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

RARE SILK – “New York afternoon” (1983)

Blue-eyed Jazzy Soul treat from the early ‘80s. Taken from the group’s debut LP “New weave” released on Polydor Records in 1983.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:41
http://www49.zippyshare.com/v/58544357/file.html

RAMONA BROOKS – “I hardly know you” (1978)

Ramona Brooks is one of the most sought-after artists in the Rare Groove scene. Here’s a great mellow track taken from her only LP released on Manhattan Records in 1978.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:23
http://www65.zippyshare.com/v/81277368/file.html  

HARRY RAY with ANGIE B. – “Love is a game” (1982)

An engaging collaboration between Harry Ray (of Ray Goodman & Brown) and Angie B. who became later known as Angie Stone. Taken from Harry’s only solo LP “It’s good to be home” released on Sugar Hill Records in 1982.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:14
http://www65.zippyshare.com/v/90617488/file.html

SHARON REDD – “Takin’ a chance on love” (1982)

Here’s a very well-written melody for the late singer/actress Sharon Redd who passed away in 1992 at the age of 46. Taken from her 1982 LP “Redd hot” released on Prelude Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:55
http://www34.zippyshare.com/v/12753159/file.html  

AL WILSON – “Since I’m without you” (1979)

The late Al Wilson is best remembered for his million-selling #1 hit “Show and tell”. Well, I chose a great melody taken from his 1979 LP “Count the days” released on Roadshow Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:19
http://www41.zippyshare.com/v/28098422/file.html

SWEET INSPIRATIONS – “That’s when you know” (1979)

The Sweet Inspirations were one of Luther Vandross’ favorite female groups back in the 60s as Cissy Houston was one of the founding members. Here’s a wonderful melody taken from their 1979 LP “Hot butterfly” released on RSO Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:48
http://www28.zippyshare.com/v/32947927/file.html

GIORGE PETTUS – “My night for love” (1987)

Here’s a great ‘80s soulful stepper written and produced by the great La La (aka La Forest Cope). Taken from Giorge’s debut s/t album released on Geffen Records in 1987.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 5:34
http://www6.zippyshare.com/v/23226247/file.html

KRISTLE MURDEN – “I’ll go” (1983)

Here’s lovely Soul-Gospel offering co-produced by the great Andrae Crouch. Taken from her 1983 LP “I can’t let go” released on Light Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:45
http://www43.zippyshare.com/v/70294779/file.html  

AKIKO KOSAKA – “Love is smiling” (1983)

Here’s another fine selection from the Japanese Rare Soul sessions. Taken from Akiko Kosaka’s 1983 LP “Again” released on Philips Records in Japan. Enjoy!

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:29

http://www25.zippyshare.com/v/75377886/file.html  

THE TEMPTATIONS – “What else?” (1981)

It’s about time to get tempted Soul-wise……Only The Temptations know how to do it. Any objections ????

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:05
http://www30.zippyshare.com/v/37351371/file.html

BETTY WRIGHT with MARLON JACKSON – “I promise you” (1983)

First and foremost I wanna thank once again my friend SoulLakis from Volos who never stops to amaze me when it comes to choosing soulful stuff for my Blog. A couple of weeks ago he sent me this wonderful duet and I promised him right away that deserves to be posted big time !!!!

Taken from Betty Wright’s 1983 LP “Back at you” released on Epic Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:52
http://www32.zippyshare.com/v/82446507/file.html  

PAUL ANKA – “No way out” (1983)

Here’s an exceptionally tasteful melody co-written by Paul Anka and Michael McDonald. Taken from Anka’s 1983 LP “Walk a fine line” released on Columbia Records. This same song was used for the 1987 film “No way out” starring Kevin Costner and Gene Hackman.


Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:28
http://www76.zippyshare.com/v/73160864/file.html  

JANICE BULLUCK – “Do you really love me?” (1987)

I’m back in action in full effect. Enjoy this great midtempo produced by William Bell. Taken from her 1987 LP “Don’t start a fire” released on Wilbe Recording Corp.
And remember; only SOUL music can provide such thrills……

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 5:10
http://www5.zippyshare.com/v/65349545/file.html

PLEASURE – “All the way” (1982)

Here’s a great smooth midtempo performed by one of my favorite Soul-Funk Groups of the ‘70s. Taken from their 1982 LP “Give it up” released on RCA Records. Simply PLEASURE for your pleasure……

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:06
http://www.divshare.com/download/23861190-98c

VANESSA WILLIAMS – “Send one your love” (2005)

One of the most beautiful songs of Stevie Wonder performed by Vanessa Williams. Taken from her 2005 CD album “Everlasting love” released on Lava Records

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:39
http://www6.zippyshare.com/v/89130952/file.html

KIKI DEE – “Don’t stop loving me” (1979)

First of all I wanna thank my friend SoulLakis from Volos who introduced me once again to a wonderful soulful find from the late ‘70s. British songstress Kiki Dee performs a great melody co-written by David Lasley. Taken from her 1979 LP “Stay with me” released on Rocket Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:12
http://www66.zippyshare.com/v/32911738/file.html

CRÈME D’COCOA – “Mr. me, Mrs. you” (1979)

Here’s one of the most memorable songs written by the legendary H.B. Barnum. Taken from Crème D’Cocoa’s 1979 LP “Nasty street” released on Venture Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 3:42
http://www42.zippyshare.com/v/91655518/file.html

DEE DEE BRIDGEWATER – “Love won’t let me go” (1979)

Unforgettable collaboration between two extraordinary Soul-Jazz legends. Vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater joins forces with versatile producer George Duke creating smooth Soul music with subtle Jazzy touches. Taken from her 1979 LP “Bad for me” released on Elektra Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:02
http://www16.zippyshare.com/v/40209091/file.html

BEN E. KING – “And this is love” (1980)

Here’s a wonderful stepper from legendary Ben E. King taken from his 1980 LP “Music trance” released on Atlantic Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:05
http://www76.zippyshare.com/v/82410105/file.html  

MARGIE ALEXANDER – “What’cha tryin’ to do to me” (1977)

Here’s a superb soulful sizzler recorded in Chicago showcasing Margie’s emotional vocals. Released as a B side on 7” single on Chi-Sound Records in 1977.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:51
http://www.divshare.com/download/23690213-925

KASHIF – “After you” (1989)

One of the most prolific writers and producers of the '80s provides a joyous midtempo groove with a little help from Lori Fulton on chorus. Lori was the lead singer of the Group “GUINN” which recorded a great album back in 1986.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:38
http://www56.zippyshare.com/v/17009464/file.html

HIROSHI FUKUMURA feat. Sybil Thomas – “The only one for me” (1985)

Japanese Jazz trombonist Hiroshi Fukumura collaborates with US session vocalist Sybil Thomas providing a marvelous Soul ballad. Taken from his 1985 LP “Hot shot” released on Apollon Music Corp. in Japan. Many thanks to my friend SoulLakis for reminding me this lost gem.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:06
http://www18.zippyshare.com/v/90610220/file.html

NORWOOD – “Should have been us together” (1987)

Wonderful voice Norwood Berry Young recorded his debut LP “I can’t let you go” on MCA/Magnolia Records in 1987. Here’s one of the best cuts which was also released as a single.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:08
http://www19.zippyshare.com/v/36365024/file.html

CANDY ASADA – “No, no darling” (1982)

Here’s another surprising Soulful gem from Japan. Taken from her debut LP “Welcome back…to you” released on Atlantic Records only in Japan.


Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:37
http://www20.zippyshare.com/v/21871175/file.html

RONNIE WALKER – “You’ve got to try harder (times are bad)” - 1974

Ronnie B. Walker recorded some 7” singles from 1967 to 1975. The one I chose from 1974 is really something! Just to mention that is co-written, arranged and co-produced by the great Vincent Montana Jr. Released on Event Records Inc.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 2:59
http://www11.zippyshare.com/v/11485376/file.html

SALENA JONES – “You go to my head” (1995)

Here’s a wonderful remake of the perennial Jazz standard “You go to my head” performed by Salena Jones. Taken from her 1995 album “Over the rainbow” released on JVC Records.

Download file below (320 kbps) – Time 4:27
http://www36.zippyshare.com/v/19447199/file.html

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