The Sweet Inspirations
The Sweet Inspirations
Written-By – Darryl Carter, Lindon Dewey Oldham, Wallace Pennington 2:36
A2 Blues Stay Away From Me
Written-By – Alton Delmore, Henry Glover, Rabon Delmore, Wayne Raney 3:22
A3 Don't Let Me Lose This Dream
Written-By – Aretha Franklin 2:20
A4 Knock On Wood
Written-By – Eddie Floyd, Steve Cropper 3:00
A5 Do Right Woman - Do Right Man
Written-By – Chips Moman, Dan Penn 3:03
A6 Don't Fight It
Written-By – Steve Cropper, Wilson Pickett 2:25
B1 Sweet Inspiration
Written-By – Lindon Dewey Oldham, Wallace Pennington 2:50
B2 Let It Be Me
Written-By – Gilbert Becaud, Mann Curtis, Pierre Delanoe 2:41
B3 I'm Blue
Written-By – Ike Turner 2:08
B4 Reach Out For Me
Written-By – Hal David & Burt Bacharach 2:19
B5 Here I Am (Take Me)
Written-By – David Porter & Isaac Hayes 3:04
B6 Why (Am I Treated So Bad)
Written-By – Roebuck Staples 2:46
Label: Atlantic – SD 8155
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1967
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Sixties Soul
The Sweet Inspirations' 1967 debut album is lauded as a peak of late '60s soul, showcasing Cissy Houston's powerful lead vocals and the group's gospel-infused harmonies on soulful covers like "Let It Be Me" and "I'm Blue," creating a joyous, intense sound that blends pop hits with deep soul, solidifying their reputation as elite backing singers for Aretha Franklin & Elvis Presley. Critics praise its authentic soul, passionate delivery, and the group's unique ability to transform familiar songs into gospel-fueled gems, making it a must-have for soul fans.
The album's strength lies in Cissy Houston's incredible lead voice, supported by Myrna Smith, Sylvia Shemwell, and Estelle Brown, delivering raw emotion and perfect harmonies.
Their background in gospel shines through, infusing pop standards and soul hits with profound feeling, turning covers into deeply personal expressions.
Tracks like the Bee Gees' "To Love Somebody," Sam & Dave's "When Something is Wrong With My Baby," and Ike Turner's "I'm Blue" are reinterpreted with full-blown soul abandon.
Produced by legends like Tom Dowd and Jerry Wexler, the album captures the classic Atlantic Records sound, recorded in NY, Memphis, Muscle Shoals, and Philly.
While maybe too intense for mainstream pop, it's considered a masterpiece for soul aficionados, showcasing a rare vocal artistry that defined their legendary status as backup singers.
Described as "late '60s soul at its best," "pure musical abandon," and a "joyous explosion of voices".
Considered a definitive work, far superior to much of their later output, and a cornerstone for soul music history.