O
First Love
Written-By – Jeffery Singleton, Wayne Douglas, Jr. 4:03
A2 Can't Get Enough Of Your Love
Written-By – Derek Gasque, Teddy Rouche, Wayne Douglas, Jr. 3:42
A3 Come Be My Lady
Written-By – Jeffery Singleton, O. T. Sykes, Wayne Douglas, Jr. 4:35
A4 Licensed To Love
Written-By – Wayne Douglas, Jr. 4:03
B1 My First Love
Written-By – Leon Watson, O. T. Sykes, Wayne Douglas, Jr. 4:16
B2 Stone Crush On You
Written-By – Leon Watson, Wayne Douglas, Jr. 5:10
B3 You Bring Out The Best In Me
Written-By – Leon Watson, Wayne Douglas, Jr. 4:02
B4 Something's Burning
Written-By – Avelio King, Jeffery Singleton, Robert Singleton, Tim Hinson, Wayne Douglas, Jr. 3:57
Label: Fun City Records – FC 441
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1981
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Disco Funk, Boogie
The First Love album by O.T. Sykes is a highly regarded 1981 soul and R&B record, celebrated by connoisseurs for its smooth, heartfelt vocals and polished production.
O.T. Sykes, an American soul and R&B singer who was famously nicknamed "The Singing Dentist" because he maintained his dental practice throughout his music career.
A blend of smooth R&B, funk, and soul, the album is classified as a classic of crossover soul and funk, with influences of disco and jazz. It is noted for its "warm and vibrant" music, perfect production, and precise performances.
It was written, played, and produced by Sykes and Jeffrey Singleton, utilizing the talent of the rich music scene in Memphis, TN.
Reviewers and listeners consider it a "very soulful LP" that stands the test of time. Sykes is respected for making high-quality music without selling out to the mainstream pop market. The vocals and lyrics are often described as "amazing".
The album was written, played, and produced by Sykes himself alongside Jeffrey Singleton and other top musicians from the rich Memphis, Tennessee music scene.
The album is praised for its authentic, "true soul music" sound, steering clear of the overcrowded pop market of the time. It features a range of tracks, from upbeat, infectious tunes to soul-stirring ballads, all showcasing Sykes' emotive style and smooth vocal delivery. The lyrics explore the highs and lows of love with warmth and sincerity.
Original copies of the vinyl LP are difficult to find and command high prices among collectors (often hundreds of dollars), leading to several welcome reissues by labels like Everland.
I’ve Been Loving You Too Long To Stop Now
Written-By – Bacharach
A2 Everybody's Needed
Written-By – Toney Jnr.
A3 The Thrill Is Gone
Written-By – Benson, Pettite
A4 Everything I Own
Written-By – Gates
A5 My Girl
Written-By – White, Robinson
B1 Make It Easy On Yourself
Written-By – Bacharach, David
B2 I've Been Loving You Too Long
Written-By – Butler, Redding
B3 Is It Because I'm Black
Written-By – Watts, Jones, Johnson
B4 For Your Precious Love
Written-By – Brooks, Butler, Brooks
Label: Contempo – CLP 511
Format: Vinyl, LP
Country: UK
Released: 1975
Genre:
R&B Soul
Style: Southern Soul, Deep Soul
Oscar Toney Jr.'s 1975 album, often linked to the Contempo Sessions (re-released as 'Loving You Too Long'), was a significant deep soul release, praised for Toney's powerful vocals on great ballads and soulful tracks, with reviewers calling it some of the best London-recorded deep soul, though later CD reissues add bonus tracks that slightly alter perception of the original, solidifying his status as a soulful powerhouse despite being overlooked in some soul histories.
The original 1975 LP (on Contempo Records) was heralded for its authentic, heartfelt deep soul sound, with tracks like "I've Been Loving You Too Long" (a cover of Otis Redding's classic) extended for dramatic effect.
Oscar Toney Jr. was known for his incredible voice, delivering emotional depth on ballads, making these sessions standout recordings.
These tracks were recorded in London, showcasing a classic Southern soul vibe produced in the UK, and were considered top-tier soul by critics like Alan Lewis.
This album cemented his reputation as a soulful balladeer, though he remained somewhat under the radar compared to bigger names.
Reviewers highlight the powerful vocals and deep soul feeling, even noting that some tracks on later reissues might feel less cohesive than the originals, but still exceptional.
Reissues (like the Shout! Factory release) feature bonus alternate mixes and unreleased tracks, offering a comprehensive look at this significant period, even if the original flow is slightly altered.
Some critics suggested these could be some of the best deep soul recordings ever made in London.
In essence, the 1975 album (Contempo Sessions) is a must-have for deep soul fans, showcasing Oscar Toney Jr.'s incredible vocal talent on raw, emotional tracks that define the genre, despite being somewhat an "oddity" in soul music history.
Lonely and Blue: The Deepest Soul of Otis Redding
Written-By – Jones, Floyd 2:56
A2 Gone Again
Written-By – Rock, Redding 2:22
A3 Free Me
Written By – Bishop - Tommy
Written-By – Lawson 3:08
A4 Open The Door (Skeleton Key Version)
Written-By – Redding 2:26
A5 A Waste Of Time
Written-By – Redding 3:17
A6 These Arms Of Mine
Written-By – Redding 2:33
B1 I've Been Loving You Too Long (To Stop Now)
Written-By – Redding 3:15
B2 Everybody Makes A Mistake
Written-By – Isbell, Floyd 3:23
B3 Little Ol' Me
Written-By – Redding, Cropper 3:11
B4 I've Got Dreams To Remember (Rougher Dreams)
Written-By – Redding 3:34
Label: Volt – STX-34165-01
Format: Vinyl, LP, Compilation
Country: US
Released: 2013
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Sixties Soul, Southern Soul
Lonely & Blue: The Deepest Soul of Otis Redding is a compilation album that gathers Otis Redding's most emotional, heartbreaking slow soul ballads and presents them as if it were a classic, single-themed album he might have released during his lifetime. The collection focuses exclusively on the theme of sorrow, lost love, and yearning, providing a cohesive listening experience.
The album was conceived by producer David Gorman with the goal to "create the best album Otis never made" by focusing on a specific mood rather than being another "hits" compilation. The packaging was also intentionally designed to look and feel like a vintage late-'60s Stax/Volt LP, complete with simulated ring wear on the cover, to enhance the illusion of a forgotten classic. Released in 2013, the album includes tracks recorded between 1962 and 1967.
The compilation features a mix of well-known hits and lesser-known songs that fit the album's theme of deep sorrow and blue emotions.
Customers and reviewers praise the album for its excellent sound quality and for showcasing Redding in top form as a balladeer. Reviewers describe the music as "soul deep" and "heartbreaking," providing comfort and companionship in shared feelings of loss. The focused theme is consistently noted as a strength, allowing listeners to experience the depth and beauty of his most emotional performances in a new context.
Love And More
Arranged By [Rhythm], Keyboards – Leon A. Huff
Arranged By [Strings, Horns] – John R. Faith
Bass – Jimmy Williams
Drums – Quinton Joseph
Horns, Strings – Don Renaldo And His Horns And Strings
Producer, Written-By – Kenneth Gamble, Leon A. Huff 4:26
A2 Extraordinary Girl
Arranged By [Rhythm], Keyboards – Leon A. Huff
Arranged By [Strings, Horns] – John R. Faith
Bongos, Congas – Leonard 'Doc' Gibbs, Jr.
Drums – Quinton Joseph
Guitar – Cecil Womack, Dennis Harris
Horns, Strings – Don Renaldo And His Horns And Strings
Producer, Written-By – Kenneth Gamble, Leon A. Huff 5:10
A3 I'm The Kind Of Man (Every Mother Wants Her Daughter To Love)
Arranged By [Rhythm], Keyboards – Leon A. Huff
Arranged By [Strings, Horns] – John R. Faith
Bass – Jimmy Williams
Drums – Quinton Joseph
Horns, Strings – Don Renaldo And His Horns And Strings
Producer – Kenneth Gamble, Leon A. Huff
Written-By – Cary Gilbert, Kenneth Gamble, Leon A. Huff 3:46
A4 Everybody's Dance Krazy
Arranged By [Rhythm], Keyboards – Leon A. Huff
Arranged By [Strings, Horns] – John R. Faith
Bass – Jimmy Williams
Drums, Percussion – Quinton Joseph
Guitar – Cecil Womack, TJ Tindall
Producer – Kenneth Gamble, Leon A. Huff
Written-By – Cary Gilbert, Kenneth Gamble, Leon A. Huff 5:30
B1 Summer Fling
Arranged By – John R. Faith
Bass – Jimmy Williams
Drums – Quinton Joseph
Guitar – Russell Evans
Horns, Strings – Don Renaldo And His Horns And Strings
Producer – Eddie Levert, Walter Williams
Written-By, Keyboards, Synthesizer – Matthew Rose 4:55
B2 I Really Need You Now
Drums – Clifford Pete Rudd
Guitar – James Herb Smith, Marc Ruben
Percussion – Mark Dauberman
Producer, Arranged By, Orchestrated By, Keyboards, Synthesizer – Dexter Wansel
Written-By – Cynthia Biggs, Dexter Wansel 4:12
B3 Love You Direct
Bass, Keyboards, Synthesizer – Dean Gant
Drums – Stephen Ferrone
Guitar – David Williams
Producer, Arranged By – Keni M. Burke
Written-By – Allan Felder, Keni M. Burke 3:55
B4 Let Me Show You (How Much I Really Love You)
Bass – Douglas Wimbish
Drums – Daryl A. Burgee
Guitar – Bernard A. McDonald
Keyboards – Walter "Bunny" Sigler, James Sigler
Producer, Synthesizer – Walter "Bunny" Sigler
Written-By, Arranged By – James Sigler 3:54
B5 Give My Love To The Ladies
Arranged By – James Sigler
Bass – Douglas Wimbish
Drums – Daryl A. Burgee
Guitar – Dennis Harris
Keyboards – Walter "Bunny" Sigler, James Sigler
Producer, Synthesizer – Walter "Bunny" Sigler
Written-By – Bunny Sigler, Marvin Morrow 4:15
Label: Philadelphia International Records – FZ 39367
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1984
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Eighties Soul, Philly
Love and More is considered by fans to be a solid album showcasing The O’Jays' timeless voices, despite not producing any major chart hits. Professional critical reviews are sparse, but user opinions suggest it is an "underrated" work of 80s quiet storm R&B.
It marked a transitional period for the band and the Philadelphia International label, which was experiencing distribution issues at the time.
The album is generally seen as a collection of smooth grooves and slow jams, fitting the "quiet storm" R&B style popular in the 1980s. Fans appreciate it for highlighting the group's signature, lived-in voices.
Several user reviews on platforms like Discogs describe the album as "criminally underrated" and "pretty good," especially certain standout tracks.
Specific songs like "Extraordinary Girl", "I'm The Kind Of Man (Every Mother Wants Her Daughter To Love)", and "Love You Direct" are noted by fans as strong, well-executed numbers that found their place in the 80s music landscape.
Released in the mid-80s, Love and More followed the height of The O'Jays' success with Gamble & Huff in the 1970s, a period when artists like Michael Jackson and Prince were redefining the music industry.
Some critics felt that by the 80s, the group's sound was being left behind and that subsequent albums didn't stand up to the radical stylists of the new era. However, the album is still considered an enjoyable listen for fans of the band's core vocal talent and classic R&B sound.
In summary, Love and More is seen as a decent effort from a legendary group, best enjoyed by existing fans who appreciate their vocal prowess over groundbreaking new material. It's a testament to their consistent talent rather than a landmark album in their discography.
Love Man
Written-By – Cullipher, Otis Redding, Steve Cropper 2:15
2 (Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher And Higher
Written-By – Carl Smith, Gary Jackson 3:03
3 That's A Good Idea
Written-By – Otis Redding 2:17
4 I'll Let Nothing Separate Us
Written-By – Otis Redding 2:51
5 Direct Me
Written-By – Otis Redding, Steve Cropper 2:18
6 Love Man
Written-By – Otis Redding 2:17
7 Groovin' Time
Written-By – Otis Redding, Steve Cropper 2:46
8 Your Feeling Is Mine
Written-By – Otis Redding 2:19
9 Got To Get Myself Together
Written-By – Otis Redding 2:25
10 Free Me
Written-By – Gene Lawson, Otis Redding 3:06
11 A Lover's Question
Written-By – Brook Benton, Jimmy Williams 2:52
12 Look At That Girl
Written-By – E. Morris, R. Stewart 2:36
Label:
Atco Records – SD 33-289
Format:
Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1969
Genre:R&B Soul
Style: Sixties Soul, Funk
Love Man is a highly regarded posthumous album that showcases Otis Redding at his most energetic, with critics praising its raw groove and a number of strong original performances, though some note it is not as consistently brilliant as his essential earlier works like Otis Blue.
Critics generally praised the album's instrumental energy and Redding's vocals. Rolling Stone highlighted several strong performances, while AllMusic acknowledged the energy but found the album less consistent than earlier releases. Q magazine described the album as showcasing "Redding at his up-tempo frantic and frenetic best". Many listeners consider it among his best posthumous releases, noting its high-energy and danceable nature, although they often recommend starting with his core albums.
Notable tracks include the title track "Love Man," a Top 20 R&B hit, and a spirited cover of Jackie Wilson's "(Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher and Higher". "Direct Me" is often cited as a standout Memphis soul track with excellent guitar work, and "A Lover's Question," a cover of a Brook Benton ballad, was another R&B hit. The album also features "I'm a Changed Man," which includes Redding experimenting with scat singing.
Pain In My Heart
Written-By – Naomi Neville 2:22
A2 The Dog
Written-By – Rufus Thomas 2:30
A3 Stand By Me
Written-By – Ben E. King, Elmo Glick 2:45
A4 Hey Hey Baby 2:15
A5 You Send Me
Written-By – Sam Cooke 3:10
A6 I Need Your Lovin'
Written-By – Bobby Robinson, Don Gardner 2:45
B1 These Arms Of Mine 2:30
B2 Louie Louie
Written-By – Richard Berry 2:05
B3 Something Is Worrying Me
Written-By – Phil Walden
2:25
B4 Security 2:30
B5 That's What My Heart Needs 2:35
B6 Lucille
Written-By – Richard Penniman 2:25
Label: ATCO Records – 33-161
Series: Volt Series
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1964
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Southern Soul
Otis Redding's 1964 debut album, Pain in My Heart, is critically acclaimed as a foundational masterpiece of Southern Soul, showcasing the raw power and emotional depth of his voice that would define his short but legendary career. Backed by the stellar Stax rhythm section, Booker T. & the M.G.'s and the Memphis Horns, the album is celebrated for its unfiltered soul and energetic performances.
The album is widely recognized as marking the beginning of Otis Redding's distinctive style, paving the way for the soul music revolution that followed. Critics noted that he "hit the ground running" with an excellent set of soulful gems, showing no signs of being a newcomer.
Reviews consistently highlight Redding's "astonishing power, energy, and boldness". His delivery is described as raw and passionate, using his voice like a horn, swelling and decreasing in volume, and triumphing at "rendering agony".
The tight, groove-laden foundation provided by the Stax in-house band is a crucial element of the album's success, giving it an authentic, funky Memphis sound.
The album features a mix of Redding's own compositions, such as his first hit, the timeless ballad "These Arms of Mine," and the "electrifying" up-tempo groover "Security". These tracks sit alongside powerful covers of popular songs like Ben E. King's "Stand by Me," Little Richard's "Lucille," and Richard Berry's "Louie Louie," all of which he makes his own.
Pain in My Heart is considered more than just a debut; it is the first chapter of an unforgettable legacy. The album peaked at number 20 on Billboard's R&B chart and number 85 on the Hot 100, establishing Redding as a significant force in soul music. The title track, in particular, set the template for all his future ballads.
Overall, the album is regarded as a classic of the Southern Soul genre, a testament to Redding's immediate virtuosity and his profound emotional impact on listeners.
Stranger In The Night
A2 I'll Save Forever For You 5:15
A3 Stranger In The Night 4:04
A4 I Want To Be With You 4:47
B1 I Can't Stop This Feeling 3:28
B2 Be Right By Your Side 4:16
B3 Night On The Town 3:55
B4 I Feel Good 4:12
B5 I'll Make You An Offer 4:19
Written-By – A.Z. Giles, B. Osborne (tracks: A2 to B5), E. Fluellen (track: A1)
Label: Red Label – ST 73103
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1985
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Eighties Soul, Funk, Disco
Osborne & Giles' 1985 album, Stranger in the Night, is regarded by music enthusiasts and independent reviewers as a strong, niche modern soul and funk album with pop and disco elements. It is most known for its deep ballads and for its closing track, "I'll Make You an Offer," which was famously sampled by hip-hop producer 9th Wonder.
The album was the only release by the duo of Billy Osborne (brother of Jeffrey Osborne and former L.T.D. bandmate) and Attala Zane Giles (late of the R&B duo Deco).
The album is a collection of modern soul, funk, and disco tracks that lean into the meticulously sequenced pop sounds of the 1980s, drawing comparisons to groups like Shalamar.
Giles provides the lead vocals on most tracks, utilizing a rich falsetto that is a key feature of the album's sound, particularly on the ballads.
The album did not receive wide mainstream critical attention at the time of its release and reviews today mainly come from music collectors and independent blogs. Collectors often praise it as a "rare find" and a "must-have" for fans of vintage disco and soul LPs.
While not a massive mainstream success, it's a beloved find in the world of vintage soul/funk vinyl, appreciated by collectors for its authenticity and pure dance energy.
In essence, it's a rare but rewarding listen for fans of classic 80s funk and soul, offering genuine grooves and a taste of that era's dance music scene.
Super Bad
Written-By – B. Massey, Lester McKenzie, R. Dukes
A2 Little Brother
Written-By – R. Shonn, W. Williams
A3 Crossroads Of Life
Written-By – E. Levert, F. Butler, W. Powell
A4 La-De-Da
Written-By – The O'Jays
A5 Peace
Written-By – Bradford Craig, H. B. Barnum
B1 Shattered Man
Written-By – Fred Butler, John Owens
B2 Your Turn This Time
Written-By – The O'Jays
B3 Just To Be With You
Written-By – B. Massey, B. Dukes
B4 Gotta Get My Broom Out
Written-By – The O'Jays
B5 Never Can Say Goodbye
Written-By – B. Massey, B. Dukes
Label: Little Star Records – LS-LP-1000-X
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1971
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Philly Soul
Super Bad by The O’Jays, released in 1971 shortly before the group's massive success with Philadelphia International, is a highly regarded, though often overlooked, classic pre-Philadelphia International O'Jays funk and soul album. It is celebrated by fans and critics alike for its raw sound, deep grooves, and as a "hidden gem" in their discography.
The album is noted for its blend of funk, gospel, soul, and R&B, with prominent harmonies, tight horn lines, and sharp drums. It is considered more raw and deep-funk-oriented than their later, more polished Philadelphia International sound.
Users and reviewers often describe the album as a "first-class O'Jays set" and "one of the most influential vocal groups of the '60s with their original masterpiece". It holds an average user rating of 4.5/5 on some platforms, with listeners expressing high satisfaction with its quality and musical depth.
Reviewers highlight the melancholy feel of songs like "Little Brother" and "Shattered Man," alongside the soulful "La De Da" and "Never Can Say Goodbye".
Super Bad is considered a necessary collection for Philly Soul and rare groove enthusiasts, showcasing the group on the brink of superstardom. Its quality is such that some consider it a contender for their favorite O'Jays album overall, not just a precursor to their hits.
Overall, the consensus is that Super Bad is an excellent, essential album for any serious soul music enthusiast, often viewed as an overlooked masterpiece that captures a unique and influential period in The O'Jays' history. You can find more user reviews on sites like Discogs.
Together
A2 You And I 3:38
A3 Together 3:03
A4 Simple Life 3:18
A5 Sweet Lov'liness 2:59
B1 Wham Bam (Blue Collar Man) 2:43
B2 Come With Me 3:18
B3 Pretending 3:02
B4 Love Song 3:20
B5 Empty Hearts 3:44
B6 I Found The Secret 2:33
Label: Caribou Records – PZ 34471
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1977
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul
O.C. Smith's 1977 album Together (Caribou Records – PZ 34471) is a well-regarded soul/funk classic, noted for its strong musicianship and the minor chart success of its title track. While formal critical reviews from the time are scarce in the search results, contemporary reception among collectors is generally positive, with the album averaging over 4 out of 5 stars on music databases.
The album is appreciated in soul and funk circles, with some fans considering it an "underrated 70s soul funk classic". The title track "Together" was a notable success, reaching a Top 30 position on the UK Singles Chart in 1977 and making it to #62 on the US Soul chart. The song "Just Couldn't Help Myself" was also released as a B-side and is a catchy, relaxed mid-pacer.
It is praised for its production quality and the talented session musicians involved, which included members of Tom Scott's L.A. Express, such as Max Bennett (bass) and John Guerin (drums, production). The album also features songwriting contributions from notable artists like Joni Mitchell and Michael McDonald.
The album is considered an underrated 70s soul classic by some fans and collectors. You can find more detailed information and potentially purchase the record via online marketplaces like Discogs or eBay.
Trying To Live My Life Without You
Written-By – Eugene Williams 2:48
A2 I Die A Little Each Day
Written-By – Don Bryant 2:40
A3 Holding On To A Dying Love
Written-By – George Jackson, James Dotson, Ronald Townsend 3:00
A4 I Can´t Make It Alone
Written-By – Darryl Carter, Johnny Keyes 2:50
A5 That´s How It Is
Written-By – Monk Higgins, Maurice Dollison 3:37
B1 I Love You, I Need You
Written-By – Archie Bradley, Julius Bradley 5:45
B2 You Can´t Keep Running From My Love
Written-By – Bernard Miller, Bill Taylor, Don Bryant 2:47
B3 Precious Precious
Written-By – Dave Crawford, Jackie Moore 3:14
B4 Home Is Where The Heart Is
Written-By – Bettye Crutcher 2:50
B5 Too Many Hands
Written-By – Eugene Williams , Mabon Hodges 2:43
Label: Hi Records – XSHL 32075
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1972
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Southern Soul
Otis Clay's 1972 album Trying to Live My Life Without You is considered a high-quality, essential piece of Southern soul music, lauded for its stellar production and Clay's powerful, gospel-infused vocals. Though it falls slightly short of a masterpiece for some critics, it is widely recommended as a great introduction to his work.
The album is a prime example of the signature Hi Records sound, expertly produced by Willie Mitchell and featuring the label's impeccable house band, including the Memphis Horns and the backing vocalists Rhodes, Chalmers, and Rhodes. Critics praise the album for:
Willie Mitchell's production brings out the best in Clay, blending traditional soul with smooth '70s elements, including string arrangements, which were contemporary at the time.
Clay's performance is consistently strong, featuring a "raspy edge" and a "disciplined verve" that showcases his gospel roots and makes his music incredibly worthwhile.
The tracks are well-chosen, offering a consistent listening experience where every song is at least good, with several standout numbers.
The title track became Clay's biggest R&B hit, and later gained even more mainstream recognition through a popular cover by Bob Seger, underscoring the song's broad, cross-genre appeal.
For fans of deep southern soul and Memphis R&B, Trying to Live My Life Without You is highly recommended. It showcases Otis Clay at his peak during his tenure at Hi Records, delivering "soul perfection" through a collection of quality tunes with an "unreal" feel.
The album is often available as part of a two-disc set with his other Hi album, I Can't Take It, which is an excellent way to discover his work.