The Temprees
The Temprees are an American soul vocal trio from Memphis, Tennessee, known for their smooth and evocative style that garnered popularity during the 1970s. Their music is characterized by polished vocals and celestial R&B soul, making them a notable act in the genre during their active years.
Originally formed in 1970, The Temprees started as a quartet comprising schoolmates Jasper "Jabbo" Phillips, Harold "Scotty" Scott, Deljjuan "Del" Calvin, and Larry Dodson. However, they later transitioned into a trio, focusing on the dynamic vocal harmonies that became their trademark. The group recorded for We Produce Records, a label associated with the Stax record label, which was instrumental in the emergence of Southern soul music.
The core members of The Temprees include: Jasper "Jabbo" Phillips - Lead vocals and an essential figure in shaping the group’s sound; Harold "Scotty" Scott - Contributed vocals and helped craft the group's harmonies; Deljjuan "Del" Calvin - Served as a vocalist from 1970 to 1973, and returned in 1976. The group has experienced lineup changes, notably with changes in membership and vocal contributions over the years.
Throughout their career, The Temprees released several albums and singles that resonated with audiences, highlighting their ability to blend soulful melodies with emotive lyrics. The group's artistry positioned them as significant figures in the soul music scene of their time, with a distinctive sound that still influences contemporary music.
The Temprees' music remains celebrated for its heartfelt ballads and rich vocal arrangements, which encapsulate the essence of the soul genre. Their contributions during the golden era of soul music have solidified their legacy as one of the notable acts from Memphis, alongside other legendary groups.
As of the latest updates, The Temprees continue to maintain their presence within the music community, showcasing their enduring appeal and the lasting impact of their contributions to soul music.
Lovemen
Written-By – C. Fultz, L. Moore
2:57
A2 If I Could Say What's On My Mind
Written-By – Leon Moore
4:25
A3 (Girl) I Love You
Written-By – C. Hampton, J. Bridges, T. Nixon
3:12
A4 I Love You, You Love Me
Written-By – C. Hampton, J. Bridges, T. Nixon
4:47
A5 We've Only Just Begun
Written-By – P. Williams, R. Nichols
4:47
B1 Dedicated To The One I Love
Written-By – L. Pauling, R. Bass
6:53
B2 My Baby Love
Written-By – J. Bridges, S. Chandler, W. Brown
2:54
B3 I'm For You, You For Me
Written-By – C. Hampton, J. Bridges, T. Nixon
4:47
B4 Love....Can Be So Wonderful
Written-By – Leon Moore
3:31
Label: We Produce Records – XPS-1901
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1972
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul
Released in 1972 on the Stax-distributed We Produce label, Lovemen by The Temprees is a quintessential Memphis soul album, widely regarded as a premier, smoldering "make-out" record. Driven by Jasper “Jabbo” Phillips’ high-register falsetto, the LP features a mix of smooth, slow-jam originals and memorable covers. It is considered a criminally underrated, essential classic for soul collectors.
The album is defined by a soft, romantic, and smooth vocal approach, with Jasper “Jabbo” Phillips providing standout, high-falsetto leads.
Standout Tracks: Their rendition of “Dedicated to the One I Love” is often cited as the definitive, most beautiful version. Other highlights include “If I Could Say What's on My Mind,” “Love... Can Be So Wonderful,” and “I Love You, You Love Me”.
The sound is rooted in early '70s soul, focusing on deep, slow-burn grooves rather than heavy funk. The album is highly recommended for fans of smooth 1970s soul and vocal harmony groups.
Despite its quality, the album initially struggled commercially as Stax Records was unsure how to market such a sweet, melodic sound.
Lovemen is now recognized as a premier, sought-after "lowrider oldies" record, with reissues available that highlight its original, high-fidelity analog sound. For years, the album was a rare find, often requiring "crate digging" for original We Produce Records vinyl. However, Real Gone Music recently released an all-analog reissue cut from the original master tapes, available in black and "valentine red" vinyl.
Love Maze
Written-By – Harold G. Scott 5:21
A2 Wrap Me In Love
Written-By – Mary Williams, Mack Rice 2:32
A3 Let Me Be The One
Written-By – Paul Williams, Roger Nichols 4:09
A4 Something So Right
Written-By – Paul Simon 6:03
A5 At Last
Written-By – Harry Warren, Mack Gordon 2:57
B1 You Make The Sunshine
Written-By – Leon Moore 4:56
B2 You Make Me Love You
Written-By – Leon Moore 3:12
B3 Come On Y'All
Written-By – Cleophas Fultz, Leon Moore 4:10
B4 Trust In Me
Written-By – Gene Schwartz, Milton Ager, Ned Weaver 3:48
B5 People Make The World Go Round
Written-By – Linda Creed, Tom Bell 6:37
Label: We Produce Records – XPS-1903
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1973
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul
The 1974 album Love Maze by The Temprees is a highly-regarded example of classic "sweet soul" and Memphis soul, known for its smooth melodies, excellent vocal harmonies, and sparse production that highlights the trio's singing talent. It has a strong reputation among fans of vintage soul music.
Reviews from fans and critics consistently praise the album for its authentic sound and the quality of the group's performances:
The album is noted as a key, early example of "sweet soul," a style that later influenced other vocal groups like the Stylistics.
The trio, featuring Jasper "Jabbo" Phillips' falsetto lead, is at its best on emotional ballads. The voices are prominent and effective, a result of the production style that is not heavily orchestrated.
Many fans who owned the original album in the 70s still cherish it, calling it "criminally underrated" and "beautiful from start to finish". It is considered a must-have for collectors of the genre.
Love Maze is a strong entry in The Temprees' catalog, appreciated for its beautiful harmonies and deep soul feel, standing as a testament to the smooth vocal group tradition of the 1970s.