HEATWAVE – “Turn around” (1980)

I was in high school when this wicked groove came out. An unforgettable era where Music was something very special in everybody’s life. Mellow Funk of the highest quality taken from their 1980 LP “Candles” released on Epic Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:53
http://www.mediafire.com/?bx7sojxcd0ocj1b

LOLEATTA HOLLOWAY – “Cry to me” (1975)

One of the most soulful moments of the late Loleatta Holloway. Co-written by the great Sam Dees. It’s the title track of her 1975 LP released on Aware Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 5:45
http://www.mediafire.com/?b1ddg32i5352lv7

GENE PAGE feat. Merry Clayton – “With you in the night” (1980)

Magical collaboration between two of the most prolific artists in the Soul scene. The producer/arranger Gene Page and session singer Merry Clayton. This great composition was co-written by Leon Ware and Herb Alpert. Taken from Gene’s LP “Love starts after dark” released on Arista Records in 1980.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:52

http://www.mediafire.com/?2q4z1kdt9tpn7ff

MARVA HICKS – “Looking over my shoulder” (1978)

This is Marva Hicks’ very first recording released only on 7” single on Infinity Records in 1978. She joined the group “The Eighties Ladies” in 1981 and then she became well-known when she recorded her debut solo album in 1991 on Polydor Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:34http://www.mediafire.com/?ynuj9dvyqvmp0z7

SAMMY DAVIS JR. – “Keep your eye on the sparrow” (1976)

Sammy was a very talented dancer, singer, multi-instrumentalist impressionist, comedian and actor. Here he performs a classic Jazzy Soul tune written by the great Dave Grusin. It was the main theme for the detective TV series “Baretta” aired on ABC in the late ‘70s.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 2:24http://www.mediafire.com/?7nubh9b2nl337c2

ERI KOJIMA – “Lonely feeling” (1984)

Japanese Soul rarity at its best !!! This gem is going to blow you away. Released only as a B side of her 7” single “Foul play” on Canyon Records in 1984 in Japan. Stay tuned for more Japanese Soul magic in future posts.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 5:19
http://www.mediafire.com/?9m35my3at6r39j9

DAVID SIMMONS – “Hooked on you” (1979)

David is born in Philly while his voice is very similar to that of Teddy Pendergrass. I chose a wonderful stepper written by Butch Ingram. Taken from David’s 2nd LP entitled “The world belongs to me” released on Fantasy Records in 1979.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:14
http://www.mediafire.com/?f5wexbl4w4ngd3u

FAMILY OF EVE – “Having it so bad for you”

Feel-good Rare Groove from the late ‘70s. Released only on 7” single on indie label Full Sail Records. For those who like to chase obscure recordings, this one is a fine example that reminds us that the wealth of quality Soul music around the late 70s and early 80s is endless.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:46http://www.mediafire.com/?7g2q42x5i8obl59

ENCHANTMENT – “Don’t fight the feeling” (1983)

Smooth Modern Soul from Detroit group Enchantment. This mellow track was produced by the great Michael Stokes and it’s taken from their 1983 LP “Utopia” released on Columbia Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:44
http://www.mediafire.com/?zc5l9b25g7gaj7s

STARPOINT – “Try me” (1981)

Here’s one of my favourite Soul-Funk Groups of the ‘80s. I chose the track “Try me” taken from their 1981 LP “Wanting you” released on Chocolate City Records. Needless to say that lead vocalist Renee Diggs who emerged from that group was one of the most talented vocalists in the history of Soul music.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 5:04
http://www.mediafire.com/?5d4fi4bwb0cwi5p

WAYNE HENDERSON feat. RON BANKS – “Dancin’ love affair” (1979)

Wonderful collaboration between Wayne Henderson (of The Crusaders) and the late Ron Banks (of The Dramatics). Taken from Wayne’s LP “Emphasized” released on Polydor Records in 1979.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:00
http://www.mediafire.com/?8cnwokwm4kkhuqu

YOLANDA ADAMS – “My everything” (1991)

Yolanda Adams is one of the most talented vocalists in Gospel music. In the early 90s she recorded 3 remarkable albums with producer Ben Tankard. The track I chose here for my post is also co-written by Yolanda and Ben and it’s taken from her 1991 album “Through the storm” released on Tribute Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:41
http://www.mediafire.com/?mp0rm4aucn8wi26

JERRY KNIGHT – “She’s got to be (a dancer)” - 1982

Let’s spice things up with a great Funky Soul number from 1982 produced by Leon Haywood. Taken from Jerry Knight’s LP “Love’s on our side” released on A&M Records. Let the groove carry you away!!!

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 5:10
http://www.mediafire.com/?n8en8qrsotqhq67

WHITNEY HOUSTON – 2 Rare Soulful Sessions – R.I.P.

Since February 1st we lost two remarkable vocalists: David Peaston and Whitney Houston. I have already posted David back in December 5, 2009. As far as Whitney is concerned, I decided to post 2 sublime rare steppers which she recorded back in 1990. “Feels so good” was written by Bryan Loren and “Dancing on the smooth edge” was co-written by David Lasley and Robbie Long. Both tracks were produced by Narada Michael Walden. These 2 gems were never released on CD and showcase Whitney’s commanding vocal range and soulful emotion.

Feels so good – Total time 5:08
http://www.divshare.com/download/16821321-21d

Dancing on the smooth edge – Total time 5:01
http://www.divshare.com/download/16821335-81e

GLENN JONES – “Show me” (1984)

Here’s one of the best compositions written by the great songwriter La Forest Cope aka La La. Taken from Glenn Jones’ 2nd LP entitled “Finesse” released on RCA Records in 1984.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fyewKj1s9tY

PATTI AUSTIN – “The heat of heat” (1985)

She is one of the finest vocalists in music business. Here she delivers a killer groove written and produced by the mighty duo of Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. Taken from her 1985 LP “Gettin’ away with murder” released on Qwest Records.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GC8Hbv1xdb8

LANIER & CO. – “I just got to have you” (1983)

An unforgettable moment of Modern Soul magic from the group LANIER & CO. formed in Jackson, Tennessee. Taken from their 1983 self-titled LP released on Larc Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:53
http://www.mediafire.com/?4qv0a6ob7o39et4

CISSY HOUSTON – “Gonna take the easy way out” (1980)

It’s about time to present this incredible vocalist. I chose an amazing track where Luther Vandross does his magic on backing vocals. Taken from her 1980 LP “Step aside for a lady” released on Columbia Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 6:14
http://www.divshare.com/download/19544526-974

THE ROSE BROTHERS – “In the mix” (1987)

Sublime stepper! The lead singer sounds like Teddy Pendergrass. It’s the title track from the group’s LP released on Muscle Shoals Sound Records in 1987.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zoxFVHLscbY

GAL – “Being seduced” (1978)

Here’s a lovely Japanese rarity from a female trio called GAL consisting of Hiroko Ishida, Riyo and Mayumi Kuroki. The title is translated while the lyrics are sung in Japanese.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:49

http://www.divshare.com/download/17346262-9ed

RONN MATLOCK – “You got the best of me” (1979)

Soul perfection guided by highly talented producer, arranger and songwriter Michael Stokes. Ronn Matlock is already known in the Rare Groove Community thanks to his sublime stepper “I can’t forget about you”. Well, I chose to post this divine track which is also co-written by Ronn Matlock and Michael Stokes taken from Ronn’s one and only LP entitled “Love city” released on Cotillion Records in 1979.

Listen below

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DdaHO3Sfa-k

BOBBI HUMPHREY – “Tailor made” (1977)

Classy Jazzy Soul recording from legendary flautist produced by the mighty Skip Scarborough. It’s the title track from her 1977 LP released on Epic Records. It’s worthy to note that musicians who play on this track include Ray Obiedo on guitar, Bill Summers on percussion, Charles Meeks on bass and of course Skip Scarborough on synthesizer.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:04

http://www66.zippyshare.com/v/80132040/file.html

MIDNIGHT STAR – “Love song” (1988)

Top-notch sexy stepper written by the group’s lead singer Belinda Lipscomb. Taken from their self-titled LP released on Solar Records in 1988.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 5:39

http://www32.zippyshare.com/v/95935985/file.html

CECIL PARKER – “You’re everything to me” (1984)

A delightful ear candy that sounds like The Stylistics at their best. Originally appeared on the B side of his 7” single “I think I’ll tell her” released on Philly Sound Works label in 1984. Many thanks to my friend Apostolis Barpakis (aka SoulLakis) from Volos who discovered this mellow gem.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eeIOe5ThQn0

ROBERTA FLACK – “Loving you” (1981)

Roberta Flack + Marcus Miller = Killer Groove! Taken from the Soundtrack LP “Bustin’ loose” released on MCA Records in 1981. Note that the same song was re-recorded by Marcus on his debut LP “Suddenly” in 1983 but this version here is a knockout.

Download file below (192 kbps) – Total time 5:53

http://www.mediafire.com/?p9q94n9e79mim6p

THE CONTROLLERS – “Somebody’s gotta win” (1977)

Pure Soul balladry of the highest calibre. 8 minutes of Soul heaven from the legendary group of The Controllers. Taken from their 1977 LP “In control” released on Juana Records.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygwZvbISyIY

JANE FOSTIN – “Par amour” (1997)

Jane Fostin is born in Guadeloupe and was a member of the legendary group Zouk Machine. Here she's featured on a wonderful Soul midtempo taken from her self-titled album released on BMG Records in France in 1997.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:11

http://www66.zippyshare.com/v/95247676/file.html

JOSE JOSE – “Solo tu y yo” (1981)

MEGA SURPRISE all the way from Mexico!!! One of the finest arrangements where Soul, Funk and Jazz blend together in perfect harmony. The overall groove sounds like Paulinho da Costa at his best. Taken from his 1981 LP “Gracias” released on Ariola Records.

Listen below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TK4vehYHn6w

STEPHANIE MILLS – “My love’s been good to you” (1981)

Co-written by Tawatha Agee and produced by James Mtume & Reggie Lucas. Need I say more? Divine work from Stephanie Mills, one of the best voices alive! Taken from her LP “Stephanie” released on 20th Century Records in 1981.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:11
http://www.divshare.com/download/19544540-03b

DAZZ BAND – “Gamble with my love” (1982)

One of my favourite steppers from Dazz Band (formerly known as Kinsman Dazz) taken from their 1982 LP “Keep it live” released on Motown Records.

Listen below

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkcrPKKlPeQ

KELLI WILLIAMS – “On my own” (1998)

I present with great pleasure an extraordinary vocalist. I still remember when I first heard her magical voice on her debut album in 1995 while she was only 17. The track I chose here for my post, is taken from her 2nd album entitled “I get lifted” released on Word Records in 1998.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eDRoR5yw2hM

SWITCH – “It’s so real” (1978)

SWITCH was a great band discovered by Jermaine Jackson. Group members included Phillip Ingram, Bobby and Tommy DeBarge, Greg Williams, Attala Zane Giles and Eddie Fluellan among others. This lovely stepper is written by Brenda Sutton and taken from their debut self-titled LP released on Gordy Records in 1978.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAYVeyZ29mU

SHEREE BROWN – “Happiness flows” (1981)

I’m back with one of my favourite underrated talents of the early ‘80s. Sheree Brown has been working closely with long time friend Patrice Rushen providing some of the most unforgettable Soul songs. This one here is taken from her debut LP entitled “Straight ahead” released on Capitol Records in 1981.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQmM4zLwlKc

TAVARES with FREDA PAYNE – “I wanna see you soon” (1977)

Wonderful collaboration released on 7" single on Capitol Records in UK in 1977. Talk is cheap, just enjoy and let the music flow !

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qZVqIht_1I

SHADES OF J. – “Seek the truth” (2007)

Janine "Lady J" Nash hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio, is a lyricist, poet and singer. She's the fornt woman for the soulful collective "Shades of J" blending perfectly poetry and Soul music. Check this thought-provoking and inspirational track taken from the CD album "Spoken word Soul" released on 70West / Full Circle Recordings in 2007.

Listen below

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhHTklgPfSo

ATLANTIC STARR – “Does it matter” (1980)

Let's have another blast from the past and particularly the magical year of 1980. Atlantic Starr scores with a superb album entitled "Radiant" produced by James Anthony Carmichael. I chose the jolly track "Does it matter" featuring David Lewis on lead vocals.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGvjdG1WBmU

LITTLE DOOLEY – “(It’s got to be) Now or never” (1972)

Here’s one of the rarest moments of early “Philly Sound” magic. Arranged and produced to perfection by Bobby Martin. Released only on 7inch single on North Bay Records in 1972.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcipArirzy4

AQUARIAN DREAM – “Once again” (1976)

Here’s a noteworthy Soul-Funk band which was assembled by Norman Connors. This particular mellow track features the amazing vocals of Gloria Jones. Taken from their debut LP entitled “Norman Connors presents Aquarian Dream” released on Buddah Records in 1976.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24vQYR12PtY

GARY TAYLOR with MARVA HICKS – “I will be here” (1995)

Sensual slow jam from two great voices for late-night quality-time listening. Taken from Gary’s CD album “The mood of midnight” released on Morning Crew Music in 1995.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Dx5KNQ8gw8

SHARON CUNETA – “So much in love” (1982)

Sharon Cuneta is a popular and multi-awarded Filipino singer, actress and TV host. Here’s a wonderful cover record originally recorded by Scottish Sheena Easton in 1980. Taken from her LP “Sharon & love” released the same year on Vicor Records only in Philippines.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:19

http://www8.zippyshare.com/v/55523907/file.html  

TRIBUTE TO ASHFORD & SIMPSON

Nickolas Ashford, one half of the legendary Motown songwriting team Ashford & Simpson, died of throat cancer at a New York hospital yesterday on August 22nd. He was only 69. Their contribution to mellow music is beyond compare! As a tribute to their legacy, I present 2 great tracks: The masterpiece instrumental “Bourgie bourgie” from 1977 and the gorgeous ballad “Crazy” from 1979. Enjoy!

Download both files below (320 kbps)
Bourgie bourgie (1977) – Total time 6:07
The download is no longer available.
Crazy (1979) – Total time 3:38
The download is no longer available.

SILVIO CESAR – “Pra voce” (1965)

Urbane, handsome and classy bossa crooner Silvio Cesar has had a lengthy and admirable career that has encompassed romantic balladry and big-time groovers. Here’s an exquisite melody taken from his LP “So tinha de ser…com Sylvio Cesar” released on Odeon Records in Brazil in 1965.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 2:39

http://www63.zippyshare.com/v/67739953/file.html 

ULLANDA McCULLOUGH – “If it’s time that you need” (1982)

Another underrated female vocalist that deserves your attention. Although she recorded only 3 solo LPs, she did plenty of quality Soul projects as a backing vocalist. This great track is taken from her 3d LP entitled “Watching you watching me” released on Atlantic Records in 1982.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsGooddC8yw

JOHNNY BRISTOL – “So good” (1993)

Here’s a special treat for you. Delectable stepper released only in Japan! Taken from his Jap CD album “Life & love” released on P-Vine Records in 1993. I’m sure you’re gonna love it immensely…..

Download file below (320 kbps) - Time 4:35

http://www3.zippyshare.com/v/77839910/file.html

QUINCY JONES feat. Paulette McWilliams – “Mellow madness” (1975)

Here’s the very first recording of Paulette McWilliams under the guidance of Quincy Jones, the master of Soul-Jazz excellence. It’s the title track of Quincy’s LP released on A&M Records in 1975.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:29

http://www21.zippyshare.com/v/28306319/file.html 

FATBACK feat. Gerry Bledsoe – “Please stay” (1983)

Special 12” single version from The Fatback Band released on Spring Records in 1983. Enjoy 8 minutes of Pure Soul bliss !!!!

Download file below (192 kbps) – Total time 8:15

http://www33.zippyshare.com/v/46167234/file.html 

AXELL HILARICUS – “Grace” (1992)

Summer is best represented by cool tropical sounds that carry you away to sandy beaches and sunny islands. For this reason I chose a unique track from the French Antilles that oozes sensuality, Caribbean vibes and elegance. Axell teams up with multi-instrumentalist Ralph Perroni. Taken from her rare debut self-titled LP released on J.E. Productions only in France.

Download file below (320 kbps) - Total time 5:05

http://www10.zippyshare.com/v/32003370/file.html  

ALLAN JEFFERS – “Stop still” (1977)

Feel-good groove released only in Europe on 7” single on Ariola Records in 1977. The magical decade of the ‘70s is full of hidden gems still to be discovered….

Listen below

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FaoPP2RNtZw