Benny Johnson
Benny Johnson is an influential soul vocalist, recognized for his emotive and powerful vocal style, which places him alongside renowned artists such as Johnnie Taylor and Al Green. He was active during the 1970s and is celebrated for his contributions to the soul and funk music scene, showcasing a raw, heartfelt approach to his performances.
His album "Visions of Paradise," released in 1973, has been praised for its sweet soul elements, featuring soaring vocals and beautiful harmonies. This album has garnered a dedicated following over the years and was reissued in 2023, reflecting its lasting impact on the genre.
In addition to his solo work, Johnson has also performed with groups like The Spoilers and has been featured in various music compilations that highlight the psychedelic soul and dope funk genres. His song "Second To None" stands out as a notable track that has received recognition in the music community.
Overall, Benny Johnson's contributions to soul music have left a significant mark, making him an essential figure in the genre’s history.
Visions Of Paradise
A2 Absolutely, Positively, Baby (Maurice Irby, Jr. 4:20)
A3 Baby I Love You (Edna Toles 2:48)
A4 Stop Me (Edna Toles 3:55)
A5 Give It Up (Edna Toles 4:45)
B1 Second To None (Maurice Irby, Jr. 3:13)
B2 Won't You Stay (Maurice Irby, Jr. 3:29)
B3 It's Yours Baby (Edna Toles 2:37)
B4 Please Come Back (Maurice Irby, Jr. 5:34)
B5 I Just Got To Know (Maurice Irby, Jr. 2:36)
Label: Today Records – TLP-1013
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1973
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul
Visions of Paradise , released in 1973 on the Perception Records subsidiary label Today, is a highly sought-after, classic 70s soul and R&B album by former The Spoilers member Benny Johnson. It is his only known solo record.
The album is noted for its high-quality production and deep soul sound, often compared to the Memphis Hi Sound.
Johnson's "gutsy" and "smoky" voice is a central feature, drawing comparisons to revered artists like Al Green, Johnnie Taylor, Syl Johnson, and Jerry Butler.
The music features a full, tight band led by musical director and arranger Julius Brockington (The United Chair Band), complete with prominent horns, organ, and sublime backing vocals. The recording and mixing were engineered by George Massenburg.
The tracks vary from uptempo modern soul and two-step classics to mid-tempo tracks and ballads, many with a southern blues feel.
The album was a one-off for Johnson and has become an in-demand collector's item, with original vinyl copies commanding high prices. Reissues by labels like Soul Brother and BBE have made it more widely available to a modern audience.
Overall, Visions Of Paradise is an overlooked classic that is highly recommended for any serious fan of 1970s soul music. The album holds a high average rating of approximately 4.6/5 across various music sites.