Ashford and Simpson
Ashford & Simpson were a prominent American duo known for their contributions to soul music, significantly shaping the R&B genre. They were a husband-and-wife team, Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson, who not only performed but also wrote and produced numerous hit songs during their career.
Their music is characterized by rich harmonies and a blend of various influences, which helped define the sound of soul in the 1970s and 1980s. One of their most notable works is the song "Solid," released in 1984, which became a defining track for them and showcased their ability to create infectious rhythms and catchy melodies that resonated with audiences.
Over the years, Ashford & Simpson produced a plethora of hits, including "It Seems to Hang On" and "Is It Still Good to Ya," solidifying their status as icons in the R&B and soul music landscape. Their legacy continues to influence contemporary artists in the genre.
Gimme Something Real
A2 Time 4:40
A3 Have You Ever Tried It 3:25
A4 Gimme Something Real 6:33
B1 Can You Make It Brother 4:27
B2 I'm Determined 3:18
B3 Ain't That Good Enough 3:12
B4 I Need Your Light 3:41
B5 Anywhere 5:00
Written-By – Ashford And Simpson (tracks: A1 to B2, B4, B5)
B3 Written-By – Joshie Armstead, Nickolas Ashford, Valerie Simpson
Label: Warner Bros. Records – BS 2739
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1973
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul
Gimme Something Real is the 1973 debut album for Ashford & Simpson as recording artists for Warner Bros. Records, showcasing their signature blend of sophisticated, soulful R&B and funk, moving from mellow grooves to driving anthems like the standout title track and "Have You Ever Tried It," establishing them as powerful vocalists and performers beyond their legendary songwriting for Motown, featuring intimate storytelling and elegant arrangements.
It marked their transition from behind-the-scenes Motown hitmakers (for artists like Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell) to a formidable recording duo, saving some of their best material for themselves.
The album mixes mellow soul, intimate ballads, and funky, uptempo numbers with deep grooves, featuring intricate songwriting and rich instrumentation.
It is a seminal release that saw the duo transition from their established "joyous pop formula" at Motown to developing a more mature "quiet storm" soul template. It is a sophisticated collection of songs that allowed them to showcase their talents as recording artists, performing their own material.
Considered a hidden gem and an essential listen for fans, highlighting their raw talent and paving the way for their future success as recording artists, even if it wasn't an immediate chart-topper.
Later CD releases offer bonus tracks and new interviews, making this classic album more accessible.