Blackpool Mecca

[Guest SoulRenaissance]

The best 'Mecca revival' I've personally attended was in 1991 (I think) at Blackpool. Ian and the late Les Cockell played just about everything from the modern side, from Larry Saunders and Diane Jenkins to "Spread Love" and Ashford & Simpson's "Bourgie Bourgie". Unfortunately it was very badly attended, but I damned near danced my legs off! Having said that, 'Revivals' are rarely satisfactory, as it's impossible to recreate the feeling of absolute AWE when hearing say, Bobby Hutton or the Voices of East Harlem for the first time!

Ditto Catacombs revivals etc., much as I love 'em!

Curiously, I noticed that many Northern venues I attended in the 90s - when pressed to play any 'Mecca type records' - invariably played "The Bottle", VoEH and Eloise Laws - almost always those same three, and always in the same bloody order!! No imagination whatsoever. How delightful it would be to hear Deniece Chandler, Carolyn Crawford on PIR or "Strange" at least once in a while outside of my own front door!

Incidently, at the 2000 Millenium Allnighter I took along a spare copy of Danny Hunt "What's Happening To Our Love Affair" (which Ian admitted he'd totally forgotten about!) and I absolutely insisted it was played! (by Pete Haigh, bless him!) Needless to say, I was the only person to dance to it though, but I wasn't really surprised. It's an incredibly tricky rhythm which does not inspire "backdrops" and the like, but to me personally, it sums up what the Mecca "Golden age" was all about!*

*(It's all in the ankles!)

Even Colin Curtis on the odd occasion i've heard him do Blackpool Mecca sets plays those, plus a few others. Dissapointing really.

Whilst it's great to see all the posts going up, with tunes played, etc. being a big fan of the sound. As most of these were played at the local discos, by Northern leaning commercial jocks. I can make a comparison with Stafford. What was and wasn't played first? Isn't it pointless if the track only recieved one or two plays, and then was dropped? A case of one-upmanship? Some at Stafford have claimed certain records as T.O.T.W. oldies, yet only got the odd play. Just to claim it as a Stafford sound, some of which were probably played at the Mecca, or early Wigan. And in the case of 60's sounds even local regional venues. So is it a valid point?

[Epic]

i know as i remember richard playing it.but it had been around a few years,probably at the mecca!

Know it deffo has a "Mecca feel" to it but Iam reasonably sure it never got a spin there - as much as I like it I think its lyrical content lets it down slightly.

[Guest inspirations001]

Know it deffo has a "Mecca feel" to it but Iam reasonably sure it never got a spin there - as much as I like it I think its lyrical content lets it down slightly.

what and thatnorthern classic "the camp" is lyrically great!! i don't mind the lyrics, also think he has great voice, and what a dancer!

[Epic]

Even Colin Curtis on the odd occasion i've heard him do Blackpool Mecca sets plays those, plus a few others. Dissapointing really.

Whilst it's great to see all the posts going up, with tunes played, etc. being a big fan of the sound. As most of these were played at the local discos, by Northern leaning commercial jocks. I can make a comparison with Stafford. What was and wasn't played first? Isn't it pointless if the track only recieved one or two plays, and then was dropped? A case of one-upmanship? Some at Stafford have claimed certain records as T.O.T.W. oldies, yet only got the odd play. Just to claim it as a Stafford sound, some of which were probably played at the Mecca, or early Wigan. And in the case of 60's sounds even local regional venues. So is it a valid point?

Problem with a "Mecca Revival" is that records like Carstairs - Eloise Laws etc etc are EXPECTED to be played - if the DJ waivers from this path the attendees ask him for the bleedin' obvious because they find it hard sometimes to think "outside the box" or they question the choice of music - usually because they don't know or believe it was a Highland Room spin.

People have a pre - concieved perception of what Mecca music is - it is not just Gil Scott Heron & James Fountain - just as Wigan music is not just Frank Wilson & Judy Street.

Like everybody else I embraced the "big" tunes back in the day, but I was always drawn to the quirky "left field" tunes that Colin & Ian used to drop now & again. I can remember emptying my pockets on a Sunday morning & finding old beer mats or slips of paper with all manner of weird & wonderful tunes written on them. Some went on to bigger & better things & some sunk without a trace or even many years later made a huge impact at some other club.

[paup-ine]

" I can remember emptying my pockets on a Sunday morning & finding old beer mats or slips of paper with all manner of weird & wonderful tunes written on them. Some went on to bigger & better things & some sunk without a trace or even many years later made a huge impact at some other club.

I used to do that, but could never understand what I wrote, and still have notes I made to this day in the back of a diary - didn;t have a clue who it was, and still don't!!

But now having a search through refosoul, and finding I do know some of the ones listed, but didn't know what they were called.! So thanks to everyone.

p

Edited February 15, 2009 by paup-ine

[ajb]

a few tunes in media section now

alan

[ajb]

ANY MORE PLAY LISTS..................................

[Guest Russ Smith]

the instrumental to end all instrumentals Dave Mitchell - The Trip. what i wild one that was

Soul Sam traded for that with me the other week.. Revival ?

Truly bonkers barmy instru-mental..

Edited February 16, 2009 by Russ Smith

[Guest mel brat]

Still working on those chronological listings! I was originally attempting to do ALL the Northern Soul playlists from 1970 onwards, but will obviously need some help with some of the earlier ones, mainly from the Wheel to the Torch period, and also definitive confirmations of dates.

However, back to the Mecca. Has anyone mentioned Keanya Collins yet? - I mean "I'll Get Over It" on Blue Rock. (I've got that one down for C.December 1974/Jan.1975, along with Mighty Joe Drake and Van McCoy "Boogie Down" instrumental!)

Then there's Robert Thomas' "Salvation" on Charay (March/April 1975) - Still one of Neil Rushton's faves from the Ritz days I think

[KevH]

A LIST FOR THE TOP 20 OLDIES PLAYED ON THA MAIN FLOOR AT THE CASINO AT THE TIME OF THE 6th ANNI. BUT HOW MANY OF THESE WERE PLAYED AT THE MECCA IRST.

i would hazard a guess at 7.

[KevH]

a few more ,not my particular faves,always remember Notts Palais rocking to these ....

Long gone- Debbie Fleming

What a difference etc- Esther Phillips.

One LP track......Vernon Burch - Aint gonna tell nobody

[Epic]

a few more ,not my particular faves,always remember Notts Palais rocking to these ....

Long gone- Debbie Fleming

What a difference etc- Esther Phillips.

One LP track......Vernon Burch - Aint gonna tell nobody

Vernon Burch - "Frame Of Mind" - Cracking tune & a big Les Cokell fave - still sounds great today.

[Davetay]

A LIST FOR THE TOP 20 OLDIES PLAYED ON THA MAIN FLOOR AT THE CASINO AT THE TIME OF THE 6th ANNI. BUT HOW MANY OF THESE WERE PLAYED AT THE MECCA IRST.

14 I know of but could be more?

[KevH]

Vernon Burch - "Frame Of Mind" - Cracking tune & a big Les Cokell fave - still sounds great today.

yes,off the same LP.

Pssss...don't mention "I'l be your sunshine",or everyone will want the album .

[Guest mel brat]

yes,off the same LP.

Pssss...don't mention "I'l be your sunshine",or everyone will want the album .

Oh Yes! "I'll Be Your Sunshine" SHOULD be played right now! Fantastic strings... (oops!)

Actually I think the title track of the album DID get at least one spin from Ian! "Frame Of Mind" was spun as a 45 though as I recall.

How about this semi-forgotten, piano-led instrumental that only true Meccaphiles would remember?;

GATURS - "Yeah You're Right, You Know You're Right" (aka "A Hunk Of Funk") on GATUR

early '76 spin (I think!)

I do remember that somebody took a batch up to the Highland Room and it caused a bit of a sensation. Colin spun it 2 or 3 times and the price kept going up! The labels were reversed on the initial batch, hence the alternative title, which was actually the flipside.

Edited February 16, 2009 by mel brat

[Guest mel brat]

Two more spins from 1976;

[Guest tonyolly]

one LP track for TATS we have spoke about it in the past SMOKED SUGAR I CANT GET ENOUGH whats rest of LP like

[Guest mel brat]

Here you go, a classic Mecca playlist top 10..

1. Funk Track

2. Disco Track

3. Modern Track

4. Funk Track

5. Disco Track

6. Modern Track

7. Disco Track

8. Modern Track

9. Disco Track

10. Northern Track (The Carstairs) Doh! on the other hand!

So I take it that your point is that you never actually went, and you wouldn't know a decent Soul record if it bit you on the ass?

Edited February 16, 2009 by mel brat

[paup-ine]

There's always one, and it was going so well!

What does K stand for?

P

[dthedrug]

I remember visiting Tony Jebbs home in Blackpool in late 74 with Mick smith and Big Clive and of course we went to the Mecca Tony recieved a great reception from the bros and sisters that were there who all wanted Tony to spin a few sounds for old times sake however he was not allowed to by the top DJ, when it was closeing we headed of to Wigan Casino once again Tony was cheered and got a round of aplause by all as he had no records with him a small set was put together and he played his spot, for some reason I had 10 round card circle badges on me dont even ask why and I wrote on them Lavine is shit as you may recall i used to sell records oin the bar with others Pete Wid Ady Mick CAN ANY ONE REMEMBER THAT NIGHT? and was it realy me who started the lavine is shit thing? I dont know, maybe DAVE KIL BY THE WAY AS WE ALL KNOW iAN IS A GREAT BLOKE

[Epic]

Here you go, a classic Mecca playlist top 10..

1. Funk Track

2. Disco Track

3. Modern Track

4. Funk Track

5. Disco Track

6. Modern Track

7. Disco Track

8. Modern Track

9. Disco Track

10. Northern Track (The Carstairs) Doh! on the other hand!

This must be a top ten post 1975 - because they did play one or two "Northern Soul" records up the Highland Room from 1971 - 1975.

[Guest mel brat]

DISKO

Well in that case, Rare Pleasure - "Let Me Down Easy" (CHERI 12")

Stratavarious - "I Got Your Love" (Canadian POLYDOR 7"/US ROULETTE 12")

Two disco records played at the Mecca when new, and now regarded as classics of the genre.

Edited February 16, 2009 by mel brat

[paup-ine]

DISKO as in THE MEKKA

Thats good Cheers Andy KaKaKaKa. Are you related to UlreKKKa?

P

[Guest in town Mikey]

I never went to the Mecca, but I associate the funkier side of things from that era. When your alone, I Just cant live my life etc.

But what are the out and out 60s anthems that are Mecca tunes? Looking at some of the posts, songs I'd think were more Wigan/Torch tunes have been listed.

[Ian Dewhirst]

I never went to the Mecca, but I associate the funkier side of things from that era. When your alone, I Just cant live my life etc.

But what are the out and out 60s anthems that are Mecca tunes? Looking at some of the posts, songs I'd think were more Wigan/Torch tunes have been listed.

Loads Mikey. It was my favourite venue for traditional stompers in it's earlier days and the majority of these I first heard @ the Mecca..........

"Get It Baby" - Stanley Mitchell

"Sister Lee" - Sam Ward

"Stick By Me Baby" - The Salvadores

"Just Another Heartache" - Little Richie

"Let Our Love Grow Higher" - Eula Cooper

"Philly Dog Around The World" - Jimmy Raye

"We Were Made For Each Other" - Terrible Tom

"World Without Sunshine" - Sandra Phillips

"She's Putting You On" - The United Four

"Satisfied" - Ben Aiken

"Ain't Nothing You Can Do" - Joe Mathews

"Stranger In My Arms" - Lynn Randell

"Ain't That Terrible" - Roy Redmond

"My Heart Cries For You" - Porgy & The Monarchs

"The Trip" - Dave Mitchell & The Screamers

"Stubborn Heart" - Ernest Mosely

"Gee Baby" - The Malibus

"The Chase Is On" - Johnny Howard

"Don't It Make You Feel Funky" - Joe Hicks

"Landslide" - Tony Clarke

"You Hit Me (Right Where It Hurt Me)" - Alice Clark

"They'll Never Know Why" - Freddien Chavez

"Rat Race" - The Righteous Brothers Band

"Take Away The Pain Stain" - Patti Austin

"There's A Ghost In My House" - R. Dean Taylor

"Watch Out Girl" - The Embers

"Temptation's Calling My Name" - Lee David

"Set My Heart At Ease" - Mikki Farrow

"Hold On Help Is On The Way" - G. Davis & R. Tyler

"The Day My Heart Stood Still" - Ollie Jackson

"No One Can Ever Take Your Place" - The Inspirations

"Ever Again" - Bernie Williams

"So Is The Sun" - World Column

"Being Without You" - Maurice Williams

"Paris Blues" - Tony Middleton

"Trying To Find My Woman" - Lou Courtney

"Too Darn Soulfull" - Morris Chestnut

"Baby Don't You Weep" - Edward Hamilton & The Arabians

"Can't Lose My Head" - George Blackwell

Etc, etc off the top of my head.

Also when I first went to the Mecca virtually all of the Torch tunes were huge......

"Crying Over You" - Duke Browner

"Nothing But Love" - The Tartans

"Satisy Me Baby" - The Sweets

"I Can't Hold On" - Lorraine Chandler

"Wait Till I Get To Know Ya" - Bobby Treetop

"Our Love Is In The Pocket" - J.J. Barnes

"Boc To Bach" - Fathers Angels

It was haven for traditional Northern Soul up to circa late '74 when the playlists started incorporating much more newer stuff hence Mel's point earlier about getting some kind of chronology in place........

Ian D

Edited February 17, 2009 by Ian Dewhirst

[paup-ine]

I never went to the Mecca, but I associate the funkier side of things from that era. When your alone, I Just cant live my life etc.

But what are the out and out 60s anthems that are Mecca tunes? Looking at some of the posts, songs I'd think were more Wigan/Torch tunes have been listed.

Thats what I thought too.

I was reading on old diary form '77 the other day, and I mentioned after being at Yate, that they played some Mecca stuff. I can't remember what, but my thoughts were that above!

Thats why I started the thread really.

P

[Davetay]

How could I have forgotten "The Zoo"................... AND........... "I Aint Goin' Nowhere"?

Blody hell... Summer of 74! Seems like only yesterday.

Well remembered Dave!

Sean

Some more

Joe Fraziar "First Round Knock Out"/"Looky Looky"

Magic Disco Machine "Contral Tower"

and what about the "City of Angels" LP.

[Davetay]

Thats what I thought too.

I was reading on old diary form '77 the other day, and I mentioned after being at Yate, that they played some Mecca stuff. I can't remember what, but my thoughts were that above!

Thats why I started the thread really.

P

Lots of the big 60s stuff that there 1st played at the Mecca, became Monster Sounds later at Wigan.

A lot of The Torch stuff was also played at the Mecca. It's at the Mecca where I heard them, I only went to the Torch once.

I went to the Mecca from Oct 71 until the end. Even went when R.S. started N.S. in the Highland Room again in 1980

[dthedrug]

Lots of the big 60s stuff that there 1st played at the Mecca, became Monster Sounds later at Wigan.

A lot of The Torch stuff was also played at the Mecca. It's at the Mecca where I heard them, I only went to the Torch once.

I went to the Mecca from Oct 71 until the end. Even went when R.S. started N.S. in the Highland Room again in 1980

The Highland Room was the Mecca not down the moveing staircase on the ground floor that was for holiday goers DAVE KIL

[Davetay]

The Highland Room was the Mecca not down the moveing staircase on the ground floor that was for holiday goers DAVE KIL

[Guest mel brat]

I never went to the Mecca, but I associate the funkier side of things from that era. When your alone, I Just cant live my life etc.

But what are the out and out 60s anthems that are Mecca tunes? Looking at some of the posts, songs I'd think were more Wigan/Torch tunes have been listed.

Before C. mid-1974 ALL of the Highland Room playlist would be considered as 'traditional' Northern (from Bobby Hebb in 1971 to Tony Clark and Laura Greene (1973) to George Blackwell and the Del-Larks (of course) in 1974. After that date the following 60s sides were accredited to Blackpool - all played alongside the modern sounds until C. November 1976;

in chronological order;

C. mid 1974 - early 1975: Virginia Blakley, Detroit Executives, Johnny Baker, T.D. Valentine, Bernie Williams ("revived" in 1976), Mighty Joe Drake, Billy Prophet, Major Harris (revival), Bill Brandon & Lorraine Johnson, Reggie Garner, Embers, Gypsies, Johnny Ross & The Soul Explosion, Capris, Johnny Bragg, Don Varner, Guys From Uncle, Eula Cooper, Keanya Collins, Towanda Barnes, Billy Prophet, Little Richie, Brenda Lee Jones, Malibus...

1975: Val Palmer, Dave Mitchell & Screamers, King Errison, Robbie Lawson, Lou Edwards & Today's People (this was played from 1973, but only really took off around '75), Ollie Jackson, Al Gardner, Shirley Eikhard, Tamiko Jones, Mikki Farrow, Ernest Mosley, Jimmy Mack on Palmer, MVPs, Wade Flemons on Ramsel, Tobi Lark, Jimmy Burns, (World Column, Hank Jacobs' "Elijah Rockin' With Soul" and High Voltage were all considered to be fairly radical and "new wave" in 1975!) and Bobby Hutton, an album track from 1973...

During 1976: Len Jewel on Pzazz, Yum-Yums (revival), Inspirations, Gwen Owens - "Just Say You're Wanted And Needed", Ronnie McNeir, Rotations - "Changed Man", Don Gardner, Maurice Williams, Betty Lloyd, Rufus Woods, Al De Lory, Herbert Hunter etc.

(Those highlighted are the records I personally regard as being Mecca anthems "of the 60s persuasion")

Edited February 17, 2009 by mel brat

[Davetay]

Before C. mid-1974 ALL of the Highland Room playlist would be considered as 'traditional' Northern (from Bobby Hebb in 1971 to Tony Clark and Laura Greene (1973) to George Blackwell and the Del-Larks (of course) in 1974. After that date the following 60s sides were accredited to Blackpool - all played alongside the modern sounds until C. November 1976;

in chronological order;

C. mid 1974 - early 1975: Virginia Blakley, Detroit Executives, Johnny Baker, T.D. Valentine, Bernie Williams ("revived" in 1976), Mighty Joe Drake, Billy Prophet, Major Harris (revival), Bill Brandon & Lorraine Johnson, Reggie Garner, Embers, Gypsies, Johnny Ross & The Soul Explosion, Capris, Johnny Bragg, Don Varner, Guys From Uncle, Eula Cooper, Keanya Collins, Towanda Barnes, Billy Prophet, Little Richie, Brenda Lee Jones, Malibus...

1975: Val Palmer, Dave Mitchell & Screamers, King Errison, Robbie Lawson, Lou Edwards & Today's People (this was played from 1973, but only really took off around '75), Ollie Jackson, Al Gardner, Shirley Eikhard, Tamiko Jones, Mikki Farrow, Ernest Mosley, Jimmy Mack on Palmer, MVPs, Wade Flemons on Ramsel, Tobi Lark, Jimmy Burns, (World Column, Hank Jacobs' "Elijah Rockin' With Soul" and High Voltage were all considered to be fairly radical and "new wave" in 1975!) and Bobby Hutton, an album track from 1973...

During 1976: Len Jewel on Pzazz, Yum-Yums (revival), Inspirations, Gwen Owens - "Just Say You're Wanted And Needed", Ronnie McNeir, Rotations - "Changed Man", Don Gardner, Maurice Williams, Betty Lloyd, Rufus Woods, Al De Lory, Herbert Hunter etc.

(Those highlighted are the records I personally regard as being Mecca anthems "of the 60s persuasion")

VERY WELL DONE

A few more from me

mid74-75 Joe Mathews, Bobby Jason, Natural four, James Fountain, Eloise Laws, Jeanette Williams

1975 Billy Woods, Anderson Brothers, 8th Ave Band, Lorraine Chandler, Kenny Smith

1976 Moods, Living Color, Admirations, Jerry Fuller, Paul Sindad, French Fries, Ivorys(revival)

(I have no idea know to highlight)

Dave.

[Mark B]

Before C. mid-1974 ALL of the Highland Room playlist would be considered as 'traditional' Northern (from Bobby Hebb in 1971 to Tony Clark and Laura Greene (1973) to George Blackwell and the Del-Larks (of course) in 1974. After that date the following 60s sides were accredited to Blackpool - all played alongside the modern sounds until C. November 1976;

in chronological order;

C. mid 1974 - early 1975: Virginia Blakley, Detroit Executives, Johnny Baker, T.D. Valentine, Bernie Williams ("revived" in 1976), Mighty Joe Drake, Billy Prophet, Major Harris (revival), Bill Brandon & Lorraine Johnson, Reggie Garner, Embers, Gypsies, Johnny Ross & The Soul Explosion, Capris, Johnny Bragg, Don Varner, Guys From Uncle, Eula Cooper, Keanya Collins, Towanda Barnes, Billy Prophet, Little Richie, Brenda Lee Jones, Malibus...

1975: Val Palmer, Dave Mitchell & Screamers, King Errison, Robbie Lawson, Lou Edwards & Today's People (this was played from 1973, but only really took off around '75), Ollie Jackson, Al Gardner, Shirley Eikhard, Tamiko Jones, Mikki Farrow, Ernest Mosley, Jimmy Mack on Palmer, MVPs, Wade Flemons on Ramsel, Tobi Lark, Jimmy Burns, (World Column, Hank Jacobs' "Elijah Rockin' With Soul" and High Voltage were all considered to be fairly radical and "new wave" in 1975!) and Bobby Hutton, an album track from 1973...

During 1976: Len Jewel on Pzazz, Yum-Yums (revival), Inspirations, Gwen Owens - "Just Say You're Wanted And Needed", Ronnie McNeir, Rotations - "Changed Man", Don Gardner, Maurice Williams, Betty Lloyd, Rufus Woods, Al De Lory, Herbert Hunter etc.

(Those highlighted are the records I personally regard as being Mecca anthems "of the 60s persuasion")

Coaster crazy baby was 1973 ish wasnt it one of the coverups freddie jones i think, also steve karmen breakaway (black ship to hell ),

mark

[Guest mel brat]

VERY WELL DONE

A few more from me

mid74-75 Joe Mathews, Bobby Jason, Natural four, James Fountain, Eloise Laws, Jeanette Williams

1975 Billy Woods, Anderson Brothers, 8th Ave Band, Lorraine Chandler, Kenny Smith

1976 Moods, Living Color, Admirations, Jerry Fuller, Paul Sindad, French Fries, Ivorys(revival)

(I have no idea know to highlight)

Dave.

That's the ticket. Bit by bit we'll get the whole picture! I deliberately omitted James Fountain, Eloise Laws, Anderson Brothers, Billy Woods etc. (though truly bone-fide "Mecca anthems") as being on the "modern side" rather than the 60s sides requested. I have however included these in the more comprehensive Mecca playlists (1974-1976) that I'm currently in the process of reworking. Any help or late additions welcome!

I may start a new thread in due course, as I am hoping to compile a complete (or as near as possible) chronological playlist of the entire Northern Scene from 1970 onwards, hopefully with the co-operation of everyone on site. I think it would be a useful resource and one that's long overdue.

[Guest mel brat]

Coaster crazy baby was 1973 ish wasnt it one of the coverups freddie jones i think, also steve karmen breakaway (black ship to hell ),

mark

Dunno about these two. I have them down as 1974 (they were being played at the last Cats allnighter in July 1974), so I have included them in earlier Northern playlists.

(The above only lists those 60s/Northern records played AFTER the Mecca began to incorporate a high percentage of 70s/modern recordings. I have set this date sometime after mid-1974.)

Edited February 17, 2009 by mel brat

[Ian Dewhirst]

That's the ticket. Bit by bit we'll get the whole picture! I deliberately omitted James Fountain, Eloise Laws, Anderson Brothers, Billy Woods etc. (though truly bone-fide "Mecca anthems") as being on the "modern side" rather than the 60s sides requested. I have however included these in the more comprehensive Mecca playlists (1974-1976) that I'm currently in the process of reworking. Any help or late additions welcome!

I may start a new thread in due course, as I am hoping to compile a complete (or as near as possible) chronological playlist of the entire Northern Scene from 1970 onwards, hopefully with the co-operation of everyone on site. I think it would be a useful resource and one that's long overdue.

Helluva project Mel. Good luck.

Would hopefully cut a lot of arguements off at the chase, especially if several of us could corraborate who heard what and when. The Mecca's the perfect place to start really........

Ian D

[Davetay]

Coaster crazy baby was 1973 ish wasnt it one of the coverups freddie jones i think, also steve karmen breakaway (black ship to hell ),

mark

Both big spring of 74,

Coasters was sold by one of the lads from down south to Ian I think.

[Guest mel brat]

Helluva project Mel. Good luck.

Would hopefully cut a lot of arguements off at the chase, especially if several of us could corraborate who heard what and when. The Mecca's the perfect place to start really........

Ian D

The "project" is already well underway! I still have the chronological Northern Soul club listings - and those of the Jazz/Funk scene - that I did about 20 years ago for my own use, but some are a bit vague in places. (That's where you lot come in!) Once it's about complete hopefully we can all access it like 'Wikipedia' (or 'Soulipedia' perhaps!), amending it accordingly as more precise info comes to light. We could even add label scans! Good huh?

Edited February 17, 2009 by mel brat

[Ian Dewhirst]

The "project" is already well underway! I still have the chronological Northern Soul club listings - and those of the Jazz/Funk scene - that I did about 20 years ago for my own use, but some are a bit vague in places. (That's where you lot come in!) Once it's about complete hopefully we can all access it like 'Wikipedia' (or 'Soulipedia' perhaps!), amending it accordingly as more precise info comes to light. We could even add label scans! Good huh?

Might be worth publishing. There's price guides and a Top 500 but nothing that traces the chronology of individual records and who played 'em first etc. I like the Wikipedia concept as well. Most stuff would be verifiable as several people would be able to corraborate the time and place etc. It'd also be fascinating to trace the progress of certain records - I noticed some revived records on some of the previous lists - something I remember the Mecca doing quite often (Sterling Magee anyone?).

A good little project to get yer teeth into! Be a helluva read too!

Ian D

[Guest mel brat]

Might be worth publishing. There's price guides and a Top 500 but nothing that traces the chronology of individual records and who played 'em first etc. I like the Wikipedia concept as well. Most stuff would be verifiable as several people would be able to corraborate the time and place etc. It'd also be fascinating to trace the progress of certain records - I noticed some revived records on some of the previous lists - something I remember the Mecca doing quite often (Sterling Magee anyone?).

A good little project to get yer teeth into! Be a helluva read too!

Ian D

Dunno if I'm up to all that(!), but I'll do my best!

I know that both the Yum Yums and Major Harris were old Cats spins before they were "revived" - though Major Harris may well have been played at the Mecca first time around too.

[John Benson]

Would I be correct in thinking that Benny Troy - "I wanna give you tomorrow" was NOT a Mecca spin?

I seem to recall first hearing about it from someone who'd heard it at Yate, I picked it up shortly afterwards from Record Corner.

But I know it was much later - maybe a few years or so before it got more popular around the country.

I just thought I'd get it out of the way before someone else mentions it...

[Guest mel brat]

Would I be correct in thinking that Benny Troy - "I wanna give you tomorrow" was NOT a Mecca spin?

I seem to recall first hearing about it from someone who'd heard it at Yate, I picked it up shortly afterwards from Record Corner.

But I know it was much later - maybe a few years or so before it got more popular around the country.

I just thought I'd get it out of the way before someone else mentions it...

That's a good question!

Benny Troy was most certainly regarded as a "Mecca record" in that it had the required rhythm to qualify. Most people I know bought it new (February 1976 in fact!), but whether it got more than cursory attention at the Highland Room, I can't honestly say!

Between late 1975 and mid-1976 there were so many dozens of "danceable" new releases coming out of America every week it seemed that even shops like Black Wax - who provided listings of new US releases - had trouble keeping up with them all!

I bet many punters will remember buying 'Mecca style' newies such as the wonderful Walter Jenkins "Back In My Life" on Faderkat, Lily Fields, Jeff Perry, Harlem River Drive, Jeree Palmer, Satyr - "Free And Easy", the Intrepids, Terry Weiss, Ebony Ivory & Jade, Mike & Bill, Fay Hauser, Ace Spectrum, Rick Sheppard, Anacostia, Barbara Hall etc. etc. - there were just so many! Some (such as Pat Lundi and Crystal Motion) definitely WERE played, but it's hard to say for certain WHICH ONES without verification!

Edited February 18, 2009 by mel brat

[paup-ine]

This is really good Mel.

Like the idea of dates, played by, discovered by, lables etc. etc. you could go on and on and a great 'soul source' !!.

I 've also thought it would be good if there was a 'Sharp End' type section for info like this.

i.e. Venues, Discographies. Artists lists (if they were still with us or not). Would be a good search tool?

P

[KevH]

That's a good question!

Benny Troy was most certainly regarded as a "Mecca record" in that it had the required rhythm to qualify. Most people I know bought it new (February 1976 in fact!), but whether it got more than cursory attention at the Highland Room, I can't honestly say!

Between late 1975 and mid-1976 there were so many dozens of "danceable" new releases coming out of America every week it seemed that even shops like Black Wax - who provided listings of new US releases - had trouble keeping up with them all!

I bet many punters will remember buying 'Mecca style' newies such as the wonderful Walter Jenkins "Back In My Life" on Faderkat, Lily Fields, Jeff Perry, Harlem River Drive, Jeree Palmer, Satyr - "Free And Easy", the Intrepids, Terry Weiss, Ebony Ivory & Jade, Mike & Bill, Fay Hauser, Ace Spectrum, Rick Sheppard, Anacostia, Barbara Hall etc. etc. - there were just so many! Some (such as Pat Lundi and Crystal Motion) definitely WERE played, but it's hard to say for certain WHICH ONES without verification!

Please Mel,stop claiming Benny Troy as Mecca!!!! .I really don't like it,so therefore must be a Wigan sound .

Could you confirm that Major Harris - "call me tomorrow" , was a Cats tune?? .Or have i misread your previous posts??

Anyone for East Coast Connection????. Pat Lundi - Party music still does it for me

Edited February 18, 2009 by KevH

[Guest highlander]

DISKO as in THE MEKKA

yea andy , who the hell wanted to listen to this rubbish when just down't road at your place, people like you were tripping over their trousers to the theme from joe ninety. or what about a mid tempo number perhaps, theme from emmerdale farm?

[chartertime]

That's a good question!

Benny Troy was most certainly regarded as a "Mecca record" in that it had the required rhythm to qualify. Most people I know bought it new (February 1976 in fact!), but whether it got more than cursory attention at the Highland Room, I can't honestly say!

Between late 1975 and mid-1976 there were so many dozens of "danceable" new releases coming out of America every week it seemed that even shops like Black Wax - who provided listings of new US releases - had trouble keeping up with them all!

I bet many punters will remember buying 'Mecca style' newies such as the wonderful Walter Jenkins "Back In My Life" on Faderkat, Lily Fields, Jeff Perry, Harlem River Drive, Jeree Palmer, Satyr - "Free And Easy", the Intrepids, Terry Weiss, Ebony Ivory & Jade, Mike & Bill, Fay Hauser, Ace Spectrum, Rick Sheppard, Anacostia, Barbara Hall etc. etc. - there were just so many! Some (such as Pat Lundi and Crystal Motion) definitely WERE played, but it's hard to say for certain WHICH ONES without verification!

Few more I have been thinking of this week;

Ups and Downs of a love affair - Eddie Horan (1975?)

Uptown Staturday night - Bill Harris (1975)

Feel the need in me -Graham Central Station (1975)

Night Owl - Rosalind Clark (74/75?)

Soul Yogi - Freddie Mccoy (75?) Brilliant spacy inst

At last - Temprees(74/75)

Take me back - Crossfire (75?)

Tell me Why - Life (74/75)

Im shaft (you aint shaft) - RB Freeman (75?)

Blow my mind - The Lost family(75)

Let it all come - Main Squeeze (74/75)

Love is a good foundation - Lesley Uggams(73/74?)

Were gonna make it big - Don Gardner (74?)

Passport - Al Wilson (lp) 75

That Girl is rated x - Prince Johhnny Robinson(75?)

You better run - Ruby Jones (74)

You better wtach out - Gwen Owens (74)

Its gonna be hard - West Coast Revival (73)

God just how good was it!!!

Alex

[SteveM]

Few more I have been thinking of this week;

Ups and Downs of a love affair - Eddie Horan (1975?)

Uptown Staturday night - Bill Harris (1975)

Feel the need in me -Graham Central Station (1975)

Night Owl - Rosalind Clark (74/75?)

Soul Yogi - Freddie Mccoy (75?) Brilliant spacy inst

At last - Temprees(74/75)

Take me back - Crossfire (75?)

Tell me Why - Life (74/75)

Im shaft (you aint shaft) - RB Freeman (75?)

Blow my mind - The Lost family(75)

Let it all come - Main Squeeze (74/75)

Love is a good foundation - Lesley Uggams(73/74?)

Were gonna make it big - Don Gardner (74?)

Passport - Al Wilson (lp) 75

That Girl is rated x - Prince Johhnny Robinson(75?)

You better run - Ruby Jones (74)

You better wtach out - Gwen Owens (74)

Its gonna be hard - West Coast Revival (73)

God just how good was it!!!

Alex

Anybody mentioned Clifford Currys "Body Shop" Earth Wind and Fire "Happy feelin'" or Norma Jenkins "Can You Imagine That" 76ish ?

Edited February 18, 2009 by SteveM

[KevH]

O yeh. The thing is so many people seem to be kind of embarrassed that they loved the disco edged groove at the Mecca, but why? It was certainly a vibrant place, just not centred on Northern Soul thats all. There's nothing wrong with that whatsoever. Sure in the earlier days there was some northern influenced plays and smatterings of northern throughout its history, but Ian Levine changed most of that and it did move to a disco edged groove. It was an historic venue, but not an historic "Northern Soul" venue.

Just my opinion. (and I suspect that of many others too).

You're right up to a point Andy.When the Meccca moved into its "disco" phase, the foundations for the next 30 years had already been laid.

IL then chose to move the scene on.Broadening the horizons of soul music.Lots of "classics" claimed by other venues were actually broke at the Mecca.

Far sighted or blind,,the choice is yours.

Last thing tho', lots of the so called "disco" sounds of the period are standard fodder at so many venues.

Off topic a little ,apologies.

[Guest SoulRenaissance]

The "project" is already well underway! I still have the chronological Northern Soul club listings - and those of the Jazz/Funk scene - that I did about 20 years ago for my own use, but some are a bit vague in places. (That's where you lot come in!) Once it's about complete hopefully we can all access it like 'Wikipedia' (or 'Soulipedia' perhaps!), amending it accordingly as more precise info comes to light. We could even add label scans! Good huh?

A massive task, but would certainly be welcome. Good luck.

Martyn

[Ian Dewhirst]

O yeh. The thing is so many people seem to be kind of embarrassed that they loved the disco edged groove at the Mecca, but why? It was certainly a vibrant place, just not centred on Northern Soul thats all. There's nothing wrong with that whatsoever. Sure in the earlier days there was some northern influenced plays and smatterings of northern throughout its history, but Ian Levine changed most of that and it did move to a disco edged groove. It was an historic venue, but not an historic "Northern Soul" venue.

Just my opinion. (and I suspect that of many others too).

Simply not true Andy. It's totally a historic Northern Soul venue. The Mecca playlists were 100% Northern from '72-'74 - you only have to look at the old Blues & Soul ads to see that. Post Torch and Pre Wigan it was the No.1 Northern Soul venue in the country and kept the scene going at a key time. If you look at the amount of pure Northern records discovered or played first @ The Mecca, it's way up there in the top 5 venues of all time and I'm pretty sure that most people who were around at that time will agree.

When Mel gets his list completed you'll be horrified at the sheer quality of the Northern Soul Mecca discoveries alone!

Ian D