Vitamin E
Vitamin E was a 1970s soul harmony group closely associated with producer Norman Connors and songwriter/producer Paul Tillman Smith.
While considered an "obscure" group by some, they are recognized for their high-quality, rare soul sound. Members: Bianca Thornton, David Gardner, and Paul Tillman Smith.
The group worked with notable figures in the soul music industry, including producer Norman Connors. Vocalist Lady Bianca (who worked with Frank Zappa and Sly Stone) and David Gardener (vocalist for saxophonist Jules Broussard) were featured in the project. Vocalist Freddie Hughes also made a guest appearance on their work.
The "Sharing" Album (1977): Released in 1977 on Buddah Records, Sharing is the group's primary, though rare, album. The album is described as a "rare gem" of soul harmony.
The title track single from the Sharing album, composed by Paul Tillman Smith, became a number one hit in over twelve cities across the U.S.. In the 1990s, the Vitamin E album was reissued in Japan on CD.
Sharing
Written-By – P. Smith
5:02
A2 Newsroom
Written-By – G. Levias, P. Smith, T. Tillman
2:46
A3 Back Here Again
Written-By – P. Smith
3:53
A4 Laughter In The Rain
Written-By – N. Sedaka, P. Cody
3:13
B1 Kiss Away
Written-By – R. Lucas/Mtume
4:57
B2 Last Night
Written-By – B. Thornton, F. Boone, H. Oden
4:54
B3 Pretty Girls
Written-By – J. Newman, P. Smith
3:33
B4 Snake Woman
Written-By – H. Eaves
4:02
Label: Buddah Records – BDS 5690
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1977
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul, Funk, Disco
Vitamin E is a soul/funk vocal group whose 1977 debut album, Sharing, is widely regarded by collectors as a "rare groove" gem. Released on Buddah Records and produced by Norman Connors, the album is noted for its smooth soul harmonies and high production value.
The album holds a high reputation among enthusiasts, with an average rating of 4.49/5 on Discogs and 5/5 on Amazon UK. It is categorized as Smooth Soul and Funk. Listeners often highlight its "Eightiestastic" feel (despite its late 70s release) and catchy, dreamlike basslines.
Produced by Norman Connors, known for his jazz-fusion and sophisticated R&B arrangements, which gives the album a polished, professional sound often compared to the work of groups like Pleasure or LeRoy Hutson.
Highly sought after by collectors, it has received strong praise, including a 5/5 star rating on Amazon UK and high ratings on Discogs (approx. 4.5/5). The album is noted for its quality soul sound. Original 1977 pressings are considered rare, with median prices around $33.39, though high-quality copies can exceed $64.