Mark IV
Mark IV was an American soul group from Orangeburg, South Carolina, active primarily in the late 1960s and 1970s, known for their emotive vocals and regional hits on the soul scene.
The group formed in the late 1960s amid the vibrant Southern soul scene, initially influenced by local acts like the Soul Agents. They gained notice through high-energy performances, including covering hits like Archie Bell and the Drells' "Tighten Up" at talent shows in 1968, which solidified their commitment to music. Managed by Roy C. Hammond, they signed with Mercury Records and released a self-titled album featuring tracks like "If You Can’t Tell Me Something Good," "Signs Of A Dying Love," "I’ll Be Right There," and "My Everything You Are."
The lineup during their Mercury era included lead singer Jimmy Ponder, known for his dynamic, soulful delivery; harmony singer Preston; Walter Moreland; and Buck (possibly Lawrence Jones). Jimmy stood out for his emotional intensity, while Preston focused on tight harmonies. The group later connected with producer Donald Shaw and musicians like bassist Roual in New York by the mid-1970s.
After Mercury, they recorded "Signs Of A Dying Love," toured, and built a cult following in soul circles, with some singles charting regionally in the early 1970s. They relocated to New York around 1973-1975, gigging extensively and briefly linking with acts like the Main Ingredient via connections like Bernard Purdie. Internal conflicts ultimately derailed their momentum, preventing major success despite their talent and hard work.
Mark IV
A2 I'll Be Right There (To Make Love To You) 3:34
A3 I'm A Working Man (Doin' Work For My Baby) 4:10
A4 I Fell In Love (With A Married Woman) 2:57
A5 You Black And I'm Black 3:02
B1 My Everything You Are 3:40
B2 Got To Get Back (To My Baby's Love) 2:57
B3 Since God Made Woman - Nobody Rest 2:57
B4 Why You Want To Hurt Me 2:42
B5 I Feel Good All Over (When You're Loving Me) 2:53
Written by Roy C. Hammond
Label: Mercury – SRM 1-651
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1973
Genre:
R&B Soul
Style:Seventies Soul, Southern Soul
The 1973 self-titled album by the NYC vocal group Mark IV is a classic soul/R&B record blending traditional streetcorner quartet harmonies with the "southern flava" of producer/writer Roy "C" Hammond, featuring their hit single "Honey, I Still Love You" and offering a timeless, enjoyable sound appreciated by soul fans.
The album Combines tight, "classic streetcorner quartet" harmonies with Roy C.'s signature soulful, southern-infused production.
It Includes their breakthrough hit, "Honey, I Still Love You," which charted in late 1972.
Written and produced by the renowned Roy "C" Hammond, known for his distinctive style, it is considered a "timeless treasure" and a "thoroughly enjoyable album" for Northern Soul enthusiasts, with dated but beloved dancers and quality instrumentals.