O.C. Smith
Ocie Lee "O. C." Smith (1932–2001) was a versatile American singer and minister whose career spanned jazz, R&B, and pop, best known for his 1968 million-selling hit "Little Green Apples". Born on June 21, 1932, in Mansfield, Louisiana, he earned a psychology degree from Southern University in Baton Rouge. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1951 to 1955, where he performed for troops and won a major talent contest in Alaska.
After the Air Force, Smith sang in jazz clubs and joined Count Basie's band from 1961 to 1965. He had hits like "The Son of Hickory Holler's Tramp" and his signature song, "Little Green Apples," which won a Grammy and went gold. Other hits included "Daddy's Little Man," "Friend, Lover, Woman, Wife," and "Together". In the 1980s, he became prominent in the Carolina Beach Music scene.
Smith began studying for the ministry in 1980. He founded and pastored the City of Angels Church of Religious Science in Los Angeles, starting in 1985. He co-wrote the book Little Green Apples: God Really Did Make Them!, published after his death.
He died from a heart attack at his home in Ladera Heights, California, on November 23, 2001. He was inducted into the Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame and the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame. O.C. Smith is remembered for his smooth voice, versatility across genres, and later dedication to spiritual leadership, leaving behind a rich musical and personal legacy.
La La Peace Song
Written-By – L. Martin, J. Bristol 3:27
A2 Don't Misunderstand
Written-By – G. Parks 3:05
A3 When Morning Comes
Written-By – L. Martin, J. Bristol 3:01
A4 Friend, Lover, Woman, Wife
Written-By – M. Davis 3:08
A5 My Cherie Amour
Written-By – H. Cosby, S. Wonder, S. Moy 3:08
B1 Wish You Were Here With Me, Mary
Written-By – J. Bristol 3:23
B2 I Think I'll Tell Her
Written-By – L. Creed, T. Bell 3:41
B3 Daddy's Little Man
Written-By – M. Davis 4:05
B4 Baby, I Need Your Loving
Written-By – E. Holland - L. Dozier - B. Holland 2:55
B5 The Son Of Hickory Holler's Tramp
Written-By – D. Frazier 3:50
Label: Columbia – KC 33247
Format: Vinyl, LP, Stereo
Country: US
Released: 1974
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul
O.C. Smith's La La Peace Song album (1974) showcased his versatile, storytelling baritone voice across soul, pop, and country, noted by Billboard for potential hits like the title track, "Passport," and "I'm a Weak Man," featuring strong production from Johnny Bristol, Jerry Fuller, and Steve Cropper, though it's often seen as an extension of his earlier work, delivering his signature blend of smooth vocals and heartfelt narratives for fans.
Smith was lauded for his ability to tell stories through song, a characteristic evident on this album as well as hits like "Son of Hickory Holler's Tramp".
While rooted in soul and jazz, the album touched on pop and country, highlighting Smith's adaptable style. Produced by notable figures like Johnny Bristol, Jerry Fuller, and Steve Cropper, the album featured solid instrumental backing.
Billboard praised the record for having several strong singles, including the title track, "Passport," "I'm a Weak Man," and "The Longer We Stay Together".
Fans appreciated the album's familiar warm, deep voice and storytelling, even if some tracks drew from previous releases.
The album offered more of the classy, engaging music O.C. Smith was known for, blending his jazz roots with accessible soul and pop, making it a solid, enjoyable listen for his established fanbase and those discovering his rich catalog.
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.