FUNKY-SOUL-VINYLS-BLOG

THE 124th MIX FOR F.S.V.B

2012-01-25T18:36:00.000Z

Here's the 124th Mix Selection for F.S.V.B, Its been Mixed by DJ Mike Pantelli, its called "Sweet Grooves" this particular Mix is from a "Philadelphia International Records Special" there are 4 Parts (I will Feature the others over the Coming week's)and here is Part 2, there's some Classic Soul Music on here, including some Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, Jean Carne, MFSB, Lou Rawls , The Trammps, The Delfonics, Archie Bell and the Drells and The Spinners!

Press play button below to Listen or to Download Press the Share Button and go to Mike's WebPage also for more Great Music, see Mike's Podomatic Page!

01. WILSON PICKETT – DON’T LET THE GREEN GRASS FOOL YOU
02. THE TRAMMPS – WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE
03. DEBBIE TAYLOR – I’VE LEARNED TO DO WITHOUT YOU
04. THE PERSAUDERS – IT’S LOVE
05. BEN E KING – WE GOT LOVE
06. WILLIAM DEVAUGHN – BE THANKFUL FOR WHAT YOU GOT
07. THE DELFONICS – LA LA LA MEANS I LOVE YOU
08. THE STYLISTICS – YOU ARE EVERYTHING
09. HAROLD MELVIN & THE BLUENOTES – LET’S TAKE IT OVER
10. THE EBONYS – YOU’RE THE REASON WHY
11. A TOUCH OF CLASS – I LOVE YOU PRETTY BABY
12. LITTLE DOOLEY – IT’S GOT TO BE NOW OR NEVER
13. THE SPINNERS – I’LL BE AROUND
14. THE O’JAYS – BACKSTABBERS
15. MFSB – TSOP
16. PEOPLES CHOICE – DO IT ANYWAY YOU WANNA
17. ARCHIE BELL & THE DRELLS – STRATEGY
18. THE JACKSONS – SHOW YOU THE WAY TO GO
19. LOU RAWLS – YOU’LL NEVER FIND ANOTHER LOVE LIKE MINE
20. THE INVITATIONS – LOOK ON THE GOOD SIDE
21. THE JONES’ – WHO LOVES YOU
22. THE O’JAYS – NICE & EASY
23. THE JONES GIRLS – I FOUND THAT MAN OF MINE
24. JEAN CARNE – WAS THAT ALL IT WAS

FULL TIME WORK AGAIN and JEFF LORBER

2012-01-22T19:39:00.001Z

As I said in Previous Post, I was Working about 2 or 3 Nights Per Week, when I First Started my New Job at "King's Casino" but that soon Changed to more Nights, and then I remember going into Work one Night and was Told the "Second Chef" had Left!

This Worked out right for me, as they took on a New Second Chef and I was asked by "Peter" to do more Shifts, this I Accepted!

The New Second Chef was a chap by the Name of "Steve Green" he had Previously Worked with the Head Chef "Peter"at a Hotel in nearby "Norwich"

So I was back Working as a Full Time Chef within about 3/4 Months of Finishing on the Rigs!

I knew my "Wife" Susan never liked me Working Nights, but I was a "Chef" and didn't have too much Choice (but to Work Night's)!

I suppose when I Look back to our Earlier Lives nearly 30 Years ago, concerning our Marriage and "Our Kids" I should have tried some other Sort of Work (so I could have been Home, more in the Evening's), but all I had been was a Chef and a Butcher, and I had Worked at Most of the Butcher's in Town (there was only about 3/4 different Companies).

By this time, around early Summertime in 1984, me and Susan had been Married 6 Year's and "Nathan" was nearly 6 Year's Old and "Natalie" was 4 Year's old.

Back to Work, the New Chef "Steve" was a Decent Bloke and I got on Well with Him, his only trouble was He followed the Local Football Team "Norwich City" and I also remember he did not go Much on Soul Music!

Anyway Working with them 2 Chefs was Great, I cannot remember too many Disagreements with Either of them, although they did
Talk about "each other" a fair bit to me, as they were Like an Old "Married Couple" having known each other (and worked together) for a Few Year's!

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As for Some Music, back in late 1985, Keyboardist Jeff Lorber had His Biggest Album (to Date) it was Produced by David Frank and Mic Murphy Aka "The System" it was Entitled "Step By Step"

Step by Step was a Best track on the Album and was Sung by New York Session Singer" Audrey Wheeler and it Reached Number 31 in the US R&B Charts!

The Track was Written by Jeff Lorber and Anita Pointer of the Pointer Sisters and it was on the "Arista" Record Label in the US and on the "Club" label in the UK.

Checkout this Great Track!

jeff lorber step by step by funkysoulvinyls on Grooveshark

Here's a Great Extended Dance Mix by Ray K

Step By Step - Jeff Lorber (ray Ks Extended Dance Mix) ray K by rayk Checkout more of Ray K's Mixes!

THE 123rd MIX FOR F.S.V.B

2012-01-18T19:21:00.001Z

Here's the 123rd Mix Selection for F.S.V.B, Its been Mixed by DJ Mike Pantelli, its called "Sweet Grooves" this particular Mix is from a "Philadelphia International Records Special" there are 4 Parts (I will Feature the others over the Coming week's)and here is Part 1, there's some Classic Soul Music on here, including some Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, Dexter Wansel, MFSB, Lou Rawls , The Trammps, Intruders, Archie Bell and the Drells and The Stylistics!

Press play button below to Listen or to Download Press the Share Button and go to Mike's WebPage also for more Great Music, see Mike's Podomatic Page!
Full Track Listing below!

01. THE JACKSONS – GOOD TIMES
02. PATTI LABELLE – LOVE NEED & WANT YOU
03. SHIRLEY JONES – DO YOU GET ENOUGH LOVE?
04. THE JONES GIRLS – WHO CAN I RUN TO?
05. HAROLD MELVIN & THE BLUENOTES – YOU KNOW HOW TO MAKE ME FEEL SO GOOD ft. SHARON PAIGE
06. THE STYLISTICS – HURRY UP THIS WAY AGAIN
07. DEXTER WANSEL – THE SWEETEST PAIN ft. TERRI WELLS
08. BILLY PAUL – ME & MRS JONES
09. THE O’JAYS – YOUR TURN THIS TIME
10. BUNNY SIGLER – LOVE TRAIN
11. MFSB – MANHATTEN SKYLINE
12. ARCHIE BELL & THE DRELLS – I COULD DANCE ALL NIGHT
13. THE TRAMMPS – TRUSTING HEART
14. THE INTRUDERS – WIN PLACE OR SHOW (SHE’S A WINNER)
15. THE O’JAYS – DARLIN’ DARLIN BABY (SWEET & TENDER LOVE)
16. LOU RAWLS – SEE YOU WHEN I GET THERE
17. BILLY PAUL – BRING THE FAMILY BACK
18. ANTHONY WHITE – YES YOU NEED LOVE
19. THE PHILADELPHIA ALLSTARS – LET’S CLEAN UP THE GHETTO
20. HAROLD MELVIN & THE BLUENOTES – BAD LUCK
21. THE JONES GIRLS – YOU’RE GONNA MAKE ME LOVE SOMEBODY ELSE
22. MCFADDEN & WHITEHEAD – AIN’T NO STOPPIN US NOW
23. MFSB – MYSTERIES OF THE WORLD

FUNKY-SOUL-VINYLS CLASSIC SOUL AND FUNK ALBUMS OF THE 60's 70's and 80's # 14

2012-01-15T19:31:00.000Z

In this Series of Posts, I will writing about a Particular Classic Soul/Funk Album from the 60's 70's and 80's

The one's that stand out in my Mind, as The Best Soul/Funk/Jazz/R&B Albums ever Released. All of them, I purchased on Vinyl many Years ago and also now have them on CD or Digital Download today.

You may have a Differing view (as we all do) on these Choices, but these are my Favorites!

Number 14........TEDDY PENDERGRASS.......SAME

The Former Lead Singer of Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes "Teddy Pendergrass" Released his Debut Solo Album in 1977 on the Philadelphia International Record label.

It was Entitled "Teddy Pendergrass" and Produced by Various Producer's (see Below), it was Certified a Platinum Seller, as were all of His First Four Album's!

The Track Listing & Personnel were as Follows:

A1 You Can't Hide From Yourself 4:06
Written-By – K. Gamble, L. Huff

A2 Somebody Told Me 5:13
Written-By – K. Gamble, J. Whitehead, G. McFadden*, V. Carstarphen

A3 Be Sure 5:17
Written-By – K. Gamble, L. Huff

A4 And If I Had 4:23
Written-By – K. Gamble, L. Huff

B1 I Don't Love You Anymore 3:59
Written-By – K. Gamble, L. Huff

B2 The Whole Town's Laughing At Me 4:28
Written-By – S. Marshall, T. Wortham

B3 Easy, Easy, Got To Take It Easy 4:55
Written-By – J. Whitehead, G. McFadden, V. Carstarphen

B4 The More I Get, The More I Want 4:27
Written-By – J. Whitehead, G. McFadden, V. Carstarphen

Personnel:
Bass – James Williams, Michael "Sugar Bear" Foreman

Congas, Bongos – Larry Washington

Drums – Charles Collins, Karl Chambers, Keith Benson

Guitar – Dennis Harris, Roland Chambers

Keyboards – Dexter Wansel, Ron Kersey, Victor Carstarphen

Strings, Horns – MFSB

Producer's – Kenneth Gamble & Leon Huff (tracks: A1, A3, A4, B1), John Whitehead, Gene McFadden (tracks: A2, B3, B4), Sherman Marshall (tracks: B2), Victor Carstarphen (tracks: A2, B3, B4)

The Album Reached Number 17 on the US Billboard Chart and Number 5 in the US R&B Chart.

There were 3 Singles Released:

I Don't Love You Anymore...Reaching Number 41 in US Pop Chart and Number 5 In US R&B Chart,

The Whole Towns Laughing At Me...Reaching Number 16 in US R&B Chart,

You Cant Hide From Yourself... Reaching Number 7 in US Dance Chart.

This is a Great Album, not A Dud Track on it, I could not choose a Favorite Track, but I suppose the Track I have Played More than any other over the Year's is "The Whole Towns Laughing at Me" I Remember a Few Year's Ago, if me and the Wife were Having Problems, I always played Her Track B1!

Also Easy Easy was a Great Track!

Teddy Pendergrass was Born in Philadelphia in 1950, he
Began as a Drummer in 1968, before Signing for Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes in 1969!

In 1971 he Signed a Deal at Philadelphia International Records in 1971, He had his First Hit (with Harold Melvin) in 1972, a Great Track called "I Miss You"

After Disagreements with Harold Melvin about Monies He left the Band to go Solo in October 1975.

Teddy Pendergrass Started Work on His Debut Solo Album in 1976. with a Release the Following Year.

His Road Accident, that Left Him Paralyzed from the Neck Down Happened in 1982.

He Passed Away from Breathing Problems a few Months after He had Beaten Colon Cancer, just over 2 Years ago in 2010.

Here's a Great performance of "Bad Luck" with Harold Melvin and a "Soul Train Interview" with Richard Pryor.

Checkout all of Teddy Pendergrass Albums with Downloads

Play the Album!

teddy pendergrass by funkysoulvinyls on Grooveshark

Check out this Great Documentary for a Real Insight into Teddy Pendergrass's Life, before & after the Accident!

HAPPY 3RD BIRTHDAY.... THE F.S.V.B SPECIAL MIXES...Featuring... AL GREEN

2012-01-11T18:47:00.000Z

Hello and Welcome to F.S.V.B, I have now been running this Blog for 3 Years, Amazing...... I love Posting all about these Great Artists/Bands and their Music and I suppose as Long as I Enjoy doing this, I will carry on Posting!

To think when I started out, I was Lucky to get about 2 or 3 Visitors Per Day, now its Leveled off to about 120 to 150 Visitors per day.

Here are a Few Facts and Figures concerning this Blog Over the Past 4 months:
I have had 3,750 Visitor's with over 6,250 Page Views!

The Most Viewed Page is : Sweet Soul Music from the 70's with 4000 Hits.

The Most Viewed Post is: Spiderman and Sadao Watanabe with 2000 Hits.

The Best Day for Visitor's was August 23rd 2011 with 289 Visitors.

The Most Number of Visitor's that has come from a Country is: USA 15,000, UK 6,500 and France with 5,000 Visitors.

In the Last year I have had 54,000 Visitor's.

My Top 2 Site Referrer's are: Google with 10,512 Hits and AllSoulandFunk Blogspot with 8,532 Hits (Thanks Gilbert).

Since Google started keeping Stats concerning this Blog (March 09), I have had Just Under 1/2 Million Page Views!

Thanks to Everybody who had Visited this Blog, in the Past, Now and (Hopefully) in the Future!
Please Keep Visiting!
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Now for the Music, There is only One Man's Music needed for a Celebration....................I have 2 Different Mixes this Week, by (In My opinion) the Best Soul Singer Ever, The Great Al Green..........

I have Featured One of these Mixes before, but not the First One!

The Mixes Feature some of Al Green's Greatest Tracks ever Recorded, Checkout the 1st mix, between all the Track's there are Clip's of Al Green and other's talking, about the Man and the Music.

The First Mix is from JJ's Smoking Session on the Website 6 Million Steps submitted by Alan Champ, Checkout the Website for more Great Mixes and to Download!

Tracklist:

Free At Last

The Letter

Take Me To The River

L.O.V.E

Something

Schooldays

Love Ritual

Let It Shine

Can't Get Next To You

Here I Am (Come And Take Me)

Tired Of Being Alone

Gotta Be More (Take Me Higher)

Sha La La

So Glad You're Mine

Call Me

What A Wonderful Thing Love Is

Feels Like Summer

Love & Happiness

Let's Stay Together

For The Good Times

The Second Mix is by Spoamusic (Tony S) it Features some of the Lesser Known Al Green Track's....... Checkout his Site for more Great Mixes and Downloads!

1. So You're Leaving
2. L.O.V.E.
3. Stay With Me Forever
4. Tomorrow's Dream
5. Right Now Right Now
6. You Ought To Be With Me
7. I'm So Tired To Be Alone
8. Livin For You
9. Stand Up
10. I'm Hooked On You
11. I Gotta Be More (Take Me Higher)
12. Light My Fire
13. Could I Be The One
14. Your Love is Like the Morning Sun
15. Beware

CHECKOUT SOME OF AL GREEN'S GREATEST ALBUMS!

1984, A NEW JOB and the KING...AL GREEN

2012-01-08T18:00:00.000Z

It was now 1984, I had just Spent Christmas at Home with my Wife and Kids, after leaving my previous Job (Offshore Chef) about 4 Days before Christmas '83.

I cant be exact, but I think I only had about 2 Weeks out of Work before I found my next Job!

It was only Part-Time (but I knew it would become Full-Time in due course) I was going to Work at a Casino in our Town, as a Chef, the Place was Called "King's Casino"

I Remember at the beginning I was Working, once or twice a Week, I was taking care of the Starter's and Sweets, there was only a Small Team of Worker's, including the Head Chef called "Peter Culley" and a Second Chef named "Kevin Huggins" there was another Trainee Chef and about 2/3 Chaps doing the Kitchen Porter's Work.

I enjoyed the Job and Work, although there were a Couple of Draw Backs, one was, I was Working Night's again and two, I Lived about 4/5 Miles away and I still had my Bike, so I was back Pedalling again!

When I say I worked Nights, the Hour's were a 5pm Start and "Last Order's" were at 11.30pm, so by the Time we Cleared up etc and I Cycled Home, it was around 12.30 am, not too great for a Married Man with Kids, but I did get 6 out of the 7 Day Times off, although we did Work Friday Morning as well, as the Night Time.

I recall Cycling back and forth to work, that time of the year, it always seemed to be Raining, so I had my "Yellow Water Proof Coat and Trouser's" for Bike Riding, they used to make me Sweat "like Hell" most times, but at least I had My "Personal Cassette Player" that always Helped me to pass away the time on boring Journeys!

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As for Music, back in 1974, Al Green Released His 8th Album on the Hi Records Label, called "Explores Your Mind" and the Brilliant 3rd Track on Side 1 was called "God Blessed Our Love" What a Classic!

It was Written by Al Green, Willie Mitchell and Earl Randle, Surprisingly, it was Never Released as a Single, I would say one of Al Green's Best, but He has so Many Fantastic Tracks!

The Album went to Number 1 in the US R&B Charts, the Track was Re-Recorded by several Different Artists over the Years!

Checkout the Live Version, Recorded in 2002 in New York City, What a Performance!

God Blessed Our Love by Al Green on Grooveshark

Download the Track!
Check out the Great Lyrics!
Talking:
God blessed our love.
Even in the morning, when I rise, I say
God blessed our love.

And every morning, when I rise
I can just see heaven all, all in your eyes
Makes me know this is not an everyday love, no, no
We've got something I'm sure we can be proud of
Oh, we've got so much, so much love
We've got so much, so much trust
Can't you see a halo, a halo, I can see a halo hovering over us

Chorus:
oh I just can't believe it baby but,
God blessed our love,
I have to say it this evening that
God oh God blessed our love
if you've got something to be thankful for
you oughta just say, hey, hey, hey,
God blessed our love,
I have to say it this evening
God oh God blessed our love oh yes he did

Let me say I could just stand up and tell the world, oh baby
That you're mine, all mine, ah yeah
You love is heavenly designed
And I just have to say that I like kissing you
I like, I like hugging you
I like squeezing you, wanting you, holding you, loving you
I'm glad I'm still lovin' oh baby
Let me say when people, yeah, people, yeah, start to criticize
Well it don't bother me, no, no,
Cause I know God, God, God is on our side
yes he is

Chorus:
let me just say
God, God blessed our love
I have to say that God oh God blessed our love
(Until Fade)

THE 121st MIX FOR F.S.V.B

2012-01-04T13:51:00.001Z

Here's the 121st Mix selection for F.S.V.B, Its been Mixed by DJ Rave (aka Gary), its called "80's Sweet Soul Tunes Volume 1, there's some Classic Soul Music on here, including some Howard Johnson, Change, SOS Band, Luther Vandross, Stanley Clarke, Glenn Jones, Keni Burke, The Controllers and Marcus Miller!

Press play button below to Listen or to Download go to WebPage also to see Complete Track Listings!

FUNKY-SOUL-VINYLS CLASSIC SOUL AND FUNK ALBUMS OF THE 60's 70's and 80's # 13

2012-01-01T18:00:00.000Z

In this Series of Posts, I will writing about a Particular Classic Soul/Funk Album from the 60's 70's and 80's

The one's that stand out in my Mind, as The Best Soul/Funk/Jazz/R&B Albums ever Released. All of them, I purchased on Vinyl many Years ago and also now have them on CD or Digital Download today.

You may have a Differing view (as we all do) on these Choices, but these are my Favorites!

Number 13........REVELATION........REVELATION

In my Last Music Post, I mentioned another of my Favorite Albums back from the mid 70's, well I searched a bit more Online and found out a bit more!

Revelation Signed for RSO Records in 1974, they Consisted of Four Member's, All from New York City, they were: Arnold McCuller, Benny Diggs, Arthur Freeman and Philip Balou, they were all Long Time Church friends.

Revelation Released their Self-Titled Debut Album in 1975, it was Recorded at the Sigma Sound Studios in Philadelphia, and it turned out to be their First of a Total of 5 Career Albums.

Revelation were given their "Philadelphia Sound" by Norman Harris and his Team, Norman Harris was a Member of "The Trammps" back in the 70's, as were some of the Musicians who also Appeared on the Album.

Some of the Better known Musicians who Appeared on the Album were: Ron Kersey: Keyboards, Bobby Eli and Norman Harris: Guitars, Ronnie Baker: Bass, Earl Young: Drums and Larry Washington: Congos.

The Album was Produced by Norman Harris, Jerome Gasper and Allan Felder.

3 Singles were Released, Tracks 9, 1 and Track 6, but none of them, ever made the Charts.

01 - Get Ready For This

02 - Where It's Warm

03 - We've Gotta Survive

04 - Just Too Many People

05 - Haven't Got a Lover To My Name

06 - What Good Am I (Without You)

07 - I Can't Move No Mountains

08 - You're Sure To Find Me (Waiting For You)

09 - Sweet Talk And Memories

This was / is a Great Album, one of my Favorite from the Mid 70's

My Favorite Tracks were in Order: Track 1, 4, 3 and Track 9.

A few more Facts about Revelation: They Toured in the Mid 70's Supporting Acts such as The Bee Gees, Millie Jackson, Isaac Hayes and Smokey Robinson, too name a few!

They Left RSO in 1976 and Signed for RCA Records, they Re-Made The Real-Things Hit Single "You To Me Are Everything"

Arnold McCuller went on to have the Most Succesful Career, out of all the Band Members.

Phillip Balou Died in 2005 from a Stroke.

A more In-Depth Interview with Bennie Diggs from 2001!

Some more Info and the Music of Arnold McCuller.

Have a listen to the Album!
revelation full album by funkysoulvinyls on Grooveshark

Download the Album from Here!

THE 120th MIX FOR F.S.V.B

2011-12-28T10:59:00.001Z

I hope Everybody had a Great Christmas as I did and After all the Fuss of last week, I'm now back to Normal, Post Wise. This Week, to calm things Down a bit, I have got a Nice Slow Jazz Mix by the Vertical Group, its called "Revelation" there are some Tracks on here from some Jazz Greats including Herbie Hancock, The Yellowjackets, Bobby Hutcherson and Michael Brecker!

Go to The Vertical Group's "let's mix Page" for more Great Mixes!

REVELATION from THE VERTICAL GROUP at Letsmix.com.

I will be back to Posting this coming Sunday, starting with a "Musical Post" Featuring a Great Soul Band from the 70's "REVELATION"

THE 119 th CHRISTMAS MIX FOR F.S.V.B

2011-12-18T10:30:00.000Z

Here's the 119th Mix selection for F.S.V.B, Its been Mixed by George the DJ, its called "Soulful Christmas Mix Volume 2, there's some Classic Funk and Soul Christmas Music on here, including some Freddie Jackson, Otis Redding, Marvin Gaye, Temptations, O'Jays and B.B King!

Press play button below or to Download go to WebPage also to see Complete Track Listings!

CHRISTMAS 1983 AND MARLENA SHAW

2011-12-16T15:01:00.000Z

As it Turned out, I only ever did 2 Trips Offshore, I cannot Remember why I Never did more, I was not Sacked, that's for sure, perhaps it was the thought of, in the New Year, you were going to have to have a Safety Certificate (I think that's what is was called) to Work Offshore!

These Safety Certificate's included being in a Capsule that was turned Upside Down in a Swimming Pool and you had to Prove you could get out Safely without any Panicking etc, make's me Sea Sick just Thinking about it!

So this was one Good Reason not to Return Offshore!

I will always Remember after my First Trip Away, and (also my First Time away from Home) what Happened When I got back Home, it was around Mid-Morning, Nathan was still at School, so it was just Susan Natalie at Home, so I pressed the Door-Bell to Surprise, them both!

When she was a Toddler "Natalie" always seemed to have a "Red Nose" so when she ran to the Door , after I Pressed the Bell, she pressed Her Face against the Frosted Glass Door to Look through it, and all I can Remember was seeing Her "Red Nose" Squashed against the Glass and Screaming out, Daddy! What a Welcome Home that was!

So my last Trip offshore was around Mid-December 1983, I was Due In-Shore about 1 Week before Christmas, this nearly did not work out like this.

I believe Christmas Eve that Year was on a Saturday and we were Due to Fly back Home on the Thursday which was the 22nd, well on the Tuesday a Thick Fog covered the Rig, and No Helicopter's were Flying In or Out!

This lasted for about 3 Days, Wednesday and Thursday came And went, Still Fog Everywhere, so our Flight was Cancelled, and there was Serious Talk about "the Fog not Lifting for Days" which would have Meant Spending Christmas on the Rigs..................
What a Disaster that would have been!

But Luckily for us, late Friday Afternoon the "Fog Lifted" and I was Flown back to Home to the Heliport and about 3 Hours Later I was Home.........Just in Time For Christmas!!

I have Never Stepped on a Gas Platform/Rig ever Since!

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As for Music, back in 1966 Marlena Shaw Released Her Debut Single on the "Cadet Record Label" via Chess Records, it was called "Wade In The Water" it Turned out to be a "Northern Soul Classic"

Marlena Shaw Co-Wrote the Track with Lee Magid, It was Produced by Billy Davis. Jazz Artist Ramsey Lewis had his own Instrumental Version Released, also on "Cadet Records"!

Apparently the Song's Lyric's were originally used as a "Song of Freedom" to Instruct Slave's to Escape their Captive's! For more Info on this and some Great Dancing!

For a More In-Depth Story into the Lyrics and the Original Gospel Song, where "Wade In The Water " comes from, Check this Site Out.

Over the Years there has been many Different Versions by differing Artists, Check some of them out, at bottom of Post!

Checkout the Northern Soul Dancing!

Here's a Few Different Versions with the Original and Best First!

wade in the water by funkysoulvinyls on Grooveshark

Download the Track Here!

THE 118th CHRISTMAS MIX FOR F.S.V.B

2011-12-14T00:00:00.000Z

Here's the 118th Mix selection for F.S.V.B, Its been Mixed by George the DJ, its called "Soulful Christmas Mix Volume 1, there's some Classic Funk Soul and Rap Christmas Music on here, including some Eartha Kitt, James Brown, Donny Hathaway, Luther Vandross, Kurtis Blow, Clarence Carter and Run DMC!

Press play button below or to Download go to WebPage also to see Complete Track Listings!

CHECKOUT GEORGE'S WEBSITE.....JUNGLEMANN ENTERTAINMENT

FUNKY-SOUL-VINYLS CLASSIC SOUL AND FUNK ALBUMS OF THE 60's 70's and 80's # 12

2011-12-10T19:54:00.001Z

In this Series of Posts, I will writing about a Particular Classic Soul/Funk Album from the 60's 70's and 80's

The one's that stand out in my Mind, as The Best Soul/Funk/Jazz/R&B Albums ever Released. All of them, I purchased on Vinyl many Years ago and also I have them on CD today.

You may have a Differing view (as we all do) on these Choices, but these are my Favorites!

Number 12...LOVE ON DELIVERY...THE REFLECTIONS

Back in 1975 Before the Internet and Living in a Small Town in Norfolk UK, the only way to Hear New Soul Music was on the Radio now and again, but mostly just the Commercial Stuff, so Most of the time, unless the Bands/Singer's were in the Charts, you just either Ordered an Album or Brought what they had!

Luckily around 1975 time, as Previously Mentioned on this Blog, we had a Great Record Shop opened Called "Airfield Tapes & Records 2" they used to have Plenty of Imported Soul /Funk Albums from the US!

This is where I found this Album, what a Great Album, I knew Nothing of the Band back then and I don't know to much more now!

The Band were Formed in 1971 in Harlem New York and consisted of 4 Members : Herman Edwards, Josh Pridgen, Edward "Butch" Simmons and John Simmons
(Simmons Died in March of 1989).

The Band were Discovered by Melba Moore Shortly afterwards, who then had them as her Backing Vocalist's for Her Tour in 1972.

This Album was Released on Capitol Records in 1975 and Produced by (amongst other's) JR Bailey, it was The Reflections only Album they ever Recorded.

Apparently there was 4 Single Releases, all Reaching the R&B Charts in the US (Positions next to Single) also "Three Steps to True Love" made the US Billboard Chart @ Number 94, their only Pop Success!

Three Steps To True Love : June 1975 : Number 9
Love On Delivery : October 1975 : Number 58
Day After Day : February 1976 : Number 37
Gift Wrap My Love : December 1976 : Number 66

I said Apparently, the Reason for saying this is, "Gift Wrap My Love" was not on the Album, but it says on the Website where I found this Info, it was Backed with "She's My Summer Breeze" on the "B" Side, which was a "Reflections" Track....So you Make up your own Mind!

Incidentally "She's My Summer Breeze" was very Popular Year's Later on the "Rare Groove Scene" in the UK.

My Favorite Tracks in order of Preference are Tracks: 6, 1, 2, 7, 5.

This Single (left) was a "B" side to Track "Three Steps To True Love"

1: Day after day (night after night) 4.36
2: Love on delivery (lod) 5.30
3: Now you're taken your love 5.40
4: Are you ready (here I am) 3.49
5: She's my summer breeze 4.23
6: All day all night (runnin' around) 3.31
7: One into one 4.15
8: Telephone lover 4.03
9: How could we let the love get away 4.12
10: Three steps from true love 3.43

DOWNLOAD THE ALBUM.

reflections full album by funkysoulvinyls on Grooveshark

Does anybody Reading this Post, know of another Great Album I Purchased around the same time of 1975, It was a Self-Titled album by a Soul band Called "Revelation" on the RSO Record Label.

I believe there were 4 Members, one being "Arnold McCuller"

I have found his website, and found out Revelation Toured during the 70's with Acts like The Bee Gees (on the same record Label) Smokey Robinson, Isaac Hayes and Millie Jackson. I will keep searching!

THE 117TH MIX FOR F.S.V.B

2011-12-07T18:00:00.000Z

Something a little Different this Week, there will be a Couple of Christmas Mixes over the next Couple of Weeks, but this Week I thought I would Post My Favorite All-Time Christmas Album!

It was Originally Released in 1983 by the Greatest Soul Singer of All-Time "Al Green" and it was Called "The Christmas Album" It was then Released again some 3 Years later with a Different Title "White Christmas"

In fact there has been a Few Different Versions of the Album, Released over the Years, some with Different Cover Shots and some with an addition of Different Tracks, but in the Main its the same Great 9 Tracks!

It was once Released on White Vinyl a few Years ago, it was once Paired with a Christmas Selection of Songs from Jackie Wilson. Whatever Version you have this Christmas Album, Al Green still Sounds Great.

All the Songs on the Album are Seasonal Favorites, Apart my Favorite Track "What Christmas Means To Me" and that was Written by Moses Dillard / Sharon Michalsky / Chiquita Mullins & Claude Hill, this is a Great Track!

One of the Song Writer's Moses Dillard also Plays Guitar on the Album.

The only Downside to the Album, is it Plays for Less than 30 Minutes! probably wont get away with that these Days!

The Album was Recorded in 1983 at the American Music Studio, in Memphis Tennessee USA.

Personnel Included: Al Green (vocals); Moses Dillard, Thomas Bingham (guitar); Archie (strings); Jesse Butler (keyboards); Carl Marsh (synthesizer); Ray Griffin (bass); Steve Potts (drums); Linda Jones, Harvey Jones, Debra Carter (background vocals).
White Christmas Track Listing

1. White Christmas
2. The Christmas Song
3. Winter Wonderland
4. I'll Be Home For Christmas
5. Jingle Bells
6. What Christmas Means To Me
7. Oh Holy Night
8. Silent Night
9. It Feels Like Christmas

DOWNLOAD THE ALBUM HERE

AL GREEN by funkysoulvinyls on Grooveshark

RIG EMERGENCY CAPSULE and JERRY BUTLER

2011-12-02T14:17:00.001Z

As I said in a Previous Post, one of the Worst things about being on a Gas Platform/Rig, was the Continual Noise of the Klaxon when the Main Alarm went off, and it went off Many Times!

I would say on Average it was about 5/6 Times Daily, and that's at any time, Mostly when you was not working, and nearly always in your time off!

But there one other thing that was as bad as this, and that was the Weekly Drill of getting into the Platforms Emergency Capsule, it was a Round Floating Covered Vessel (just like the 2 picture's on here) in case of any Onboard Emergencies!

I remember the First practice Very Well, It was Quite Scary, to say the least!

Me and About 20 Blokes had to get in each Vessel (these were Hanging over the side of the Gas Platform) you Sat around the Inside of the Vessel in a Circle, the Door was Shut, and we all had to go through what we would do, if there was an Emergency!

If this was such an Emergency these Vessels would have been lowered slowly into the North Sea, and then you would have been floating around, until somebody came to Rescue you!

What a Scary Thought, Thank God this Never Happened and in the End I only did 2 Trips Offshore, I don't think I was really Cut Out for this type of Work, Offshore I mean, not the Cooking. I Missed my Home Comforts Too Much!

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As for some Music, some 44 Years ago on Mercury Records "Jerry Butler" Released his Best Ever Selling and Successful Single "Only The Strong Survive" Produced by Gamble and Huff, this was about 3 Years before they Formed "Philadelphia International Records"

The Record was Written by Jerry Butler with Gamble & Huff and Taken from the Album "The Iceman Cometh" this was Jerry Butler's Nickname (The Iceman) given to him by a US DJ.

The Single Charted in the US at Number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart and it Topped the Billboard Black Chart for 2 weeks in early 1969!

The Single was Certified Platinum.

Jerry Butler was the Original Lead Singer with the Impressions and nowadays for the Last 30 Years, He's been a Politician!

Have a More In-Depth Read Here @ Soul Excursions Blog!
Only the Strong Survive by Jerry Butler on Grooveshark

THE 116TH MIX FOR F.S.V.B

2011-12-01T17:56:00.001Z

Here's the 116th Mix selection for F.S.V.B, Its been Mixed by DJ Neil Bent, its called "Afrobeat Part 1 ", there's some Classic African Beats by Artists including: Manu Dibango, Fela Kuti.

Press play button below or to Download go to WebPage!

FUNKY-SOUL-VINYLS CLASSIC SOUL AND FUNK ALBUMS OF THE 60's 70's and 80's # 11

2011-11-27T16:30:00.001Z

In this Series of Posts, I will writing about a Particular Classic Soul/Funk Album from the 60's 70's and 80's

The one's that stand out in my Mind, as The Best Soul/Funk/Jazz/R&B Albums ever Released. All of them, I purchased on Vinyl many Years ago and also I have them on CD today.

You may have a Differing view (as we all do) on these Choices, but these are my Favorites!

Number 11......RAPTURE......ANITA BAKER

In my Opinion there are Quite a few Class Male Soul Singers, including Marvin Gaye, Luther Vandross, Bobby Womack, Curtis Mayfield, Frankie Beverly, Eugene Record, Ronald Isley, Freddie Jackson, Teddy Pendergrass and of course the Greatest of all Al Green, but in my Mind the Best Female Soul Artist by a Mile is Anita Baker!

People out there will say probably Aretha Franklin is the Best and been going a lot longer than Anita Baker, but we all have our own Views.

Anita Baker's Second Solo Album "Rapture" was her Best Ever and in my Opinion the Best Ever Album by a Female Soul Singer.

It was Released in 1986 on the Elektra Record Label, and Produced by her Friend, Micheal J Powell, who incidentally was in the Band "Chapter 8" with Anita Baker Previously!

The "Rapture" Album did not have One Sub Standard Track on it, in fact , a Total of 5 out of the 8 Tracks were Released as Singles!

Track Listings as follows:
1 Sweet Love 4:26
2 You Bring Me Joy 4:24
3 Caught up in the Rapture 5:07
4 Been So Long 5:07
5 Mystery 4:56
6 No One in the World 4:10
7 Same Ole Love 4:05
8 Watch Your Step 4:54

The Single Releases are as Follows, with Chart Placings:

SINGLE US POP US R&B UK POP
Sweet Love 8 2 13
Rapture 37 6 51
Watch Your Step 0 23 0
Same Ole Love 44 8 100
No One In The World 44 5 0

The First Single Release "Sweet Love" was Anita Baker's First Solo/Crossover Hit, and the Album went on to Sell more than 8 Million Copies, Worldwide and was Anita Baker's Best Selling Album of all Time.

The Album Charted at the following Positions:

US Billboard, Number 11, US R&B, Number 1, UK Pop, Number 13 and US Jazz Chart, number 24

The Album won Anita Baker plenty of Awards including 2 Grammy's!

The Best Track's on the Album are: Sweet Love, Rapture and my Favorite Same Ole Love, incidentally this Track is one of my All Time Top 10 Track's.

Anita Baker has only Ever Released 6 Studio Albums, Her 7th and Latest Album "21st Century Love" should have been Released over a Year ago, but to my Knowledge, it has had several Release Dates over the Last year, but as yet, still no Album!

Check this out, Anita Baker on an American show talking about her Forthcoming Album!

Get the Rapture Album: Here

THE 115TH MIX FOR F.S.V.B

2011-11-23T15:24:00.001Z

Here's the 115th Mix selection for F.S.V.B, Its been Mixed by DJ Kumbi, its called "1980/1989 RnB Mix 11", there's some Classic 80's Soul and Dance on here, including: Loose Ends, Change, Jody Whatley, Teddy Pendergrass, and After 7!

Press play button below or to Download go to WebPage!

THE NORTH SEA and MEL & TIM

2011-11-20T10:39:00.001Z

A Couple of more (Watery) Incidents that I clearly remember about Working on the Gas Platform back in November & December 1983, are as follows:

One of the Contractors who did something concerning the actual Drilling told me he went Fishing a Couple of times a Week and if He caught enough for me as well, would I cook the Fish for our Tea, one night!

I agreed and thought he was going to Catch it when He went back Onshore and then brought it back with him.

So a Couple of Days later, he said to me "are you ready to come Fishing, today" I thought what the Hell is he on about!

Anyway, he told me to Wear a Big Coat, Wrap up Warm and put my Hard Hat on and meet Him at a certain Place & Time, during my Afternoon Time off, so I put my Big Coat on etc and met him where he said to!

To my Surprise he took me under this Metal trapdoor on the Main Gas Platform Floor and down all these Steps, where eventually after about 5 minutes walking, we were completely under the Platform about 500 Yards above the North Sea!

Then he said, "look over here" there to my Surprise was a Fishing Line going down through the Metal Flooring into the North Sea, I was stunned, he was actually Fishing I could not Believe it, it was Blowing a Gale, as it was about 75% of the time, I was out there.

Now I don't like Fishing, but that was an Experience, just being that Close to the Sea, you could actually Feel the Sea Spray on your Face!

He did Catch some Fish that Day,but I cant remember what they were, and I did Cook them for His Tea, that Night, What a Great Experience that was, one of my Highlights, on the Platform!

Another Funny Incident that Happened to me, (but was not Funny at the time was) I wont explain it Fully as you can work it out for yourselves!

The Toilets on the Platform were as they are at Home, apart from the Water comes up from the North Sea and goes back there, so you did get a lot of "Sloshing Water" under your "Jack Jones" and when it rough it would tend to go everywhere (it was always Rough that time of year)!

Any way after about 3/4 Days on the Platform, I got a Bad Dose of "MonteZumas Revenge" and I found myself continually on the "Throne" for about 24 hours, and it was as usual Blowing a Gail outside, and Yes you Guessed it, all of a Sudden the Toilet made this "Almighty Gargling Sound and Whoosh" and I was Covered in it, and I am not Talking about the North Sea!

What an Experience, these were 2 of my Highlights!
==============================================

As for Music, in 1973 "Mel & Tim" had a Great Soul Single Release, "I May Not Be What You Want" taken from the 1972 Album "Starting All Over Again" it was on the "Stax" Record Label.

It was a Great Mid-Tempo Track from the Mississippi Duo "Mel Hardin & Tim McPherson, Probably Known Best for their Smash Hit "Backfield In Motion" from 1969 on the Bamboo Record Label!

Bamboo Records was Based in Chicago & Owned by the Soul Artist "Gene Chandler"

Download "I May Not Be What You Want" and other Great Stax Singles!

I May Not Be What You Want by Mel And Tim on Grooveshark

THE 114th MIX FOR F.S.V.B

2011-11-16T13:36:00.001Z

Here's the 114th Mix for F.S.V.B, Its been Mixed by Dick G, its called "Brit Mix 2" there's some classic Brit Funk Tracks on here, including Loose Ends, Central line,David Joseph, Delegation, 52nd Street and Paul Hardcastle!

Press play to listen or go to DixMix's page for Full Track Listing and download.

FUNKY-SOUL-VINYLS CLASSIC SOUL AND FUNK ALBUMS OF THE 60's 70's and 80's # 10

2011-11-13T18:00:00.000Z

In this Series of Posts, I will writing about a Particular Classic Soul/Funk Album from the 60's 70's and 80's

The one's that stand out in my Mind, as The Best Soul/Funk/Jazz/R&B Albums ever Released. All of them, I purchased on Vinyl many Years ago and also I have them on CD today.

You may have a Differing view (as we all do) on these Choices, but these are my Favorites!

Number 10......ZOOM ......THE COMMODORES

Released in 1977 (their 5th Album) this was in my Opinion the Best Commodores Album Ever Released, strangely it was not Entitled "Zoom" in the US, but Self-Titled "Commodores"

It contained the Great Soul Ballad "Easy" and the Great Funk Anthem "Brickhouse" but my Favorite Track on the Album (and of The Commodores) was "Zoom" I would like £5 for every time I have Played that Track!

Its One of my Favorite Tracks of All-Time, it reached Number 38 on the UK Pop Chart, but for some strange Reason it was never Released as a single in the US.

The Album was Number One in the US R&B Chart for a Total of 8 Weeks, it also was the Commodores First Album to get into the US Pop Chart Top 5, Reaching Number 3.

The Two Singles Released from the Album were "Easy" this got to the Top of the US R&B Chart, Number 4 on the US Billboard Top 100, it also Charted on the Top 40 Pop Chart in the UK at Number 9.

The Second Single was "Brickhouse" it reached Number 5 in US R&B Chart and it Reached Number 32 on the UK Pop Chart.

The Album was Written and Co-Produced by The Commodores, along with James Carmichael for the Motown Record Label, Track Listings as Follows:

A1 Squeeze The Fruit

A2 Funny Feelings
A3 Heaven Knows
A4 Zoom
B1 Won't You Come Dance With Me
B2 Brick House
B3 Funky Situation
B4 Patch It Up

B5 Easy

The Commodores were made up of 6 Members including Milan Williams, Walter Orange, Lionel Richie, Ronald LaPread, William King and Thomas McClary.

I Remember the Summer of '77, "Easy" was being Played continuously on the TV and Radio!

This was Probably the Last Commodores Album to Contain mainly Funk Tracks, after their Commercial Single Success around this period, Future Albums were made up with Mostly Ballads!

Download the Album Here!

Have a look at this Video, a Great Insight to all The Commodores and their Music!

THE 113th MIX FOR F.S.V.B

2011-11-09T16:07:00.001Z

Here's the 113th Mix selection for F.S.V.B, Its been Mixed by Vinyl Escape, its called "Play It Again, Will You!, there's some Classic Old Soul from the 60's & 70's on here, including some The Delfonics,Four Tops, Bill Withers, The Impressions and The Dramatics!

Go to WebPage to see Complete Track Listings.

Play It Again, Will You? by Vinyl Escape on Mixcloud

6 DUCKS and JOHNNY BRISTOL

2011-11-06T18:28:00.002Z

Working on the Rigs was a bit of an Eye Opener (for somebody who had been used to their Home Comforts and Dry Land) I remember one Incident that Happened during either My First or Second Trip!

I used to Cook all the Meals for about 25 Blokes at any one time, so I had to (obviously) get most Foodstuffs ready in advance.

So I got a Maintenance Man to put a Big Padlock on the Food Chiller/Fridge Door, as I had been told by the Previous Chef, that the Contractors I was looking after, were a Bunch of Animals!

So one day, I thought I would Cook about 6 Ducks for the next day and cook them Duck "A La Orange" for Dinner, after these were Cooked and Cooled off, they were put in the Chiller overnight (with the door Locked of course)!

The Kitchen area was left Unlocked at Night Times, for the Workers to get a Snack or Drink, I also used to leave a Tray of items in the Fridge, which were always Eaten by the next day!

Next Morning I went to Work, I could not believe what I saw, I put the Kitchen Lights on and there in front of me was the Big Chiller in the corner with both Doors hanging off!

Someone had been in the Kitchen during the Night before and took my Big Meat Cleaver out of the drawer and smashed off the Lock and both of the Fridge Doors, to get to the Food inside!

The 6 Cooked Ducks were all Half Eaten and all the Bones etc were thrown back into the Fridge, the previous Chef was right, these contractors were a bunch of Animals!

Of course Nobody ever owned up to Breaking into the Fridge or Eating the Ducks, but what did Happen was I Never Locked the Fridge at Night Times Anymore, nor did I ever leave them any more Treats (when I was off Duty) and I never Cooked anything in Advance again, everything was Cooked and Served on the Day, and all Meals were Quick and Simple to Prepare (nothing to elaborate)!

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As for some Music, in 1974 one of my Favorite All-Time Soul Tracks was released "Hang On In There Baby" by Songwriter, Producer and Singer "Johnny Bristol"

That was a Great Track, I remember this being played on the radio, the Year before I left School, it was taken from the Album of the same name, it turned out to be Johnny Bristol's Best Chart Placing Single and Album Ever!

The Single Charted in the US Pop Chart at Number 8, in the US R&B Chart at Number 2 and in the UK Pop Chart, it got to Number 3, the Albums Highest Placing was Number 7 in the US R&B Chart.

Johnny Bristol Re-recorded the Song in 1990 for Ian Levine's Record Label, have a look on the Page for a In- Depth Bio. incidentally, where the Video was Filmed, was in my Home Town!

Johnny Bristol had a Great Voice, I'm Surprised He never Recorded more Albums than he did, only 6.

In the Mid Sixties he Worked for Motown as an In-House Writer and Producer, he Worked with some of the Top Acts at Motown, including Marvin Gaye, Junior Walker, Diana Ross and Smokey Robinson.

Around 1973 he left Motown to work as a Producer for CBS, where He Worked with amongst others: Randy Crawford, Marlena Shaw, Tavares and even Tom Jones!

Get The Album Here

THE 112th MIX FOR F.S.V.B

2011-11-02T19:25:00.002Z

Here's the 112th Mix selection for F.S.V.B, Its been Mixed by George the DJ, its called "Cameo Vs Gap Band, there's some Classic Funk on here, by 2 of the Best Funk Bands, including Candy, Party Train, Word Up, Burn Rubber, Attack Me With Your Love and Oops Upside Your Head!

Press play button below or to Download press Kadoo and go to WebPage to see Complete Track Listings!

Check out George's Page!

FUNKY-SOUL-VINYLS CLASSIC SOUL AND FUNK ALBUMS OF THE 60's 70's and 80's # 9

2011-10-31T19:08:00.000Z

In this Series of Posts, I will writing about a Particular Classic Soul/Funk Album from the 60's 70's and 80's

The one's that stand out in my Mind, as The Best Soul/Funk/Jazz/R&B Albums ever Released. All of them, I purchased as Vinyl many Years ago and also I have them on CD today.

You may have a Differing view (as we all do) on these Choices, but these are my Favorites!

Number 9.... TRAMMPS....THE LEGENDARY ZING ALBUM

The Legendary Zing Album was Released in 1975 on the Buddah Record Label, this was after The Trammps had left the Record Label to join Golden Fleece Records, which was Formed by Trammps Members including Ronnie Baker Norman Harris and Earl Young.

It was basically a "Best" of Album from the previous 3 Years worth of Work, including 4 Singles:

1, Penguin at The Big Apple/Zing (1972), 2, Sixty Minute Man (1972), 3, Pray All You Sinners (1973) and 4, Hold Back The Night (1976).

They all Charted, but the Biggest Hit was "Hold Back The Night" that got to Number 10 in US R&B Chart, Number 35 in US Hot 100 and also Number 5 in UK Pop Chart, this was their Biggest Hit in UK.

The Album was Produced by Band Members: Baker Harris and Young

All the Tracks on the Album were Remixed by "Tom Moulton" The Big Remixer of the 70's.

Incidentally the Album did not chart in US or UK.

"Hold Back The Night" (10) was only One Chart placing below their Biggest ever Hit in US, the Trammps Anthem "Disco Inferno" (9).

The Trammps were Formed from the Band Members of a 60's Band which were called Originally the "Volcanos" and then later the "Moods"

The Trammps were one of my Original Favorite Bands from the 70's, I remember around 1976 when "Hold Back The Night" was a Hit in UK, they were going to Tour over Here, I had Tickets for one of the Shows, in a place Called "West Runton" that's in North Norfolk, UK.

But at the last Minute the Show was called off, I don't know if it was the whole Tour was Cancelled or just that One Show (in Runton), I never found out either!

That I'm sure would have been a Great Show!

Download The Album Here or Here!