out on the whole intent of Hitsville.

It's not about venue size, politics, dj's, northern soul assumed "etiquette", who is the best dancer, etc, etc (all of the irritating shallow things about the "scene") Its about friendship, and music and an unaasuming group of people. Yes there are spouses (and kids) but how many spouses do you know who go out willingly to a weekender and laugh and smile and join in?

The Harthon guys embraced the tangible feeling of belonging, 3 black guys in a room full of middle aged white folk (well most of us), appreciating and respecting them. If everyone had been there for the "scene" how miserable would they have been.

There is so much information about Hitsille on the site that I am surprised you didn't get it when you read it all.

And as for the paying public, it cost some of us a lot of money to make you so miserable, but you know what, it has never been about making a buck of your friends and fellow soulies. Its always been about the core of it all, the one thing that brings us together, the music.

I hope that you are not (and will not) be surprised by my or any other responses to your post, I am sure you wouldn't have posted it without expecting it.

[Guest Tommy]

With the advertising and Bumping on this site thought it would be a full blown weekend event

but with a total of 45 to 50 people in the friday night half djs and partners

and less in for the all nighter Sat Night WOW factor doesnt come in to it and with the dance floor,venue and sound system as Chris King said he didnt believe it and was like he was back in the youth club days

2 speakers on the floor 200 watt ?? possibly higher

Musically could not fault it

sad that the record fair was cancelled without notification to the few paying public.

And no atmosphere in the venue as the "Organiser"says it was for the soul club members

Thats what should have been made clear to all and sundry. That it was a get together of like minded individuals and the public entered at their own violation.

Must admit I was expecting something bigger and better.

Disapointed socially and after naming yourselves after detroits famous daughter (Motown) not a lot was played.

Would I reccomend Hitsville sorry to say a no

but will say this knowledge wise excellent individuals

And a New Yorker called Kieren o Connor whose knowledge of Doowop and all that goes with it excellent.

Doug

Harthon Guys with Andy Tats Taylor

full dance floor

Sorry, but I must disagree with you here. You've every right to your opinion, hence why I'm going to go lightly on you, but i must admit i found your post shocking as finding a fault with this venue is like finding a needle in a haystack.

However, I for one can say that the atmosphere was top notch as you're surrounded by decent people who are there for the love of it, and for a good time. No more or less. Now obviously if you didn't socialize with who was there then that's your fault, and I feel bad for you as in that respect you did miss out.

As regards to your comment about Motown... you've proved to me that you obviously have no idea what the Hitsville Soul Club is about.

Besides that, I'm glad you enjoyed yourself

[coops]

As you asked... I don't 'promote' as in your definition of the word. I simply organise the event on behalf of the group. It's a club in the real sense of the word. A group of record collectors from both sides of the Atlantic. It's certainly not "My" Hitsville. It's OURS. Hope that clears things up for you.

thanks for clearing that up david.

[Guest]

Sorry, but I must disagree with you here. You've every right to your opinion, hence why I'm going to go lightly on you, but i must admit i found your post shocking as finding a fault with this venue is like finding a needle in a haystack.

However, I for one can say that the atmosphere was top notch as you're surrounded by decent people who are there for the love of it, and for a good time. No more or less. Now obviously if you didn't socialize with who was there then that's your fault, and I feel bad for you as in that respect you did miss out.

As regards to your comment about Motown... you've proved to me that you obviously have no idea what the Hitsville Soul Club is about.

Besides that, I'm glad you enjoyed yourself

Socialising is a 2 way st and after the first initial meeting on the Friday at the event

was rather ignored by most people apart from 2 nice guys from UK darlington and Newton Aycliffe and A couple of people I already knew.and as I spent 4 hours in the venue out of 5 on the friday night and nearly 5 hours in there saturday night and only 1 hour on the sat pm due to other commitments was disapointed.

But as I made the decision to come over to the "Soul Club Weekender" and expected a little more than was on offer, the cost to me was of no importance.as the cost to some of your club members to travel and appear,would be the same, as you where there for a club get together.

Musically couldnt fault as said previously.

saddened sound system disapointed as you had the stands, just didnt put the speakers on them,to hear the music without muffling

saddened there was no record fair to go to

saddened that the hotel front desk staff had basically no idea the event was on

saddened no advertising locally to bring more people to your club scene to acknowledge what soul fans are about

saddened thats its for the few and not the many as required to aid a vibrant soul scene.

and having spent many years in a socially expectant soul scene whereby people are good and kind and welcoming and Soul events are famous for being a social and freindly scene that the same standard was not on U S soil.

sorry if you find my comments detremental

but there where fewer plusses than negatives.

Look at Kieron o Connor behind at the rear of the pic if it was so enthralling why is he so fast asleep on Sat Night at midnight

3 hours in

[Pauldonnelly]

Look at Kieron o Connor behind at the rear of the pic if it was so enthralling why is he so fast asleep on Sat Night at midnight

3 hours in

[Guest Tommy]

Socialising is a 2 way st and after the first initial meeting on the Friday at the event

was rather ignored by most people apart from 2 nice guys from UK darlington and Newton Aycliffe and A couple of people I already knew.and as I spent 4 hours in the venue out of 5 on the friday night and nearly 5 hours in there saturday night and only 1 hour on the sat pm due to other commitments was disapointed.

But as I made the decision to come over to the "Soul Club Weekender" and expected a little more than was on offer, the cost to me was of no importance.as the cost to some of your club members to travel and appear,would be the same, as you where there for a club get together.

Musically couldnt fault as said previously.

saddened sound system disapointed as you had the stands, just didnt put the speakers on them,to hear the music without muffling

saddened there was no record fair to go to

saddened that the hotel front desk staff had basically no idea the event was on

saddened no advertising locally to bring more people to your club scene to acknowledge what soul fans are about

saddened thats its for the few and not the many as required to aid a vibrant soul scene.

and having spent many years in a socially expectant soul scene whereby people are good and kind and welcoming and Soul events are famous for being a social and freindly scene that the same standard was not on U S soil.

sorry if you find my comments detremental

but there where fewer plusses than negatives.

Look at Kieron o Connor behind at the rear of the pic if it was so enthralling why is he so fast asleep on Sat Night at midnight

3 hours in

I attended Hitsville Soul Club for the first time last year, and the only 2 people i knew were Dave Moore and the guy i went with, Mike Umholtz. I made the effort to go up to people who were there to have a chat to get to know them, end result being that i knew most of them this year. My point is, do you expect to sit there for 4 hours and have everyone in the venue to come up to your table, introduce themselves and have a good ol' natter?? If you fancied a chat then you should have pulled someone up and introducted yourself. They would have chatted with you as we're mostly about the atmosphere at Hitsville. I think you're just picking for a few things to moan about to make up for the 500+ people you were expect to attend (and whoever gave you that idea, i don't know).

Edited September 14, 2007 by Tommy

[Pauldonnelly]

I attended Hitsville Soul Club for the first time last year, and the only 2 people i knew were Dave Moore and the guy i went with, Mike Umholtz. I made the effort to go up to people who where there to have a chat to get to know them, end result being that i knew most of them this year. My point is, do you expect to sit there for 4 hours and have everyone in the venue to come up to your table, introduce themselves and have a good ol' natter?? If you fancied a chat then you should have pulled someone up and introducted yourself. They would have chatted with you as were mostly about the atmosphere at Hitsville. I think you're just picking for a few things to moan about to make up for the 500+ people you were expect to attend (and whoever gave you that idea, i don't know).

Looking at the photo again, and the fact he was leaning to his left and there is a leccy socket above his head, we in Gods Country after a vote that went 7-3, have concluded the individual named was 'pissed'

[Guest]

No point in arguing with you how you feel, Doug. I'd just like to say it's a shame you let your pre-conceived notions stop you from having a good time. No, it wasn't a giant ballroom with a sprung dancefloor and 500+ in attendance. It's only a gathering of some of the finest and frendliest people I've ever come across, "scene" or otherwise.

This is a grassroots US soul event, not a typical UK event. As a promoter and DJ for the amount of years you have stated, I would think you'd be very interested in seeing the growth of a US soul scene. Some prefer to walk in the footsteps left behind, I'd rather be making them......

-Mike

[jazzyjas]

The negative comments on this thread toward the weekender are just plain rude. Most people pointing the finger have NO CLUE WHATSOEVER what it takes to put on ANY soul event in the United States! It takes a lot of money and a lot of dedication for starters. Doing things in the US that are strictly northern soul are nearly impossible. It's like trying to run in quicksand! The other alternative is to compromise and put on a mod/60s fashion driven event that plays 2 hours worth of northern soul from CDs. The rest will be latin, reggae, garage and damn near everything else.

Dave, Bev and Mark put this event knowing that they would lose their shirts financially and went ahead and did it anyway to keep even the smallest group of punters happy because we are all dedicated to the MUSIC! The music was top notch and you have no idea the problems that were encountered and the exorbent amount of money that was spent just to bring it to you-not to mention, putting the Harthon guys right in front of you. The people who were there for the right reason weren't fussed at all. They all still had a good time and stuck it out with us to the very end. They keep coming back year after year, too.

Talk about people falling asleep and not being overly friendly seems to be the thrust of this thread. It's a lot of pissing and moaning over small details. Sound system was down only for the last hour on Friday night. Saturday we had a whole new kit and it sounded even better and louder than before.

We played QUALITY (a lot you will never own) records from beginning to end all weekend so what the FCUK is your problem? I'd expect more of a comment like "damn-they still went through with it" or "they really gave it 100%!"

Don't come on here acting like we put on some sh*t event because the venue didn't resemble Wigan Casino with 500 punters wearing 40 inch bags and circle skirts! We had a massive banner with pictures of soul stars, boxes of good records for sale, the Harthon guys a table away and the Salvadors on the sound system--still not satisfied? How about the next night we bring back a bigger and better sound system and play Eddie Day & the Four Bars, Tomangoes, Appreciations, etc. Not good enough? Ok, here's a decent home-cooked meal at no extra charge-eat as much as you want!

You've got to remember that this was in the middle of Florida and anybody else in the same situation would have packed it in because it would have been about money to them. It's about music at Hitsville and most people there knew that. Pity a few people didn't (more like one person) becuase it was their loss. Others who flew from UK, Canada and elsewhere were 100% satisfied. They had no problem. They came to hear the best music in the world. That's just what they got. Mission accomplished.

Tell you what. You dig into your own pockets and provide the same thing with the same quality records and I'll be there!

-J.

PS. So it was like a youth club? I don't recall hearing "You Sexy Sugar Plum or "Afternoon of the Rhino"

[KevH]

didn't go to Hitsville,but amazed at the comment that some guy didn't talk to anyone,or socialise...........especially with Tats in the room....the most enthusiastic person invovled in soul music i've ever met,,,Kev.

[Guest Tommy]

The negative comments on this thread toward the weekender are just plain rude. Most people pointing the finger have NO CLUE WHATSOEVER what it takes to put on ANY soul event in the United States! It takes a lot of money and a lot of dedication for starters. Doing things in the US that are strictly northern soul are nearly impossible. It's like trying to run in quicksand! The other alternative is to compromise and put on a mod/60s fashion driven event that plays 2 hours worth of northern soul from CDs. The rest will be latin, reggae, garage and damn near everything else.

Dave, Bev and Mark put this event knowing that they would lose their shirts financially and went ahead and did it anyway to keep even the smallest group of punters happy because we are all dedicated to the MUSIC! The music was top notch and you have no idea the problems that were encountered and the exorbent amount of money that was spent just to bring it to you-not to mention, putting the Harthon guys right in front of you. The people who were there for the right reason weren't fussed at all. They all still had a good time and stuck it out with us to the very end. They keep coming back year after year, too.

Talk about people falling asleep and not being overly friendly seems to be the thrust of this thread. It's a lot of pissing and moaning over small details. Sound system was down only for the last hour on Friday night. Saturday we had a whole new kit and it sounded even better and louder than before.

We played QUALITY (a lot you will never own) records from beginning to end all weekend so what the FCUK is your problem? I'd expect more of a comment like "damn-they still went through with it" or "they really gave it 100%!"

Don't come on here acting like we put on some sh*t event because the venue didn't resemble Wigan Casino with 500 punters wearing 40 inch bags and circle skirts! We had a massive banner with pictures of soul stars, boxes of good records for sale, the Harthon guys a table away and the Salvadors on the sound system--still not satisfied? How about the next night we bring back a bigger and better sound system and play Eddie Day & the Four Bars, Tomangoes, Appreciations, etc. Not good enough? Ok, here's a decent home-cooked meal at no extra charge-eat as much as you want!

You've got to remember that this was in the middle of Florida and anybody else in the same situation would have packed it in because it would have been about money to them. It's about music at Hitsville and most people there knew that. Pity a few people didn't (more like one person) becuase it was their loss. Others who flew from UK, Canada and elsewhere were 100% satisfied. They had no problem. They came to hear the best music in the world. That's just what they got. Mission accomplished.

Tell you what. You dig into your own pockets and provide the same thing with the same quality records and I'll be there!

-J.

PS. So it was like a youth club? I don't recall hearing "You Sexy Sugar Plum or "Afternoon of the Rhino"

Well said mate

[sister dawn]

Did my mate Sinner not turn up in his soulbags then??? He said he was going too as he hadnt worn em since moving to the US

[Mark Bicknell]

Hi Dave and all, sounds like a great weekend was had by all (well almost all) just wondering if Mr Greet behaved himself????lol, reckon The Bicknell's need to come and visit Micky Mouse again next year and pop in for a few cold ones...lol The Smile on Tat's face with the Harthon gentlemen in the photograph says it all really so well done for keeping all things soulful together in the Motherland.

Regards - Mark Bicknell.

Bet Greety had a few.....lol

Edited September 14, 2007 by Mark Bicknell

[Mark Bicknell]

And Greety afterwards....lol

Regards - Mark Bicknell.

[Guest Keep the Boy Happy]

Have just got back from this weekender and would just like to add a comment.

We had a ball, a great laugh, met friends old and new. The music was exceptional, the enthusiasm and committment from the young lads over there in the US is pleasure to witness. Everything to make this event happen was done with 100% and more.

Jas, your reply to the comments made in this thread are SPOT ON!!

Just one thing I would like to add regarding the snap of Keiron, the man was DRUNK AS A SKUNK (polite version). I know that for a fact as he joined us at the pool bar at lunchtime, told us how he had come to the weekender just on the strength of the quality of "Theres That Beat" magazine, was amazed that we Brits drank, danced, drank, danced and drank like we did

With regards to the photos of Mr Greet, yep! we just got the same shots at the weekender, and an extra one of him Out on the Floor!!

We had a blast!!

Mrs KTBH

[Mark Bicknell]

Have just got back from this weekender and would just like to add a comment.

We had a ball, a great laugh, met friends old and new. The music was exceptional, the enthusiasm and committment from the young lads over there in the US is pleasure to witness. Everything to make this event happen was done with 100% and more.

Jas, your reply to the comments made in this thread are SPOT ON!!

Just one thing I would like to add regarding the snap of Keiron, the man was DRUNK AS A SKUNK (polite version). I know that for a fact as he joined us at the pool bar at lunchtime, told us how he had come to the weekender just on the strength of the quality of "Theres That Beat" magazine, was amazed that we Brits drank, danced, drank, danced and drank like we did

With regards to the photos of Mr Greet, yep! we just got the same shots at the weekender, and an extra one of him Out on the Floor!!

We had a blast!!

Mrs KTBH

Greety skipping the light fantastic....priceless!

Regards - Mark Bicknell.

[Guest]

I thought this was the events look-back thread, not the only post if you had a great time thread, as the person went to the event (unlike some of the posters) they have every right to put their opinion on, and whats with the " hence thats why I'm going lightly on you" i thought this was the place to put your personal take of the event on for others to see, i wonder why others haven't, afraid maybe?, and just one last question why are the negative comments just plain rude? i think intimidating someone because they disagree with you is quite shocking.

[Guest Tommy]

whats with the " hence thats why I'm going lightly on you"

Believe me, it's best i wrote that as if i was to say what i was thinking at the time, i'd most likely been kicked off Soul Source.

And yes, this is an events look back thread, and that's what i started this thread as. So whats your point?

[Guest Mark Holmes]

Justine, I can appreciate your concern, however you have to understand from the people who attended who have posted, that the person who posted the negative comments did it in such a "drive by"manner. He is entitled to his opinion of course and that is what makes the world go round, nobody can take his feelings away from him. He did express some unhappiness at the time to one of the promoters however here are some of the facts that have confounded people.

The punter expected something "much bigger" - If I had been coming to an event 4000 miles from home I would have done a lot of research. The hotel where the event was located has a web site that actually tells you how many square feet of event space they have.

The punter expected "more people" - Law of averages, Hotel Square Feet / Number of People allowed in that space / Florida Fire Marshalls Law = not a massive crowd.

Hitsville is an internet soul club of like minded people in a huge country (says it in the introduction and for the most part thats where we each other from- There is 3 years plus of history and posts on that site that the punter could have looked at and read to get the correct information.

"Nobody Loves ME" - Come on give me a break. To say that nobody approached to socializeis is pitiful, there were 60 people in the room, if he was too shy to get up and circulate don't turn it into something else. I was 2 tables away from the punter and he hardly moved all the time he was in the room. Didn't circulate, didn't bump into anyone on the dance floor, was not curious about anyone there.

"The sleeping guy" - What an "offside" comment, the guy had sun stroke and had travelled from New Jersy (about 1200 miles) had had a skinfull at the pool and was obviously knackered. Is the punter the official "good time knocker upper" at every all nighter in the UK now? I fell asleep at Wigan(before I found out how to stay awake all night) woke up and danced again, I wouldn't say that I was bored out of my brain at the Casino and thats why I fell asleep though.

"The sound system was small" - It was in proportion to the venue. It was playing original vinyl (No CD's or boots /' copies)that is 40 plus years old in many cases, the sound system met its expectations.

So this is why people jumped on the punters statements so vehemently. They are a passionate, proud and protective group that find it hard to understand why one person out of 60 made such negative comments when the situation he found himself in was from the decisions he made and everybody else in the room (as far as we know) had a good time.

[Guest]

the punter as you call him put his opinion of the event on the events look-back thread, i thought that was what it was there for, i may be wrong.

[Guest Mark Holmes]

" 2 nice guys from UK darlington and Newton Aycliffe"

Phil if you read this stay in touch on Hitsville, really enjoyed meeting you and having a laff at the DJ villa hope everything is working out. May be over for Prestatyn.

Mark

[Guest Mark Holmes]

the punter as you call him put his opinion of the event on the events look-back thread, i thought that was what it was there for, i may be wrong.

Not sure of your point here, is someone doing something wrong?, a punter is a person who pays for something, not PC enough?

[Guest]

i wonder why others haven't, afraid maybe?

C'mon Justine, now you're just trying to stir up sh*t. No gangster tactics here. It was great time had by all, except one. Thats a pretty good average compared to the whining I read every day about UK events....

BTW Were you there? I don't remember you, so why are you posting?

[Guest Keep the Boy Happy]

thought this was the events look-back thread, not the only post if you had a great time thread

If this quote was in anyway aimed at my reply, then I apologise if the content of my posting wasn't as it should have been.

I regular read this Lookback Section and do understand what it's about, unfortunately my knowledge of records ie Artists Labels and Titles is quite limited, therefore I do not feel that the comments I could make about sets that DJ's played would do them justice. The other thing is some of what I heard, I was probably hearing for the first time, so I didn't know it (no shame in that tho'). All I know is that for me, I had a great time, and I based that on the people I met, the amount of hours I danced, being the last female still on the floor the allnighter is something I am quite pleased about,(the other one was laid across 3 chairs asleep ) and this was because I never once thought, "right I've had enough, I am off to bed" or "this is crap/boring/ etc etc. I stayed until the end because of the great music that was being played, the atmosphere that was apparent in the room, with the young lads who were DJ-ing at that time, putting records on, and running round to get onto the floor and really enjoy themselves. It was great that there WAS'NT a pair of silly wide soul bags or a full circle skirt, just genuine people loving the records they were playing. I don't agree with the comment that the place was lacking in atmosphere,it wasn't from where we were sitting, with the people we were sitting with. Still horses for courses and everyone is entitled to an opionion.

I didn't know what to expect when we booked to go, I knew it wouldn't be a massive do in terms of attendees, I don't suppose there are that many Americans who are 100% Northern/Rare Soulies. I did guess that it would be like a party (all be it to big for the house), Yes on the Friday night there was a problem with the equipment, it was unfortunate that it couldn't be resolved, so the session had to finish one hour early, until the Saturday when Bev Dave and Mark ran around like madmen to rectify everything ready for the Q & A session with the guys from Harthon. The reason that the speakers were not on the stands on the Saturday night was because they didn't FIT on the stands that had been supplied and time had run out to drive back around half the Sunshine State to alter things.

Therefore for me Looking Back in the Lookback section. It was Brill!

Cheers Mrs KTBH.

[Guest]

I had no intension of stirring anything up, i was reading a look-back thread and couldn't believe you were trying to discredit a person that obviously didn't enjoy the event, i am allowed an opinion however shallow you think it is.

[Guest]

I had no intension of stirring anything up, i was reading a look-back thread and couldn't believe you were trying to discredit a person that obviously didn't enjoy the event, i am allowed an opinion however shallow you think it is.

https://www.hitsvillesoulclub.com/Forums/To...6-1.aspx#bm5469

for their opinion and my final words

Edited September 15, 2007 by Toonbid

[Reg]

https://www.hitsvillesoulclub.com/Forums/To...6-1.aspx#bm5469

for their opinion and my final words

It's my party and I'll cry if I want to...Doug it sounds like you were the uninvited wedding guest ....maybe you should stick to moaning about UK events as we've all got thicker skins

btw I didn't go either...but Doug did say the music was good didn't he? Isn't that the main thing to be bothered about!!!

Edited September 15, 2007 by Reg

[coops]

C'mon Justine, now you're just trying to stir up sh*t. No gangster tactics here. It was great time had by all, except one. Thats a pretty good average compared to the whining I read every day about UK events....

BTW Were you there? I don't remember you, so why are you posting?

hey come on he/she never said he/she was there, stop ducking his/her issue guys.

[Mike]

hey come on he/she never said he/she was there, stop ducking his/her issue guys.

toon bid

had a quick look at the post elsewhere

you doug hall ? if so you already have one account on here - makemvinyl ?

why posting under another ?

justine - how about a intro ?

you used to use the display name of jensden

are you the same jensden who is a moderator on same site as doug hall , you know mick coopers one

end of day

takes 5 secs for intro and saves a lot of hassle and "misunderstandings"

[Guest Mark Holmes]

ooohh the plot thickens, i see a conspiracy here.

See how fast things go downhill once you start being negative about other peoples jolly times!

Doug, I think you made your point, emphasised the bad time you created for yourself, the Hitsville folks came back with their opinions, we all looked back and said "hmmm".

'nuff said now I think.

[Guest StoneSoul45]

Me and my boys drove 36 hours total to travel from chicago to florida to dance with (mostly) dudes twenty years older than us to records fifteen years older than us for 36 hours. I did it last year and I will do it next year. Ben

[coops]

toon bid

had a quick look at the post elsewhere

you doug hall ? if so you already have one account on here - makemvinyl ?

why posting under another ?

justine - how about a intro ?

you used to use the display name of jensden

are you the same jensden who is a moderator on same site as doug hall , you know mick coopers one

end of day

takes 5 secs for intro and saves a lot of hassle and "misunderstandings"

just a quick foot note...

NO conspiracy here.. at all

just individuals expressing their views independent of what other forum they may belong to.

(just to save any misunderstandings)

[Guest]

what conspiracy are you talking about, i read a reply to an event and voiced my opinion, it seems you only allow ones that agree with you, i have never met doug but reading his posts over the last few weeks he had been counting down the hours till he went to hitsville, so for him to come back and put what he did on the events look-back thread he must have been gutted, to be then told it's because he didn't join in or he expected too much or he was in some way to blame was like rubbing salt in, i would have thought you would have been trying to understand why and making sure that everyone that comes back from the next one has only positive feed back, as for being on another forum i'm a member of 5 is that a crime, i don't think so but in some way explains why i use a different name i know at a glance who my emails are from, is that a plot.

[Alan Pollard]

I don't see the problem here, everyones entitled to their own opinion and like someone has already mentioned there are positive and negative comments on most venues on Soul Source, evryone has a different opinion on venues music policies, sound systems etc etc so why not Hitsville.

I went to the Hitsville Soul Club weekend with my wife Judi and daughter Jo and we had a brilliant time but then we knew what to expect as we went to the first one in 2005 and we would have gone to the second had it been at all possible. The weekend has grown from success to success even though you will probably say how can 60 or so people be successful but it is as we had about half that in the first year, regardless of how many people attend the amount of preparation, time and personal expense is the same and Dave, Bev and Mark were never in it for any financial gain as I would have thought they knew they were going to take a hit before the weekend started.

Back to my original point it's seems difficult for anyone to get a successful venue going in certain parts of America (other parts of the USA seem to have more success) and Florida seems to be one of them that is proving to be a little bit more difficult but one thing you can guarantee is that a couple of negative comments aren't going to stop the people going who enjoyed themselves which is most of us plus I don't think it will harm the future of any weekenders Hitsville Soul Club hold no matter where they may be held because I for one will promoting the positive aspects of the soul club which really is based on good friendship, quality music and hopefully more top quality special guests like the Harthon guys, Weldon A McDougal III, Luther Randolph and Johnny Stiles were, true gents.

Thanks again for a great weekend and we hopefully see everyone again soon.

Regards

Alan

[Guest griffh]

Mark,

As regards Mr Greet yep he really pushed it out again ,just like we did last year,and I have the photos to prove it! Would also like to say that Dave is one of the nicest people Ive EVER met on my travels along this musical extravaganza we follow.Absolute gentleman whose knowledge is astounding to a fool like me,cripes he enjoys telling me what label the records are own are on!!!!! And the b side most often.Also met his wife Julie this year,what a star fabulous company!!!

I am invitnig him up to my place when he gets back from Fort Lauderdale to have a bit of a shindig,he said he'd need a life support machine to get through it!!!!

COS i'm a Proper NORVERNER! hahahahah!

LOL

H

[Guest]

Hello everybody, how's everyone? I would like to add my two cents to the jar. Firstly, Toonbid, if you want to blame Hitsville for having a so called poor event ( I DOUBT IT), you're barking up the wrong tree.

I'm to blame and the rest of us for NOT being there. I for one am a tad bit ticked off at myself for not putting some effort in trying to make this event. I know for a fact Hitsville did a great job regardless. There goes my first penny in the jar.. My next penny, everyone must pay attention closely.

Toonbid does have a point in his/her comment about attitude. If there's no togetherness, there's nothing.. The problem with US in the U.S.A. is we're being too territorial. The northern soul world here is becoming very clique'ish -more like a high school popularity contest. Toonbid might have experienced this cheerleader attitude that's killing the little room we have to experience northern soul here in the states. Northern soul might be growing on the D.J. side of it but it's going down hill from the outside.

Today, I've decided I will not D.J. northern soul anywhere outside Emerald City Soul Club/ Minneapolis because I believe our scene here in the states need more dancers on the floor than D.J.'s on the decks. I want to put more time into attending soul events, getting on the floor and supporting our soul events. I hope everyone see where I'm coming from and join the effort with me. That is the first step to togetherness, SUPPORT... With true support will bring positive energy.

Ron

[Dave Moore]

With the advertising and Bumping on this site thought it would be a full blown weekend event

but with a total of 45 to 50 people in the friday night half djs and partners

and less in for the all nighter Sat Night WOW factor doesnt come in to it and with the dance floor,venue and sound system as Chris King said he didnt believe it and was like he was back in the youth club days

2 speakers on the floor 200 watt ?? possibly higher

Musically could not fault it

sad that the record fair was cancelled without notification to the few paying public.

And no atmosphere in the venue as the "Organiser"says it was for the soul club members

Thats what should have been made clear to all and sundry. That it was a get together of like minded individuals and the public entered at their own violation.

Must admit I was expecting something bigger and better.

Disapointed socially and after naming yourselves after detroits famous daughter (Motown) not a lot was played.

Would I reccomend Hitsville sorry to say a no

but will say this knowledge wise excellent individuals

And a New Yorker called Kieren o Connor whose knowledge of Doowop and all that goes with it excellent.

Doug

Hi Doug,

Sorry I'm late with a reply but have been up in Philadelphia for a few days doing 'soulie' stuff.

I've read your comments a few times and appreciate you are entitled to your opinion and as someone who attended the event you are also entitled to a response. So...

EQUIPMENT: you're right about the equipment on Friday night. We had to limp through from around midnight and that was my fault. I tested everything (most of it brand new), had it sounding perfect and turned down the offer of a spare rig as I thought it wouldn't be needed. For that I certainly deserve a good slap 'round the head. The Saturday night rig was faultless and even Chris commented on it. BTW the rig was 350W out of each speaker which was more than sufficient for the room. I too have known Chris over the years, I'd be interestsed in his reaction to you using a second hand comment he is supposed to have made. He came back the second night and we had a blast.

The advertising and bumping of the event on Soul Source? If you check the thread for the event in the Events section I think most people would agree that there was no over bumping or wild claims about the event. Certainly nothing like happens in the UK "promotion' stakes. We don't disguise the fact that it an event for the club and that we are all hard core vinyl collectors who like to dance. In hindsight this is maybe something that you didn't fully understand. There were other 'first timers" there that had a great time as they were likeminded, maybe the event was not tailored to your expectations, which is unfortunate. When you called me from Uk before you asked for tickets I did explain that this was a gathering of Dancin' Chinstrokers and that the dancefloor was not a huge sprung affair.

Record Show; This again is my fault. The record show was planned in conjunction with the guy who runs them on the East coast. His location was double booked and his event was pulled a couple of weeks before the weekend. I thought everyone had been informed. I accept full responsibility for that. My apologies. I did actually talk to you about sales as I had almost 1000 45s for sale, but you wanted records for nothing Mate! LOL! Remember this comment you made? "Fair prices yeah, but they're English prices!" Well hell yeah!

Social atmosphere: I make it a point to offer every single person who comes to Hitsville a drink and have a chat with them. You are the first person that has ever said no to a drink. The other UK visitors all commented on how great the atmosphere was and how different it was to the average UK event. I invited you to a meal on Thursday, you declined, I invited you to a party on Thursday Night and you also declined. The DJ Villa on Sunday was an "open house" with the Canadian and UK contingents there but alas

you didn't show again. I fail to see how I could have done anything more to make you feel part of the group?

Would I reccomend Hitsville sorry to say a no

What? To no-one at all? Not even to dancin' record collectors?

but will say this knowledge wise excellent individuals

???

The WOW factor. I used this description to describe the music played on Original Vinyl 45s and stand by it. It's what is at the core of the club. We have no interest in politics, venue squablings, bootlegs, CDs, or anything outside the music, the artists and the records. The music on Friday night was nothing short of exceptional. It wouldn't matter where in the world you were, it would be regarded as world class. So from the club's point of view - TOTAL SUCCESS

"Musically could not fault it". That is exceedingly generous of you Doug. I suspect you thought we were all 'Yank' muppets and had no idea about Rare Soul, it's heritage or it's UK history. You did bring some records with you to play but you seemed reluctant to get fully involved in the thing. I also think I'm correct in saying you didn't dance to a single record? I truly regret you didn't enjoy yourself and am sorry that you feel let down. I have to take everyone's crticism on board whether positive or negative and appreciate your thoughts on Hitsville Events and will certainly bear them in mind when I organise the next Club Event.

after naming yourselves after detroits famous daughter (Motown) not a lot was played.

This I suspect is what was at the heart of your disappointment. It also shows once again that we have failed to put across to you what Hitsville is about.

Stats for the event: 72 people attended. (Most club members admittedly). I think we made 4 new UK members and 3 new US members over the weekend. One person was not happy, (Unless Mrs Hall was also not happy in which case that would be 2). We had one member travel 8000 miles between Friday and Sunday in extremely uncomfortable circumstances to enjoy a weekend with like minded folks and meet three of this 'scene's most talented and unsung heroes. What is it they say about all of the people all of the time? Onwards and Upwards!

[Dave Moore]

Hello everybody, how's everyone? I would like to add my two cents to the jar. Firstly, Toonbid, if you want to blame Hitsville for having a so called poor event ( I DOUBT IT), you're barking up the wrong tree.

I'm to blame and the rest of us for NOT being there. I for one am a tad bit ticked off at myself for not putting some effort in trying to make this event. I know for a fact Hitsville did a great job regardless. There goes my first penny in the jar.. My next penny, everyone must pay attention closely.

Toonbid does have a point in his/her comment about attitude. If there's no togetherness, there's nothing.. The problem with US in the U.S.A. is we're being too territorial. The northern soul world here is becoming very clique'ish -more like a high school popularity contest. Toonbid might have experienced this cheerleader attitude that's killing the little room we have to experience northern soul here in the states. Northern soul might be growing on the D.J. side of it but it's going down hill from the outside.

Today, I've decided I will not D.J. northern soul anywhere outside Emerald City Soul Club/ Minneapolis because I believe our scene here in the states need more dancers on the floor than D.J.'s on the decks. I want to put more time into attending soul events, getting on the floor and supporting our soul events. I hope everyone see where I'm coming from and join the effort with me. That is the first step to togetherness, SUPPORT... With true support will bring positive energy.

Ron

Hi Ron,

It's a message I've also been advocating for many years here. The "you DJ at my club and I'll DJ at your club is a UK 'import' that is NOT required. Many clubs have substandard playlists because of it. I've travelled the length and breadth of the country to attend clubs. Many are simply guys who want to DJ and everything else is peripheral. That's fine, but don't masquerade as Rare Soul is my point. As a dancin' collector you'd have loved last weekend. Absolutely no doubt.

[Guest]

Hi Ron,

It's a message I've also been advocating for many years here. The "you DJ at my club and I'll DJ at your club is a UK 'import' that is NOT required. Many clubs have substandard playlists because of it. I've travelled the length and breadth of the country to attend clubs. Many are simply guys who want to DJ and everything else is peripheral. That's fine, but don't masquerade as Rare Soul is my point. As a dancin' collector you'd have loved last weekend. Absolutely no doubt.

Nice one Dave, well put. I understand whatcha sayin'. I think everyone who've posted positive messages about the Hitsville adventure knows what the true togetherness is all about.

I think everything is covered and well said. Without a doubt, I know the Hitsville event was a blast. I'm glad to hear everything went well- good job.

By the way, you're right. I would have had a fun time and I would not have wasted anytime off the dance floor-I bet you that much.

Cheerio

Ron

[Pauldonnelly]

Hi Doug,

Sorry I'm late with a reply but have been up in Philadelphia for a few days doing 'soulie' stuff.

I've read your comments a few times and appreciate you are entitled to your opinion and as someone who attended the event you are also entitled to a response. So...

EQUIPMENT: you're right about the equipment on Friday night. We had to limp through from around midnight and that was my fault. I tested everything (most of it brand new), had it sounding perfect and turned down the offer of a spare rig as I thought it wouldn't be needed. For that I certainly deserve a good slap 'round the head. The Saturday night rig was faultless and even Chris commented on it. BTW the rig was 350W out of each speaker which was more than sufficient for the room. I too have known Chris over the years, I'd be interestsed in his reaction to you using a second hand comment he is supposed to have made. He came back the second night and we had a blast.

The advertising and bumping of the event on Soul Source? If you check the thread for the event in the Events section I think most people would agree that there was no over bumping or wild claims about the event. Certainly nothing like happens in the UK "promotion' stakes. We don't disguise the fact that it an event for the club and that we are all hard core vinyl collectors who like to dance. In hindsight this is maybe something that you didn't fully understand. There were other 'first timers" there that had a great time as they were likeminded, maybe the event was not tailored to your expectations, which is unfortunate. When you called me from Uk before you asked for tickets I did explain that this was a gathering of Dancin' Chinstrokers and that the dancefloor was not a huge sprung affair.

Record Show; This again is my fault. The record show was planned in conjunction with the guy who runs them on the East coast. His location was double booked and his event was pulled a couple of weeks before the weekend. I thought everyone had been informed. I accept full responsibility for that. My apologies. I did actually talk to you about sales as I had almost 1000 45s for sale, but you wanted records for nothing Mate! LOL! Remember this comment you made? "Fair prices yeah, but they're English prices!" Well hell yeah!

Social atmosphere: I make it a point to offer every single person who comes to Hitsville a drink and have a chat with them. You are the first person that has ever said no to a drink. The other UK visitors all commented on how great the atmosphere was and how different it was to the average UK event. I invited you to a meal on Thursday, you declined, I invited you to a party on Thursday Night and you also declined. The DJ Villa on Sunday was an "open house" with the Canadian and UK contingents there but alas

you didn't show again. I fail to see how I could have done anything more to make you feel part of the group?

Would I reccomend Hitsville sorry to say a no

What? To no-one at all? Not even to dancin' record collectors?

but will say this knowledge wise excellent individuals

???

The WOW factor. I used this description to describe the music played on Original Vinyl 45s and stand by it. It's what is at the core of the club. We have no interest in politics, venue squablings, bootlegs, CDs, or anything outside the music, the artists and the records. The music on Friday night was nothing short of exceptional. It wouldn't matter where in the world you were, it would be regarded as world class. So from the club's point of view - TOTAL SUCCESS

"Musically could not fault it". That is exceedingly generous of you Doug. I suspect you thought we were all 'Yank' muppets and had no idea about Rare Soul, it's heritage or it's UK history. You did bring some records with you to play but you seemed reluctant to get fully involved in the thing. I also think I'm correct in saying you didn't dance to a single record? I truly regret you didn't enjoy yourself and am sorry that you feel let down. I have to take everyone's crticism on board whether positive or negative and appreciate your thoughts on Hitsville Events and will certainly bear them in mind when I organise the next Club Event.

after naming yourselves after detroits famous daughter (Motown) not a lot was played.

This I suspect is what was at the heart of your disappointment. It also shows once again that we have failed to put across to you what Hitsville is about.

Stats for the event: 72 people attended. (Most club members admittedly). I think we made 4 new UK members and 3 new US members over the weekend. One person was not happy, (Unless Mrs Hall was also not happy in which case that would be 2). We had one member travel 8000 miles between Friday and Sunday in extremely uncomfortable circumstances to enjoy a weekend with like minded folks and meet three of this 'scene's most talented and unsung heroes. What is it they say about all of the people all of the time? Onwards and Upwards!

A thoughtful reply full of honesty and integrity. Count me in for your next dooooo email me PaulDonnellyBP@aol.com Dave asap, cheers.

[Jerry Hipkiss]

Have to say that the feedback that I got on Saturday night from someone who went was VERY positive - oh, and that photo of Greety dancing is priceless, it's a rare occurence!

[Mark Bicknell]

Have to say that the feedback that I got on Saturday night from someone who went was VERY positive - oh, and that photo of Greety dancing is priceless, it's a rare occurence!

Jerry, the photo of 'Greety' dancing was actually taken in Wellingborough a few months ago.....lol and not Florida sorry I was trying to interject a little humour into the thread as I know how much hard work and commitment Dave Moore and the Hitsville gang put into the event.

Regards - Mark Bicknell.