The Modulations
The Modulations were an American R&B and soul vocal group formed in Durham, North Carolina, around 1970. Known for their sophisticated harmonies, they are best recognized for their 1975 album It’s Rough Out Here. The group consisted of four singer-songwriters: Larry "Little Nick" Allen, Larry Duncan, Hoyle (or Hoyal) Saunders and Henry Channelle (or Chanel).
Originally known as The Pimps, they began singing together in Durham by 1970. Although based in Durham, their primary recordings were made at Sigma Sound Studios in Philadelphia. They collaborated with legendary figures of the "Philly Sound," including arrangers Norman Harris, Vince Montana, and Ronald Baker, and were backed by the house band MFSB.
After an early release on the Mozel label, The Modulations came under the management of local entrepreneur Henry Bates and signed a deal with Buddah Records, a national concern. Although they were from North Carolina, their recordings for Buddah were laid down at the famous Sigma Sound Studios in Philadelphia, utilizing the city's top-tier 'Philly sound' musicians and arrangers, including members of MFSB (Mother Father Sister Brother).
Their most notable album, the self-produced It's Rough Out Here, was released in 1975 and included arrangements by Vince Montana, Norman Harris, and Ronnie Baker. The album was successful on the U.S. R&B charts and became popular within the UK soul scene. Key Singles: "I'm Hopelessly in Love" (1973) and "I Can't Fight Your Love" (1974). Core Album: It's Rough Out Here (1975), which featured the popular title track and "What Good Am I".
The group is highly regarded in the UK Northern Soul and modern soul scenes. Their music is a staple of "Bull City Soul," representing Durham's peak R&B era.
It’s Rough Out Here
Arranged By – Vincent Montana
Written By, Producer – R. Brown, T. Lester, W. Lester
Written-By, Producer – B. Curington 4:46
A2 Head On Collision With Heartbreak
Arranged By – Vince Montana
Written By, Producer – B. Curington, R. Brown, T. Lester, W. Lester 3:15
A3 Love At Last
Arranged By – Vince Montana
Written By, Producer – T. Lester, W. Lester
Written-By, Producer – B. Curington 5:05
A4 I'll Always Love You
Arranged By – Norman Harris
Producer – B. Curington
Written By, Producer – R. Brown 3:47
B1 I'm Hopelessly In Love
Arranged By – Ronald Baker
Written By, Producer – J. Blunt, R. Brown, T. Lester, W. Lester
Written-By, Producer – B. Curington 3:18
B2 I Can't Fight Your Love
Arranged By – Vince Montana
Written By, Producer – R. Brown
Written-By, Producer – B. Curington 3:59
B3 Worth Your Weight In Gold
Arranged By – Vince Montana
Written By, Producer – T. Lester, W. Lester
Written-By, Producer – B. Curington 4:57
B4 Those Were The Best Days Of My Life
Arranged By – Ronald Baker
Written By, Producer – R. Brown
Written-By, Producer – B. Curington 3:13
B5 Share What You Got Keep What You Need
Arranged By – Vince Montana
Written By, Producer – J. Blunt, R. Brown, T. Lester, W. Lester
Written-By, Producer – B. Curington 4:00
Label: Buddah Records – BDS 5638
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1975
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul, Philly
The Modulations' "It's Rough Out Here" (1975) is a highly-regarded, if somewhat overlooked, Philly Soul gem, praised for its smooth orchestration, heartfelt vocals, and standout tracks like the funky title cut and mid-tempo "I'm Hopelessly In Love," blending classic Philadelphia sound with universal themes of struggle and resilience, making it a must-have for 70s soul fans.
The album heavily features the iconic instrumentation (strings, horns, MFSB members) and arrangements characteristic of the Philadelphia International Records sound, similar to The Stylistics or O'Jays.
Standout Tracks: "Rough Out Here" (a funky stepper), "I'm Hopelessly In Love" (beautiful mid-tempo), "I Can't Fight Your Love," and "Love At Last" are frequently highlighted. Lyrically, the album explores everyday life, featuring heartfelt themes of struggle, resilience, and romance.
While not a massive commercial hit, it's considered a cult classic and a gem among soul enthusiasts, often praised for its quality despite the era's competition, says Amazon UK and Amazon.com.au.
Modern reissues (like from Funkytown Grooves) offer improved sound and bonus tracks, making it more accessible, note Amazon.com.
In essence: It's a strong, authentic 1975 Philly Soul record that rewards listeners with depth beyond initial impressions, a solid addition for fans of classic soulful grooves.