Gloria Barnes
Gloria Barnes, also known as "Towanda" Barnes, is an American soul singer with a career that has remained relatively obscure compared to her contemporaries. She was born and raised in Harlem, New York City, where she first developed her passion for music.
Barnes began her recording career in the mid-1960s, initially releasing singles under the name Towanda. Her early work included 45s on The Groovy Label in 1966 and A&M Records in 1969. She gained some recognition in the UK, particularly within the Northern Soul scene, which was instrumental in her discovery. One of her notable recordings is "Uptown," which later became her one and only full-length album released in 1975 on the Maple label. The album has become somewhat of a collectible among soul music enthusiasts and is known for its deep and southern soul influences.
Although specific details about her life and career are sparse, it is understood that Barnes' contributions to soul music have been appreciated by a dedicated fanbase, particularly in the UK, where she initially found success. Northern soul fans played a significant role in bringing her music to wider audiences.
Uptown
Written-By, Producer – Lewis, Lewis, Farmer
7:22
A2 I'll Call You Back Later
Written-By – Lewis, Lewis, Farmer
3:10
A3 I Found Myself
Written-By, Producer – Lewis, Lewis, Farmer
3:35
B1 Gotta Get Away
Written-By – Ohio Players
2:35
B2 You Don't Mean It
Written-By – Ohio Players
3:00
B3 Home
Written-By – Bobby Dixon
2:39
B4 She Wants A Stand In
Written-By – Lewis, Lewis, Farmer
2:30
B5 I'll Go All The Way
Written-By – Bobby Dixon
2:29
Label: Maple Records – M-6006
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1971
Genre: R&B Soul, Funk
Style: Seventies Soul
Released in 1971, Uptown is the sole full-length album by Harlem-born soul singer Gloria Barnes (who also recorded as Towanda Barnes). Originally released on the obscure Maple label, the album is considered a "rare groove" masterpiece, with original pressings fetching four-figure sums among collectors.
Barnes is noted for her powerful, raspy, and emotive vocal style, often compared to a female version of Lee Moses. The album is described as a mix of "insanely raw soul," gritty funk, and heart-aching deep soul ballads. Produced by Johnny Brantley, it features a rugged, "dive bar" sound and a live-performance feel. The instrumentation is provided by legendary funk and soul groups, including The Ohio Players, Lee Moses & The Disciples, and The Hustlers.
Key Tracks: "Old Before My Time": A seven-minute opening showstopper that highlights Barnes’ vocal prowess and intensity; "You Don't Mean It": A song penned by the Ohio Players that became a staple of the UK's Northern Soul movement; "I’ll Call You Back Later": A funky, upbeat dance track; "Gotta Get Away": Another high-energy track featuring heavy breakbeats.
Due to its limited initial run, it became one of the most sought-after soul records of its era. The album was reissued for the first time in 2017 by Colemine Records (under their Remined imprint), making it accessible to a wider audience. Its tracks have been sampled by modern artists such as Caribou.