TAKAKO MAMIYA – “All or nothing” (1982)

The wealth of soulful Japanese gems seems to be endless. Check this wicked midtempo taken from her only LP “Love trip” released on USM Records.  

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:21

http://www25.zippyshare.com/v/82165079/file.html

CAMEO – “I’ll always stay” (1981)

The mellow moments of the Funk group CAMEO were really something. Check this outstanding smoothie taken from their 1981 LP “Knights of the sound table” released on Chocolate City Records.  

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:50

http://www30.zippyshare.com/v/65855980/file.html  

AMY KEYS – “Everytime I close my eyes” (1989)

This beautiful melody brings back great memories from the late 80s. Taken from her only LP “Lover’s intuition” released on Epic Records in 1989.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 5:20

http://www12.zippyshare.com/v/13420107/file.html

SPOOKY & SUE – “I’ve got the need” (1975)

Here’s a wonderful sweet soulful Disco tune all the way from Holland. It’s worthy to note that it’s co-written by Al Goodman and Harry Ray, two legendary members of THE MOMENTS and RAY GOODMAN & BROWN.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 2:51

http://www61.zippyshare.com/v/44346102/file.html  

FORCE MD’s – “I wanna know your name” (1992)

Simply a wonderful rendition of the 1973 classic by The Intruders.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 5:10

http://www40.zippyshare.com/v/71397104/file.html

PRESSURE feat. Ronnie Laws – “Fantastic dreams” (1979)

Fantastic project produced by sax legend Ronnie Laws back in 1979 where he’s also featured on lead vocals. Many thanks to my friend SoulLakis from Volos who reminded me this lost gem.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 6:22

http://www10.zippyshare.com/v/2544981/file.html

TAWATHA AGEE w/ Ebenezer Baptist Church Choir – “There’s a hope” (1975)

Due to Easter celebrations, here’s a rare Gospel performance by the greatest vocalist of our time…..Miss Tawatha Agee.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 5:05

http://www62.zippyshare.com/v/33534199/file.html  

JIM HURT – “I love women” (1980)

Outstanding Blue-eyed Soul find which sounds like Boz Scaggs back in the day. Released only as a 12” single on Scotti Brothers Records.

 

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:38

http://www21.zippyshare.com/v/63243583/file.html

PATSY GALLANT – “Libre pour l’amour” (1976)

Canadian Patsy Gallant delivers a delightful soulful nugget taken from her 1976 LP “Besoin d’amour” released on Attic Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:40

http://www47.zippyshare.com/v/81935671/file.html

CHARLES JACKSON – “Passionate breezes” (1978)

Charles (also known as Chuck) collaborated with Marvin Yancy creating a very powerful songwriting/producing duo that were behind some of the biggest hits of Natalie Cole. The song I chose is the title track taken from his first solo LP released on Capitol Records in 1978.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:29

http://www34.zippyshare.com/v/93374578/file.html

EVELYN KING – “I’m just warming up” (1982)

Sweet and mellow session by a songstress who used to be more famous doing Disco and Funky stuff back in the day. Taken from her 1982 LP “Get loose” released on RCA Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:13

http://www57.zippyshare.com/v/89748888/file.html

RAY AN FUENTES – “Saying goodbye” (1983)

Here’s a great mellow obscurity all the way from Philippines. Taken from his only LP entitled “I’m coming out” released on WEA Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:18

http://www24.zippyshare.com/v/87266981/file.html    

DEBRA LAWS – “Your love” (1981)

One of my favorite melodies performed by the very talented singer and actress Debra Laws. Taken from her debut LP “Very special” co-produced by her sibling Hubert & Ronnie Laws. Released on Elektra Records in 1981.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:39

http://www51.zippyshare.com/v/77242693/file.html

BERNARD EDWARDS feat. Jocelyn Brown – “Don’t do me wrong’” (1983)

CHIC’s co-founder Bernard Edwards was one of the best bass players ever. Check this wonderful melody taken from his only solo LP “Glad to be here” released on Atlantic Records in 1983.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:38

http://www55.zippyshare.com/v/46241685/file.html

 

Ms. SHARON RIDLEY – “Changin’’” (1978)

Sharon recorded only 2 LPs in 1971 and 1978 respectively. The featured track is definitely the best one taken from her 2^nd album released on Tabu Records, co-written, produced and arranged by the great Jerry Peters.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 6:26

http://www48.zippyshare.com/v/70238326/file.html

RCR – “Give it to you” (1980)

Blue-eyed Soul Disco recorded from an obscure trio named RCR (aka Rhodes Chalmers & Rhodes). This great gem sounds like Bee Gees at their very best as from late ‘70s !!!

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:36

http://www18.zippyshare.com/v/94871063/file.html

SHIRO SAGISU feat. Jennifer Ingram-Brown – “Stuck on me” (1999)

Superb production! Japanese prolific producer & composer Shiro Sagisu teams up with U.S. vocalist Jennifer Ingram creating soulful sensation like no other. This gem could easily sweep music charts in the early 80s all over the world, don’t you agree?

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 7:05

http://www6.zippyshare.com/v/87776777/file.html

ALEKA KANELLIDOU – “Argises” (You’re late) – 2002

I’m back after a short absence with a tasteful Greek offering arranged wonderfully by my very good friend Harris Varthakouris. Aleka Kanellidou is one of the very few genuine Jazzy ladies in Greece possessing a distinctive warm mellow voice.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:07

http://www72.zippyshare.com/v/93246684/file.html 

CHUCK MANGIONE feat. Rob Mathes – “Do you ever think about me?” (1988)

Surprisingly soulful collaboration between Jazz trumpeter Chuck Mangione and multi-talented artist Rob Mathes. Co-written, arranged and produced by the great Thom Bell. Taken from Mangione’s LP “Eyes of the veiled temptress” released on CBS Records in 1988.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:32
http://www28.zippyshare.com/v/4085885/file.html

HERITAGE SINGERS – “Rain your love” (1984)

Heavenly harmonies combined with a flawless melody create the definition of “Real Music”. Performed only by the 4 female singers. Taken from their 1984 LP “From the heart” released in 1984. Although I am Greek, I have to admit that the musicality of English language is second to none. In my humble opinion, this track is one of the finest songs you’ll ever hear in your entire life.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:15
http://www70.zippyshare.com/v/1939716/file.html  

KWICK – “Let this moment be forever” (1980)

KWICK was a Soul-Funk Band from Memphis. Here’s a wonderful stepper taken from their debut self-titled LP released on EMI Records in 1980.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:15
http://www31.zippyshare.com/v/25264835/file.html

SYLVIA ST. JAMES – “Grace” (1981)

Here’s one of the best Soul melodies ever written by Jazz sax player Ronnie Laws. Taken from Sylvia’s 2nd LP “Echoes & images” released on Elektra Records in 1981.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 5:46
http://www53.zippyshare.com/v/32353550/file.html

RON PARKS – “The game” (2004)

By far the best male vocalist who has emerged the last 10 years. He possesses a sexy & warm baritone voice sounding like a cross between Brook Benton and Isaac Hayes. Enjoy this great groove lifted from his debut album “Warm, smooth and phonky” released in 2004.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:36
http://www32.zippyshare.com/v/28954161/file.html

My Top-10 favorite soulful tracks for 2013

1. MAYSA LEAK & BLUEY – Good morning sunrise
2. SHEREE BROWN – Being in love with you
3. PHARRELL WILLIAMS - Happy
4. NAJEE feat. MELI’SA MORGAN – In the mood to take it slow
5. ROBIN BRAMLETT – This is my life
6. C. ROBERT WALKER – Something’s going on
7. WILL DOWNING & AVERY SUNSHINE – You were meant just for me
8. GUIDA DE PALMA & LEON WARE – A seed in you
9. TYRONE LEE – Get 2 know U
10. JANELLE MONAE – Dorothy Dandridge eyes

JAKI GRAHAM & DEREK BRAMBLE – “Let’s get blue” (1986)

Back to British Soul with an amazing sensual stepper. Derek Bramble (of the Group “HEATWAVE”) penned this great track performing wonderfully a duet with Jaki Graham from 1986. Taken from Jaki’s LP “Breaking away” released on EMI Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:28
http://www22.zippyshare.com/v/90625194/file.html

VINCE ANDREWS with KELLY CRUM – “Love, oh love” (1983)

Quite impressive Jazzy Soul offering from Sax player & singer Vince Andrews on this great duet taken from his debut LP released on Gerard Records in 1983.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:39
http://www46.zippyshare.com/v/60030693/file.html

MARION JARVIS – “Hell of a fix” (1974)

Here’s a delightful obscurity from an artist who recorded only 2 singles. This is her debut one released on Roxbury Records in 1974.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:24
http://www38.zippyshare.com/v/23472071/file.html

BOB JAMES feat. Rasheeda – “Sweet talk me now” (1999)

For some time now I was thinking which soulful track I should post from multi-talented pianist Bob James. Well, I chose an appropriate sensual nugget from 1999 featuring Rasheedah Buckner on lead vocals taken from his album “Joy ride” released on Warner Bros Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:48
http://www42.zippyshare.com/v/8459896/file.html

COFFEE – “Love’s alive” (1982)

Female trio from Chicago performs a wonderful stepper taken from their 2nd LP entitled “Second cup” released on De-Lite Records in 1982. Produced by Tony Valor.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:21
http://www31.zippyshare.com/v/36736094/file.html  

KEVIN OWENS with LUTHER VANDROSS – “You’re my everything” (1991)

Here’s a delectable duet between Kevin & Luther putting a new spin on the Temptations’ classic 1967 hit. Taken from Kevin’s only LP entitled “That time again” released on JBR Records in 1991.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 5:25
http://www57.zippyshare.com/v/91884425/file.html

TAKESHI ITOH feat. Cindy Fee – “This masquerade” (1984)

My UK friend Paul Grestock surprised me once again with this exceptional cover version of Leon Russell’s classic. Taken from Japanese saxman TAKESHI ITOH’s debut LP “Dear hearts” released on Columbia Records in 1984 in Japan. Personnel include Nathan East, Steve Lukather, Marcus Miller, Paul Jackson Jr., John Robinson and Larry Williams among others.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 6:03
http://www56.zippyshare.com/v/20709809/file.html

NIKITA GERMAINE – “My lovin’ man” (1999)

Here’s a lesser-known sensual treat by Nikita Germaine who possesses a unique voice and an inimitable signing style.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:50
http://www7.zippyshare.com/v/94626477/file.html

DECO – “Delicious” (1983)

Multi-talented ATTALA ZANE GILES and PHILLIP INGRAM (of the Group SWITCH), formed the duo DECO for only one album in 1983. Enjoy this great stepper which was also covered by TERRY STEELE in 1990.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:52
http://www47.zippyshare.com/v/4799706/file.html

RENE & ANGELA – “Everything we do” (1980)

33 years after this classic release, I can go on listening to this gem over and over again! To me, the magic of this song is beyond compare. A true evidence why music is the best invention of mankind. Period.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 5:17
http://www51.zippyshare.com/v/10705748/file.html 

RAIN BOWS VALLEY – “You’ve got everything” (1982)

What you see is what you get. An obscure 7” rarity from 1982. Indie Soul for those who’re looking for something extra……..

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:07
http://www75.zippyshare.com/v/35816256/file.html

SASSAFRAS – “I gave you love” (1978)

One-off project from 1978 released on H&L Records. This great track written by John Ingram (member of the Groups “Ingram” and “MFSB”). Vocals arranged by the very talented Barbara Ingram.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:14
http://www51.zippyshare.com/v/46343988/file.html

SEX O’CLOCK U.S.A. – “Get it up baby” (1976)

Great mellow Disco number taken from an obscure movie soundtrack released only in France and Canada in 1976. Music by Mort Shuman.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:46
http://www17.zippyshare.com/v/84235510/file.html

THE CAMPLAMENTS – “Falling in love” (1977)

Very obscure recording from 1977 released on 7” single as a B side on Dakar Records. 100% pure Soul session finally at your disposal……

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:36
http://www74.zippyshare.com/v/55934062/file.html

MASAYO KAWAGUCHI – “Melty” (1981)

The beauty of Japanese Soul is here again, this time with a great arrangement by Shigeru Suzuki. Taken from Masayo’s rare LP “Salute” released on “For Life Records” in 1981 in Japan.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:56
http://www28.zippyshare.com/v/59674487/file.html

THE NEO-JAZZ PROJECT – “We got to hold on” (2009)

Here’s another great find from my friend SoulLakis from Volos who has the knack of discovering deep soulful nuggets like this. A very talented trio from Detroit consisting of lead vocalist PATTI BIJOU, bassist ANTHONY BEAUFORD and guitarist DUANE FULLER who also produced this great project. Although it’s recorded in 2009, it sounds like late ‘80s kinda stuff.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:39
http://www11.zippyshare.com/v/39647076/file.html

VEE ALLEN – “If you spare the time” (1983)

Although she cut four 7” singles from 1972 to 1973, she recorded only one album in 1983 produced by Al Hudson. From this album entitled “All about love” I chose a delightful mellow stepper for your listening pleasure. Enjoy!

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:20
http://www70.zippyshare.com/v/94088015/file.html  

CHOCOLATE MILK – “How about love” (1976)

Back to Old-School Soulful era presenting a Funk-oriented Group delivering a beautiful mellow number which sounds like Con Funk Shun at their best. Taken from their 3d self-titled LP released on RCA Victor Records in 1976.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 5:54
http://www58.zippyshare.com/v/10754691/file.html

BENITA ARTERBERRY with DERRICK McCAMPELL – “It’s always been about you” (1991)

Exquisite romantic duet between Benita & Derrick providing an excellent backdrop for tender erotic night affairs. Taken from Benita’s debut CD album entitled “Thank you” released on SBK Records in 1991.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 6:30
http://www47.zippyshare.com/v/30188130/file.html

PIECES OF A DREAM – “Fo Fi Fo” (1983)

Great memories from a Group which was introduced by the late sax legend Grover Washington Jr. This lovely track is co-written by Grover, Dexter Wansel and Cynthia Biggs. Taken from their 3d LP “Imagine this” released on Elektra Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:39
http://www30.zippyshare.com/v/33402091/file.html  

LINDA LEWIS – “I do my best to impress” (1975)

British underrated sweet vocalist Linda Lewis performs an excellent Soul number with a Jazzy twist, taken from her 1975 LP “Not a little girl anymore” released on Arista Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:31
http://www66.zippyshare.com/v/30225227/file.html

MICHAEL HENDERSON – “Never gonna give you up” (1981)

Co-written by Kenneth Gamble, Leon Huff and Jerry Butler. Simply one of the best Soul songs ever recorded. Enjoy !

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:09
http://www41.zippyshare.com/v/31109599/file.html

MILLIE SCOTT – “Don’t take your love” (1987)

Here’s one of my favorite melodies recorded by Millie Scott. It’s worthy to note that it’s co-written by Michael J. Powell and Vernon Fails (members of Chapter 8). Taken from her 1987 LP “Love me right” released on 4th & Broadway Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 5:57
http://www63.zippyshare.com/v/7763071/file.html

JAY AND THE TECHNIQUES – “Number wonderful” (1975)

I’m back from summer holidays with a great Modern Soul 7incher released back in 1975. Tailor made for your selective soulful tastes……

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:52
http://www32.zippyshare.com/v/82396295/file.html  

WALTER MURPHY – “Afternoon of faun” (1979)

Once again many thanks to my friend SoulLakis from Volos for reminding me this wicked Jazzy Soul instrumental by the great pianist/arranger/producer Walter Murphy. Taken from his 1979 LP “Disco symphony” released on New York Intl. Records.


Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 8:03
http://www2.zippyshare.com/v/99839757/file.html