The Persuasions
Street Corner Symphony
Written-By – R. White, W. Robinson
A1b Runaway Child, Running Wild
Written-By – N. Whitefield/B. Strong
A1c Cloud Nine
Written-By – N. Whitefield/B. Strong
Medley: (3:27)
A2 Buffalo Soldier
Written-By – Barnes, Lewis, Smith 3:10
A3 Good Times
Written-By – Sam Cooke 2:39
A4 I Could Never Love Another (After Loving You)
Written-By – Strong, Whitefield, Penzabene 3:30
A5 People Get Ready
Written-By – Curtis Mayfield 3:33
B1 Christian's Automobile
Written-By – J. Archie 2:02
B2 The Man In Me
Written-By – Bob Dylan 3:04
B3 Be Good To Me Baby
Written-By – Johnny Baylor 2:14
B4 So Much In Love
Written-By – Jackson, Williams, Stragis 2:10
B5a He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother
Written-By – B. Russell, B. Scott
B5b You've Got A Friend
Written-By – Carole King
Medley: (3:45)
Label: Capitol Records – ST-872
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1972
Genre: R&B Soul, Blues
Style: Rhythm & Blues, Soul, Ballad
Street Corner Symphony by The Persuasions is widely praised as a classic a cappella album, showcasing stunningly tight harmonies and pure vocal talent on covers of soul, rock, and pop hits, with critics highlighting its authenticity, energy, and skillful renditions of songs like "Buffalo Soldier," "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother," and a Temptations medley, proving the power of voices without instruments. Reviewers call it a timeless collection, a masterclass in vocal arrangements, and a delightful listen for those tired of modern processed music, delivering genuine emotion and intricate rhythm.
The album is celebrated for its lack of instruments, relying solely on the "finest" human voice, delivering "stunningly tight and precise" four-part harmonies.
Reviewers note the "sheer joy," passion, and heart-wrenching blues and soulful crooning present in the performances, from "Buffalo Soldier" to "So Much In Love".
The group masterfully blends diverse tracks, harmonizing The Hollies' "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" with Carole King's "You've Got A Friend" and covering Bob Dylan's "The Man in Me".
The album stands out as "real, old-fashioned, four-part harmony," with a virtuoso level of performance that leaves nowhere to hide, a contrast to more technologically covered-up music.
"Buffalo Soldier" is noted for sparking historical curiosity, teaching listeners about a little-known part of American history.
The Persuasions' talent is "graded 'excellent' by fans and peers," noted for rigorous rehearsals and a desire to excel in their niche genre.
Street Corner Symphony is considered a "terrific collection" and a must-listen, demonstrating the depth and versatility of the human voice in creating rich, compelling, and instrument-free music.