The Chi-Lites<div hidden>The ChiLites</div>
The Chi-Lites
Written-By – Eugene Record, Stan McKenny 4:10
A2 Go Away Dream
Written-By – Eugene Record, Stan McKenny 3:40
A3 Too Good To Be Forgotten
Arranged By – Tom Tom
Written-By – Barbara Acklin, Eugene Record 3:20
A4 I Found Sunshine
Written-By – Eugene Record 2:50
A5 I Never Had It So Good
Written-By – Eugene Record, Stan McKenny 5:00
B1 Marriage License
Written-By – Alonzo Tucker, Eugene Record 5:30
B2 I Forgot To Say I Love You Till I'm Gone
Written-By – Eugene Record, Stan McKenny 3:20
B3 One Man Band (Plays Alone)
Written-By – Linda Creed, Thom Bell 5:00
B4 Bet You'll Never Be Sorry
Written-By – Gerald Sims 3:30
B5 Stoned Out Of My Mind
Written-By – Barbara Acklin, Eugene Record 3:00
Label: Brunswick – BRLS 3009
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: UK
Released: 1974
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul, Sweet Soul
The Chi-Lites' 1973 self-titled album (released in 1974 in the UK) is a classic soul record, often seen as a continuation of their smooth, harmonious Philly-soul sound, featuring Eugene Record's stellar vocals and lush arrangements, delivering hits like "I Never Had It So Good (And Felt So Bad)" and "A Letter to Myself," showcasing their signature blend of romance and poignant social themes, though perhaps slightly overshadowed by their earlier mega-hits, it remains a strong, representative work of their prime era
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The album solidified the Chi-Lites' reputation for lush, romantic harmonies and sophisticated production, a hallmark of their sound.
Lead singer Eugene Record's distinctive, emotive voice shines, particularly on poignant ballads, proving his arranging and vocal talent.
It spawned significant hits like the melancholic "I Never Had It So Good (And Felt So Bad)," the poignant "Homely Girl," and the pleading "A Letter to Myself," demonstrating their knack for relatable relationship narratives.
Some critics suggest that while iconic, albums from this period, like this self-titled release, might be slightly underrated compared to their biggest-selling records, despite their consistent quality and R&B chart success.
It's a quintessential example of late-era Brunswick/Chicago soul, blending deep emotion with polished, string-laden arrangements.
In essence: The 1973 Chi-Lites album is a must-have for soul fans, offering more of the captivating vocal harmonies and heartfelt storytelling that made them legends, even if it's sometimes overshadowed by earlier breakthroughs.
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