Sam Dees
Sam Dees is an accomplished American soul singer, songwriter, and record producer, born on December 17, 1945, in Birmingham, Alabama. He has had a significant impact on the music industry from the 1970s to the 1990s, releasing numerous albums and songs that have contributed to his reputation as a prolific artist.
In addition to his solo work, Dees has written or co-written many hit songs for other artists, including the R&B group Atlantic Starr, showcasing his versatility and talent in crafting memorable music. He is also known for owning his record label, Pen Pad Records, which further highlights his multifaceted career in the music industry.
Dees' journey in music began early; by the age of nine, he was already a champion in several singing contests and had formed his own vocal group, the Bossanovians, demonstrating his passion for music from a young age. His enduring legacy continues to influence both aspiring and established artists in the soul and R&B genres.
The Show Must Go On
Written-By – David Camon, Sam Dees 6:15
A2 The Show Must Go On
Written-By – Sam Dees 3:25
A3 Come Back Strong
Written-By – Sam Dees 3:03
A4 Just Out Of My Reach
Written-By – Jesse J. Lewis, Sam Dees 3:39
A5 Claim Jumpin'
Written-By – Bill Brandon, Sam Dees 2:50
B1 Troubled Child
Written-By – Al Gardner, David Camon, Sam Dees 3:42
B2 What's It Gonna Be
Written-By – Sam Dees 4:45
B3 Worn Out Broken Heart
Written-By – Sam Dees, Sandra Drayton 3:19
B4 Good Guys
Written-By – Sam Dees 3:17
B5 So Tied Up
Written-By – Bill Brandon, Sam Dees 3:49
Label: Atlantic – SD 18134
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1975
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Southern Soul
Sam Dees' The Show Must Go On (1975) is widely hailed by soul aficionados as a masterpiece of Deep Soul and Southern Soul, celebrated for Dees' poignant songwriting, passionate vocals, and masterful blend of emotional ballads and modern soul tracks, standing as a pivotal, timeless album in the genre despite limited initial mainstream recognition, with its quality often compared favorably to contemporaries.
Dees shines as a storyteller, delivering deeply personal lyrics full of wisdom, passion, and social commentary, drawing comparisons to Curtis Mayfield in theme and style, notes AudioSoundMusic and Audiophile Audition. While not a traditional powerhouse, Dees' voice conveys unmistakable emotion and hurt, particularly on slow, dramatic tracks.
The production features lush strings, weeping guitars, and a solid rhythm section that perfectly supports Dees' soulful narratives, according to Derek's Music Blog and Audiophile Audition.
Standout Tracks: "Come Back Strong" is a modern soul classic, while ballads like "Worn Out Broken Heart" and "Just Out Of My Reach" are deeply emotive.
Considered a cornerstone of Deep Soul and a must-have for rare groove collectors, it blends Southern soul grit with Chicago soul sophistication.
Reviewers note the album holds up exceptionally well, with its emotional depth and quality surpassing many contemporaries. It's praised as an outstanding, essential 70s soul album, a true showcase of a master songwriter's art.