C
A Heart Full Of Song
Written-By – C. Carter, C. Wilkins 2:50
2 Nothing Ventured Nothing Gained
Written-By – M. Percy 2:40
3 Come Back Baby
Written-By – R. Charles 5:23
4 I Thought It Was Over
Written-By – G. Jackson, J. Easley 2:35
5 Don't Bother Me
Written-By – J.A. Cook, C. Carter 2:55
6 All Messed Up
Written-By – C. Carter 2:47
7 Heart Full Of Songs
Written-By – C. Wilkins, G. Jackson 3:23
8 Danger Point
Written-By – B. Cauley, C. Wilkins, G. Jackson 2:48
9 Jenning's Alley
Written-By – C. Carter 6:07
10 Shoulder To Cry On
Written-By – A. Maxey, C. Carter 3:25
Label: ABC Records – ABCD-943
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1976
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Southern Soul
Clarence Carter's A Heart Full of Song captures him in fine form, offering classic Southern Soul with signature "love-rat" narratives, bluesy grooves, and soulful guitar, featuring standout tracks like "Shoulder to Cry On" and heartfelt ballads, delivering a solid, authentic experience for fans of deep soul, even if less famous than his early Fame Records hits. It showcases his consistent ability to blend gritty emotion and smooth grooves, proving his enduring appeal in the soul genre.
The album leans into the Southern Soul sound perfected at FAME Studios, delivering raw emotion and tight musicianship. Expect classic Carter themes of love, cheating, and heartbreak, delivered with his distinctive, anguished vocals and narrative style.
The recording captures the "stylistic recording ambiance of Muscle Shoals" where much of Carter's work was produced, featuring strong instrumentation and a focus on his distinct vocals.
It's considered a solid, essential listen for soul fans, highlighting his consistent quality even years into his career.
A Heart Full of Song is a testament to Carter's enduring soul, a record that feels both familiar and fresh, solidifying his place as a master storyteller in soul music, blending danceable funk with poignant ballads.
Back To The World
A2 Future Shock 5:24
A3 Right On For The Darkness 7:30
B1 If I Were Only A Child Again 2:53
B2 Can't Say Nothin' 5:20
B3 Keep On Trippin' 3:16
B4 Future Song (Love A Good Woman, Love A Good Man) 5:00
Written by Curtis Mayfield.
Label: Curtom – CRS 8015
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1973
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul
Released in 1973, Back to the World is the fourth solo studio album by American soul and funk artist Curtis Mayfield. It serves as a semi-concept album addressing the struggles of African American soldiers returning from the Vietnam War to a country plagued by poverty and social neglect.
The title refers to "The World," GI slang for America. The album explores the disillusionment of veterans returning to find "no job, no woman, no money".
Like his earlier work, the album features "message songs" that tackle industrialization, environmental concerns, and the human condition.
It was Mayfield's first studio effort following his massive success with the Super Fly soundtrack, continuing its cinematic, orchestral-funk style.
The album is characterized by Mayfield’s signature fragile falsetto, wah-wah guitar lines, lush string arrangements by Richard Tufo, and heavy percussion.
Featured musicians include guitarist Phil Upchurch, bassist Lucky Scott, keyboardist Rich Tufo, and percussionist Henry Gibson.
Tracklist Highlights:
"Back to the World": A soulful title track that contrasts upbeat arrangements with lyrics about the difficulties of veteran life.
"Future Shock": A high-energy funk track later covered by Herbie Hancock; it uses science-fiction metaphors to describe social upheaval.
"Right On for the Darkness": An intense, cinematic epic known for its moody, building arrangement and heavy bass.
"If I Were Only a Child Again": A more optimistic, jubilant funk number expressing a desire for innocence.
"Can't Say Nothin'": A largely instrumental, "sleek and stylish" funk workout.
"Keep on Trippin'": A mellow, psychedelic soul-ballad co-written with Phil Upchurch.
"Future Song (Love a Good Woman, Love a Good Man)": A gospel-influenced track emphasizing spiritual and personal connection.
The album was a significant success, peaking at number 1 on the Billboard Top R&B Albums chart and reaching number 16 on the Billboard 200. It remains a definitive example of socially conscious 1970s soul.
Bittersweet
Written-By – General Johnson, Greg Perry 5:21
A2 So Glad You're Mine
Written-By – General Johnson, Greg Perry 4:15
A3 Working On A Building Of Love
Written-By – Holland-Dozier-Holland 3:55
A4 I'm A Sign Of Changing Times
Written-By – General Johnson, Greg Perry 5:42
A5 Elmo James
Written-By – General Johnson, Greg Perry 4:18
B1 I'm On My Way To A Better Place
Written-By – General Johnson, Greg Perry 4:04
B2 Bittersweet
Written-By – General Johnson, Greg Perry 5:09
B3 Saginaw County Line
Written-By – General Johnson, Greg Perry 4:09
B4 Weary Traveler
Written-By – General Johnson 5:12
Label: Invictus – ST-9801
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1972
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul, Funk
Chairmen of the Board's 1972 album Bittersweet is praised as a strong soul record with funky, heavy grooves, showcasing General Johnson's powerful vocals and strong songwriting from Holland-Dozier-Holland (HDH) and the group, featuring standout tracks like "I'm On My Way to a Better Place," "Elmo James," and "Working On A Building Of Love," despite not yielding major hits, it's noted for its depth, incorporating gospel, Sly Stone-esque funk, and even a quirky anti-war track, making it a solid, engaging listen for soul fans.
A heavy, funky soul sound with a fuzzy edge, reminiscent of other Invictus label artists, blending gospel and evolving 70s funk. General Johnson's passionate, soaring vocals are a major strength, elevating the material.
The album explores diverse themes, from gospel fervor ("Working On A Building Of Love") to Sly Stone influences ("I'm A Sign Of Changing Times") and even a strange anti-war song ("Men Are Getting Scarce").
Critics praise Bittersweet as the group's most consistent album to that point, benefiting from the departure of member Eddie Custis, which allowed them to focus on original, contemporary soul rather than middle-of-the-road ballad covers.
Overall, Bittersweet is seen as a strong, consistent album that goes beyond the group's hit singles, offering a funkier and more socially conscious sound. The album has a solid average user rating of over 4 stars out of 5 on platforms like Discogs.
Changes
2 Good To Be Back Home (C. Bradley, D. Guy, H. Steinweiss, L. Michels, T. Brenneck, V. Axelrod 3:04)
3 Nobody But You (C. Bradley, D. Guy, H. Steinweiss, L. Michels, N. Movshon, T. Brenneck 4:00)
4 Ain't Gonna Give Up (C. Bradley, D. Guy, H. Steinweiss, L. Michels, N. Movshon, T. Brenneck 3:56)
5 Changes (Ward, Butler, Osbourne, Iommi 5:46)
6 Ain't It A Sin (B. Profilio 3:52)
7 Things We Do For Love (T. Brenneck, WC Schalda 3:31)
8 Crazy For Your Love (C. Bradley, T. Brenneck 4:21)
9 You Think I Don't Know (But I Know) (D. Guy, L. Michels, T. Brenneck, V. Axelrod 3:30)
10 Change For The World (C. Bradley, H. Steinweiss, L. Michels, N. Movshon, N. Wray, T. Brenneck 3:36)
11 Slow Love (P. Schalda, T. Brenneck, WC Schalda 3:38)
Label: Dunham – DUN-1005, Daptone Records – DAP-041
Format: CD, Album
Country: US
Released: 2016
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Soul, Funk
Changes is the third album by American funk/soul singer Charles Bradley, released on April 1, 2016, via Daptone Records' Dunham imprint. It is a deeply personal and emotional album that features his signature powerful, raspy "Screaming Eagle of Soul" vocals, moving from a sound strictly reverent to '60s soul to something more distinctly his own.
The album is named for Bradley's popular and acclaimed cover of the Black Sabbath song "Changes". Bradley was deeply affected by the lyrics, which he connected to the passing of his mother and the significant shifts in his life, giving his rendition a profound, heartbreaking vulnerability and soul not found in the original.
While firmly rooted in the vintage soul aesthetic of the 1960s and 70s, the album also incorporates elements of psychedelic bass, organ trills, and horn jabs, giving it a more modern and cohesive feel than his previous works. Produced by Thomas Brenneck, the record features contributions from a variety of Daptone house bands, including the Menahan Street Band, the Dap-Kings, the Budos Band, and The Extraordinaires.
Lyrically, the album is highly personal and emotional, touching on themes of love, loss, social justice, and personal transformation. Songs like "Change for the World" carry a powerful, almost sermonic message about social issues and the need for love.
The album was generally well-received by critics, holding an aggregate score of 80 on Metacritic. Reviewers praised Bradley's conviction, the raw power of his voice, and the album's ability to feel both vintage and thrillingly alive.
Changes solidified Charles Bradley's individual artistic voice, showcasing him as a formidable artist in his own right rather than just an impersonator, and remains one of his most recognized and beloved works.
Chapter 8
Written-By – Michael Powell 4:46
A2 Ready For Your Love
Written-By – David Washington 4:30
A3 Come On Dance With Me
Written-By – Derek Dirckson 3:39
A4 We Need Love
Written-By – Michael Powell 5:48
B1 I Go Disco
Written-By – Derek Dirckson 5:10
B2 I Just Wanna Be Your Girl
Written-By – Michael Powell 5:03
B3 Come And Boogie
Written-By – David Washington, Michael Powell 3:50
B4 Let's Get Together
Written-By – Michael Powell 3:36
Label: Ariola Records America – SW 50056
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1979
Genre:
R&B Soul
Style: Soul, Disco, Funk
The 1979 self-titled album Chapter 8 is the debut studio album by the Detroit-based soul and funk band Chapter 8. It is primarily known for featuring the future superstar Anita Baker as one of the lead vocalists.
The album is a sophisticated collection of smooth soul and R&B tunes characterized by quality songwriting, jazzy touches, and a classy sound. It offered a taste of the "sultry, velvet-toned, smoky alto sound" that would later define Anita Baker's solo career. Though only a modest commercial success at the time, it has since become a classic among R&B collectors.
The album included several minor R&B chart hits: "Ready for Your Love" (a duet between Baker and Lyles); "I Just Want to Be Your Girl" (led by Baker); "Don't You Like It".
Shortly after the album's release, Ariola Records was acquired by Arista Records. Arista executives made the notable decision to drop Chapter 8 from the label, reportedly because they felt Anita Baker lacked "star potential". Baker went on to prove them wrong, achieving massive solo success in the 1980s with multi-platinum albums like Rapture.
Cissy Houston
Written-By – Burt Bacharach, Hal David 2:15
A2 Didn't We
Written-By – Jim Webb 3:35
A3 I'll Be There
Written-By – Bobby Darin 2:45
A4 Any Guy
Written-By – Melanie Safka 3:35
A5 When Something Is Wrong With My Baby
Written-By – David Porter, Isaac Hayes 3:20
B1 Be My Baby
Written-By – Ellie Greenwich, Jeff Barry, Phil Spector 3:28
B2 This Empty Place
Written-By – Burt Bacharach, Hal David 2:38
B3 The Long And Winding Road
Written-By – John Lennon, Paul McCartney 3:05
B4 Medley He - I Believe
Written-By – Al Stillman, Ervin Drake, Irvin Graham, Jack Richards, Jimmy Shirl, Richard Mullan 3:10
Label: Janus Records – JLS 3001
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1970
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul
Cissy Houston's 1970 self-titled debut on Janus Records, also known by its UK title Presenting Cissy Houston, is widely regarded as a masterclass in gospel-infused soul. Released following her departure from The Sweet Inspirations, the album showcases her transition from a premier background vocalist to a "bold, righteous lead".
Critics often highlight the album's sophisticated balance of "New York class" and "southern soul".
Houston's delivery is characterized by its enormous feeling, rooted in her gospel background. Reviewers note her ability to be nuanced and beautiful in quieter registers while maintaining a "metallic sheen" that provides immense power during climaxes.
The orchestrations by Bert DeCoteaux are praised for being "state-of-the-art" for the time, allowing Houston to stand at the forefront while providing dramatic swells when needed.
While the tracklist consists largely of covers, critics argue that her "gospel-ish" interpretations make well-worn pop and soul tunes sound fresh.
The album features several standout interpretations of contemporary hits and standards:
"I'll Be There" & "Be My Baby": These tracks became minor hits for Houston during her Janus era.
"I Just Don't Know What to Do with Myself": A notable Bacharach-David cover that showcases her intricate phrasing.
"He / I Believe": A soul/gospel medley often cited as one of her "deepest" performances.
In 2025, the album is celebrated as a foundational piece of soul history. A deluxe double-album reissue titled Legacy: The Complete Janus Works was released in April 2025 to commemorate her career following her passing in late 2024.
Retrospective reviews often note that while Houston "fell through the cracks" of mainstream superstardom at the time, this album remains a "must" for fans of classic soul and those looking to hear the vocal blueprint for her daughter, Whitney Houston.
Investigation No.1
A2 Close To You (B.Bacharach, H. David 5:07)
A3 Black Bag (Len Woods 3:20)
A4 Think It Over (Len Woods 3:25)
B1 Modesa (Len Woods 4:59)
B2 Your Game (Len Woods 4:16)
B3 Get Down Philly Town (Len Woods 2:59)
B4 It Ain't Right (Len Woods 3:07)
Label: C.R.S. – CRS-01
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1974
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul, Funk
The album Investigation No. 1 by Carl "Sherlock" Holmes is a highly sought-after funk and soul classic from 1972, celebrated for its strong rhythm section, smoking funk breaks, and Latin-tinged jams.
Primarily considered a classic of the funk and soul genres, the album is a favorite among DJs and collectors, particularly for its "smoking" breaks. All but one of the tracks were written by songwriter Len Woods.
Notable tracks praised in reviews include the funk workouts "Black Bag," "Investigation," "Get Down Philly Town," and "It Ain't Right". The song "Modesa" is highlighted as a syncopated, Latin-inspired jam. The album also features some mellow numbers, such as "Think It Over" and "Your Game".
The original C.R.S. LP is extremely rare. Reissues by labels like Tramp Records and Dynamite Cuts have made the material more accessible to a wider audience, sometimes including bonus tracks that were previously only available on 45 rpm singles.
Carl Holmes was a seasoned guitarist who had previously recorded for labels like Atlantic and Verve and even gigged with Jimi Hendrix.
Investigation No. 1 was the only record released by his band "The Sherlock Holmes Investigation" before they disbanded, making it their definitive statement and a cult classic in the funk community.
The album generally holds a high rating among collectors and fans, with an average rating of 4.56/5 on Discogs based on user ratings.
Let It In
Lead Vocals – Babi Floyd
Written-By – D.J. Michaels, M. Barkan 5:45
A2 Never (Gonna Let You Go)
Lead Vocals – Gwen Guthrie
Written-By – Deborah McDuffie, Misha Segal 4:03
A3 Do It For Love
Lead Vocals – Vivian Cherry
Written-By – Carl Hampton, Homer Banks 3:46
A4 A Penny For Your Thoughts
Lead Vocals – Ken Williams
Written-By – Michael J. Breene 3:49
B1 It Discos To Show Ya
Lead Vocals – Janet Wright
Written-By – Misha Segal, Tasha Thomas 4:53
B2 Let's Let Love (Come Between Us)
Lead Vocals – Damaris, Ken Williams
Written-By – William Seidman, Gordon Grody 3:39
B3 Georgy Porgy
Lead Vocals [Uncredited] – Luther Vandross
Written-By – David Paich 7:25
Label: RCA Victor – AFL1-3393
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1979
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Disco, Funk, Boogie
The album Let It In by the one-off disco/funk assemblage Charme was released in 1979 on the RCA Victor label. The record is a notable piece of late 70s soul and funk, primarily recognized for featuring early-career lead vocals from uncredited session singers, including the legendary Luther Vandross and Gwen Guthrie.
Let It In is considered a significant modern soul and boogie groove album. It is praised for its slick production, particularly the catchy mid-tempo numbers and sophisticated arrangements by producer Misha Segal. The album has a runtime of approximately 34 minutes.
The album is most famous for its cover of the Toto song "Georgy Porgy," which features prominent, uncredited lead vocals by Luther Vandross. This track is a popular soulful boogie cover and was later re-released when Vandross became world-famous.
Gwen Guthrie provides lead vocals on the track "Never (Gonna Let You Go)". Other notable tracks include the title track "Let It In" and "Do It For Love".
Life Is Not Easy... Without You
A2 Chuga Chuga 4:24
A3 Wop That Wandy 5:30
A4 Smoke 3:19
B1 Sunshine Of My Life 9:16
B2 I Feel You When You're Gone 4:02
B3 I've Learned My Lesson 6:43
Written By – The Gangsters (tracks: A2 to A4, B2, B3), E. Sanders (tracks: A1), Stevie Wonder (tracks: B1)
Label: Heat – HTH-002
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1979
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Funk, Disco
The 1979 album Life Is Not Easy Without You by the Ohio-based Chicago Gangsters is considered a "lost treasure" and "hidden gem" among funk and soul enthusiasts, though it received limited critical or commercial attention upon its initial release. Professional reviews often highlight its gritty, authentic late-'70s funk sound and "streetwise soul".
The album blends funk, soul, and R&B, offering deep grooves and a raw, genuine feel. It is noted for its "after-hours swagger" and lack of slick, over-produced polish often found in popular soul/disco of the era.
It flew largely "under the radar" at the time of its release, and even contemporary online reviews are sometimes described as not thinking it is "anything special". However, the album has a cult following among soul fans, with some calling it an all-time favorite soul album for its "passion, instrumentation, and vocals".
The album was recorded after the band returned from the bustling Chicago music scene to their native Ohio, and the music reflects tales of city life and heartbreak. It features a raw, genuine, and urgent sound that stands out in the soul genre. Despite not achieving significant critical or commercial attention upon its initial release, it has since gained a reputation as a "lost treasure" and a "hidden gem" among funk and soul enthusiasts.
It is praised for its passionate instrumentation, including horn sections and electric bass, and distinctive vocals. It is considered the band's final statement, encapsulating a tough yet tender funk style.
On Top Of Clear
A2 Just Let Me Hold You For A Night (Kipps, Jr. 3:39)
A3 A Beautiful Glow (McCoy 4:29)
A4 Everybody's Got A Story (McCoy 4:30)
B1 Mysterious Lady (McCoy 4:49)
B2 This Time It's For Real (Fortune, Huff 5:20)
B3 Two Different Worlds (McCoy 4:38)
B4 Come Down To Earth (McCoy 5:45)
Label: RCA Victor – APL1-1400
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1976
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul, Disco
On Top of Clear, The Choice Four's 1976 album, is highly regarded by fans as a great, albeit under-sung, example of mid-70s soul and disco, heavily bearing the production stamp of the late Van McCoy.
The album is generally considered a solid effort by the Washington, D.C. soul quartet, known for their smooth harmonies and association with producer Van McCoy, who also worked with artists like David Ruffin and Melba Moore. While the group deserved greater commercial success, the album is appreciated for its quality production and strong tracks that blend soul and disco styles.
It is seen as a strong representation of its era, often compared in style to the sound of The Temptations or other contemporary soul/funk disco bands. The production work by Van McCoy is a key highlight, giving the album a distinct and polished feel. On music databases like Discogs, the album holds a favorable average rating from users, often around 4 out of 5 stars.
The album includes several notable tracks, some of which were released as singles:
"Hey, What's That Dance You're Doing"
"Just Let Me Hold You For A Night"
"Come Down to Earth"
"Two Different Worlds"
For fans of 1970s soul, funk, and early disco, On Top of Clear is considered a high-quality, worthwhile listen, praised for its excellent musicianship, strong vocals, and quintessential Van McCoy production. The album has been reissued on CD with bonus tracks, indicating continued collector interest in this overlooked gem.
Passionate Breezes
Backing Vocals – Charles Jackson, Ivory Stone Davis, Julia Tillman, Maxine Waters Willard, Melvin Britt
Written-By – C. Jackson, M. Yancy 4:29
A2 Love Of You
Backing Vocals – Ivory Stone Davis, Julia Tillman
Written-By – C. Jackson, M. Yancy 4:25
A3 Ooh Child
Backing Vocals – Charles Jackson, Lloyd Williams, Melvin C. Britt
Written-By – Reed, Barge, Jennings, Upchurch 3:35
Medley: (4:43)
A4a I'm In Heaven
Written-By – C. Jackson, M. Yancy
Backing Vocals – Maxine Waters Willard, Julia Tillman, Melvin Britt, Ivory Stone Davis
A4b You Are So Beautiful
Written-By – Billy Preston
B1 The Train
Backing Vocals – Charles Jackson, Melvin C. Britt
Written-By – C. Jackson, M. Yancy 4:50
B2 Tonight's The Night
Backing Vocals – Natalie Cole, Ricky Linton
Written-By – Rod Stewart 4:43
B3 Get On Down
Backing Vocals – Ivory Stone Davis, Julia Tillman, Melvin C. Britt
Written-By – Jackson, Barge, Yancy 5:33
B4 I Really Want You
Backing Vocals – Lloyd Williams, Melvin C. Britt
Written-By – C. Jackson, M. Yancy 3:51
Label: Capitol Records – SW-11775
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1978
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul, Ballad
Charles Jackson's 1978 album Passionate Breezes is highly regarded as a classic "Quiet Storm" smooth soul album. Critics and users praise it for its strong collection of ballads, Jackson's smooth vocals, and its role in defining its genre.
Charles "Chuck" Jackson was the lead singer of the R&B group The Independents. The group was active from 1971 to 1975 and had several hits on the US pop and R&B charts, most notably the gold-selling single "Leaving Me" in 1973.
His first solo album is considered a strong set, particularly for lovers of soul ballads. Reviewers from Soul and Jazz and Funk note its enduring quality and influence on the "Quiet Storm" genre. While considered a very good album, some user reviews suggest it may not be "essential" in an objective sense, though highly cherished by fans. The general consensus points to an average rating of around 3.97 out of 5 stars based on several user ratings.
Despite the album itself not achieving massive commercial success at the time of its release, Charles Jackson's talent as a songwriter was evident. He went on to achieve notable success writing songs for other artists, most notably Whitney Houston. The album is now appreciated as an overlooked gem from the late 70s soul era.
Say You Love Me Too
A2 Together We Make (C. Mann 3:30)
A3 Do It Again (D. Fagen, W. Becker 5:30)
A4 You Came Out Of Nowhere (C. Mann 3:16)
A5 Be Real Black For Me C. Mann, D. Hathaway, R. Flack 3:17)
B1 Say You Love Me Too (C. Mann, D. Crawford 3:34)
B2 I Can Feel It (C. Mann, D. Crawford 3:01)
B3 Very Lonely (C. Mann 3:32)
B4 If You Could See Me Now (H. Cosby, J. Bradford, J. Hinton 4:41)
B5 Stop (D. Crawford, J. Hinton 3:25)
Label: ABC Records – ABCX-786
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1973
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Philly Soul
Charles Mann's Say You Love Me Too album, released in the early 1970s, isn't heavily reviewed in mainstream music press today, but personal accounts praise it as a warm, feel-good, romantic record perfect for road trips, evoking strong feelings of love and nostalgia with its heartfelt, sing-along tracks that make listeners "smile and feel alive," positioning it as a cherished, personal classic rather than a chart-topping hit.
The album consistently brings joy, described as the "best 'road trip' record ever," resonating deeply with listeners experiencing love or fond memories.
It's a significant record for fans who've shared it with loved ones or used it to soundtrack important life moments, creating strong personal connections. Listeners love belting out every song, highlighting its accessible, joyful melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
Say You Love Me Too isn't a widely dissected classic; its appeal lies in deep personal connection, making it a beloved album for those who discovered it, often during formative years or significant life events, rather than a major critical darling.
Overall, the album is recommended for fans of 1970s soul and is often described as having an irresistible, jazzy quality that perfectly embodies the Philly soul aesthetic. It's a hidden gem for anyone seeking genuinely sweet, feel-good music from the era, perfect for happy, reflective listening.
Saying Something
Written-By – C. Kenner
A2 I Need You So
Written-By – Ivory Joe Hunter
A3 Please Don't Hurt Me
Written-By – Bob Tubert, Demetriss Task
A4 Cause We're In Love
Written-By – Joe Smith
A5 Don't Go
Written-By – V. Simpson, N. Ashford, J. Armstead
B1 Can't Let You Out Of My Sight
Written-By – Helen Miller, Roger Atkins
B2 I'm Satisfied
Written-By – V. Simpson, N, Ashford, J. Armstead
B3 Baby Take Me
Written-By – V. Simpson, N. Ashford, J. Armstead
B4 Never Had It So Good
Written-By – V. Simpson, N. Ashford, J. Armstead
B5 We Find Him Guilty
Written-By – V. Simpson, N. Ashford, J. Armstead
B6 The Real Thing
Written-By – V. Simpson, N. Ashford, J. Armstead
Label: Wand – WDS-669
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1965
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Sixties Soul
Released in 1965 on Wand Records, "Saying Something" is a highly-regarded soul duet album featuring Chuck Jackson and Maxine Brown. Critics and collectors frequently cite it as a classic of the mid-60s "uptown" soul production style, offering a more sophisticated alternative to contemporaneous "kiddie" male/female duets.
The album is noted for its "uptown" production, which provides a polished, professional edge that highlights the strengths of Wand's two premier vocalists.
Jackson and Brown are considered synonymous with quality in 60s soul music; their collaborations on Wand are particularly treasured by collectors of "real soul" and Northern Soul.
The album maintains strong user ratings across music databases, with an average rating of 4.33 to 5 stars on Discogs.
In essence, Saying Something is a cherished soul gem, a testament to the incredible vocal talent of Chuck Jackson and Maxine Brown, perfect for fans of classic 60s R&B.
For modern listeners, the original tracks are available through high-quality reissues:
CD Reissues: Kent Records released a comprehensive CD titled Saying Something / Hold On, We're Coming, which combines this album with their subsequent duet LP and includes rare solo bonus tracks.
Streaming/Digital: Tracks from the album are frequently featured on "Best Of" compilations available on Amazon and other digital platforms.
Sing A Song
A2 He Is Lord 4:57
A3 To Glorify Your Name 4:45
A4 It's Not Easy 6:05
B1 Have You Tried God 4:59
B2 The First Face I Want To See 5:50
B3 God's Got It 3:59
B4 He's Coming Back 3:53
Label: Beracah Records – BRI-2001
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: UK
Released: 1986
Genre: R&B Gospel
Style: Gospel, Soul
Candi Staton's 1986 album, Sing a Song, marked a significant success in her Gospel career, blending traditional hymns with contemporary praise/worship, featuring hits like "The First Face I Want to See," earning a Grammy nomination, and solidifying her transition to faith-based music with catchy arrangements and her powerful, raw soul voice, creating timeless tracks that resonated deeply with gospel audiences and beyond.
Following her earlier R&B/Soul success, Sing a Song was a crucial album in Staton's pivot to Gospel music, establishing her strong presence in that genre.
It produced successful tracks like the uplifting "The First Face I Want to See" and the contemporary "God's Got It," contributing to strong sales for the era.
The album featured heartfelt gospel themes, combining classic hymn arrangements with modern production, including fine string, horn (Ernie Watts), and backing vocals (The McCrarys).
It received a Grammy nomination, highlighting its importance and quality within the Gospel music scene.
The blend of Staton's signature soulful, powerful vocals with genuine spiritual messages made the album feel fresh and essential.
The album was released as a vinyl LP in 1990 in the UK under the title "Glorify" and re-released on CD in the early 2000s.
The Finer Things In Life
Written-By – R. Simmons, V.F. Bell 3:44
2 Jammin' To The Bells
Written-By – F. Gordon, V.F. Bell 4:44
3 My All And All
Written-By – F. Gordon, V.F. Bell 3:48
4 Real Soon
Written-By – F. Gordon 4:10
5 When It All Falls Down
Written-By – M. Gabriel 3:56
6 Day By Day
Written-By – Robert L. Martin, E. Lemon 3:46
7 Love Toy
Written-By – V.F. Bell 3:36
8 Never Gonna Let You Go
Written-By – L. Quintyn, R. Dukes 3:39
9 Burning Up
Written-By – F. Gordon 4:39
10 Make You Mine Tonight
Vocals [Duet] – Alyson Williams
Written-By – C. Hayes, V.F. Bell 4:44
Label: Def Jam Recordings – DEF 450483 2
Format: CD, Album
Country: Europe
Released: 1987
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Eighties Soul, Funk
Chuck Stanley's 1987 album, The Finer Things In Life, is highly regarded by fans as an essential tough street-soul and R&B masterpiece from the golden era, noted for its strong vocals and emotional depth. While professional critic reviews are scarce in the available search results, user reviews and music snippets describe it as a quality record that helped Def Jam branch from hip-hop into broader soul sounds.
The album is a blend of old-school R&B, soul, and dance-pop with a distinctive "tough" and "smooth" feel. Stanley, a biting tenor, is praised for his excellent vocals and ability to slide into falsetto, delivering songs with "true vocalistics, soul, and emotion".
Several songs are frequently highlighted as favorites among listeners:
"The Finer Things in Life": The title track is described as a "nonstop groove" with hard beats and clever lyrics.
"Jammin' To The Bells": Considered the R&B equivalent of LL Cool J's "Rock the Bells," this track was a "monster in New York" and a popular party jam.
"Day By Day": A slow jam featuring Stanley's falsetto, often mentioned as a standout track.
"My All and All" and "Never Gonna Let You Go": These slow jams are noted for their smooth feel and raw emotion.
"Make You Mine Tonight": A "high level bump-n-grind groovealation" duet with Alyson Williams that appeared on both artists' albums.
The album is considered a strong effort with some good sides, but some sources suggest it may have suffered from a lack of promotion at the time of its release, preventing it from making more noise on the charts. Despite this, its quality has given it a lasting appeal among R&B enthusiasts. Many fans wish Stanley had recorded more than this one definitive album.