1st Blog Anniversary

I started this Blog exactly a year ago, so today is its first anniversary. It currently contains 79 posts and is visited by around 100 people a day.

The wealth of quality Soul music is endless and I strongly believe that MUSIC is the most precious invention of humankind.

Some people say that “Silence is Gold” while others cherish moments of “Peace and quiet”. Well, I prefer when silence is broken and the air is filled with beautiful sounds that caress our ears and touch our souls.

Today I celebrate this special occasion with something…….different. I have uploaded for your listening pleasure an X-Rated Soulful House 12inch rarity. Add some kinky excitement to your musical horizons!!!

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 8:52
http://www.mediafire.com/?zvyg2dj3znt

GWEN GUTHRIE - "Never (gonna let you go)" - 1979

Mellow sweetness!!! This is the very first single recorded by the late Gwen Guthrie. In fact, this is a cameo appearance she did for a studio session group named CHARME. Included also in CHARME’s only LP entitled “Let it in” released on RCA Records in 1979.

*** Note that this LP also features an excellent version of “Georgy Porgy” performed by the one and only Luther Vandross.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:56
http://www.mediafire.com/?5hn785nqn6vb2cb

FINIS HENDERSON - "You owe it all to love" (1983)

A beautiful ballad co-written and produced by Al McKay (of Earth Wind & Fire). Taken from the 1983 LP “Finis” released on Motown Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:29
http://www.mediafire.com/?fjuhfd1izej

MARIYA TAKEUCHI - "Every night" (1980)

A sophisticated Jazzy-Soul “West Coast” gem from Japanese singer Mariya Takeuchi. This great track is co-written by her husband Tatsuro Yamashita. Musicians playing include David Foster, Jay Graydon, Steve Lukather and Jeff Porcaro. Taken from her excellent 1980 LP “Miss M” released on RCA Records in Japan.

I wanna send special thanks to my Italian friend LORENZO for this wonderful recording.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:28
http://www.divshare.com/download/17346321-978

GROVER WASHINGTON JR. feat. SPENCER HARRISON - "Monte Carlo nights" (1987)

This is my little tribute to Spencer Harrison. He was one of the most promising new singers emerging in the late 80s. He passed away quite unexpectedly in 1994 at the young age of 32. For more info about Spencer, visit the following link: http://www.soulwalking.co.uk/Spencer%20Harrison.html

The track I’ve chosen in his honor, is a classy collaboration with the late sax legend Grover Washington Jr. showcasing his amazing vocal talents. Taken from Grover’s 1987 LP “Strawberry moon” released on Columbia Records.

The download is no longer availble.

INES PERE - "J'adore" (1988 - Mix 'A la Parisienne')

Picture yourself at a Mykonos dancing club surrounded by beautiful people. This contagious French sexy groove defies categorization. I have the pleasure of providing you a very special version that came out only as a 12” single in 1988 released on independent French label “On the beat”.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 6:19

http://www5.zippyshare.com/v/95460124/file.html

TOM BROWNE - "A message (Pride & pity)" - 1981

Here’s one of the finest “Real Soul” compositions written by Jazz/Funk trumpeter Tom Browne. On lead vocals, Frank Floyd & Margie Barnes deliver an exceptional duet performance combining power and grace. Taken from his 1981 LP “Yours truly” released on GRP/Arista Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:53
http://www.mediafire.com/?0njzdgkhy4y

ELIZABETH HOGUE - "Dream lover" (1989)

Fantastic Soul stepper from one of the finest session female singers from Philly. Note that Liz is also Norman Harris’ niece. This great track is produced by Chris Jasper (from Isley Brothers) and is taken from her only 1989 LP “Vicious and fresh” released on Gold City Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 5:59
http://www.mediafire.com/?4o7y6bpdgph4yo8

CHI-LITES feat. Eugene Record - "Heavenly body" (1980)

Pure Soul at its best. It’s the title track from their 1980 LP released on 20th Century Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:22
http://www.mediafire.com/?xwwjzzqn4zg

DEBORAH HENSON-CONANT - "And then he kissed me..." (1991)

Here’s a very unique recording. Deborah plays the harp while she’s having a sexy improvised dialogue with Mino Cinelu creating an irresistible Jazzy mood. Taken from her 1991 CD album “Talking hands” released on GRP Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:44
http://www.mediafire.com/?hnh77mqaxy5i2p9

GARRY GLENN & SHEILA HUTCHINSON - "Feels good to feel good" (1987)

Garry Glenn was one of the most talented songwriters of the Modern Soul scene. This great duet with Sheila (of the group EMOTIONS) is taken from his second solo LP released on Motown Records in 1987. For more information about Garry’s work, visit the following link: http://www.soulwalking.co.uk/Garry%20Glenn.html

The download is no longer available.

SHEILA & B. DEVOTION - "Your love is good" (1980)

Another great CHIC production performed by French singer Sheila (born as Annie Chancel). Nile Rodgers & Bernard Edwards provide once again a fool-proof Soul-Disco groove second-to-none. Listen carefully to Nile’s Jazzy solo guitar……..simply wonderful.

Taken from Sheila’s 1980 LP “King of the world” released on Carrere Records in France. Note that this album includes also the hit single “Spacer” selling 5 million copies worldwide. The sound of CHIC is one of the kind!

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:55        

http://www70.zippyshare.com/v/78ZbBscG/file.html  

 

BILL SUMMERS feat. Larry Batiste - "Old oak tree" (1982)

A wonderful ballad by Jazz musician Bill Summers collaborating with great singer Larry Batiste. Taken from Bill’s 1982 LP “Seventeen” released on MCA Records.

Download file below - Total time 3:33

http://www4.zippyshare.com/v/34982466/file.html 

MYSTIC MOODS - "The other side of midnight" (1975)

An exceptional Soul instrumental taken from the 1975 LP “Erogenous” released on Sound Bird Records. Magical mid-70s smooth arrangement bringing back the good old days.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:59

http://www52.zippyshare.com/v/7453090/file.html 

SHIRLEY BROWN - "Boyfriend" (1984)

Pure Modern Soul offering by Shirley Brown, one of the finest living Soul legends. Taken from her wonderful 1984 LP "Intimate storm" released on Sound Town Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 5:13

http://www14.zippyshare.com/v/34480821/file.html 

CURTIS MAYFIELD - "Tell me, tell me, how ya like to be loved" (1979)

Sizzling hot Philly-Disco gem showcasing Curtis’ unmistakable sexy sound. The track was written & produced by Norman Harris and Ron Tyson. Taken from his classic 1979 LP “Heartbeat” released on RSO Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 6:26
http://www.mediafire.com/?gyvwoygtzim

CHERYL LYNN - "Day after day" (1982)

This is “hands-down” the best composition ever written by Tawatha Agee. Cheryl’s soulful performance along with Luther Vandross’ awesome arrangement & production creates a magical collaboration made in heaven. Taken from her flawless 1982 LP “Instant love” released on Columbia Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:32
http://www.divshare.com/download/17346450-e3f

CUBA GOODING SR. - "Meant to be in love" (1993)

He is very well known as the lead singer of the legendary group THE MAIN INGREDIENT. I chose the title track of his 1993 solo CD album released on Triune Records. Wonderful stepper featuring Tawatha Agee and Vaneese Thomas on backing vocals.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:05

http://www65.zippyshare.com/v/86912861/file.html  

KELLEE PATTERSON - "Turn on the lights" (1977)

Celestial “sexy” arrangement that highlights Kellee’s sensual vocal delivery. One of the most amazing mid-70s mellow Disco grooves taken from her 1977 LP “Be happy” released on Shady Brook Records. Enjoy to the max!!!

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 7:49
http://www.mediafire.com/?5e499npe2yfgj62

R.J.'s LATEST ARRIVAL - "What becomes of a broken heart" (1988 - Sax mix / U.S. Promo version)

This is a “Promotional Only” Killer 80s Groove laced with a wonderful Sax solo. Note that the original version of this track can be found on their 1988 LP “Truly yours” released on Capitol Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:44
http://www.mediafire.com/?9ae22iq66m28aol

LIONEL RICHIE & DIANA ROSS - "Dreaming of you" (1981)

A totally overlooked gem by Lionel & Diana from 1981. This joyous soulful track appeared only on the 1981 film soundtrack "Endless love" released on Mercury Records.

Download file below (192 kbps) - Total time 4:30

http://www33.zippyshare.com/v/4113699/file.html  

BARACK ATTACK !!!!

At last it’s all Black! Don’t forget that every form of QUALITY art has been always Black……with few White exceptions which where also influenced by Black unique style.

It’s no wonder that Obama’s eloquent victory speech was held in Chicago – a city that starts with “Chic”.................LOL.

Barack Obama is a man of integrity and inspires hope not only in USA but all over the world. Let’s enjoy the ride.

KLEEER feat. Isabelle Coles - "Sippin' and kissin'" (1981)

“Sippin’ some wine and kissin’ on you”……...unforgettable memories!!!! Sweet-voiced Isabelle Coles of the group Kleeer performs a “killer” sensual ballad second to none. Taken from their 1981 LP “License to dream” released on Atlantic Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:21
http://www.mediafire.com/?u962xwbcddhhdd2

DIANA, MARVIN, SMOKEY & STEVIE - "Pops we love you" (1979)

A dreamy collaboration from Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson & Stevie Wonder singing a tribute song to Berry Gordy founder of MOTOWN Records who passed away in 1978 at 90 years old.

This fantastic groove was written and produced by Pam Sawyer & Marilyn McLeod and released as a 7” single on Motown Records in 1979.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:51
http://www.4shared.com/mp3/IK3QdY_m/DIANA_MARVIN_SMOKEY__STEVIE_-_.html

DIONNE WARWICK - "We never said goodbye" (1980)

By far the sweetest song ever written by the late Isaac Hayes. Dionne is in top form - as always – showcasing her remarkable vocal skills. Taken from her 1980 LP “No night so long” released on Arista Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:43
http://www.mediafire.com/?zumnkmj1xdm

CHAD BORJA - "Kung ako lang sana" (2000)

…...and surprises keep coming. This time I provide you with an excellent Modern Soul upbeat track all the way from Philippines!!! Taken from his wonderful 2000 CD album “Show me the way” released on Warner Music and produced by famous Japanese musician Yutaka Yokokura.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:17

http://www64.zippyshare.com/v/55245472/file.html  

PEPI TSESMELI - "Flirt" (1998)

Everybody in this lifetime has some “Guilty Sins” in music. Well, this Greek rarity right here, goes beyond sin. It’s a wicked sleazy groove with a surprising Jazzy Soul feel. You don’t really need to know details about this sassy Greek vixen……trust me. Just lay back and enjoy the music.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:21
http://www.mediafire.com/?rpy0n2rgcvf4xot

SAMUEL JONATHAN JOHNSON - "Just us" (1978)

Keyboard player Samuel J. Johnson performs a magnificent mellow stepper taken from his only album entitled “My music” released on Columbia Records in 1978. Note that this rare album is scheduled to be released on CD for the first time sometime soon. Don’t miss it.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 3:00

http://www4.zippyshare.com/v/36671261/file.html 

EDEE - "Make it last" (1977)

Smooth Chicago "Steppin' style" at its best!!! One of the rarest Soul 7-inch singles by obscure artist EDEE. Released on ICA Records in 1977. Originally released locally in Chicago on Chi Heat Records the same year as EDEE LEATHERWOOD. I would really appreciate your comments on this one.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 3:28
http://www.divshare.com/download/17378241-783

CHIC - "Falling in love with you" (1977)

Chic-wise. The art of being elegant, sophisticated, classy, posh. The sound of CHIC that changed completely our perception about soulful music. One step beyond Philly Sound with tight compressed grooves combined with unique smoothness!!!

Listen carefully to this mellow ballad: Norma Jean Wright on lead and Luther Vandross on backing vocals under the guidance of Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards create instant magic!!!!

Taken from their debut self-titled 1977 LP released on Atlantic Records. At that time I was only 12 years old and I had the feeling that music was made in heaven……..

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 4:28

http://www34.zippyshare.com/v/71582694/file.html

PHYLLIS HYMAN - "You're the one" (1977 - Previously unreleased)

By far the most talented and one of the most beautiful female singers ever lived on this planet. Although she passed away in 1995 at the age of 46, her work is still considered as the epitome of Soul-Jazz elegance.

“You’re the one” is a previously unreleased gem written by John Davis and recorded in 1977. Note that this song was also recorded by Ray Simpson in 1978 and was included on his LP entitled “Tiger love” produced by Ashford & Simpson.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 5:22

http://www30.zippyshare.com/v/84696446/file.html 

THE WHISPERS - "Say yes" (1981)

The sound of The Whispers is beyond classic. "Say yes" is one of the finest moments of their magnificent work. Taken from their 1981 LP "Love is where you find it" released on Solar Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 5:08

http://www40.zippyshare.com/v/72385274/file.html  

JOELLE URSULL - "Ayin....non" (1990)

This is the first time I'm posting a cover record. Well, this particular version is a brilliant arrangement on SADE's "Nothing can come between us" performed in French by the lovely Joelle Ursull. Taken from her 1990 CD album "Black French" released on CBS Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 4:46
http://www.mediafire.com/?yhsfbhp1ums948s

SOLOMON BURKE - "You and your baby blues" (1975)

One of the most sensuous mid-70s Soul grooves from legendary Solomon Burke. Taken from his 1975 LP "Music to make love by" released on Chess Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 5:47

http://www41.zippyshare.com/v/75630477/file.html  

MINNIE RIPERTON - "Here we go" (1980)

Minnie will always be remembered as one of the finest voices in Soul music. This superb Modern Soul track was released one year after her death and was co-written by her husband and great producer Richard Rudolph.

Check also the wonderful guest performance by Peabo Bryson. Taken from her posthumous 1980 LP “Love lives forever” released on Capitol Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 4:02

http://www33.zippyshare.com/v/10130468/file.html  

SPINNERS - "Toni my love" (1976)

A true MASTERPIECE from the legendary Detroit Spinners. Philippe Wynne is featured on lead vocals. Both production and songwriting by the great Thom Bell are absolutely flawless. Taken from their 1976 LP "Happiness is being with the Spinners" released on Atlantic Records.

Please note that Pervis Jackson, bass singer and an original member of the Spinners passed away at the age of 70, a week ago on Monday August 18th at Sinai-Grace hospital in Detroit, Michigan.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 3:39

http://www41.zippyshare.com/v/63969821/file.html   

DEBBIE CAMERON & RICHARD BOONE - "Stop foolin' yourself" (1978)

There are no words to describe this delightful soulful gem. Taken from their 1978 rare LP "Brief encounter" released on Metronome Records. I look forward to your comments.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 3:09
http://www.mediafire.com/?jkoscpg4czl


New Blog online: For all Soul connoisseurs out there, there is an amazing new Blog at http://www.souldennis.blogspot.com/ . Please visit often for rare Soul recordings that will blow your mind. Mark my words!!!

Time off for some holidays

As you know, summer in Greece means HOLIDAYS. So, I will be off for about 4 weeks and then I’ll get back for more “essensual” grooves for your listening pleasure so stay tuned !!!

While I’m away, I provide you here below a surprise download – one of my well-kept secrets (15 minutes long) – Jazzy, kinky, sleazy, downright sexy….

http://www.mediafire.com/?uzgmejnfgae

Whoever donates 5€ by PayPal, will be entitled to be informed about artist and title of this extremely rare track only by email.

CRAIG T. COOPER - "When you love somebody" (1996)

This is an imaginative Soul-Jazz groove which utilizes perfectly the combination of 2 classic Soul standards: Marvin Gaye’s “Sexual healing” and Teddy Pendergrass’ “When somebody loves you back”. It features Julie Delgado on female backing vocals.

Craig T. Cooper is a top-notch Jazz guitarist/producer/ songwriter having produced numerous quality soulful projects for many artists such as Krystol, Denise Stewart, Whispers and many others.

This great track is taken from his 1996 CD album “A romantic letter” released on Sin-Drome Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 5:06

http://www22.zippyshare.com/v/58384349/file.html 

EDITH LEFEL - "Mon ange" (2002)

One of the most elegant women ever lived. Although she passed away in 2003 at the age of 39, today she's still considered as the finest artist of "Zouk-Love" music derived from French Antilles.

Born in French Guyana, at 3 she moved to Martinique and at 14 she finally moved to Paris France. She recorded 5 wonderful studio albums and she collaborated with many other notable Caribbean artists such as Malavoi.

The track I've chosen, is taken from her last album entitled "Si seulement" recorded in 2002 and released on Creon Music. Soulful Caribbean finesse at its best.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 3:26

http://www39.zippyshare.com/v/53951582/file.html  

TEDDY PENDERGRASS - "You're my choice tonight" (1984)

Brilliant work from "Teddy Bear". Written, arranged and produced by Luther Vandross & Marcus Miller. This track was also the theme song for the 1984 movie "Choose me" starring Lesley Ann Warren with Keith Carradine. Taken from his lovely 1984 LP "Love language" released on Elektra Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 4:48
http://www.divshare.com/download/17346496-fa9

FREDDY COLE - "Secret world" (1983)

Warm & mellow Jazzy Soul from Nat King Cole’s brother Freddy. Although it was recorded for a small independent label, the overall sound is very professional. Taken from his rare 1983 LP “Like a quiet storm” released on Dinky Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 4:00

http://www32.zippyshare.com/v/87868889/file.html 

DONNA McGHEE - "Make it last forever" (1978)

Amazing slow-burning SEXY mid-tempo arranged by Patrick Adams. The strings arrangement sounds a lot like Barry White providing an engaging soulful setting for Donna’s sultry vocals. It’s the title track from her 1978 LP released on independent label Red Greg Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 8:20

http://www28.zippyshare.com/v/12723737/file.html 

ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK - "I love making love to you" (1976)

Believe it or not, this is a classy Soul stepper co-written and produced by Bobbi Eli (MFSB’s guitarist) !!!! Timeless melody with a Philly-Sound instrumentation taken from his 1976 LP “After the lovin'” released on Epic Records.

Many thanks to my friend/collector Souldennis for introducing this majestic track to me.

“Maxim” magazine has Humperdinck listed as being number 5 on its top ten "Living Sex Legends" list, as he is reputed to have slept with over 3000 women!!!!

The download is no longer available.

YOKO HATANAKA - "More sexy" (Moa sekushi) - 1981

The “Mystery track” is finally here. One of the sexiest Rare Grooves ever recorded in Japan!!! Taken from her ultra-rare 1981 LP “Hakujitsumu” released on Victor Records only in Japan.

Note that this porn-orientated mellow groove was heard for the first time in the 1980 rare Japanese movie “Ai no hakujitsumu” (Love daydream) directed by Koyu Ohara. It’s worthy to note that Yoko Hatanaka was also the leading actress in this film!!!

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 4:27

http://www.divshare.com/download/17346153-c66

CLIFF DAWSON - "Don't hide away from love" (1982)

Brilliant 2-Step Soul magic in a style that sounds like Whispers at their best!!! Especially the last minute of the track becomes very erotic thanks to a great vocal interplay between Cliff and Ullanda McCullough. Taken from his only 1982 self-titled LP produced by Lionel Job and released on Boardwalk Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 4:56
http://www.divshare.com/download/17378589-309

KAREN CARPENTER - "My body keeps changing my mind" (1979)

Magical Blue-eyed Soul-Boogie from the late Karen Carpenter. This track is a part of her only solo self-titled album she recorded in 1979 but remained unreleased until 1996. Buy this CD album while you can - it also includes 2 Fantastic original gems written by the great Rod Temperton!!!

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 3:41

http://www11.zippyshare.com/v/24683826/file.html