The Softones
The Softones were a Baltimore-based "sweet soul" vocal group from the 1970s, famous for high falsetto vocals by lead singer J. Marvin Brown, similar to The Stylistics, hitting with tracks like "My Dream" and "That Old Black Magic" on Avco/H&L Records, gaining a strong following in the US, Europe, and Japan before members passed in the 2010s.
Formed in Baltimore, Maryland, early in the 1970s, initially known as "The Soft Tones", they signed with Avco Records (later H&L Records) and released albums and singles produced by Van McCoy and others, utilizing top New York session musicians, including popular R&B/Disco hits like "My Dream," "Can't Help Falling in Love," and "That Old Black Magic".
Original Members: J. Marvin Brown: Lead singer, renowned for his distinct high-pitched falsetto similar to Russell Thompkins Jr. of The Stylistics. He passed away in July 2020 at age 66; Steven Jackson: Original member; Elton Lynch: Original member; Byron Summerville: Original member; passed away in 2012 at age 60.
The group found fans across the Eastern US, Europe, and Japan, and while not as huge as some contemporaries, their catalog is highly regarded by collectors, praised for its smooth harmonies and romantic themes.
The Softones
Arranged By – Van McCoy
Written-By – G. D. Weiss, Hugo & Luigi 3:30
A2 Everybody Knew But Me
Arranged By – Van McCoy
Written-By – G. D. Weiss, Hugo & Luigi 3:00
A3 Can't Help Falling In Love
Arranged By – Sammy Lowe
Written-By – G. D. Weiss, Hugo & Luigi 2:52
A4 Extra-Ordinary People
Arranged By – Van McCoy
Written-By – G. D. Weiss, Hugo & Luigi 2:54
A5 I'm Gonna Prove It
Arranged By – Sammy Lowe
Written-By – D. Oriolo, M. Barkan 3:15
B1 Why, Why, Baby
Arranged By [Rhythm] – Al Gorgoni
Written-By – G. D. Weiss, Hugo & Luigi 5:18
B2 And I Remember Your Face
Arranged By – Van McCoy
Written-By – G. D. Weiss, Hugo & Luigi 3:04
?4 Never Let A Woman Like That Go By
Arranged By [Rhythm] – Al Gorgoni
Written-By – G. D. Weiss, Hugo & Luigi 4:07
B3 My Dream
Arranged By – John Lampkin
Written-By – K. Glascoe, M. Brown 3:15
Label: Avco – AV-11011-598
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1973
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul, Sweet Soul
The Softones' 1973 self-titled debut album is a highly regarded "sweet soul" classic, celebrated for its gorgeous harmonies, J. Marvin Brown's soaring falsetto, and a mix of smooth, dreamy romance and funky grooves, featuring standout tracks like the funky breakbeat "World" and soulful ballads, making it a favorite among vinyl collectors and soul fans for its raw production and enduring vibe.
Known for "sweet harmonies," "heavy soul," and a "raw production vibe" that captures authentic 70s soul, it features the distinctive high falsetto of lead singer J. Marvin Brown.
Produced by the famous duo Hugo & Luigi (Hugo Peretti & Luigi Creatore) and arranged by Van McCoy, who also used his top New York session players as the house band, similar to his work with The Stylistics.
Includes the funky, drum-heavy "World," along with other favorites like "Friends By Day (Lovers By Night)" and "Try Me".
Considered a must-have for collectors, praised as perhaps the best by this legendary Baltimore group, capturing the essence of 70s soul.
What Reviewers Say: "An instant classic" with "sweet harmonies, heavy soul, and a very raw production vibe". Offers a "serene and dream-like atmosphere" for listeners.
A beloved entry in the 70s soul scene, often compared to groups like The Stylistics but with a unique sound, the album established The Softones as purveyors of romantic, heartfelt soul music, with lush orchestrations that blended seamlessly with their tender vocals, making it a staple of 70s soul.