Eddie Floyd
Eddie Floyd is an influential American R&B and soul singer and songwriter, born on June 25, 1937, in Montgomery, Alabama. He grew up in Detroit, Michigan, where he was immersed in the music industry from an early age, largely due to his uncle, Robert West, who owned the Lupine and Flick record labels, contributing to Floyd's musical upbringing and future career.
Floyd's musical career began in the late 1950s when he became a member of the Falcons, an R&B group known for their dynamic sound. He often served as the lead singer during his time with the ensemble, which recorded numerous hits between 1956 and 1962. However, it was his solo career that solidified his reputation in the music world.
In the 1960s, Floyd's career took off after signing with Stax Records, where he became a prominent figure in the Southern soul scene. He collaborated with well-known artists and producers, including Al Bell, and quickly made a name for himself, known for his powerful vocals and engaging stage presence. Some of his most famous songs include "Knock on Wood," which became a major hit and remains a classic soul anthem, and "Raise Your Hand," among others.
Throughout his career, Floyd has released numerous albums and singles, continuing to perform and tour, earning accolades for his contributions to music. His work has had a lasting impact on the genre, influencing a generation of artists and leaving an indelible mark on the R&B and soul music landscapes.
Eddie Floyd remains a celebrated figure in the music industry, known for his contributions to soul and R&B and for his ability to connect with audiences through his heartfelt performances. As of 2026, he continues to be recognized for his significant contributions and enduring legacy in American music.
Experience
A2 Making Love (For The Very First Time With You) 5:04
A3 Take A Chance On Me 5:05
B1 Don't Expose Your Thing 4:01
B2 Your Love Is Heavy 3:27
B3 Prove It To Me 3:42
B4 You're Gonna Walk Out On Me 4:07
B5 It's Got To Be That Way
Label: Malaco Records – LP-6352
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1977
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Southern Soul
Eddie Floyd's 1977 Experience album for Malaco Records captured him in a deep Southern Soul/Blues style, offering regional appeal despite the era's shift towards disco; it showcased his gritty vocals and soulful storytelling on tracks, highlighting his enduring talent and connection to the Stax legacy, though it didn't achieve widespread chart success like his '60s hits, fitting into his career as a solid effort in the deep soul vein after his main Stax run.
Released on Malaco Records, the album leaned into the burgeoning Southern Soul/Blues sound, a perfect fit for Floyd's gritty delivery.
By 1977, mainstream tastes were changing (disco era), so Experience was more of a cult or regional favorite, not a crossover smash, but it kept Floyd connected to his roots.
Expect heartfelt, often gritty, deep soul music, showcasing Floyd's powerful voice and songwriting, which had defined his Stax-era hits like "Knock on Wood".
While specific track reviews are scarce in snippets, it's known to feature his signature style, with songs reflecting life and love from a seasoned perspective, typical of Malaco's output.
Overall: Experience is considered a solid, authentic deep soul album from Eddie Floyd, a favorite among fans of classic Southern Soul, even if it wasn't a commercial blockbuster in the late '70s