LAKESIDE – “Bullseye” (1987)

One of the best ballads written by talented songwriter Kenny Nolan. Taken from Lakeside’s 1987 LP “Power” released on Solar Records.


Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:15    http://www39.zippyshare.com/v/69380325/file.html  

HERBIE HANCOCK feat. Greg Walker – “Making love” (1980)

Splendid collaboration between Jazz master Herbie Hancock and Soul session vocalist Greg Walker. Taken from Herbie’s 1980 LP “Monster” released on Columbia Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 6:23
http://www31.zippyshare.com/v/15615391/file.html 

YVONNE WILLIAMS – “Love of my life” (1995)

Here’s one of the most underrated soulful vocalists of our times. Check this wonderful tune which sounds like Anita Baker at her best! Taken from her 1995 CD album “Back to innocence” released on A.N.T. Enterprises.


Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:45       http://www43.zippyshare.com/v/67586307/file.html

THE CHOICE FOUR – “When you’re young and in love” (1975)

One of the best projects produced by the legendary Van McCoy. Taken from the Group’s 2nd self-titled LP released on RCA Records.


Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:48     http://www21.zippyshare.com/v/76880149/file.html  

HIGH INERGY – “Will we ever love again” (1979)

In the mid ‘70s High Inergy were promoted as ‘the new Supremes’. I chose a wonderful stepper which is taken from their 4th LP “Frenzy” released on Gordy Records in 1979.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:31     http://www43.zippyshare.com/v/51405376/file.html 

JEFFREE – “Love loan” (1996)

Smooth and sweet Soul from JEFFREE (aka Jeff Perry) who is the brother of Greg Perry. This wonderful track is taken from his latest CD album entitled “Call it love” released on Creative Outlet Intl. in 1996.


Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:30
http://www21.zippyshare.com/v/77660830/file.html  

SHOODY – “Tokyo melody” (1981)

Feel-Good Groove recorded by an obscure Japanese songstress named Shoody. Sought after Modern Soul Boogie 7” single released on Invitation Records in 1981 only in Japan.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:39
http://www41.zippyshare.com/v/75514185/file.html  

CARL ANDERSON with VANEESE THOMAS – “It’s the love” (1984)

Simply one of the best Modern Soul duets recorded in the ‘80s. Taken from Carl’s LP “On and on” released on Epic Records in 1984.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:17 http://www.divshare.com/download/20681394-057

AKIRA JIMBO feat. Maxi Anderson – “Our sweet melody” (1989)

First of all I wanna thank my dear friend Paul Grestock who introduced me to this sublime Jazzy Soul gem which features Maxi Anderson on lead vocals. She is one of my all-time-favorite singers. This exceptional collaboration with Japanese drummer Akira Jimbo was recorded in 1989. This great track is written and arranged by the very talented keyboardist Randy Kerber. Taken from Akira’s album “Palette” released on Optimism Records.


Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:29    
http://www35.zippyshare.com/v/7694330/file.html 

FREDERICK KNIGHT – “You’re the best thing in my life” (1981)

Frederick Knight has been a very important singer, songwriter and record producer associated with some great recordings with The Controllers. It’s worthy to note that he also wrote the #1 classic Disco hit "Ring my bell” for Anita Ward in 1979. This mellow stepper I chose here is taken from his 3d solo LP “Knight time” released on Juana Records in 1981. He also released it as a 7” single in 1982.


Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 5:01 http://www66.zippyshare.com/v/59913457/file.html

BETTY WRIGHT – “Miami groove” (1987)

Born as Bessie Regina Norris in Miami, Florida. She started at the age of 3 as a former member of her family Gospel group named “The echoes of joy”. Here is a joyous offering from her 1987 LP “Mother wit” released on Ms. B. Records.


Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:46    http://www3.zippyshare.com/v/74169089/file.html

CHANGE – “Promise your love” (1982)

The perfect ‘80s Soul-Boogie studio Group having talented members of Italian musicians and American vocalists. Although they released many uptempo hit singles, I chose a mellow slow-jam taken from their 3d LP “Sharing your love” released on Atlantic Records in 1982. This great composition was co-written by Fonzi Thornton and Mauro Malavasi while James Robinson is featured on lead vocals.


Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:28  http://www1.zippyshare.com/v/13143939/file.html  

HIROMI IWASAKI – “White nights” (1980)

Hiromi Iwasaki has been one of the most prominent artists of the J-Pop scene in the late 70s and early 80s, recording also some great soulful sessions. I chose a wonderful Soul rarity from 1980 released only as a B side on 7” single on Victor Records in Japan.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:21
http://www63.zippyshare.com/v/72073745/file.html 

TONY ORLANDO & DAWN – “To be with you” (1976)

Born Michael Anthony Orlando Cassavitis to a Greek father and a Puerto Rican mother…..what a combination!!! His voice is pure velvet. Check this soothing melody which is the title track from his 3d LP released in 1976 on Elektra Records. Thanks once again my friend SoulLakis from Volos who introduced me to this excellent gem.


Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:28

http://www18.zippyshare.com/v/42227974/file.html  

MARLENA SHAW – “Without you in my life” (1982)

Killer smooth Soul written by Gary Taylor. One of the finest moments of Marlena’s glorious career. Taken from her 1982 LP “Let me in your life” released on South Bay Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:47

http://www63.zippyshare.com/v/87631743/file.html   

RODNEY FRANKLIN – “That’s the way I feel ‘bout your love” (1982)

A great melody from pianist/composer Rodney Franklin who combines perfectly Soul, Pop & Jazz elements. Taken from his 1982 LP “Learning to love” released on Columbia Records and produced by the great Stanley Clarke.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 5:32 http://www3.zippyshare.com/v/3306637/file.html

NIA PEEPLES – “Star crossed lovers” (1988)

This is the most soulful moment of this lovely singer/actress who is best known for her role as Nicole Chapman on the TV series of “Fame”. Also it’s worthy to note that she was married to Howard Hewett from 1989 to 1993. This great ballad is taken from her 2nd LP “Nothin’ but trouble” released on Mercury Records in 1988.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 5:48
http://www.divshare.com/download/19592465-281

BILLY PAUL – “Let’s make a baby” (1975)

Philly sound is more than music. Period.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 7:16 http://www.divshare.com/download/19526174-30d

TERI DeSARIO with K.C. – “Yes, I’m ready” (1979)

How I miss the heavenly innocence of American mellow music back in the late 70s! This specific cover record I’m posting is probably the best example of that era. Although the original song was composed and released in 2 different versions by Barbara Mason, this unique duet by Teri and K.C. is sweeter than honey and smoother than silk.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:14http://www.divshare.com/download/19454410-1da

SURFACE – “Gotta make love tonight” (1986)

Here’s a classy sensual stepper from a unique Group consisting of 3 very talented songwriters: Bernard Jackson, David ‘Pic’ Conley and the late David Townsend. Taken from their debut self-tilted LP released on Columbia Records in 1986. Many thanks to my Greek friend Minas Charamalis from Edessa who reminded me recently this specific gem.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:10 http://www.divshare.com/download/19454419-cd5

HAROLD MELVIN & THE BLUE NOTES feat. Sharon Paige – “I’m searching for a love” (1975)

What can I say about Sharon Paige….very underrated vocalist who never recorded a solo LP. Check this wonderful collaboration taken from the Group’s 1975 classic LP “Wake up everybody” released on Philadelphia Intl. Records. Pure Soul music !!!

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 5:24 http://www.divshare.com/download/19436491-3e1

BARBARA MASON – “You did not stay last night” (1980)

Sweet and sexy “Stepping Groove” by the great Barbara Mason produced by Butch Ingram. Taken from her 1980 LP entitled “A piece of my life” released on WMOT Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 5:35 http://www.mediafire.com/?ai6v3es38im6ed3

SMOKE – “Rainy night (Puts you in the mood for love)” - 1976

Back to the “Old School” magic with the group named SMOKE. This lovely ballad is taken from their 1976 LP entitled “Risin’” released on J. Bridge Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:19
http://www.mediafire.com/?gu6qz1laqa7bk40

NIGHTWIND feat. Janet Savage – “Why can’t we” (1982)

Today, celebrating my birthday, I decided to post a dreamy stepper dedicated to all Modern Soul connoisseurs around the world. Released in 1982 on 7” single as a B side to “Later for that” by an obscure group called NIGHTWIND. Enjoy !!!

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:23 http://www.divshare.com/download/19311677-cfe

SKYY – “When you touch me” (1981)

Here’s one of my favorite sensual slow jams from the group SKYY. Taken from their 1981 LP “Skyy Line” released on Salsoul Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:32 http://www.divshare.com/download/19260499-322

BUDDY MILES – “I’m just a kiss away” (1974)

Here’s a serious “Mellow-Soul-Heaven” goodie written & produced by Johnny Bristol but most importantly arranged by the great H.B. Barnum.
Many thanks to an anonymous viewer who reminded us this “Soul beauty” from the mid-70s.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:09 http://www.divshare.com/download/19232394-a46

JEAN CARNE – “You are all I need” (1976)

Simply one of the best compositions written by the great Dexter Wansel. Cinematic intro grows into one of the finest Philly Soul gems of the ‘70s. Taken from Jean Carne’s debut self-titled LP released on Philadelphia Intl. Records in 1976.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 5:29 http://www.divshare.com/download/19190202-587

GENE DUNLAP feat. The Ridgeways – “Before you break my heart” (1981)

This is the first single released by drummer Gene Dunlap featuring the heavenly vocals of The Ridgeway Sisters. Taken from his debut LP “It’s just the way I feel” released on Capitol Records in 1981.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 6:03
http://www.divshare.com/download/18868071-16a

LILLO THOMAS – “Joy of your love” (1983)

Nowadays this track may sound like a typical Urban ‘80s Soul ballad, but believe me after three decades, this unique sound has a classic quality second to none. Taken from Lillo’s debut LP “Let me be yours” released in Capitol Records in 1983.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:52
http://www.mediafire.com/?3wedrvxeb9636d7

D’NESSA – “Love won’t let me wait” (1997)

Exquisite cover version of the famous Major Harris’ classic. Taken from D’Nessa’s debut CD album “All about you” released only in Japan in 1997 on Rip Curl Recordings. Produced by Osny Melo. D’Nessa’s full name is Donessa W. Perry born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 5:07
http://www.mediafire.com/?gqc4phi54i76fty

KINSMAN DAZZ – “Catchin’ up on love” (1979)

Excellent stepper co-produced by Philip Bailey and written by the band’s co-founder and sax player Robert L. Harris. Taken from their 2nd LP entitled “Dazz” released on 20th Century Records in 1979. A year later the band changed their name to THE DAZZ BAND.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:58
http://www.mediafire.com/?b29qqe3r6498zwv

MARC SADANE with TAWATHA AGEE – “Baby won’t cha” (1982)

Here’s another killer groove written and produced by James Mtume & Reggie Lucas. Marc and Tawatha provide their very best on lead vocals while bass playing by Raymond Jackson is simply awesome! Taken from Sadane’s 2nd LP entitled “Exciting” released on Warner Bros Records in 1982.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:47
http://www.mediafire.com/?l5ema5ocxn1momd

MAI YAMANE – “Wave (Do it again)” - 1980

As I promised, this is one of my best posts so far all the way from Japan! A real “treasure-pleasure” oozing sheer SOUL class produced by Makoto Matsushita. Taken from Mai Yamane's debut LP entitled “Tasogare” released in 1980 on Continental Records only in Japan.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 4:34
http://www.mediafire.com/?z8c4fpfq8xqbx7n

SPECULATORS vs. GREECE

I’m sick and tired of hearing about the current financial crisis destroying the world. Unemployment is rising just because more and more people are making money instead of earning money.

For the past 2 years speculators attacking Greece predict that by leaving the Euro zone, it will suffer an irreparable damage. Well, this is a huge lie.

First of all Greece has been always the most significant civilization from day one! From the beginning of modern culture to date, Greece has had a major impact in everyone’s life.

No wonder, that worldwide news are dealing with Greek headlines just because the rest of the world cannot generate anything meaningful and worth of attention……LOL.

When you’re talking about language, science, democracy, philosophy, literature, art, religion, you know very well that EVERYTHING has its origin in Greece.

Nowadays, Banks, Politicians and Media are trying to distract everybody’s attention by offering fear, uncertainty and desperation. Well, I got news for you people! Banks, Politicians and Media are ABSOLUTELY NOTHING! They never promoted anything substantial to world’s history.

These coming elections in Greece on June 17th, will change the world’s history to the better. Only Greece has the power to shake things up simply because it reflects always the true LIGHT whereas the rest of the world is still talking about insipid money.

It’s really pathetic when the so-called authorities around the world are trying to persuade today’s young people that money is the only solution to their problems. Money ain’t nothing but plain paper.

Instead of issuing more money to cover people’s needs, rich guys have invented tax evasion so the rest of the world gets poorer and poorer.

At the end of the day, it’s not what you earn, it’s what you LEARN.

JERRY BUTLER – “Let’s make love” (1978)

Here’s a classic written by the legendary songwriting duo of Kenny Gamble & Leon Huff for Jerry Butler who was the original lead singer of the famous Soul group The Impressions. Taken from Jerry’s LP entitled “Nothing says I love you like I love you” released on Philadelphia Intl. Records in 1978.

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

http://www.mediafire.com/?mzkcfdrcg36qv7v

BRAINSTORM – “You put a charge in my life” (1979)

Here’s an exceptional stepper from the late ‘70s. On lead vocals is the late Belita Karen Woods who passed away some days ago on May 14th at the age of 63. Taken from Brainstorm’s 3d LP entitled “Funky entertainment” released on Tabu Records in 1979. Many thanks to my UK friend Paul Grestock for reminding me this great gem.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StDU5uTTUN0

CARL HALL – “What about you” (1973)

One of the finest examples of Real Soul Music. Released only on 7” single on Columbia Records in 1973. Enjoy !!!

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:00http://www.mediafire.com/?s34ezn2seeu48r7

HODGES, JAMES & SMITH – “Sexy ways” (1975)

Back to the mid-70s with an appropriate sexy little treat simply called “Sexy ways”. Performed by the soulful female trio named HODGES, JAMES & SMITH which was the brainchild of Motown producer William “Mickey” Stevenson. Taken from their 1975 LP “Power in your love” released on 20th Century Records.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z-3Yk8YVs8Q

PETE BELASCO – “I’ll come to you” (2004)

Here’s an underrated Blue-eyed Soul/Jazz artist recreating the old-school soulful feeling. This particular track is influenced by the magic of the late great Marvin Gaye. Taken from his 2004 CD album “Deeper” released on Compendia Records. Many thanks once again to my friend SoulLakis from Volos who introduced me to this mellow nugget.

Listen below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x-qf4-Lzg8Y

NAOKO KAWAI & DAVID FOSTER – “Live inside your love” (1984)

Here’s an obscure mellow Soul-Pop duet by Japanese songstress Naoko Kawai with legendary songwriter/producer David Foster. Taken from Naoko’s 1984 LP “Daydream coast” released on Columbia Records in Japan.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Total time 3:44
http://www.mediafire.com/?xpxsq4sbxqhsws4

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