Paul Kelly
Paul Kelly, born Paul Laurence Dunbar Kelly on June 19, 1940, in Overtown, Miami, Florida, was an American singer-songwriter known for his soul and R&B music. He rose to prominence with his 1970 hit "Stealing in the Name of the Lord," which became a major soul success, alongside tracks like "Hooked, Hogtied & Collared." Kelly also penned "Personally," a widely covered song popularized by artists such as Jackie Moore, Karla Bonoff, and Ronnie McDowell.
Kelly's music journey began in the early 1960s when Miami producer Clarence Reid (later known as Blowfly) recruited him to sing lead for The Delmiros after their frontman fell ill. This led to his debut single "Down with It, Can't Quit It"/"Sooner Or Later" in 1963 on Selma Records, credited to Clarence Reid & The Delmiros. He performed the track extensively in clubs, solidifying his local reputation before pursuing solo soul hits.
Kelly's soul catalog included gospel covers by groups like The Mighty Clouds of Joy and The Staple Singers. Though specific death details like location (Ruby, South Carolina) appear in records, his influence endured through covers and his contributions to the genre. He remains a lesser-known but pivotal figure in American soul from the pre-disco era.
Don’t Burn Me
A2 (You Bring Me) Joy 3:52
A3 I Wanna Get Next To You 3:20
A4 I Could Never Love Nobody Like I'm Lovin' You 3:21
A5 Come With Me 2:20
A6 Love Me Now 3:22
B1 Wrapped Up In Your Love 4:21
B2 Sweetness 3:24
B3 Come By Here 3:26
B4 My Love For You Won't Die 3:20
B5 I'd Be Satisfied 2:41
B6 Don't Burn Me 2:55
Written by Paul Kelly
Label: Warner Bros. Records – BS 2689
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1973
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul
Paul Kelly's 1973 album, Don't Burn Me, stands out as a soulful, gospel-tinged record that was ahead of its time, blending lover-man vibes with deep-cut emotional themes, making it a highly sought-after gem for its heartfelt lyrics and powerful delivery, especially significant for its rarity on vinyl before digital availability. While some reviews focus on later works or general Kelly style, Don't Burn Me is lauded as a deeply satisfying listen for fans of soul, gospel, and poignant storytelling, showcasing Kelly's early mastery of universal themes with a uniquely personal touch.
It mixes soul and Southern Gospel with folk and country, showcasing Kelly's rich vocal performance and instrumental arrangements.
The album tackles personal struggles and universal feelings, with tracks exploring addiction, love, and human frailty, reflecting Kelly's ongoing theme of chronicling life.
Even early on, Kelly used evocative lyrics to create vivid scenes, though some later songs might leave gaps for listener interpretation, a signature trait.
Originally a vinyl-only release, it became a collector's item, but its availability via digital downloads made it accessible to a wider audience.
The album is seen as a pivotal early work, demonstrating the depth and breadth that would define Kelly's long and influential career.
In essence, Don't Burn Me is a treasured piece of Paul Kelly's catalog, celebrated for its exquisite soul-gospel fusion and profound, resonant songwriting, making it a must-hear for any serious fan of Australian music or classic soul.