Blues & Soul
Blues & Soul was a pioneering British music magazine covering black music. Originally titled Home of the Blues, it was founded in London by John Abbey in 1966, changing its title in 1967. John Abbey moved to the USA in the 1970s, handing control of the magazine to others. It is now published bi-monthly and available online.
1,301 articles
List of articles in the library
Aretha Franklin: Aretha's Artistry
Profile by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, May 1968
THE YOUNG lady who has probably had more effect on the r&b scene in the U.S.A. than anyone else during the past year, who has ...
Aretha Franklin: Lady Soul in London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, May 1968
FRIDAY, MAY 10th, marked the long overdue arrival in Britain of America's first Lady of Soul, the remarkable Miss Aretha Franklin: an event which soul ...
Interview by Dave Godin, Blues & Soul, July 1968
ONE IS always apprehensive about meeting artists for whom one has a great admiration or burning passion – I deliberately avoided meeting the one and ...
Howlin' Wolf: The Dave Godin Column: Howlin' Wolf
Essay by Dave Godin, Blues & Soul, April 1969
I RECENTLY READ a most scathing and critical review of the new Howlin' Wolf album which has been issued in the States on Cadet-Concept (the ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, September 1969
DISCOVERED IN our own backyard! ...
Retrospective by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, September 1969
WE REGRET the loss this month of another R&B artist, Roy Hamilton. Whilst Roy has frequently strayed from R&B, he is generally considered to be ...
Retrospective by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, September 1969
FREDERICK (SHORTY) Long drowned in a boating accident on Sunday, June 29. Also killed in the same accident was Shorty's friend, Oscar Williams, who also ...
The Temptations Came, Saw And Almost Conquered
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 January 1970
AND SO, it's all over. The Temptations, first ambassadors of Soul and Motown have been and gone again. The question now is whether it was ...
The Temptations: The Talk Of The Town, London
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 January 1970
ON ENTERING the exclusive surroundings of London's most popular dinner and entertainment club, my mind was engaged on the description that most journalists from the ...
Doris Troy: Dave Godin Meets Mother Soul
Interview by Dave Godin, Blues & Soul, 27 February 1970
WHEN EDITOR John Abbey asked me if I would do a feature interview with Doris Troy to coincide with her forthcoming single release on Apple, ...
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 February 1970
Soul together — so untogether! ...
The Miracles: Thank The Beatles
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 February 1970
SMOKEY ROBINSON and the Miracles flew into London specifically to appear on Tom Jones TV show. Even if many Soul fans disapprove of what Mr. ...
The Showstoppers: The Show Stoppers
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 27 February 1970
'AIN'T NOTHING But A Houseparty' reads the title but there's a lot more to the Show Stoppers first hit than just that! ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, March 1970
THE HAMMERSMITH Odeon has been the scene of great jubilation and triumph for many top r&b/soul artists in the last few years and soul fans ...
Jimmy Ruffin: I Nearly Became A Temptation
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, March 1970
AND SO, the news is out that the Ruffin brothers, David and Jimmy, could well be linking up in the States as a double act. ...
Interview by uncredited writer, Blues & Soul, 13 March 1970
An in-depth interview with Sam Moore, one part of the fantastic Sam & Dave team known everywhere as Double Dynamite. ...
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 March 1970
RECORD OF THE FORTNIGHT ...
Wilbert Harrison: One Man Band
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, May 1970
ALMOST WITHOUT WARNING, Wilbert Harrison arrived in London during mid-April to appear with Creedence Clearwater at London's Royal Albert Hall concerts. Wilbert was chosen by ...
Dionne Warwick: The Royal Albert Hall, London
Live Review by Dave Godin, Blues & Soul, 8 May 1970
THE "PRINCE Albert Hall" (as Dionne so charmingly referred to it) is the most peculiar venue in London for a recording artist to play. ...
The Temptations: Psychedelic Shack (Gordy 947 U.S.) — (Tamla Motown 11147 U.K.)
Review by uncredited writer, Blues & Soul, 8 May 1970
EXCLUSIVE! THE NEW TEMPTATIONS ALBUM IN DEPTH ...
Isaac Hayes: The Isaac Hayes Movement (Enterprise 1010 — U.S.), (Stax 1032 — U.K.)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 May 1970
THE ISAAC HAYES MOVEMENT IN DEPTH ...
Inez Foxx Speaks Frankly To B and S
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, June 1970
...and tells the truth about her first solo tour and its problems ...
Isaac Hayes: The Most Important Soul Man Of Today
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, June 1970
JA: How did you first get together with David Porter, in the very beginning? ...
Diana Ross: Reflections on Diana's solo debut
Report by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 July 1970
TOURING late June, Diana Ross passed through London during a holiday period and E.M.I. Records held a reception in her honour. ...
Sam & Dave: The Split — The Story
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 July 1970
AFTER 10 YEARS, Sam and Dave have finally parted company. They both intend to continue in the business, yet neither is certain of exactly which ...
Syreeta, Stevie Wonder: Stevie & Syreeta: A Perfect Marriage Of Musical Ideas
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 July 1970
THIS YEAR, 1970, Motown are celebrating their 10th anniversary. During their ten very successful years, Stevie Wonder has been virtually an ever present. ...
The Flirtations: In Pursuit Of That Elusive Hit
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 July 1970
DESPITE THE fact that the beautiful Flirtations virtually live on our doorstep, the British public has inexplicably ignored their many fine records, despite the fact ...
Martha Reeves & the Vandellas: Martha's 10 years at Motown...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, August 1970
THIS YEAR is the tenth anniversary of Motown Records and to celebrate it in London, Martha Reeves and her Vandellas spent one week meeting the ...
Aretha Franklin: Hammersmith Odeon, London
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 August 1970
WHEN THE second house of Aretha's only London date started half an hour late, it did at first appear a bad sign. However, since the ...
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 14 August 1970
THE ARRIVAL in Britain of the Queen of Soul was, naturally, a Red Letter day in the 1970 Soul calendar. After all, this was only ...
Clarence Carter, Candi Staton: Clarence Carter & Candi Staton: Clarence and Candi and Rick Hall
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 August 1970
WHEN WE heard the good news of Clarence Carter's impending marriage to his protege, Candi Staton, we felt we had to get in touch with ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 August 1970
OUTSIDE OF the States, Bobby Womack does not really mean a great deal. On listening to his current American album, My Prescription, this is indeed ...
Bobby Womack: My Prescription (Minit LP 24027 U.S. only; No British release scheduled)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 August 1970
THE ALBUM opens with one of Bobby's own compositions, 'How I Miss You Baby', a mid-tempo song with a sad sounding chorus. The heavy guitaring, ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 August 1970
IT WAS ONLY because one member of Atlantic's London office staff had particular faith in Otis Leavill's R&B hit from the States, 'I Love You', ...
Charles Wright & The Watts 103rd St. Rhythm Band: Express Yourself
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 September 1970
THOUGH THE Watts 103rd St. Band are not yet a big act in Britain, they have established themselves as one of the top attractions in ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 September 1970
ONE OF the most promising talents to emerge in the States this year has been R. B. Greaves. His multi-million seller, 'Take A Letter Maria', ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 September 1970
The Isley Brothers, Ronnie, Rudolph and O'Kelly, have spent well over a decade at the top. Their success culminated in the formation of their own ...
The Impressions, Curtis Mayfield: Curtis Mayfield: Curtis; The Impressions: Check Out Your Mind
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 September 1970
Curtis Mayfield: Curtis (Curtom) ...
The Impressions, Curtis Mayfield: Curtis Mayfield: No Longer An Impression
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 September 1970
AS EXCLUSIVELY reported in Blues & Soul some 4 months ago, Curtis Mayfield has officially left the Impressions after 12 years. When we finally tracked ...
Freda Payne: The Story Behind Band Of Gold
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 September 1970
"THAT'S REALLY funny, because I was only talking to the office yesterday asking if 'Band Of Gold' had made any charts overseas – especially Britain". ...
Chairmen Of The Board: The Chairmen of the Board
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 September 1970
FOR MANY YEARS, I have been singing the praise of a certain Norman Johnson, who was the lead voice with the Showmen. ...
Esther Marrow: Newport News Virginia
Retrospective by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 October 1970
BRITISH SOUL FANS could be for-given for having never heard of Miss Esther Marrow a month or so ago since Miss Marrow has, to date, ...
Sly & The Family Stone: Lyceum Ballroom, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 9 October 1970
THE APPEARANCE in London of the much-heralded exponents and instigators of psychedelic soul – only their second ever British date; the first being at the ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 October 1970
GENERALLY, all forms of American music finally break through in Britain. But, to date, there has been one outstanding exception in that the smooth groups ...
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 October 1970
IN THE FIVE short months that have passed since the last time the Tops came to Britain, a great deal has happened to them. ...
The Last Poets: Thoughts... and Music: The Last Poets
Comment by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 October 1970
AS EDITOR of Blues & Soul, I have always done my personal utmost to concentrate on the musical content of our music and the artists ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 23 October 1970
PERCY SLEDGE made a fleeting visit to London recently on his way to Holland to receive an award. Naturally, B&S got together with him and ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 23 October 1970
ALREADY, Holland-Dozier-Holland have introduced us to Freda Payne and the Chairmen of the Board this year via their Invictus label. It is highly likely that ...
The Mar-Keys, The Memphis Horns: The Memphis Horns
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 23 October 1970
HOW MANY of you have listened to the Memphis records and thought to yourself how great the brass is? Every Sam & Dave record, or ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 23 October 1970
The Voices That Raised The Roof ...
Clarence Carter, Candi Staton: Clarence Carter: 'Patches' An Ideal Album Track
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 6 November 1970
OWN UP, all those who didn't give Clarence Carter's 'Patches' even an outside chance of making the U.K. charts; let alone actually make the Top ...
Patti LaBelle: Pattie Labelle and Bluebelles: Fly-IN High
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 6 November 1970
IT HAS gone virtually unnoticed in the British musical press that Pattie La Belle (or Patty La Belle or Patti La Belle!) and her Blue ...
The Raelets, Ray Charles: Ray Charles and The Raelets In Concert
Live Review by Dave Godin, Blues & Soul, 6 November 1970
THE ANNUAL concert featuring Ray Charles, his Orchestra and The Raelets is an event which usually draws S.R.O. crowds and this year was no exception. ...
David Porter: Gritty Groovy Now He's Got It
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 November 1970
REMEMBER THE big Soul boom of last year when every second record on the pop chart was a revived Soul sound? Naturally, everyone saw this ...
The Edwin Hawkins Singers: Edwin Hawkins
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 November 1970
EVERY NOW and then, a true phenomenon occurs in the world of popular music. The 60's was a period when at least one unusual occurrence ...
Roberta Flack: The Real Roberta Flack
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 November 1970
ROBERTA FLACK sings. In fact, as Les McCann so aptly put it in the liner notes of her first album for Atlantic Records, titled First ...
Tom Dowd: The Reluctant Master
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 November 1970
"COLUMBIA DIDN'T record Aretha badly, it was just that what they did was untimely. Aretha Franklin is incapable of making a bad record." ...
Garnet Mimms: Reflections On Garnet Mimms
Overview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 4 December 1970
NEW YORK SOUL '64 TO '67 ...
Rufus Thomas: The Dog... The Funky Chicken... now for The Push & Pull
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 December 1970
DURING RUFUS Thomas' 20 years recording career, he has directly started two dance crazes in the States. In the early '60s he was responsible for ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 December 1970
DEE DEE Warwick has been turning out good records now for half a decade and she really hasn't received the acclaim she warrants. However, her ...
The Edwin Hawkins Singers/Blue Mink: Royal Albert Hall, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 18 December 1970
IN PRACTICALLY every biography written about today's soul singers, mention is made of how he or she began singing in church; so much so that ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, January 1971
CAROL WOODS made her British debut recently on the Ember label with 'If I Let You' and, whilst this particular record has been unable to ...
Booker T & The MGs: Booker T And MG's: Still Very Much Together
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 January 1971
IN THE British music press of late, there have been numerous rumours that Booker T. and the M.G.s have split up or are about to ...
Report by Dave Godin, Blues & Soul, 8 January 1971
BY SOME miracle I managed to catch the train on time at Euston. Anyone who knows me will gladly confirm that I am a terror ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 January 1971
THERE IS always a curious under-current in Soul music in this country for certain artists who don't mean too much in their own country. ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 January 1971
JERRY WEXLER is without doubt, one of the great producers who revolutionised Rhythm and Blues music in the 50's and 60's. ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 January 1971
THERE ARE numerous vocal groups that never make the Top 10 of the National Chart. Most of these acts simply fade into obscurity or carry ...
Nina Simone: Nine Simone: Super Star For 1971
Report by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 January 1971
AS HAS been noted by her many fans and soul people generally, there has been a marked silence from the High Priestess of Soul for ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, February 1971
No U.K. release for 2 years but still a great favourite ...
William Bell: Wow…William Bell
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, February 1971
WHEN IT comes to be rated as the most under-appreciated man in Soul music, one William Bell must rank as hot favourite. ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 February 1971
THE NEW Year is only a month old yet already something of great note has occurred in the chart stakes in the States. Gladys Knight ...
Curtis Mayfield: The Bitter End, NYC
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 February 1971
Curtis Mayfield's Solo Debut ...
James Brown: The Sugar Shack Club, Boston
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 February 1971
The Greatest Showman In Soul ...
The Spinners: Motown's Spinners
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 February 1971
AFTER NEARLY ten years of trying, the Spinners finally achieved their break-through in this country via the first Stevie Wonder production of them. The song ...
Ike & Tina Turner: Deutches Museum Hall, Munich
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 February 1971
TO WITNESS the Ike & Tina Turner Revue is an experience in itself but, to make certain that a revue of the show got into ...
Ike & Tina Turner: Workin' Together #1
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 February 1971
Part One ...
Jackie Moore: Precious 8 Months Later A Hit
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 February 1971
BRITAIN HAS always been quick to accept a new Soul sister and, if anything, the respect accorded to a female singer in this country far ...
Ike & Tina Turner: Workin' Together #2
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 March 1971
Part Two: The Ike Turner Story ...
James Brown, Bobby Byrd: Bobby Byrd
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 March 1971
IF YOU'VE ever wondered who the second voice is on James Brown's 'Sex Machine', we can put your mind at rest for it is none ...
James Brown: Royal Albert Hall, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 19 March 1971
IF ARETHA is the Queen of Soul and Otis was the King of Soul, James Brown must qualify as the Super-King of Funk! On the ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 March 1971
WITH JOE Simon's signature, Spring Records have gained their first real entry into the super-star league. Joe's first for the label, 'Your Time To Cry', ...
The Showstoppers: Second Time Around For The Showstoppers
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 19 March 1971
ONE-HIT WONDERS are far from being an unusual phenomena on the pop scene. Surprisingly, considering the generally higher level of artistic merit required, they are ...
Vicki Anderson: Ready To Quit Unless Something Big Comes Along
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 March 1971
VICKI ANDERSON made a lot of friends in this country with her part in the James Brown Revue. On record, she is best known for ...
George Clinton, Funkadelic: Introducing Rozetta Johnson
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 April 1971
IT'S RARE that a tour by an American R&B group can cause controversy that makes headlines in the more general pop music papers. But that's ...
Margie Joseph Makes A Big New Impression
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 April 1971
FOR THOSE of you who haven't noticed, the fastest rising album on the American chart over the last month or so belongs to one Margie ...
Rozetta Johnson: Funkadelic, What's It All About
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 April 1971
WHEN IT comes to female Soul singers, you've got to look south of the Mason-Dixon line. It's in the South that you'll find the girls ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 April 1971
WITH THE natural progression of our music, for the first time we are able to claim musical genius within Soul Music. ...
Eddie Kendricks, The Temptations: Eddie Kendricks: A Temptation No More
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 April 1971
A MOTOWN News Release, dated March 19, 1971, confirmed something that we had been hearing about for several weeks – namely that Eddie Kendricks, lead ...
The Raelets: The Stars Behind The Stars: The Raelets
Profile by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 April 1971
THE ART of vocal back up work – the vocal accompaniment which so often complements and assists the names out front to obtain the exact ...
Freda Payne: The Heart and Soul of Freda Payne
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 April 1971
WITHOUT A DOUBT, the most exciting and worthwhile 'new' discovery of 1970 was Freda Payne. Exciting because she is just that; worthwhile because she will ...
The Sweet Inspirations: The Sweet Soul Of The Sweet Inspirations
Profile by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 April 1971
IN THE first part of this short series, we covered the role of The Raelets. In this article, the work of the most important group ...
Aretha Franklin: Aretha's Thank You To B&S Readers
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 May 1971
ANOTHER VISIT PLANNED FOR THE END OF THE YEAR ...
Brook Benton: Either You Got It Or You Don't Got It
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 May 1971
ONE OF the most pleasing successes of 1970 was Brook Benton with what to me was probably the most soulful record of that year, 'Rainy ...
Eddie Kendricks: All By Myself (Tamla)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 May 1971
WHEN WE first reported the fact that Eddie Kendricks had recorded a solo album, we never imagined that the album would in fact be the ...
Funkadelic, Parliament: Parliament/Funkadelic: A Parliafunkadelicment Thang
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 May 1971
RARELY DOES an R&B act cause any controversy or speculation prior to making a British tour. But the one exception in recent years is Funkadelic, ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 May 1971
"YOU'RE JOKING. It's just like a dream. God, it must have been five...no, six years ago that I made that record." Those were the first ...
Ike & Tina Turner: The Stars Behind The Stars: Part Three — The Ikettes and Others!
Overview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 14 May 1971
IN THE last part of this series about vocal back-up girls, we'll deal with the numerous ladies who don't belong to any particular group plus ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 May 1971
YOU HAVE probably noticed a record by a group called Fuzz, which has been on the American Top 100 now for some three months or ...
Arthur Conley debuts on Capricorn
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 June 1971
ALTHOUGH ARTHUR Conley is acknowledged as being one of the finest young entertainers on today's Soul scene, it's quite a while since his last really ...
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 June 1971
HAVING HAD three consecutive chart records in this country and with 'Pay To The Piper' gradually edging its way into the Top 30, the Chairmen ...
Garnet Mimms: In Search Of A Record Outlet
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 June 1971
SOME FOUR years ago, Garnet Mimms was just about the hottest R&B entertainer in the States. Then his contract with United Artists Records expired and ...
The Dixie Flyers: The Guys Behind The Hits
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 June 1971
THE FIRST real opportunity that R&B fans had to know of Dixie Flyers collectively was when they turned up on Aretha's Spirit In The Dark/Don't ...
B.B. King: Background To A Living Legend
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 June 1971
B.B. KING is the undisputed King of the Blues – fact! Every press release in existence on B.B. will tell you that he is a ...
Carol Woods: Get High on Carol
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 June 1971
SIX MONTHS ago, we featured a young lady in our magazine who had just made her British debut on the recording scene; her name was ...
The Dave Godin Column: Northern Soul
Report by Dave Godin, Blues & Soul, 25 June 1971
THE CALL of the North was getting too strong to resist any longer, and I just had to take some time out and make another ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 July 1971
FREQUENTLY, we receive letters from readers' asking us to write about the people behind the scenes in our music. For example, the features we did ...
Curtis Mayfield: The Gentle Genius
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 July 1971
FEW – IF ANY – people have contributed as much to the progression of what is generally regarded as Soul music as has Curtis Mayfield, ...
Curtis Mayfield: The Speakeasy, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 9 July 1971
THE ALL-too-brief, spur-of-the-moment appearance of Curtis Mayfield at London's Speakeasy club must surely rank as a historic event in the history of soul music in ...
The Fascinations, Curtis Mayfield: It's third time lucky for the Fascinations
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 July 1971
IT'S ONE of the strange things about the music world when a record that is five years old and is making its third bid for ...
Jean Knight: another Malaco Studios success
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 July 1971
WITH THE initial success of King Floyd's 'Groove Me', Soul music spotlighted the relatively small town of Jackson, Mississippi, and the record's producer, Wardell Quezergue. ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 July 1971
"NASSAU'S GONE funky; Nassaus's gone Soul" is how the Beginning Of The End bounce into the history-making hit, 'Funky Nassau'. History? This is the best ...
Bettye LaVette, Esther Phillips: Behind the scenes with Lelan Rogers
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 23 July 1971
LELAN ROGERS first sprang to prominence as the man who brought national success to Esther Phillips with 'Release Me'. In the decade that has passed, ...
Marvin Gaye: What's Going On (Tamla-Motown)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 23 July 1971
An in-depth review of Marvin Gaye's chart-topping American album, What's Going On. ...
Sam & Dave: Together again: Sam & Dave
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 6 August 1971
AFTER less than a year apart, Sam Moore and Dave Prater – alias Sam & Dave, the Dynamic Duo – are back together. The decision ...
Dionne Warwicke: Is She The Same Girl?
Comment by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 27 August 1971
THE RELEASE of four Dionne Warwicke albums by Decca – Soulful, Motion Picture Hits, Promises Promises and Very Dionne has sparked off some renewed interest ...
Obituary by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 August 1971
CURTIS OUSELEY – known the world over as King Curtis – was fatally wounded and died on Friday, August 13 only a few yards away ...
Tami Lynn: Tam Lynn: Love Is Here And Now You're Gone (Cotillion)
Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 27 August 1971
IT IS very difficult to analyse a debut album from any artist, since an artist's potential is often judged on their first album as opposed ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 September 1971
THE LAST time I talked to Al Green, he was riding high with his adaptation of the Temptations' 'I Can't Get Next To You'. Now, ...
Curtis Mayfield talks to B&S about his new album
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 September 1971
IT IS, indeed, very rare for an American artist to make a short visit to this country and immediately score a hit single in the ...
Kool and the Gang: Introducing Kool And The Gang
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 September 1971
CONSIDERING THAT Kool & The Gang have only ever had one British release they have an incredible following. That release – well over a year ...
Simtec & Wylie: Introducing Simtec & Wylie
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 September 1971
IF YOUR'E looking for an ultra-funky record, then Simtec & Wylie's 'Gotta Get Get Over The Hump' is perfect for you. The record is currently ...
The Five Stairsteps: the Stairsteps revisited
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 September 1971
IT'S ALMOST five years to the day since I first met Clarence Burke Sr., better known the world over as Papa Stairstep. At the time, ...
Carla Thomas: The Memphis Queen
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 October 1971
RIGHTLY, CARLA Thomas is the Memphis Queen. ...
David Ruffin, The Temptations: David Ruffin
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 October 1971
THE TEMPTATIONS without David Ruffin, Eddie Kendricks and Paul Williams! Strange, but true – that is the sad situation as of today. There was enough ...
The Jackson 5, Diana Ross: Diana Ross: Diana! (BBC 2)
Film/DVD/TV Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 8 October 1971
MOTOWN'S MUCH-heralded first independent production centred on Diana Ross, proved to be all it was cracked out to be – and more! Screened on B.B.C. ...
Hugh Masekela: the Union of South Africa
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 October 1971
HUGH MASAKELA is best known in this country for his UNI instrumental hit, 'Grazin' In The Grass', which later provided the Friends of Distinction with ...
Leroy Hutson: The Impressions: Introducing Leroy Hutson
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 October 1971
IN ALL honesty, it was strange to see Fred Cash and Sam Gooden flanking a new "leader" and central figure of The Impressions. Sadly, the ...
Troy Keyes: back in the swing with VMP
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 October 1971
TROY KEYES had a very successful single in 1967, 'Love Explosions', and has been conspicuous by his absence ever since. "I spent a year with ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 October 1971
WITHIN EVERY Invictus and Hot Wax group there is a winner. General Johnson showed up with the Chairmen, Steve Mancha turned up singing lead for ...
Booker T & The MGs: Do Booker T and M.G.'s still exist?
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 October 1971
DONALD 'DUCK' Dunn, best known in R&B circles for his invaluable contribution to our music via Booker T. & The M.G.'s, was recently in London ...
Mable John: in love with Hawaii (amongst other things)
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 October 1971
MABLE JOHN, one of the most charming people in the whole record industry, bounded into London once more as leading lady with the Ray Charles ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 October 1971
THERE ARE a handful of American artists who don't need a current record to provide them with sufficient work in this country. Frequently, this is ...
Detroit Emeralds: The Detroit Emeralds
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 October 1971
IF EVER there was a record destined to become an in-demand oldie, it is the Detroit Emeralds' 'Do Me Right', which somehow managed to avoid ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 October 1971
DESPITE HAVING been one of Soul's leading acts for close on five years now, The Intruders have yet to make any serious impression on the ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 October 1971
THE MOST successful of all of this year's re-issues has undoubtedly been The Tams' 'Hey Girl Don't Bother Me', which, prior to being re-released on ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, November 1971
FUGI Is a name that will mean absolutely nothing to virtually every reader of B&S. So let's start by telling you that Fugi – pronounced ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, November 1971
IT'S QUITE a few months now since Jimmy Ruffin was last in the British charts following a run of about one year when his name ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 November 1971
ALREADY BEING tipped as a potential giant R&B record in this country is Ann Peebles version of 'Slipped, Tripped And Fell In Love'. The only ...
The Temptations: The best Temptations of them all?
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 November 1971
MUCH HAS been written in B&S lately about the departure of Eddie Kendricks and Paul Williams from the Temptations and, in all fairness, a lot ...
The Platters: The real Platters!
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 November 1971
IN THE States, there is as much confusion over The Platters as there has been over The Drifters with numerous groups touring the country using ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 November 1971
THE SUCCESS story of the day in our music must lie in Memphis with that patient and ever consistent genius, Willie Mitchell. Since he became ...
Curtis Mayfield: Roots (Curtom)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 November 1971
A PREVIEW OF CURTIS MAYFIELD'S SECOND STUDIO-RECORDED SOLO ALBUM ...
Freddie North: the magnetic North
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 November 1971
AFTER SIXTEEN years of trying hard, Freddie North has broken through into the proverbial good time – and it couldn't happen to a nicer guy. ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 November 1971
CONSISTENCY IS what has kept two sisters and their cousin, the Emotions, to the fore of the numerous female groups who come and go. Since ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 19 November 1971
WITHOUT DOUBT, Valerie Simpson is one of the most important talents to emerge this year. Her debut album, Exposed made some considerable impression on both ...
William Bell: The Real William Bell
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 November 1971
AFTER MANY years of having a fake William Bell on hand, the real McCoy finally arrived in Britain recently in the form of a suave, ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 3 December 1971
PERHAPS MORE than any other single entertainer, B.B. King has contributed a good deal to "opening the doors" for the blues and for making it ...
Denise LaSalle: Denise La Salle
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 December 1971
THE LAST twelve months have been extremely successful for new female Soul artistes. The most recent success belongs to Chicago's Denise La Salle, whose 'Trapped ...
The Main Ingredient: A two-year run of hits
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 December 1971
RCA RECORDS has never had a good reputation as an R&B label. However, quietly they have recently built up quite a roster of good R&B ...
The Supremes: Soulfully Supreme
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 3 December 1971
2008 introduction: The Supremes were in the UK for their first post-Diana Ross tour with Jean Terrell as the group's new lead singer and Motown ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 17 December 1971
DUE TO lack of publicity, the International Children's Aid Charity concert on Tuesday November 30 at the Royal Albert Hall was not as well attended ...
Doris Troy, The Roy Young Band: Doris Troy, Roy Young Band: Rainbow Theatre, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 7 January 1972
Mother Soul at the Rainbow ...
Chocolate Syrup: Introducing Chocolate Syrup
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 January 1972
1971 HAS been a remarkable year for group's names and none has been more imaginative than Chocolate Syrup, five young men who are currently enjoying ...
Honey & The Bees: Introducing Honey and The Bees
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 January 1972
HONEY and the Bees are four beautiful young ladies from Philadelphia who have just come off their biggest hit to date. 'It's Gonna Take A ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 January 1972
MILLIE JACKSON has had one of the most meaningful songs of 1971 in her current hit, 'A Child Of God (It's hard To Believe)'. Not ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 January 1972
BRITAIN HAS always been a happy hunting ground for Rufus Thomas, right back to his first tour in 1967, not so long after notching up ...
Brenda & The Tabulations: Brenda and The Tabulations
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 21 January 1972
OVER THE past five years, Brenda & The Tabulations have been Philadelphia's most consistently successful act. Since the first time that she showed up on ...
People's Choice: Introducing People's Choice
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 21 January 1972
PEOPLE'S CHOICE 'I Likes To Do It' has been one of the most consistent selling Mojo singles to date – it has never achieved the ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 21 January 1972
IF I HAD to select the most satisfying thing to me personally of 1972 (within the realms of our music!), I would be more than ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, February 1972
HERE'S AN unbelievable story – would you believe that Donnie Elbert's 'Where Did Our Love Go' is three years old, was recorded in London and ...
Billy Preston: Working The Way God Planned It!
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 4 February 1972
BILLY PRESTON has been here all the time, yet he's only just arrived; and after many years of building his way up the bumpy road ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 February 1972
SINCE EMERGING as an important solo entertainer, Curtis Mayfield has also emerged as the president of a successful record company, due mainly to his basic ...
Bloodstone, Curtis Mayfield: Curtis Mayfield, Bloodstone: Rainbow Theatre, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 4 February 1972
CONFUSION OVER the starting time of the first Curtis Mayfield performance at a British theatre did not auger well for the evening and the additional ...
The Chi-Lites: Eugene Record: Today's Genius
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 February 1972
IT WAS in February 1970 that my eyes were first really opened to the Chi-Lites. Until then. I had only been able to hear a ...
Stevie Wonder: A Little Too Far Out?
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 4 February 1972
ALL IN ALL, 1971 was not a big year for Stevie Wonder in this country, and his appearances in the chart were, in fact, few ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 February 1972
THE UNIFICS main claim to fame in this country is via their in-demand oldie, 'Court Of Love', a record that sold close on a million ...
Maceo Parker & All The Kings Men
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 February 1972
MACEO & All The King's Men, currently on the U.K. Singles chart with 'Got To Getcha' and 'Thank You', didn't come into existance until March ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 February 1972
CONTINUING THE success story of former Golden World/Ric Tic artists are The Dramatics, who were recently awarded their first Gold Disc for million-plus sales on ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 February 1972
THE LAST Poets have enjoyed success in the States via two albums, The Last Poets and This Is Madness, both on the Douglas label. However, ...
O'Jays: The O'Jays: Together For More Than A Decade
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 February 1972
OF ALL the so-called lesser known American vocal groups, the O'Jays are one of the most remarkable. Not only have they been together for well ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, March 1972
IT'S FUNNY the way that you run into people by surprise. On planning a quick interview with Curtis Mayfield, I discovered that his road manager ...
Jackie Moore, Wilson Pickett: Wilson Pickett, Jackie Moore: Copacabana, NYC
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, March 1972
CAN YOU imagine seeing Wilson Pickett at the Talk of the Town in London, complete with middle-aged folks having a night out, coach parties from ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 March 1972
WHEN ATLANTIC recommences battle in this country following the switch from Polydor to Kinney's distribution, one of the records that will receive maximum support is ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 March 1972
DESPITE spending a week or so in this country, it is doubtful whether many British citizens had an opportunity to see Hot Wax' successful trio, ...
The Stylistics: Four Releases, Four Hits!
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 March 1972
FOR SO LONG, the Delfonics were acclaimed as the leading exponents of the Philadelphia Sound and that was the way it stayed until only a ...
Art Ensemble of Chicago, Fontella Bass: Fontella Bass: Holding on this time
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 March 1972
FONTELLA BASS has had just one hit record in this country and that was with 'Rescue Me' back in 1965. However, ever since, every record ...
Chairmen Of The Board: General Johnson & the Chairmen: back to basics
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 March 1972
AS EXCLUSIVELY reported in B&S, the Chairmen Of The Board are back working but as a trio. ...
James Brown: Talking Loud And Saying Something
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 March 1972
JAMES BROWN is renowned for being a leader of his people and never more so than right now. During his long and successful career, he ...
The Persuasions: unreliable musicians led them to sing a cappella
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 March 1972
THE PERSUASIONS are unique. They are, in fact, the only full time professional exponents of Accapella in the States. Accepella is the art of musical ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, April 1972
WHEN 1971 is finally evaluated in years to come, historians will look back and acknowledge Bill Withers as one of the most significant and important ...
The Temptations: Temptations Special: Damon Harris and Richard Street
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, April 1972
Rappin' with Damon Harris... ...
The Temptations: Temptations Special: Dennis Edwards
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, April 1972
THE PAST year has seen some traumatic changes for the Temptations, changes that would certainly have wrecked any normal group's career to the point where ...
Donny Hathaway: Donny Hathaway Live! (Atlantic K40369 £2.09) ****
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 April 1972
DONNY HATHAWAY has quietly established himself as one of the most successful of the newer acts. His great strength seems to lie in his knowledge ...
Donny Hathaway: Live! (Atlantic K40369 £2.09)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 April 1972
DONNY HATHAWAY has quietly established himself as one of the most successful of the newer acts. His great strength seems to lie in his knowledge ...
Roberta Flack, Donny Hathaway: Donny Hathaway: Aiming High
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 April 1972
AS WAS written in the Bill Withers feature in the last issue of B&S, there have been a handful of new talents in the 70's ...
The Moments: Moments with the Moments
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 April 1972
OF ALL the stalwart American groups, the most hard done-by title surely goes to the Moments, three young men with a string of hits that ...
The Undisputed Truth: Undisputed Talent; That's The Truth!
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 April 1972
CERTAINLY ONE of the most impressive of 1971's many noteworthy new talents is Motown's trio, the Undisputed Truth. Though not initially discovered by him, Norman ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 12 May 1972
THOUGH SOMEWHAT quiet on the recording scene of late, Screamin' Jay Hawkins, the original wildman of our music, is still attracting large audiences in the ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 June 1972
WE'VE SAID it before and we'll no doubt say it again – Britain's soul fans are far more loyal to their favourite girl singers than ...
Frederick Knight: Success From Out Of Left Field
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 June 1972
REGULAR READERS of B&S will already be more than aware of how we occasionally jump on a record right from when it becomes available in ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 June 1972
IT'S NOT very often that a basically Soul single is talked about as being an instant British hit but that's the way Love Unlimited's first ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 June 1972
REGULAR readers of B&S who follow the U.S. charts have probably noticed that every now and then a record comes on the charts then drops ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 June 1972
IF WE had to nominate the most asked after Soul artist who is outside of the super league of the Hayes/Mayfield/James Brown/Motown and ilk, it ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 June 1972
IN THE past year or so, we have been blessed with more genuine talent acceptance for our music and those who make it than at ...
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 June 1972
PROBABLY THE MOST eligible superstar to join our ranks over the past twelve months is Al Green, an unpredictable artist and an equally unpredictable man. ...
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 June 1972
"I'M FINALLY going to make it to Europe," an overjoyed Bobby Womack yelled over the phone to me! "My agent just told me that there's ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 June 1972
IT'S BEEN many months since Candi Staton was last featured on the charts in the States. Now, to confound everybody, she has two singles at ...
The Drifters, Clyde McPhatter: Clyde McPhatter: A Personal Tribute
Obituary by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 June 1972
CLYDE McPhatter is dead. I would be a liar if I said I was surprised because Clyde has been 'lost' for quite a few years. ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 June 1972
THREE YEARS ago, George Perkins' debut single, 'Crying In The Streets', gave him a No. 1 R&B record. Now comes the belated follow-up and a ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 June 1972
THINGS HAVE changed quite a good deal for The Nite-Liters since we last heard from them. Back then, they were almost totally unknown in this ...
Esther Phillips: Twenty-Five Years A Star
Profile by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 14 July 1972
A MORE apt title could surely not have been found for the initial Kudu set by Miss Esther Phillips. From A Whisper To A Scream ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 July 1972
BELIEVE IT or not, this September marks the 20th anniversary of Gladys Knight and the Pips. Before you let your imagination run away with you, ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 July 1972
DESPITE the fact that she has never been properly represented in this country on record, Laura Lee is certainly one of the most requested female ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 July 1972
"YOU KNOW, we recorded the album for Columbia but they just did not want it. They were too busy with Sly and Chicago; Santana and ...
Betty Wright: I Love The Way You Love (Atlantic 40364 £2.09)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 July 1972
CERTAINLY BETTY is going to find it tough to come up with another classic such as 'Clean Up Woman'. It's sad that that's the price ...
Profile by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 28 July 1972
IN LATE 1965, came the American release of her second Atlantic album, simply called Esther, with arrangements by veterans Oliver Nelson and Ray Ellis as ...
Little Royal: Introducing Little Royal
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 July 1972
CURRENTLY ENJOYING his first national success is Little Royal, whose 'Jealous' single currently stands high on the American Soul charts. Although it's his debut on ...
Love Unlimited: Love Unlimited (Uni UNLS 24 £2.00)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 July 1972
THREE YOUNG Californian ladies who have enjoyed an international hit first time out with 'Walkin' In The Rain', here in its entirety of four minutes ...
Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 August 1972
EVERY YEAR, there are only a handful – maybe six – records which go on to become all-time personal favourites, records that get played at ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 August 1972
THE OHIO Players started life a decade ago as the Ohio Untouchables and their first real claim to fame is that they were featured vocalists ...
Aretha Franklin: Amazing Grace (Atlantic)
Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 8 September 1972
WHEN I WAS first privileged to hear some of Aretha Franklin's Amazing Grace album when John Abbey brought back from the States several cassettes'-worth of ...
Mel & Tim: Starting All Over Again
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 September 1972
SINCE EXPLODING on to the scene some two years ago with two consecutive million sellers, Mel and Tim's recording career fell into a period of ...
Roberta Flack: Sounds for Saturday (BBC-2)
Film/DVD/TV Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 September 1972
Roberta Flack TV Special... deliberately brilliant? ...
Chakachas: The great Chakachas mystery solved: well, almost!
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 September 1972
EVER SINCE the emergence of the Chakachas and their first record, 'Jungle Fever', there has been a great cloak of mystery surrounding their background. I ...
The Bar-Kays, Isaac Hayes, The Staple Singers, Rufus Thomas: Wattstax 72: Seven Hours of Soul
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 September 1972
THE whole idea of WATTSTAX '72 was splendid. It enabled more than 100,000 people to attend a seven hour concert at the Los Angeles Coliseum ...
Profile by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 September 1972
BARBARA LYNN is probably best known for her composition of 'You'll Lose A Good Thing', which she recorded herself in 1962 and gained a Gold ...
Doris Troy: Soul/Gospel on T.V.
Film/DVD/TV Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 September 1972
ONE COULD quite justifiably be forgiven for assuming that the week of the recent Bank Holiday was television's 'National Doris Troy Week' for the lady ...
Jackie Wilson: The Rainbow Theatre, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 6 October 1972
THERE ARE very few performers whose career can span a good fifteen years and continue to be chart names and still draw crowds, particularly in ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 6 October 1972
I MAKE no apologies for stating that Mark IV's 'Honey I Still Love You' is by far my favourite record of the moment. Equally so, ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 6 October 1972
DESPITE BEING relatively cold in the States right now, The Drifters are having their most successful year ever in this country. They currently are on ...
Curtis Mayfield: Superfly (Buddah Super 2318.065 £2.25) *****
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 October 1972
CURTIS, THE Gentle Genius, joins the ranks of Black music-men who have supplied their musical talents towards film scores. However, Curtis surpasses all of them, ...
The Cornelius Brothers and Sister Rose
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 October 1972
WHEN AN act has a million seller first time out, it is highly unusual for the public to have to wait eleven months for the ...
Thom Bell, The Delfonics: The Delfonics
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 October 1972
PHILADELPHIA'S Delfonics are probably the innovators of the city's famed sound, dating back to their earliest Philly Groove hits such as 'La La Means I ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 October 1972
THEIR ALBUM sleeve note begins: "Most of us became aware of The Persuaders via their monster single recording of 'Thin Line Between Love And Hate'. ...
Junior Walker & the All Stars: Junior Walker: Still as popular as ever
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 3 November 1972
CURRENTLY enjoying very considerable success with his very cleverly put together maxi-single of 'Walk In The Night', 'Right On Brothers And Sisters' and 'Gotta Hold ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 3 November 1972
TO QUOTE the title of one of his famous Atlantic recordings, a virtually guaranteed event is the annual visit of the Ray Charles revue with ...
The Stylistics: The Sound Of Sweet Soul
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 3 November 1972
PERHAPS ONE of the most significant 'happenings' this year has been the much-deserved chart success of the sweet-soul-sounding Stylistics who have undoubtedly been hailed as ...
Archie Bell and the Drells: Archie Bell & The Drells: Here They Go Again
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 November 1972
IT'S BECOMING commonplace these days for Britain's pop public to turn on to American soul acts at a time when the artists' career is quiet ...
Gladys Knight: Soul Perfection In Person
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 17 November 1972
IT'S A VERY rare treat to meet an artist whose work you admire and whose in-person appearances you find exciting and who on top of ...
Ike & Tina Turner: The Ike and Tina Turner Revue, Fanny: Empire Pool, Wembley, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 17 November 1972
SEXY OR SEXLESS? ...
The Independents, Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes: The Independents, Harold Melvin: Whither soul?
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 November 1972
THE INDEPENDENTS and Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes are two of a handful of talented groups who have managed to break through in this ...
O'Jays: The O'Jays: Back Stabbers (CBS 65257 £2.29)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 November 1972
THE O'JAYS' success with 'Back Slabbers' has been one of the high spots for Soul of 1972. Hot on the heels of the hit single ...
Bill Withers, Fontella Bass: Bill Withers/Fontella Bass: Hammersmith Odeon, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 December 1972
IN THESE days when it's applied with alarming frequency to practically every new talent that emerges, the word "genius" as with so many other superlatives ...
Rev. James Cleveland, Aretha Franklin: Rev James Cleveland
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 December 1972
IT'S REALLY quite a sad commentary on life that it took a pupil to bring the master to the attention of the world. But that's ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 December 1972
THE FIRST ever visit of Motown's Jackson Five is something which numerous people won't forget in a hurry: the staff at the hotels that the ...
Bettye Lavette: First Album Due After Ten Years…
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 December 1972
BELIEVE IT or not, Bettye Lavette is celebrating her tenth year as a recording artist and yet it is only now that she really feels ...
Bob & Earl: Back On The Road Again
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 December 1972
IT'S MORE than three years since Bob & Earl were last here but much has happened for the duo in that time. ...
Review and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 15 December 1972
IT'S ALWAYS a very gratifying and rewarding experience to see an artist in whom you have particular faith and in who you strongly believe, finally ...
Syreeta, Stevie Wonder: Syreeta... Lady Wonder
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 January 1973
I HONESTLY wonder how many people have listened to Syreeta's first Mowest album, entitled simply Syreeta, and compared it to the last record that this ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 January 1973
WITH THE current and phenominal success of the production and songwriting team of Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, it is only right that Billy Paul ...
Martha Reeves & The Vandellas: Martha Reeves: A Lady With A Big Future
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, February 1973
IT WOULD surely be true to say that every fan must have one or two records that they will always treasure – the special one ...
Roberta Flack: Royal Albert Hall, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 February 1973
HAVING BEEN unfortunate enough to miss her first, highly successful appearance in London in July last year, I was naturally eager at the opportunity to ...
Billy Paul: 360 Degrees Of Billy Paul (Epic 653S1)
Review by uncredited writer, Blues & Soul, 16 February 1973
'Brown Baby'; 'I'm Just a Prisoner'; 'It's Too Late'; 'Me And Mrs. Jones'; 'Am I Black Enough For You'; 'Let's Stay Together'; 'Your Song'; 'I'm Gonna Make It ...
Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes: Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes (CBS 65350 £2.29)
Review by uncredited writer, Blues & Soul, 16 February 1973
'I Miss You'; 'Ebony Woman'; 'Yesterday I Had The Blues'; 'If You Don't Know Me By Now'; 'Be For Real'; 'Let Me Into Your World'; ...
Millie Jackson: Millie Jackson (Mojo Select 2918.005 £2.00)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 February 1973
'If This Is Love'; 'I Ain't Giving Up'; 'I Miss You Baby'; 'A Child Of God'; 'Ask Me What You Want'; 'My Man A Sweet Man'; ...
Stevie Wonder: Man Of Today And Tomorrow
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 February 1973
ONE OF THE most rewarding and exciting aspects of taking any serious interest in any field of music is observing the artistic development and progress ...
Timmy Thomas: 'Why Can't We Live Together'/'Funky Me' (Glades 2027.012)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 February 1973
SOMEBODY RECENTLY described this record as the 'I've Been Lonely For So Long' of 1973 and there are certainly similarities. It is completely out of ...
War: The World Is A Ghetto (LA LAS 29400)
Review by uncredited writer, Blues & Soul, 16 February 1973
'The Cisko Kid'; 'Where Was You At'; 'City, Country, City'; 'Four Cornered Room'; 'The World Is A Ghetto'; 'Beetles In The Bog' ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 March 1973
2008 intro: Eddie Kendricks had enjoyed critical acclaim with his groundbreaking 1972 People, Hold On album. The former Temptation had to experience a commercial mainstream ...
Timmy Thomas: The One Man Band
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 March 1973
MOST PEOPLE probably figure that 'Why Can't We Live Together' is the first time they have heard the hypnotic and highly individualistic style of organ ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 March 1973
FACTUALLY, CYMANDE is one of the hottest acts in the States right now with a Top 10 single in 'The Message' and an album tucked ...
Al Green: Poll '72's Top Male Vocalist
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 March 1973
ALTHOUGH AL Green claimed to be a little surprised about being voted No. 1 Male Vocalist in our annual poll. I think that few other ...
Clydie King: Ready Willing And Certainly Able
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 March 1973
I SUPPOSE it's true to say that Clydie King is best generally known in this country for her successful duet hit with Jimmy Holiday, 'Ready. ...
Arthur Conley, The Supremes: The Supremes, Arthur Conley: Kilburn State, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 March 1973
AWARE OF all the 'changes' that have been going on with the Supremes of late, it was natural to hope that some of the new, ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 March 1973
WITH THE exciting news that both Junior Walker and The Temptations have won their respective awards in the '72 B&S Poll, their presence here could ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 April 1973
GROVER WASHINGTON Jr. became one of Kudu's brightest lights by a complete one in a million accident. "I was called in to do a background ...
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 13 April 1973
"REALLY WEIRD" is how Johnny Nash describes the acceptance and success he's recently received in the States via his major CBS hit 'I Can See ...
Johnny Williams: Slow Motion To The Top
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 April 1973
JOHNNY WILLIAMS and his first release on Philadelphia International provided us with one of the most interesting statistical records of last year. Apart from the ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 April 1973
IT'S WELL over a year ago that Ronnie Dyson took 'When You Get Right Down To It' to the top of both pop and soul ...
Barry White: A Potential Superstar
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 April 1973
ANYONE WHO has heard Barry White's first album on 20th Century will undoubtedly concur on the point I am about to make – he is ...
Billie Holiday, Diana Ross: Diana Ross: The Lady Is A Winner
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 27 April 1973
NO ONE is more aware than the lady herself of the totally negative attitude prevalent amongst quite a large number of people when it was ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 April 1973
OLDIES HAVE always played a major part in the British Soul scene and it is quite amazing how many of these in-demand items come from ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 May 1973
AT A time when a lot of talented girls are beginning to surface again, it is also worth noting that there are a few completely ...
Billy Paul: The Age Old Problem Of The Follow Up
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 May 1973
BILLY PAUL exploded on an unsuspecting public with the tale of 'Me And Mrs. Jones', a record that sold more than 2 1/2 million copies ...
Bunny Sigler: On To A Winning Streak
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 May 1973
THERE ARE honestly very few people within our musical sphere who I really want to interview and who I have missed. But one such person ...
The Lost Generation: Lost Generation
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 May 1973
THE LOST GENERATION is four young men – two sets of brothers – who exploded to fame two years ago with 'The Sly, Slick And ...
The Stylistics: on poll success... Thom Bell... the Supper Club Scene
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 May 1973
IT REALLY wasn't such a surprise to B&S readers that the Stylistics' first album should come out as top album in the annual B&S Poll. ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 May 1973
IN THESE sceptered isles, of course, Dobie Gray is best known in the Northern disco circuit where 'The In Crowd', 'Out On The Floor' and ...
First Choice: Everybody's First Choice
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 May 1973
IT'S NOT very often that we Europeans get the opportunity to appreciate an American Soul record in advance to the native Americans, but in the ...
Gladys Knight And The Pips: a new chapter
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 May 1973
A NEW page in the seemingly long and successful career of Gladys Knight & the Pips is about to begin with the group's debut release ...
Leon Haywood: The Good Times, The Bad Times And The Times In Between
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 May 1973
IN OUR quest to track down the select band of artistes who are always there in the background but never seem to get the right ...
Al Green, Margie Joseph, Oscar Toney jr.: Rainbow Theatre, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 8 June 1973
Al Green is a Killer! ...
Esther Phillips: Ronnie Scott's Club, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 8 June 1973
NO MATTER which aspect of the music appeals to you everyone has one or two artists who they hold up with great reverence against the ...
Al Green, Syl Johnson, Willie Mitchell: Willie Mitchell
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 June 1973
WILLIE MITCHELL. His name is synonymous with the rich brass sound that has become known worldwide as the Memphis Sound. For years, Willie as been ...
Sly & the Family Stone: Impressions of Sly Stewart
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 August 1973
WHEN ONE interviews Sly Stewart, it's not so much an interview — it's more a case of throwing a question into a computer and coming ...
Sly & The Family Stone: White City, London
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 August 1973
"SLY STONE to appear at White City Festival". After reading various articles concerning Sly Stone, you imagine the feeling of reading this headline. ...
The Moments, Sylvia Robinson: All Platinum Records: Behind The Scenes With Joe Robinson
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 August 1973
JOE ROBINSON is President of All Platinum Records, a complex of record companies that embraces Stang, Vibration, Horoscope, Turbo and All Platinum labels. ...
Curtis Mayfield: Back To The World (Buddah Super 2318.085 £2.15)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 August 1973
THE INSTANTLY recognisable voice and music of Curtis Mayfield has successfully carried him once more to the top of the American charts with this somewhat ...
Manu Dibango: The Originator Of 'Soul Makossa'
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 August 1973
THERE IS absolutely a no contest when it comes to the most recorded song of the year in soul circles. It is simply 'Soul Makossa' ...
Dr. John, The Meters, Aaron Neville: The Mighty Meters
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 August 1973
WITH VIRTUALLY no publicity, the mighty Meters recently came into London as part of the Dr. John entourage. We were fortunate enough to catch up ...
The Staple Singers: Be What You Are
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 August 1973
AN IN-DEPTH REVIEW OF THEIR NEW ALBUM BE WHAT YOU ARE ...
Willie Hutch: This Brother's Worked It Out
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 August 1973
MOTOWN'S PRESS release on Willie Hutch proudly quotes what Cash Box — the influential American music trade paper — said about his soundtrack to The ...
Donny Hathaway: Reassessing His Musical Life
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 14 September 1973
2008 intro: Donny Hathaway was in London on vacation after completing work on a new album, Extensions Of A Man and took a brief time ...
Marvin Gaye: Let's Get It On (Tamla)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 September 1973
UNLESS A veritable monster soul single rears its head during the final quarter of this year, Marvin Gaye will have the pleasure of having the ...
Diana Ross: Talking With Diana Ross
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 28 September 1973
PRE-CONCEIVED notions are always hard to forget and when one has been continually conditioned to a particular notion, time makes it that much harder to ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 12 October 1973
SOME GUYS (so the latest Persuaders' single on Atlantic would have you believe) have all the luck and that goes for the gals too. In ...
Bill Withers One of Today's Most Talented Singer-Songwriters
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 26 October 1973
IN CASE you are wondering — as was I — just what has been happening to Bill Withers since he was in Britain over a ...
Marvin Gaye: Let's Get It On (Tamla Motown STMA 8013 £2.38)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 26 October 1973
IN A MINIMUM of words, this is THE album of the year! After the gem album, What's Going On, everyone has been wondering if marvellous ...
Bill Withers: Rainbow Theatre, London
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 November 1973
POSSIBLY BECAUSE most major soul people only make one trip over here every year or every other year, it's true to say that most of ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 November 1973
IF YOU study Thom Bell's creative work, there is an undeniable classical influence in everything he does. The easy explanation to this is that the ...
Bobby "Blue" Bland: Bobby Blue Bland: Arrival!
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 23 November 1973
WHEN THE news was announced that the vast ABC/Dunhill Record complex had purchased the Duke-Peacock group of companies, speculation began as to what ABC would ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 23 November 1973
THE DAYS are long gone when the total credit for the success of a record goes to the artist alone. Over the years, the role ...
The Isley Brothers: The Isleys: first time winners again!
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 23 November 1973
THE SUCCESS of 'That Lady' keeps up quite a remarkable record for the stalwart three brothers, the Isleys. Over the years, the brothers have been ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 December 1973
J.W. is the man who took Sam Cooke from his gospel background and helped mould him into the very first Soul superstar. He performed a ...
Dionne Warwicke: Just Being Herself
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 7 December 1973
THAT CERTAIN entertainers decline or prefer not to give interviews is an incomprehensible fact that frequently puzzles both journalists and the public. ...
Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes: Black & Blue (Philadelphia International 65859 £2.17) ****
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 December 1973
HAROLD MELVIN & the Blue Notes are the masters of the long tracks — as they proved on their hugely successful first album, from whence ...
O'Jays: The O'Jays: Ship Ahoy (Philadelphia International PIR 65860 £2.17)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 December 1973
THE O'JAYS have emerged as the most serious competition that the Temptations have had during their four year reign as undisputed top soul group. And ...
Aretha Franklin: Aretha: Supersoulstar
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 21 December 1973
2008 introduction: Aretha Franklin had just enjoyed major success with the Stevie Wonder composition 'Until You Come Back To Me'. She was in contract re-negotiations ...
Ashford & Simpson: Really Somethin' Else!
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 21 December 1973
OVER THE last five years, the emergence of producers-turned performers has been a phenomenon which brought into the limelight some of the finest creative forces ...
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 21 December 1973
MOST INITIAL comments that I overheard on my way out from the Philly Package concert at London's Hammersmith Odeon theatre were slightly tinged with disappointment. ...
Al Green, Willie Mitchell, Ann Peebles: Willie Mitchell: Mr. Memphis
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 January 1974
WHILST THE Philadelphia Sound has undoubtedly been the top sound of 1973, the nearest rival to it has been the Memphis Sound as carried out ...
Stevie Wonder: Rainbow Theatre, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 12 February 1974
IT'S BEEN said before but it's got to be said again: Stevie Wonder is, firstly, one of the most creative talents in the musical world ...
Linda Lewis, The Staple Singers: The Staple Singers/Linda Lewis: Royal Festival Hall, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 12 February 1974
IF ANYONE ever asked for a definition of soul, the best advice you could give them would be to go to a concert by the ...
The Stylistics: Rockin' Roll Stylistics
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 26 February 1974
IT WAS indeed a pleasure to greet Stylistic Airrion Love with the news that the groups current single, 'Rockin' Roll Baby', had just attained No. ...
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 26 February 1974
PERHAPS MORE than any other female group around today, The Supremes have undergone what seem like almost regular personnel changes and to my mind, it's ...
Love Unlimited, Barry White: Barry White, Love Unlimited: Rainbow Theatre, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 12 March 1974
Triumph at the Rainbow ...
Gloria Jones: Sharing Her Soul
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 12 March 1974
HOW MANY times, I wonder, do we hear that old worn out cliché from visiting Americans about how much they dig this country and how ...
New York City: Playboy Club, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 12 March 1974
SOMETIMES THE atmosphere or the vibes, whatever you want to call it, can have a profound effect on the performance of entertainers and if you're ...
The Real Thing: Gulliver's, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 12 March 1974
MAKING ONE of their rare appearances in London, Liverpool's Real Thing put on an entertaining performance which demonstrated their vocal capabilities but did not show, ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 26 March 1974
SO, THE time has arrived when we can have anonymous soul artists topping the charts. Already this year, the Love Unlimited Orchestra has topped both ...
The Dramatics: A Dramatic Experience
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, April 1974
OVER THE past two years, the Dramatics have become established as one of the most consistently successful vocal groups in America. The success streak began ...
Doris Troy: Stretchin' Out and Gettin' Ahead
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 9 April 1974
AS WE promised in the last 'TALA', we're gonna be checking out a few of the American artists who have decided to make their home ...
Manu Dibango: The Soul Makossa Man
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 April 1974
HIS FRIENDS call him Dibbs but to the rest of the world his name is Manu Dibango, and he is the creator of one of ...
Ann Peebles: Hangin' On To Success
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 7 May 1974
ALL OF a sudden, it seems like the whole world is talking about the talents of a magnificently soulful young woman and she puts it ...
Eddie Kendricks, The Temptations: Eddie Kendricks: The Son of Sagittarius
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 May 1974
THE BRIGHTEST star on the horizon at the end of 1973 and beginning of 1974 was undoubtedly Eddie Kendricks, one-time lead vocalist with the world's ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 7 May 1974
The thrill is gone ...
The Fatback Band: Fat 'n' funky sounds that set folks dancin'!
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 May 1974
PERHAPS THE No 1 underground disco record of last year belonged to a New York based band called the Fatback Band. The record, of course, ...
Millie Jackson: Sayin' What Comes Naturally
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 21 May 1974
IF THERE is truly any justice, 1974 will see the final emergence of the magnificent Mille Jackson right at the top of her field, where ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 21 May 1974
AS PART of their first major tour of the UK. Avco's Stylistics performed at the Odeon, Hammersmith on Saturday May 4th to a pretty full ...
Kool and the Gang: Kool & the Gang: Wild And Peaceful (Polydor 2310.299)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 June 1974
THE MASTERS of funk, Kool and the Gang, offer what has to be one of the funkiest albums of all time. Kool fans will already ...
The Delfonics: Very much alive and kicking
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 June 1974
WITH ALL of the current interest in the Philly Sound, now is a very apt moment to consider the group that started it all, the ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 July 1974
THE WELCOME revival in the musical fate of Etta James is highlighted by the release of a fine new album, produced by Gabriel Mekler and ...
George McCrae, Gwen McCrae: George & Gwen McCrae: Mr. & Mrs. Soul!
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 July 1974
IN EUROPE, we are quite used to discos being a major force behind the establishing of R&B hits but it's a medium that hasn't been ...
Oscar Brown Jr.: Man With A Message
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 July 1974
HIT RECORDS are funny things. An artist can go in the studio, work for hours, use the best musicians, spend lots of money and think ...
James Brown, The J.B.'s, Fred Wesley: Fred Wesley: The man behind the main man
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 August 1974
WITH THE continuing progress of the James Brown Empire, it seems that Fred Wesley is rapidly becoming James' sergeant-at-arms. His name crops up time and ...
Johnny Bristol: Hangin' On In There Baby
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 August 1974
EVERYONE SEEMS to be knowledgably tipping Johnny Bristol for the same sort of instant and long-standing success that Barry White and Isaac Hayes have enjoyed ...
Rufus & Chaka Khan: Tellin' Something Good
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 13 August 1974
2008 introduction: The group Rufus had released its first album on ABC in 1973; by the following year, the Chicago-based team was on its second ...
Viola Wills: Struggling For The Truth
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 27 August 1974
IT CAME as something of a surprise to the lady to learn that her name was already familiar to a hard core following of fans ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 10 September 1974
LIVING IN the footsteps is a problem which daunts performers from time to time when they come from a successful musical family – we all ...
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 24 September 1974
THERE ARE but a handful of names that seem to have an almost magical effect on soul folk everywhere. For some, the name is held ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 September 1974
A look at a rather special group — the first white act to headline an Apollo show in many a long year... and they won ...
LaBelle: Tomorrow's Brightest Stars
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, October 1974
2008 introduction: In person interview conducted by David Nathan in the kitchen of Vicki Wickham's apartment in midtown Manhattan. Patti LaBelle, Nona Hendryx and Sarah ...
Lorraine Ellison: Heart And Soul
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 8 October 1974
David Nathan talks to the 'Stay With Me' lady, who's set to unleash her talents and become much more than just a singers' singer ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 October 1974
THOUGH JOHNNY Bristol has been involved with recording success for years now, his past track record stems from his career as a record producer. But ...
Ann Peebles: Sweet and Soulful
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 October 1974
David Nathan reports on Ann Peebles' London gigs and talks shop with the delectable lady. ...
B.T. Express: Introducing The B.T. Express
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 November 1974
CURRENTLY SCORING with their very first nationwide release is the Brooklyn based band, the B.T. Express. The group's first Scepter release, 'Do It ('Til You're ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 19 November 1974
The first ladies of Soul: Aretha and Gladys ...
Graham Central Station, Sly & the Family Stone: Introducing Graham Central Station
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 November 1974
Leader Larry Graham, bass player with Sly's original Family Stone, outlines the formation and progress of this happening group. ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 19 November 1974
THE LATIN Casino in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, is a fairly plush affair — in some ways like a larger version of London's Talk Of ...
Gloria Gaynor: Her 'Hello' Is Her Goodbye
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 3 December 1974
2008 introduction: After having some club success with 'Honeybee', Gloria Gaynor was just beginning to get her career in gear when David met her in ...
Latimore: Time to Straighten It Out
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 December 1974
WHENEVER YOU look at the higher echelons of the American singles chart, you'll always find at least one good, straight and clean Blues record. Right ...
The Manhattans: "Where Motown had the sound of the 60's, Philadelphia has the music for the 70's"
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 December 1974
I MAKE no apologies for admitting that my favourite record of the moment is 'Don 't Take Your Love From Me' by the Manhattans, a ...
Bunny Sigler: A Philly institution
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 December 1974
WITH THE Philadelphia 'thing' still at its peak, it is especially worthwhile catching up on the happenings of one of the city's most important citizens, ...
The Delfonics, The Four Tops, The Tymes: Four Tops, Delfonics, Tymes: Hammersmith Odeon, London
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 December 1974
THIS WAS probably the soul event of a fairly inconspicuous year for our music as far as concerts in the capital are concerned Without thinking ...
The Meters: Rejuvenation (Reprise K54027)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 December 1974
NEW ORLEANS' most celebrated musicians progress here to the point where they seem to be on the verge of really breaking through. The album is ...
Labelle: Tomorrow's Brightest Stars ★ ★ ★ ★
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 21 January 1975
ONCE UPON a time, just about fourteen years ago, four foxy young ladies met up and decided to embark on the path that proverbially leads ...
Shirley Brown: Woman to Woman (and men too!)
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 21 January 1975
ONE OF 1974's really great soul records was undoubtedly Shirley Brown's 'Woman To Woman', the million selling single that launched Stax' new Truth label and ...
Ashford & Simpson: Ashford and Simpson: Writin' On
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 4 February 1975
IT'S PRETTY hard to believe that the young, unassuming couple seated comfortably in their smart New York apartment-and-office are the masterminds behind a whole string ...
Graham Central Station, Larry Graham: Graham Central Station: Platform Two
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 February 1975
THE WARNER Brothers Music Show concert package that is currently touring Europe marks the arrival of the six-piece Californian band, Graham Central Station's at platform ...
Tower of Power: Power From The Tower
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 February 1975
THAT OLD adage that you have to be Black to be a soul band has been firmly buried over the past couple of years. You ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 18 February 1975
THEY USED to say that the day that funky music would grab any kind of attention on this side of the Atlantic would be as ...
Kool and the Gang: Kool & The Gang: Bringing Funk To The Folks
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 February 1975
IT WAS sad to stand there at the Rainbow Theatre in London's Finsbury Park area (five minutes from the Arsenal football ground for geography lovers!) ...
The Ohio Players: Ohio Players: Funk & Fire
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 February 1975
AS ANYONE who witnessed the one and only Ohio Players concert in London will gladly testify, they rank as one of the most colourful and ...
The Ohio Players: Ohio Players: Hammersmith Odeon, London
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 February 1975
THE AIR of expectancy that preceded the Ohio Players was thick with excitement as the capacity-filled theatre buzzed with atmosphere. Suddenly, the rhythm started and ...
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 18 February 1975
ALMOST INEVITABLY, the one line of questioning that any interviewer takes with Syl Johnson involves Al Green, Willie Mitchell and Hi Records. Which is understandable ...
The Chi-Lites: Baileys, Leicester
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 February 1975
WHEN IT comes to perfection, I think we would all agree that it is a state of affairs that is rarely achieved. Well, on this ...
The Chi-Lites: The Brightest Lites
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 February 1975
EUGENE RECORD, Marshall Thompson and Robert Lester, known affectionately the world over as Squirrel. They are the Chi-Lites, currently midway through a tour of Britain ...
Betty Wright: Danger High Voltage (RCA SF 8408)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 March 1975
'Everybody Was Rocking'; 'Love Don't Grow On A Love Tree'; 'Show Your Girl'; 'Come On Up'; 'Shoorah Shoorah'; 'Where Is The Love', 'That's When I'll ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 March 1975
Betty Finally Cleans Up In Britain ...
Dionne Warwicke: Right Back On Top
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 4 March 1975
ASIDE FROM 'Then Came You', her million-selling, Thom Bell-produced duo with The Detroit Spinners which catapulted to the higher echelons of the pop & soul ...
The Hues Corporation: The Love Corporation
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 March 1975
'LOVE CORPORATION' really is an apt title for the Hues Corporation's new single because this L.A.-based trio literally ooze love for their fellow men and ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 18 March 1975
NEW YORK'S Radio City Music Hall, the world's largest theatre seating some 6000 people, just featured two widely differing aspects of black music within the ...
Rufus: The Rufus Story: The Two Faces of Chaka Khan
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 March 1975
IN A WORLD of mass-production, it is comforting to occasionally come across something that is truly original. Something that has not been begged, borrowed or ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 March 1975
THERE ARE two specific reasons why it is always a pleasure for me to interview and then present a feature on the Tymes. Firstly, because ...
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 18 March 1975
IT IS EXCEPTIONALLY refreshing and highly unusual in this world full of phoney and plastic people to meet anyone with the honest, sensitive and just ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 April 1975
WITH THE continued success of the disco in America, we are constantly getting a steady flow of new talent hitting the charts. Carol Douglas is ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 April 1975
ONE HARDLY is likely to forget the name of Dooley Silverspoon and that really was the main purpose behind Dooley – whose actual surname is ...
The Jimmy Castor Bunch: Jimmy Castor: Boogieing To The Top
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 April 1975
JIMMY CASTOR confesses that, right now, he is feeling elated. And one look at the charts or a few hours listening to nearly every r&b ...
Sister Sledge: A Dynamic Delight
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 April 1975
THE TRULY amazing dynamism of the four lovely ladies who make up Philadelphia's own SISTER SLEDGE are finally getting the kind of recognition which their ...
The Spinners: The Detroit Spinners: Living & Laughing
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 April 1975
IF YOU talk about supergroups these days, it is inevitable that The Spinners will enter your conversation. In the relatively short space of four years, ...
Revelation: B&S debut feature: Revelation
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 15 April 1975
"POSITIVE THINKING and a high energy level" are, according to Benny Diggs, what make Revelation what they are. If you ever feel that you want ...
The Futures: B&S debut feature: The Futures
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 15 April 1975
"TO BE a moon, not just a star" is the collective ambition of five, talented young guys from the City of Brotherly Love. Known as ...
Walter Heath: B&S debut feature: Walter Heath
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 15 April 1975
TALKING WITH Mr. Walter Heath midway during his recent stay in New York on the bill at the Uris Theatre with Seals & Crofts is ...
Ann Peebles: Learning To Cope With The Rain
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 April 1975
BEING THE recording artist for a classic can have almost as many pitfalls as advantages. The history of our music is littered with names who ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 April 1975
When 'Swing Your Daddy' exploded on to the scene, everybody was saying they knew the name of Jim Gilstrap – but where from? ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 April 1975
TRYING TO interview the Drifters sometimes proves an almost impossible task but it is one that I relish every time it is made possible because ...
The Moments and All Platinum Records: Moments To Remember
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 April 1975
I'M SURE THE Moments will understand my meaning when I say that I am absolutely dumbfounded to be able to write a feature on them ...
Choice Four: B&S debut feature: Choice Four
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 April 1975
WITH VAN McCoy currently riding the crest of a wave as a producer and songwriter via his work with The Stylistics – and his own ...
Odia Coates: B&S debut feature: Odia Coates
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 April 1975
ODIA COATES is now a lady with two claims to fame. Her actual discovery as far as the world is concerned is that she was ...
Vernon Burch: B&S debut feature: Vernon Burch
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 April 1975
VERNON BURCH may be a new name to you but his past is littered with success since he was one of the contributing members of ...
Al Green: Love, Happiness And Convictions
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 29 April 1975
2008 introduction: Known as the "Prince Of Soul," Al Green had built up a strong audience thanks to a string of hit singles and best-selling ...
Dee Dee Warwick: Back in your life
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 29 April 1975
IT'S BEEN more than a while since we heard from one young lady whose consistently good records seemed to never hit quite as big as ...
Grover Washington Jr: Grover Washington: Mister Magic
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 April 1975
IN JAZZ circles, Grover Washington Jr. is even unique because though he has been commercially successful in a big way, he still appeals to the ...
New York City: A Return Ticket From Philadelphia
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 April 1975
AT A TIME when we should have been welcoming George McCrae back for his second British tour, we are instead featuring that super-talented quartet, New ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 April 1975
AS any reader of B&S will have already perceived, the new Sam Dees album – The Show Must Go On – ranks as one of ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 April 1975
THE QUESTION that every B&S reader has been asking of late has been: Where is War? Correct me if I'm wrong, but the last War ...
Tamiko Jones: B&S debut feature: Tamiko Jones
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 May 1975
IF SHEER beauty could ensure a hit record, then Ms. Tamiko Jones would simply never yield the top spot. However, as well as having something ...
Melba Moore: Soulful Sophistication
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 13 May 1975
LIKE MOST everyone else, you're probably under the impression that the name Melba Moore is more synonymous with Broadway, Las Vegas, supper clubs and Hollywood ...
The Three Degrees: The International Three Degrees
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 May 1975
THE MOST successful banner carriers on behalf of the Philly Sound are undoubtedly the beautiful and talented Three Degrees, Sheila Ferguson, Valerie Holiday and Fayette ...
The Main Ingredient: Reaching Out For New Horizons
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 13 May 1975
IT IS JUST conceivable that you're one of these people who take The Main Ingredient for granted. They're the kind of group, you figure, who've ...
Carl Graves: B&S debut feature: Carl Graves
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 May 1975
CARL GRAVES is a young man currently making his name on a worldwide basis via a lovely debut solo recording on A&M Records, 'Baby Hang ...
The Jimmy Castor Bunch: Jimmy Castor: The Everything Man Really Has Everything
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 May 1975
ON REFLECTION, the two most successful names to emerge from the highly successful Atlantic Super-Soul concert tour were Jimmy Castor and Sister Sledge. ...
Johnny Bristol, Allen Toussaint: Johnny Bristol and Allen Toussaint: Producers 'N' Performers
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 27 May 1975
IT SEEMS that it's an increasingly notable fact that more and more producers, after scoring successfully in that field, are turning their attention to the ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 May 1975
IT WOULDN'T take a genius to notice that Loleatta Holloway's delectable US hit, 'Cry To Me', is simply one of my favourite sounds of all ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 27 May 1975
WHEN WE all take a good reflective look back at 1975, one of the records which will unquestionably stand out as one of the biggest ...
Shirley Brown: Woman To Woman (Stax STX 1031)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 May 1975
AS WELL as being one of the most soulful sounds of '74, Shirley Brown's 'Woman To Woman' was also one of the year's best-selling singles. ...
Newcomers, The : The Newcomers
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 May 1975
THOUGH THEY bear the name of The Newcomers and this is their Debut Feature in B&S, the trio are in fact far from being a ...
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 27 May 1975
THERE CAN be very few self-respecting soul fans around who don't own a record which has featured the name "Van McCoy" somewhere along the way. ...
Curtis Mayfield: Love To The People
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 June 1975
I ADMIT THAT I always eagerly look forward to the bi-annual interview time with Curtis Mayfield because it never quite seems like an interview. ...
Hamilton Bohannon: Insides Out
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 June 1975
WHEN, BACK in January we became the first British magazine to interview the talented Hamilton Bohannon, I confess I didn't expect to ever have to ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 June 1975
THE NAME Leonard Caston should already be more than familiar to B&S devotees because he has contributed a good deal to the furtherance of our ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 June 1975
SINCE IT'S a proven fact that rare talent cannot stay hidden indefinitely, you really shouldn't be at all surprised that Sister Sledge are currently reaping ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 10 June 1975
INCREDIBLE AS it may seem, Tavares are only just achieving total record acceptance with their current super-hot smash, 'Remember What I Told You To Forget' ...
The Blackbyrds, Donald Byrd: The Blackbyrds: Off to a flying start
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 June 1975
IT'S CERTAINLY taken its time but the Blackbyrds' haunting 'Walking In Rhythm' has finally taken its rightful place in the British pop charts, having long ...
The Dells, The Dramatics: The Dells vs The Dramatics
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 10 June 1975
TWO OF America's top vocal groups were in New York recently for a concert at The Felt Forum and we got the chance to talk ...
Barbara Mason: This Girl Is A Woman Now
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 24 June 1975
YOUR IMPRESSIONS of Ms. Barbara Mason may well be restricted to the young girl of the tender age of 16 singing her own composition, 'Yes ...
Joe Simon: The Reluctant Superstar
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 June 1975
IN TERMS of actual record sales and box office figures, Joe Simon has only one or two peers over the past decade or so. Yet ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 June 1975
WITHOUT A shadow of doubt, one of the most controversial records of all time within our musical sphere is Valentino's 'I Was Born This Way'. ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 July 1975
IT'S STRANGE to think that without Barrett Strong, it is quite conceivable that the whole Motown empire would have never gotten off the floor because ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 July 1975
WITHOUT A shadow of doubt, one of Britain's most played disco sounds of the day is by Ernie Bush. Entitled 'Breakaway', the disco folk are ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 July 1975
ACTUALLY, ALTHOUGH we are acclaiming Ms. Linda Carr as a "B&S Debut Feature", we are being technically incorrect because Linda was featured way back in ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 July 1975
NEW YORK-based group, the Moment of Truth, currently have one of the hottest disco properties in their Roulette outing of 'Helplessly'. The record – their ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 July 1975
ALMOST without notice to the soul community, Rufus arrived and departed our shores towards the end of last month simply to appear on BBC-TV's Top ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 July 1975
NOW THAT the colour barriers have been well and truly broken down within our music, odds are that at any given moment, you'll find two ...
New Birth: The Re-Birth Of New Birth
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 July 1975
FRANKLY, ANYONE who has not in the past become totally confused with the New Birth, Niteliters and Love, Peace & Happiness triangle should apply immediately ...
Yvonne Fair: Foxy, Funky and Funny
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 8 July 1975
IN RECENT times, Motown's roster of artists has undergone several changes — with the departure of some of the performers who had been previously closely ...
Eddie Kendricks: The Hit Man Hits Again
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 July 1975
IF EVER an album was aptly titled it is the new Eddie Kendricks' Tamla set – The Hit Man. ...
KC & the Sunshine Band: KC and The Sunshine Band: The Miami Innovation
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 July 1975
A GREAT deal has been written about the emergence of the Miami Sound via names such as George and Gwen McCrae, Little Beaver and, of ...
Natural Four: Naturally together
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 July 1975
CURRENTLY WOWING audiences on their tour with fellow Curtom recording artists, The Impressions, the four-man Natural Four are creating more than a little impact and ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 July 1975
WITHOUT DOUBT, one of the prettiest and classiest ballads currently on the American charts comes from Detroit-based Ronnie McNeir and is entitled 'Wendy Is Gone'. ...
Leroy Hutson, The Impressions, Curtis Mayfield: The Impressions: Sooner or later and right now!
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 July 1975
WITHOUT OVERSTATING the fact, you could justifiably say that The Impressions have come a long way! ...
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 July 1975
OVER THE past year or so, I can't think of a group who has made as much impact on our music as the Ohio Players. ...
Thelma Houston: The Star's Star
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 July 1975
IT SEEMS that there will always be that small coterie of artists you will always find falling under that elusive category, "the singer's singer". ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 August 1975
IT'S FUNNY how some women are genteel yet others may be quite the opposite – yet still manage to retain their femininity. ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 August 1975
UNTIL I spoke with Bobby Moore – whose record of 'Call Me Your Anything Man' is just about disco-land's favourite sound of the day – ...
Esther Phillips: The Time Is Now
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 5 August 1975
CERTAINLY one of the most gratifying experiences is to see an artiste you've admired over a period of years finally get that long overdue recognition ...
Isaac Hayes: Black Moses Back From The Wilderness
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 August 1975
A SIGN OF TRUE GREATNESS in terms of an entertainer is surely the ability to stay. Think about it – how many names can you ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 August 1975
WITH SO much interest in the Philly disco sound, Detroit has been put pretty much into the shadows as far as dance music is concerned ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 5 August 1975
BEING THE daughter of such an internationally famous man as the late Nat King Cole could conceivably pose a problem for any budding star. After ...
Blue Magic, Margie Joseph: Blue Magic: Spellbinding
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 19 August 1975
ALTHOUGH THEY'VE only been around for 2½ years, in that relatively short time. Blue Magic have notched up an enviable track record as one of ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 August 1975
YOU CAN never keep a good man down and that old saying certainly applies to ol' Swamp Dogg! Over the past decade, there's hardly been ...
Joneses, The (soul): Keeping Up With The Joneses
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 August 1975
UNTIL THEY recently returned to the charts with 'Love Inflation', you may be forgiven for wondering what had happened to the early promise and enterprise ...
Millie Jackson: The Poor People's Queen
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 August 1975
STAND UP anyone who disagrees that Millie Jackson's Caught Up is the best deep soul album of all time... O.K., no takers, eh? Well, now ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 August 1975
AS BRITAIN gradually develops its own soul character, an ever-increasing list of names are attracting interest on this side of the Atlantic before they break ...
Earth, Wind & Fire: A Creative Explosion
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 September 1975
TO UNDERSTAND the true power of Earth, Wind & Fire, you have to understand that these are nine people with a message. A universal message ...
Faith Hope & Charity: Faith Hope Charity — And Success
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 September 1975
THE NAME "Faith, Hope & Charity" may well be familiar to avid soul fans who remember their big hit of a couple of years back ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 September 1975
WHEN IT comes to disco funk, James Brown is perhaps no longer unrivalled since the arrival of the B.T. Express, who are proving to be ...
Bobby "Blue" Bland: Bobby Bland: Moving Ahead
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 September 1975
IN RETROSPECT, when the historians or whoever decide to document the music of the fifties, sixties and seventies, the omission of the name Bobby Bland ...
Jackie Moore: More Precious the Second Time Around
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 September 1975
Jackie Moore is a pleasing young lady who exploded on to the scene back in 1971 with a multi-million worldwide selling single called 'Precious Precious' ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 September 1975
AFTER TWENTY years of giving others success, Quincy Jones is only now finally getting his just deserts — borne out by the rapid rise up ...
Earth, Wind & Fire: Earth Wind and Fire
Book Excerpt by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 September 1975
SO BRITAIN has finally tasted the elements. Earth Wind & Fire, nine piece California-based self-contained band/group, have been described by most American music journalists at ...
Smokey Robinson: Building A Quiet Storm
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 September 1975
WILLIAM 'SMOKEY' ROBINSON has been referred to as the "greatest poet of our decade" and when one listens to the unique lyric style that the ...
The Commodores: In Total Command
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 September 1975
CERTAINLY ONE of the most successful teams to grace the Motown stable in recent times has been the Commodores, a group who must take the ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 September 1975
AS FAR as Britain is concerned, the mere fact that you've made a record for the legendary Ric Tic label is sufficient to make you ...
Kay-Gee's, Kool and the Gang: The Kay-Gee's
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 September 1975
IF YOU'RE talking of funky disco groups today, you're sure to mention Kool & the Gang, B.T. Express, the Fatback Band – and the Kay-Gees. ...
Al Green: Al Green Is Love (London SHU 8488)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 October 1975
IF YOU'RE an Al Green fan already, this album will certainly ensure that you stay that way because this talented creator has one of the ...
Gloria Gaynor: Experience Gloria Gaynor
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 October 1975
HAILED AS the unrivalled Queen of the Discos, the delicious Ms. Gloria Gaynor has certainly spread her wings on her second MGM album, Experience. ...
Johnny "Guitar" Watson: Johnny Guitar Watson
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 October 1975
"Let me talk to the Lone Ranger – and pronto!" ...
Lonnie Liston Smith: Visions Of A New World
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 October 1975
With the tremendous upsurge in jazz over the past couple of years, the strange thing is that remarkably few genuine 'new' names have benefitted. ...
People's Choice: The People's Choice
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 October 1975
WITH THEIR 'Do lt Anyway You Wanna' perched atop the world's R&B and pop charts, the Philadelphia band of the People's Choice are literally just ...
The Temptations: Still temptin'
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 October 1975
WHEN IT comes to successful vocal groups, the stalwart Temptations really have no peers. For over a decade now, they have reigned virtually uninterrupted over ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 October 1975
Although 'Van McCoy: The Artist' has really only just arrived in terms of commercial acceptance, Van's creative influence has played a major role within the ...
The Trammps: Can't Hold Back Trammps
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 November 1975
WITH 'Hold Back The Night' literally one step away from topping the British soul charts, now is the ideal time to trace back the long ...
The Impressions: Lasting Impressions
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 November 1975
Ever since I became interested in our music, I can hardly remember a time when the Impressions have been absent from the charts. ...
Natalie Cole: Whatever Will Be Will Be
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 November 1975
It's rare, very rare, for the son or daughter of a superstar to make it in his or her own right. The pressures are intense ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 11 November 1975
THERE CAN be little doubt that one of the most interesting concept albums to come along in a very long time is the current set ...
Ramsey Lewis: Don't It Feel Good
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 November 1975
WITH THE ever growing interest in jazz, it's interesting to note that in most instances, the names who are bringing about the revival are relatively ...
The Undisputed Truth: Their Aim Is Higher Than High
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 November 1975
WITH THE increasing use of theatrics within the sphere of our music, it is interesting to note that Motown's Undisputed Truth were just about the ...
George McCrae: Growing Pains But It's Worth It All
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 December 1975
IN SOME ways, George McCrae has attained the impossible. Because if you consider the past, you'll find that virtually every artist who literally explodes on ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 December 1975
TRYING TO interview Jimmy Bo Horne is a strange mixture of a journalist's idea of paradise and bedlam because whilst for half of the time ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 December 1975
WITH OLIVER Sain's current double headed hunk of disco funk climbing into the British charts at his customary high placing, the timing could not be ...
Chaka Khan, Rufus: Rufus' Chaka Khan: Golden Lady
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 9 December 1975
IT'S DIFFICULT to believe that much of the power, strength and soul that you hear when you hear Rufus stems from anyone as petite and ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 December 1975
IT'S AMAZING how many of today's super-soulstars can be traced back to the Ric Tic-Golden World family for their very first step into showbiz. The ...
Chuck Jackson: The need to succeed
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 23 December 1975
ONE OF the major disappointments in what has otherwise been a very good year for our music was the cancellation of the proposed All Platinum ...
Darrow Fletcher: try something new
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 23 December 1975
WE OFTEN hear tell of child prodogies – those rare breed that begin their careers at some more than tender age! Frequently, in the crazy ...
Thom Bell, Dionne Warwick: Dionne Warwick and Thom Bell: Hitting The Road Together
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 23 December 1975
WITHOUT ANY question, one of the most significant musical marriages of our decade was the one that brought the team of Dionne Warwick, Burt Bacharach ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 23 December 1975
THOUGH IT hasn't developed into being the monster success that we predicted, Mike & Bill's highly commendable (and danceworthy!) 'Somebody's Gotta Go' has established the ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 23 December 1975
WITH THE interest in home-grown soul now reaching the point where it's acceptable to feature British based artists and groups in the soul charts, one ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1976
"This young lady has gusto, tenderness, sweetness, and Soul... all the qualities to make her more that just another singer – a Star!" David Nathan ...
David Ruffin, The Temptations: David Ruffin: Ruffin's Ready
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 January 1976
IF YOU check your American charts this week, you'll find that David Ruffin – after a break of some two years – is riding both ...
The Blackbyrds, Donald Byrd: Donald Byrd
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 January 1976
THE THING that most interests me with the new wave of Funk-Jazz giants is that they all have a tale of interest to tell. Whereas ...
Margie Joseph: The Real Divine Miss M
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 13 January 1976
ONE MAJOR criticism which is frequently levelled at the bigger record companies is how, with a relatively large roster, some of their strongest potential stars ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 13 January 1976
IT'S ALWAYS a pleasure to run into someone who is as warm and real as they are talented. Ms. Maxayn Lewis is one of that ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 January 1976
FOR EVERY successful sound, there always has to be a pioneer. For Motown and Detroit, I guess it was Smokey Robinson and the Miracles; for ...
Obituary by Dave Godin, Blues & Soul, 27 January 1976
"I have had my fun, even if I never get well no more. Oh my health is failing, oh yes, I'm going down slow..." ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 January 1976
THE FIRST really big soul occasion for the year so far has been the recent highly successful concert appearances of Donald Byrd and the Blackbyrds. ...
The Three Degrees: Three Degrees: Universal Stars
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 27 January 1976
IN THE realm of female groups today, you would be hard put to name any set of ladies who can emulate the current popularity and ...
The Blackbyrds, Donald Byrd: Donald Byrd rools! Okay?
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 February 1976
YOU CAN'T say you weren't warned! The F-J (Funk-Jazz, for those of you who have been up the Amazon for the past year!) Revolution has ...
Freda Payne: "Wanna Get Re-acquainted?"
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 10 February 1976
ACCORDING to the lovely lady herself, "the public is just getting re-acquainted with Freda Payne!" and if her latest album on A.B.C. is anything to ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 February 1976
MAKING HER debut in the British soul charts this week is vivacious Jean Plum, whose London release of 'Look At The Boy' has been hotly ...
The Jimmy Castor Bunch: Jimmy Castor: Portrait of an Angry Young Man
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 10 February 1976
Jimmy Castor's out to revolutionise the business... ...
Lamont Dozier: S-t-r-e-t-c-h-i-n' o-u-t...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 10 February 1976
WHEN THE time comes to chronicle the names of some of the top producers and songwriters of the sixties and seventies, there is no question ...
D.J. Rogers: Songs Of Love And Hope...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 17 February 1976
A young man whose West Coast reputation is spreading fast. ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 February 1976
GETTING A record banned by the dear of BBC is as surefire a way of getting a hit as I know of and it's a ...
Evelyn Thomas: Introducing Evelyn Thomas
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 February 1976
WITH THE Chicago Soul Road-show only weeks away from kicking off its British tour, the timing of 20th Century's Evelyn Thomas could not be better ...
The Trammps: Zing Went Bummie And The Bums...!
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 February 1976
THIS FEATURE could so easily have been devoted to – wait for it! – Bummie & the Bums! Who is this Bummie character I can ...
Brass Construction got Disco-Power!
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 February 1976
I'M NOT prone to making rash statements (as most readers of B&S of any long-standing will bear witness) but I am going to predict that ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 24 February 1976
He's worked with Barry White, Marvin Gaye, Diana & the Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Aretha, the J5, Martha Reeves, and many others. Now it's time to ...
The Fatback Band: Fat 'N' Funky... with a touch of sophistication!
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 February 1976
You wan' 'em, you got 'em... the Fatback Band are back again, to acknowledge the support of their British followers. Boogie on... ...
Gil Scott-Heron: Good Evening, Here Is The News on Gil Scott-Heron
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 March 1976
The 'Jo'burg' man has a reputation for telling it like it is. However, John Abbey had his pre conceived notions of Gil completely and pleasantly ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 March 1976
COMPLETING THE other half of Ian Levine's winning double hand from Chicago, is L.J. Johnson who is comfortably placed in the higher echelons of both ...
Eddie Kendricks: The Philly Connection starring Eddie Kendricks
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 March 1976
B&S undercover agent probes Soul star's defection to another town ...
Hugh Masekela: Africa's Ambassador To The USA
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 9 March 1976
Our diplomatic correspondent in Los Angeles talks to Hugh Masekela, one of Africa's favourite sons. ...
Barbara Pennington: And now, the voice of them all, Barbara Pennington
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 March 1976
ACTUALLY, I must confess that when you ask me about hat-tricks from Blackpool, the first name to spring to mind would be Stanley Mortenson. But ...
Bettye LaVette: Underrated talent of out time
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 March 1976
Soulful lady. 14 years experience, 23 singles and several gems to her credit, seeks opportunity to cut her first album. Apply to: Bettye Lavette ...
Grover Washington Jr.: "Funk-Jazz" Personified!
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 March 1976
Grover Washington Jr. is top of the tree of the new wave musicians who have merged Jazz and Soul. But he aims to branch out ...
The Mighty Clouds Of Joy: Hey, you, get into these Clouds
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 March 1976
HALF A Million Hustlers Can't Be Wrong. That's how many buyers Eddie Drennon attracted for 'Let's Do The Latin Hustle' – in the States alone. ...
Detroit Emeralds: Abe, Larry and Joe: today's Emeralds
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 23 March 1976
IT'S A pity that the original Detroit Emeralds have split up into two segments and gone their own way. Not that the two units aren't ...
Bobby Womack: Root-rappin' with Bobby Womack
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 23 March 1976
ROOT-RAPPIN? Whassat? Well, it's like this...John Abbey got to talking with Bobby and the conversation drifted to his very early days – his roots! ...
Ashford & Simpson: Ashford and Simpson: At Peace With The World And Themselves…
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 March 1976
Ashford and Simpson are back in business after a lengthy sabbatical. Here they expound on their new album – how it reflects the changes they've ...
Esther Phillips: what a difference a disco hit made
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 March 1976
MS. PHILLIPS feels that new doors have opened up for her since 'Day'. She deeply regrets the cancellation of her Euro tour but looks forward ...
Brook Benton: Bartender Benton sets 'em up for Britain
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 6 April 1976
AFTER SOMETHING like twenty years of continuous success in the States, Brook Benton looks like finally achieving the breakthrough that has eluded him during the ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 6 April 1976
A special report by David Nathan on the on-stage and behind-the-scenes activities at Warner Brothers' special "California Soul" series of concerts during end of February ...
The Crusaders: Crusaders have their fingers on the pulse of crossover potential
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 6 April 1976
Since dropping the "Jazz" tag from their name, the group have made their mark in many musical areas. David Nathan talks to drummer Stix Hooper... ...
Al Jarreau: Look Out, Al Jarreau's On His Way
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 6 April 1976
IT SEEMS like but a short time since we last spoke to a talented gentleman who has been hailed by many of his peers and ...
The Crusaders: Crusaders Have Their Fingers On The Pulse Of Crossover Potential
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 6 April 1976
Since dropping the 'Jazz' tag from their name, the group have made their mark in many musical areas. David Nathan talks to drummer Stix Hooper... ...
The Sylvers: Boogie fever turns Sylver to gold...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 April 1976
FEVER IS never a very appetising thought but the way that the Sylvers family enthuse over the 'Boogie Fever', it sounds like it might be ...
The Softones: From the streets of Baltimore... The Softones
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 April 1976
VERY FEW of the soul super-groups break through into the really big time without serving a kind of apprenticeship and, with out wishing to blow ...
Curtis Mayfield, The Staple Singers: The Staple Singers: doin' it again with Mister Mayfield
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 13 April 1976
ONE OF the most welcome sights of recent months has been the re-appearance in the pop and R&B charts of that much-loved and extra-soulful family ...
Graham Central Station: The Graham Standing at Platform 3 Will Call At All Stations
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 20 April 1976
"Constant change is the key these days," says Larry Graham of Graham Central Station. Having recently made inroads into the 'crossover' market, they're now striving ...
Jermaine Jackson: Just Jermaine!
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 20 April 1976
Having experienced the whole J5 explosion, how are things with Jermaine Jackson since goin' out on his own? Well, seems things are pretty fine, as ...
Bobby Womack: Root-rappin' with Bobby Womack
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 April 1976
Part 2 of an exclusive feature in which Bobby drifts back to his early days... his roots! ...
The J.A.L.N Band: Anglo Soul... The J.A.L.N. Band
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 April 1976
IN THE PAST, whenever a British-based band has attempted to create some genuine funky music, it has generally been sneered at and bypassed. But with ...
Tina Charles: Anglo Soul... Tina Charles
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 April 1976
IF YOU ask any New York disco follower which British name they most associate with their chosen musical path, I'll lay you odds-on that they'll ...
The Impressions: Imps In The Mood For Love
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 27 April 1976
With everyone into disco music, the Impressions concentrated on a love mood for their Loving Power set. And that move seems to have paid handsome ...
Gladys Knight and the Pips: Gladys in bloom. The Pips in harmony
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 May 1976
The lovely Ms. Knight is presently infanticipating, but she and the boys will not be idle over the next few months. There are several exciting ...
Hampton and Banks caught in the act!
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 11 May 1976
'Caught In The Act' happens to be the title of Carl Hampton and Homer Banks' initial single for Warner Bros. When it comes to writing ...
James and Bobby Purify: Their Two-Timing Puppet
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 May 1976
Discerning U.K. record buyers have shown their mettle once again. The Purify boys' recut of 'I'm Your Puppet' has virtually been passed over in the ...
Doris Jones: Electric Lady kicks Black Stash and goes solo...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 May 1976
The Levine Machine leaps into action again and Ian's latest protege is New York's Doris Jones. ...
Edwin Starr: Starr in ascendency!
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 May 1976
YESSIREEBOB, VENUS and Mars are alright tonight! The past year has been relatively quiet for Edwin Starr but he seems happier than at any time ...
Melba Moore: Okay Melba, this really IS it...!
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 18 May 1976
No messin' this time – the lady means business! Ms. Moore's Peach Melba album paved the way and now she's really cracked it with her ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 May 1976
I the beginning, there were the Poppies. Dorothy Moore spent 2½ years with that trio. Bow, with her beautiful 'Misty Blue' smash, she's carved her very ...
Mandrill: They Did It Their Way...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 May 1976
Hey caramba, the boys are really grabbing some attention with their 'Disco Lypso' cut. And they've proved it never pays to give in. They've continued ...
The Manhattans: Kiss And Say Hello To The Manhattans
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 25 May 1976
The Manhattans have been kinda bubbling under for a long time. Now destiny has caught up with them and their new osculatory single is currently ...
Archie Bell and the Drells: Archie & The Drells: here they go again
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 June 1976
Mr. Bell an' the guys had a somewhat lean spell after leaving Atlantic. Now they're reunited with Messrs Gamble and Huff and dancin' up the ...
The Isley Brothers: Reflections Of Love And Life
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 8 June 1976
The Brothers Isley are really tuned in to life around them and this awareness is the prime source of inspiration in their music. Eavesdrop as ...
The Meters: Restless Days In New Orleans
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 June 1976
By rights, the band should be right up there at the top. But, it seems they have hassles and problems to contend with. On their ...
O'Jays: The O'Jays Mind Their Own Business
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 June 1976
At a time when big-name tours have become economically prohibitive, the trio took it on themselves to underwrite their own nationwide tour. Eddie Levert explains ...
The Real Thing: Anglo Soul... The Real Thing
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 June 1976
AT A time when being black and British seems to be in vogue, it is important that we don't forget a group who have been ...
George Benson: Breezin' (Warner Bros. K56199)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 June 1976
ALTHOUGH GUITAR star George has been around for some years and is acknowledged by most jazz musicians to be the number one guitarist of them ...
Nancy Wilson: Nancy A Woman Of Today...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 15 June 1976
Talented. Aware. A warm and sincere human being. That's Nancy Wilson. She's achieved a great deal already but aims to fulfill many more dreams, both ...
The Sylvers: Rappin' with the Sylvers
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 15 June 1976
WHEN PAT, Angie, Olympia, Edmund, Leon, James, Ricky and Foster (with Charmaine off sick that day) were seated around the table in Capitol's conference room, ...
Candi Staton: Candi's running free
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 June 1976
WITH THE greatest respect in the world to the delightful Candi Staton, I would have taken virtually any odds against ever seeing her sitting on ...
Marvin Gaye, the Sylvers: Westchester Premier Theatre, Tarrytown NY
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 June 1976
Marvin in top form... ...
Al Green, Willie Mitchell: Willie Mitchell: Changing Sounds In Memphis
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 June 1976
Willie Mitchell's distinctive Memphis sound has been the driving force behind many golden hits over the years. Now he feels it's time for a change. ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 June 1976
Well, they ought to. Yep, you guessed it kids, it's Bootsy himself – he of incredible Rubber Band fame. Our man's been around some and ...
Al Wilson: Is this your idea of a Palyboy pin-up?
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 June 1976
Al Wilson, Playboy's first major soul signing, poses for B&S. Sorry we couldn't make it the centrefold, Al. ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 June 1976
An intergalactic communication from Space Commander George Clinton aboard the starship Parliafunkadelicment... ...
The 5th Dimension: The Times They Are A Changin'
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 29 June 1976
ALMOST SINCE their inception a decade ago, The Fifth Dimension have become almost a musical institution. Not necessarily one to everyone's taste because for the ...
The Ohio Players: The Spirit of '76
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 6 July 1976
IT HAD to be more than just coincidence. Here I was in Ohio Player Satch Satchell's luxurious hotel suite overlooking Grosvenor Square writing for our ...
Al Green: Soul Minister Al Aims To Get Next To You
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 13 July 1976
Right now, Al Green's planning his future lifestyle. He wants more than hit records. He aims to show folks the key to divinity. Heavy stuff? ...
Candi Staton: Young Hearts Run Free (Warner Bros. K56259)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 July 1976
WELL, IF ever an artist(e) was deserving of success, then that role belongs to the ever-lovely Ms. Candi Staton. Over the past half decade, she ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 July 1976
The lowdown on the New York group who have hustled into both the U.S. and U.K. charts. A B&S expose by John Abbey who strongly ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 July 1976
Spotlight on the man who made the classic 'Love Don't Come No Stronger'. Jeff and his four brothers spearheaded a very talented family, as John ...
Luther Vandross: Luther Are Good For The Soul
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 13 July 1976
2008 introduction: "Luther are three girls and two guys whose debut single for Cotillion is attracting a lot of attention. They are not headliners yet, ...
Ted Taylor: Bespoke Soul Taylor Made Hit Steals Up Chart
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 July 1976
Ted Taylor's contribution to Soul goes back further even than the Soul charts themselves – his early experience being gained with the original Mighty Clouds ...
Marlena Shaw : Marlena Shaw: Let's Hear It For The Good Guys (and Gals!)
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 July 1976
"Who Is This Bitch, Anyway?" Hey man, we're not being abusive...that was the title of Marlena Shaw's breakthrough album and serves to introduce this background ...
Barrabas: Rappin' with Barrabas
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 July 1976
IN NEW YORK to finish the mixing on their next album for Atlantic recently were members of Barrabas, the Madrid-based group who've enjoyed success throughout ...
B.T. Express: BT Express: Still Groovin' On The Right Track Baby
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 July 1976
They came from virtually nowhere last year and set the whole world a-dancin'. Now, with the CBS promotion machine behind them, they're making the big ...
Philly Devotions: A Story Of Patience And Dedication
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 27 July 1976
Everything comes to he who waits, they say. Well, these guys are hanging in there with the confidence that success will come when their talent ...
Tavares' Third Era Brings UK Breakthrough
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 July 1976
If Heaven is missing an angel, then that winged spirit must be smiling down on the brothers Tavares. They've really broken through internationally and plans ...
The Crusaders: 26 Years Young And The Best Is Yet To Come
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 July 1976
'Tis strange to think that the Crusaders were laying down their distinctive sounds before some of their fans were even a twinkle in their daddies' ...
Hamilton Bohannon: Bohannon Boogies Into Phase Two
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 August 1976
Hamilton's free from the pressure he was under following his UK trip, and he's 'bad' no more! He's entering a new era and feels that ...
Melba Moore: Rappin' with Melba Moore...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 3 August 1976
Okay folks, this is it....the lady gives her views on the music biz, artistic temperament, women in business, hit records, coping with success, and other ...
Silver Convention: Take Three Girls
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 August 1976
...three girls who look good and sound good; dub them Silver Convention; groom them and create for them the perfect disco-soul setting. That's what Silvester ...
Albert King an' where he's comin' from
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 10 August 1976
Been stood up by your girl? Low on cash? Behind with your payments? Then you must know the blues. They'll be around as long as ...
Earth, Wind & Fire: Soul & Inspiration
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 10 August 1976
Earth, Wind & Fire is all about inspiration, says bass player Verdine White... about saying something relevant to the people. And, despite their huge success, ...
Mark Radice: The Reluctant Disco Star
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 August 1976
Mark recording at the tender age of 7, and was groomed in the pop stakes. However, his new album features back-ups from Brass Construction and ...
Eddie Floyd: Malaco Is The Stax Of Tomorrow
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 August 1976
"MALACO? It's got a great future. It reminds me of Stax in the early days – there is that kind of atmosphere about the place ...
Johnny "Guitar" Watson: Johnny Guitar Watson: When You're Hot You're Hot
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 August 1976
Johnny 'Guitar' Watson has three singles riding the current chart, but he just couldn't believe that one of them is his old duet with Larry ...
Lou Rawls And The Philly Pay Off
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 August 1976
Lou was beginning to feel he'd never happen big in Britain but his CBS-Philly tie-up has paid a big divvy. Now he's planning a trip ...
Margie Joseph: Haven't I Paid Enough Dues?
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 17 August 1976
Though Margie Joseph feels she still has a lot more promise to fulfill, she thinks she's already done enough to be up there in the ...
Bobby Womack: BW Goes C&W (United Artists UAS 29979) ***
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 August 1976
SO, BOBBY'S Country-Western album finally hits the streets after several delays and not bearing the original tag, which was "Move Over Charlie Pride And Give ...
George Benson: By George No. 1 R and B, Jazz and Pop
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 August 1976
Music history was made recently when George Benson topped the R&B, jazz and pop charts with his debut album for Warner Bros. The guitar man ...
Herbie Hancock, The Headhunters: Herbie Hancock: 'Ancock An' The 'Ead 'Unters
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 August 1976
That's a fearful band name for someone as peaceful as Herbie Hancock to front. But, it's a name that clicks with the Soul-loving public when ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 24 August 1976
Happy days are here again for Wanda, Jeanette and Sheila. They learned a lot from the quiet times and that knowledge is serving them well ...
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 24 August 1976
C. M. Lord offers a diverse range of talent...a little bit of everything. But the little lady aims to avoid being pigeonholed when a hit ...
Impact: 4 Happy Men Make An Impact
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 September 1976
AFTER WHAT can only be termed a false start with 'Happy Man', the rich promise of new Atco quartet, Impact is reaching fruition rather rapidly ...
B.B. King: Keepin' The Blues Alive
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 7 September 1976
THE WORD "blues" has become almost synonymous with the word "king", be it Albert, Freddie or B.B. The blues as a musical form has existed ...
Thelma Houston: Thelma's Heading For The Silver Screen
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 7 September 1976
IT'S BEEN said time and time again but one of the most underrated female vocalists around is Ms. Thelma Houston. When Thelma first hit the ...
Roy Ayers: The 35 Year Success Story
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 21 September 1976
Mr. A's been in the biz for 3 decades and right now he's enjoying more success than ever. Black music is the heart of American ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 5 October 1976
CURRENTLY CREATING much excitement and interest throughout the States with their own brand of music are a group of young men known as Blacksmoke. ...
The Fatback Band: Fatback Band: Givin' The People What They Want
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 October 1976
For their new Night Fever album, the band have concentrated on what the fans seem to like most – happy up 'n' dancin' music. John ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 5 October 1976
Mr. Q hits the spot! ...
The Spinners: Rappin' with the Spinners
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 5 October 1976
David Nathan talks of this 'n' that with Henry and Pervis of the Atlantic supergroup... ...
Al Wilson: Something For Everybody
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 19 October 1976
Mr. W. doesn't regret not putting all his eggs in one basket. Because he's been able to adapt, he's kept working, as he explains to ...
B.T. Express: Rappin' with B.T. Express
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 19 October 1976
David Nathan gets the feedback from leader Bill Risbrook on how the band view things now that they're off and running with CBS. ...
Carol Douglas: The much-travelled Ms. Carol Douglas
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 19 October 1976
'Doctor's Orders' created a big demand for Carol in Europe and she still has a heavy working schedule. The lady took time out to bring ...
The Real Thing: The Naked Truth About Survival
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 October 1976
John Abbey investigates the group's problems in surviving before their recent hits. ...
Bobby Byrd: Past Present And Future
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, November 1976
WITH MR. Bobby Byrd, currently set for a tour of the U.K. (November 19 thru December 5), it seemed an appropriate time to get with ...
Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band: Dr Buzzard's Original Savannah Band: Really Something Else
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, November 1976
David Nathan spends an enlightening few hours with five very intelligent but pretty crazy people who are really shaking the industry up ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, November 1976
WITH THE increase in non-American soul oriented acts reaching a peak, tasty funk combos are appearing almost literally out of the woodwork. ...
James Booker: A Winner Never Quits, A Quitter Never Wins
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, November 1976
'THE BLACK LIBERATCHI' That's what it says on the card and you can tell that it's going to be one of those interviews when you ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, November 1976
It's full speed ahead for Ms. Vega, who's being hailed as the most dynamic white female singer around. ...
Tavares: The Supergroup Of All Time
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, November 1976
The five brothers are really buzzin' at this moment in time. Will they go on to become the biggest Soul group of all time? ...
The J.A.L.N Band: The J.A.L.N Explosion
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, November 1976
After a spluttering start, Britain's black explosion is now gathering momentum and the J.A.L.N. Band look set to establish themselves as consistent hitmakers ...
The Whispers're Getting Louder
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, November 1976
CURRENTLY ENJOYING, by their own admission, the most successful period in their career (in fact, as we write this article, radio station WBLS in New ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, November 1976
Wild Cherry used to be into heavy rock. Now they play that funky music and their hit single has gone platinum... ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 November 1976
THE OCCASION was the almost-annual Isley Bros. concert at Madison Square Garden. Opening act for the show was Blacksmoke, a group who are fast collecting ...
James Booker: A winner never quits, a quitter never wins...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 November 1976
'THE BLACK LIBERATCHI' That's what it says on the card and you can tell that it's going to be one of those interviews when you ...
Johnnie Taylor: The Original Johnnie Taylor!
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 November 1976
Originality is the thing that succeeds above all else according to Mr T. He's currently working on a number of diverse projects which will spotlight ...
Billy Butler: On The Right Track
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, December 1976
AFTER many years in the background, it seems that Curtis Mayfield has persuaded Billy Butler (brother of Jerry) to step out front and put his ...
Billy Davis and Marilyn McCoo: Very Much Together
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, December 1976
AFTER ALMOST ten years with The Fifth Dimension, Billy Davis and Marilyn McCoo announced in November of last year that they'd decided to go it ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, December 1976
Bobby's now with Columbia Records and he's brim full of confidence to conquer the world. An' the good news for U.K. fans is that he's ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, December 1976
IT WAS with a great deal of anticipation and curiosity that everyone waited patiently for the second Brass Construction album on U.A. Perhaps no one ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, December 1976
John Abbey talks to the dazzling new group who have just hit the top spot on the U.S. singles chart ...
Cousin Joe Pleasants: Cousin Joe: 69 years young, an' the fire's still burnin'!
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, December 1976
THE ONLY reason that the Blues is dying out is that the young folk simply don't want to know about the Blues. Even Blues legends ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, December 1976
TO TRY and describe Curtis Mayfield's enormous contribution to the music world would take far more adjectives than we have at our disposal. ...
James Wells: First Time Around
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, December 1976
THE LATEST output from the Levine Machine is James Wells, who recently made a lightning trip to London to add some vocals for a new ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, December 1976
AFTER a couple of years working The Impressions, Ralph Johnson decided earlier in the year to move on. Rather than just making a bid for ...
Johnny "Guitar" Watson: Rappin' With Johnny Guitar Watson
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, December 1976
HIS RECENTLY COMPLETED EUROPEAN TOUR: "It was simply the greatest tour of my life! I don't think I've ever enjoyed myself on the road as ...
Skip Mahoney & the Casuals: Skip Mahoney and The Casuals: Well, Bless My Soul
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, December 1976
QUIETLY MAKING quite a name for themselves in the States and now in this part of the world, too – are Washington's premier vocal group, ...
The Ritchie Family: The Best Ritchie Family In Town
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, December 1976
TRULY IN the vanguard of the disco set of entertainers are the three ladies who make up The Ritchie Family. No, they are not sisters ...
The Originals: Down To Hitsville
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, December 1976
David Nathan talks to Freddie Gorman, once a single act and writer with Ric-Tic, who has been churning out hits with the Originals for 12 ...
Earth, Wind & Fire: Earth Wind & Fire: Spirit (CBS 81451)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 December 1976
IT HAS taken a mighty, mighty album to knock Stevie Wonder off the top spot in the States — albeit for one week because Stevie ...
Earth, Wind & Fire, the Emotions: Madison Square Garden, New York NY
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 14 December 1976
EW&F: simply magnifico! ...
Brothers Johnson, Quincy Jones: Brothers Johnson: Good To Ya, Good For Ya
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 28 December 1976
ONE OF the success stories of 1976 in terms of 'newcomers' on the scene is concerned must involve George & Louis Johnson. Although they'd worked ...
The 5th Dimension, Blue Magic: Blue Magic, Fifth Dimension: Westbury Music Fair, Westbury NY
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 18 January 1977
OPENING MID-week at a sparsely-filled Westbury Music Fair, Blue Magic gave a good if somewhat average show as opening act for The Fifth Dimension. ...
Boney M: The Newest Darlings Of Euro Disco
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 January 1977
FRANCE: No. 1. West Germany: No. 1. Sweden: No. 3. Switzerland: No 1. ...
D.C LaRue: DC LaRue: Gay Clubs Give Birth To Hetero Hit
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 January 1977
PERHAPS THE final bolt in the ages old controversy about soul and colour was nailed in just a month back when D.C. LaRue's 'Cathedrals' topped ...
Rose Royce Clean Up With Car Wash
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 January 1977
With Norman Whitfield in the driving seat, the 10-piece outfit currently have two titles in the UK chart, both from the Car Wash movie. ...
Billy Paul: Let 'Em In (Philadelphia Int PIR 81695)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 February 1977
I CONFESS that I'm totally biased when it comes to Billy Paul because there is a quality about his voice that always appeals to me. ...
The Cate Brothers: Cate Bros' Blue Eyed Soul
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 February 1977
ALTHOUGH SCOTLAND'S Average White Band are credited mostly for the pulling down of that old colour barrier that used to segregate white soul acts away ...
The Jacksons: Look out! The Jacksons are back!
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 February 1977
The Jackson boys take time out from recording their TV series to talk to B&S U.S. scribe, David Nathan ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 February 1977
You Are My Starship was surely one of '76's major albums and earned Norman Connors the big breakthrough. He talks to B&S about his background ...
Thelma Houston: Rappin' with Thelma Houston
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 February 1977
YOU'VE HEARD it before so we'll spare the space and time it takes to tell you that for as long as she's been recording, Ms ...
The Blackbyrds: Awright, we're back to settle some unfinished business!
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 February 1977
The Blackbyrds' keyboards ace, Kevin Toney, explains the delay in getting their new album together, and the new directions they're heading in... ...
Rose Royce, The Temptations: The Norman Whitfield interview
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 February 1977
With three of his productions currently in the top four singles in this country, the timing could not have been better for this exclusive interview ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 February 1977
Pssst! Didja hear th' one 'bout th' Polish Kung Fu fans?With 'Kung Fu Fighting', Carl Douglas scored one of the best-selling singles of all time, ...
Odia Coates: Coates Of Many Colours
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 February 1977
IT'S FUNNY how some people look much better in real life than on photo. To date, I really haven't seen a good, accurate photograph of ...
The Bar-Kays: Euro Rumpshakers Get Hip To The Bar-Kays
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 February 1977
The group so nearly made the big Euro breakthrough a decade ago with their 'Soul Finger' anthem. Now 'Shake Your Rump To The Funk' has ...
Leon Ware: Motown's Musical Masseur
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 February 1977
Some guys get all the best album sleeve sessions! With his Musical Massage set, Leon Ware has come to the fore of Motown's influx on ...
The Dynamic Superiors: Superiority Complex
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 15 February 1977
David Nathan raps with the Dynamic Superiors about this, that 'n' the other...an' particularly their new album, You Name It. ...
Alvin Cash: The Ali Connection
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 March 1977
Alvin's friendship with Muhammad Ali goes way back and 'The Ali Shuffle' is his updated tribute to his good buddy. With the action the disc's ...
Bootsy Collins: Bootsy's Rubber Band: Ahh... The Name Is Bootsy, Baby (Warner Bros. K 56302) *****
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 March 1977
AS WELL as offering a very visual show, Bootsy and the rest of the Rubber Band also turn in a rather strange musical potpourri, too! ...
George Benson: In Flight (Warner Bros. K56327)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 March 1977
GEORGE IS joined by Phil Upchurch (rhythm guitar), Ronnie Foster (keyboards), Ralph McDonald (percussion), Harvey Mason (drums), Stanley Banks (bass) and Jorge Dalto (piano and ...
Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes: Harold Melvin and Blues Notes: The Inside Story...
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 March 1977
The Blue Notes split was one of the big Soul stories of '76. Harold Melvin talks to John Abbey and gives the lowdown on what ...
Heatwave: The Hardest Working Band In The Land
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 March 1977
"We have always worked hard and that won't change because of a hit record. In fact, we may end up working harder" ...
L.T.D.: LTD: Love Togetherness And Devotion
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 March 1977
David Nathan talks to L.T.D.'s Billy Osborne, who traces the group's history and explains their philosophy ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 March 1977
David Nathan catches up with the lovely lady and reports that she's feelin' on top of the world. And there's news of her upcoming album ...
The Chambers Brothers: High Energy Encapsulated
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 March 1977
AFTER A fairly lengthy absence from the charts – although they've by no means been absent from the music scene in general – The Chambers ...
The Dramatics: "We're still singin' like we're starvin'!"
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 March 1977
Starvin' they ain't, but the Dramatics still put every ounce of effort into their work. Over the years, they've scored heavily with singles but now ...
The Trammps: Trammps: Disco Inferno (Atlantic K50339)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 March 1977
DESPITE THE fact that America acknowledges them as the Kings of the Disco-world, Philadelphia's most affluent Trammps have yet to register on the pop market ...
Walter Jackson: Feelin' Good an' He Does Ya Good
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 March 1977
FOR ALL those deep soul folk who've been treasuring their collection of his Okeh records, the news that Mr Walter Jackson is really back and ...
Les McCann: Musical philosophy and stimulation for the walking dead...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 15 March 1977
Les McCann feels strongly about the apathy and inadequacy that engulfs people today. His River High, River Low album pinpoints a lot of human problems, ...
Willie Hutch: Rabbiting with Mister Hutch
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 15 March 1977
David Nathan talks to an all-round talent with that special human touch ...
O'Jays: The O'Jays' Philly Decision
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 March 1977
'Magic' is how the O'Jays describe their success with Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff and they want to continue working with them. But they want ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 March 1977
You can't keep the good guys down and the Moments have popped up again with their 'Jack In The Box' monster. They talk to B&S ...
The Miracles: Miracles 'Spy' Sensation
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 March 1977
Uncle Sam has taken exception to the group's 'Spy For Brotherhood' and it's being withdrawn. "Rebellious", "Sacrilegeous", say the men in high places. "We're innocent", ...
The Manhattans: Rappin' With The Manhattans
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 March 1977
AT THE end of their recent highly successful debut British tour, we managed to corner the genial quartet of Manhattans just long enough to bring ...
Spider's Webb: The Soulful Saga Of Spiders Webb
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 March 1977
How a one-time Hully Gully exponent met and wed a Motown sessioness, and how as the frontrunners of Spiders Webb they wooed and won the ...
Tower Of Power: Ain't Nuthin' Stoppin' 'Em Now
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 29 March 1977
EVEN THOUGH some people feel that their artist roster may just be too large to enable any act to 'happen' in a big way, CBS ...
Edwin Starr: Under Rated Super Starr
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 March 1977
Edwin Starr consistently makes the charts, yet he's still somewhat underrated. He talks to B&S about his new album recorded at Chipping Norton and how ...
Bobby Caldwell: The Final Breakthrough
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, April 1977
IF PATIENCE is a virtue, then TK's Bobby Caldwell is a virtuous being. ...
Ashford & Simpson, New York Mary: Bottom Line, New York NY
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 12 April 1977
So, so satisfyin' ...
Average White Band: AWB: Danger This Band Blows Superstars Off Stage
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 12 April 1977
Chart toppers, gold and platinum discs, SRO crowds, the Average White Band are accepted by audiences on both sides of the Atlantic. And they've been ...
The Spinners: Today and Tomorrow
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 12 April 1977
David Nathan talks to the boys as they unfurl the dawning of a new era with the addition of John Edwards to replace lead singer ...
Timmy Thomas: The Sweet Smell Of Success Revisited
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 12 April 1977
Timmy Thomas is back in chart business with his 'Stone To The Bone' disco giant. He reflects on his previous success and how he's learned ...
Billy Paul: It's The New Billy Paul, Let 'Im In
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 26 April 1977
Billy's bubblin' over about his new recordings. He tells B&S about his hopes for them, and about his new act, his production plans, and his ...
Carl Davis: Doing His Own Thing
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 26 April 1977
WHEN YOU talk about Chicago in a musical way, there are some names that spring to mind instantly. Curtis Mayfield, Chess Records, The Chi-Lites, Chaka ...
Deniece Williams: This Really Is Niecy
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 26 April 1977
Spotlight on a charismatic new star, Ms. Deniece Williams ...
Enchantment: Introducing Enchantment
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 26 April 1977
CURRENTLY ENJOYING their first major nationwide success is the five-man vocal group from Detroit, Enchantment, and though they appear under the Roadshow banner (via United ...
Loleatta Holloway: Soulfully Yours, Loleatta...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 26 April 1977
WITH ALL the current trends taking everyone from Melba Moore to Eddie Kendricks and Thelma Houston into the 'disco' arena, it should come as no ...
GC Cameron: Rappin' with G.C. Cameron
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 26 April 1977
PERHAPS ONE of Motown's most underrated artists must be Mr. G. C. Cameron. With the release of several singles and now with two albums firmly ...
Tavares: Kickin' Up A Storm Internationally
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 26 April 1977
The guys say a big thank you for their B&S award and talk about their hectic schedule in coming months...records, tours, a movie. They've really ...
Kool and The Gang: The Gang's Still Kool Baby
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 10 May 1977
Kool & the Gang have been through a period of transition recently and undergone personnel changes. But in continuing with their Disco-Funk material they're still ...
Michael Henderson: Here There And Everywhere
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 10 May 1977
ALTHOUGH YOU'RE probably totally unaware of it, there's probably been some point in your musical 'life' when you've heard Michael Henderson! ...
Grover Washington Jr: The importance of being Grover...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 10 May 1977
The Life, Times and Philosophy of Grover Washington Jr. "Communication is the key," he says... ...
Teddy Pendergrass: The Whole Town's Talking 'Bout Teddy
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 May 1977
...Mr. Pendergrass, that is. B&S's John Abbey began whistlin' the toons from Teddy's album within minutes of first hearing it, an' that's the most accurate ...
Junior Walker & the All Stars: Time Out With Junior Walker
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 10 May 1977
ONE OF the most consistently popular Motown artists of all time has to be Jr. Walker. His ratio of chart records may not be what ...
Dexter Wansel: Wansel's Dexterity!
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 24 May 1977
OVER A relatively short period of time — "a year", the gentleman actually suggests, Mr. Dexter Wansel's name has appeared on the credits of several ...
Earl Klugh: mellow music from a mellow man...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 24 May 1977
"It's nice to see the good guys makin' it", says our N.Y. scribe, David Nathan. In this instance he's referring to the up-and-coming Earl Klugh. ...
Phyllis Hyman: This Lady's Got Star Karma
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 24 May 1977
"This lady's got star karma...The buzz about Phyllis Hyman started amongst the superstar elite. It hasn't taken long for the word to get around..." ...
Earth, Wind & Fire: Rappin' with Maurice White (of Earth, Wind and Fire)
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 May 1977
JUST AS their American run of successes seems to be on a temporary wane, so supergroup Earth Wind & Fire achieve their British breakthrough – ...
Brass Construction: The Brains Behind Brass Construction
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 May 1977
B&S SuperEd, John Abbey, goes a-rappin' with BC's Superleader, Randy Muller... ...
Rufus: They're Rufusizing Buckingham Palace
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 24 May 1977
....and Chaka Khan's going down with Alice! Or, to be less obscure, June 11 will see Rufus and Chaka Khan playing one of the Queen's ...
Arthur Prysock: Arthur Socks It To Ya
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 7 June 1977
AS RECENTLY noted in B&S' review of Mr. Arthur Prysock's 'When Love Is New', the time seems right for a number of gentlemen who've been ...
Candi Staton: sweet as ever, but "I van run producers up the wall!"
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 7 June 1977
Ms. Staton was well pleased with her B&S award for '76's Record Of The Year. She's very self-critical and tries to look at everything she ...
James and Bobby Purify: The Purified Anglophiles
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 June 1977
"Audiences? British are best...." Who says so? Messrs. James and Bobby, the Purify Brothers. Read on folks... ...
Jean Carne: Jean Carn: Philly's First Lady
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 7 June 1977
Stints with the likes of EW&F, Norman Connors and Duke Ellington provided Jean with a wealth of experience. Now, with Gamble and Huff in Philadelphia, ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 21 June 1977
ANGLO-SAXON Brown. A brand of shoes? A new company brewing beer? Tailors? No, just eight very talented people who, after several years of standing in ...
Bo Kirkland & Ruth David: Bo and Ruth Get Next To You
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 21 June 1977
PROBABLY THE biggest selling import single of all time is Bo Kirkland & Ruth Davis' epic 'You're Gonna Get Next To Me'. ...
Philippe Wynne: Philippe solo: he's a Wynner
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 21 June 1977
IT'S UNLIKELY that anyone would disagree that the soul world has seen its fair share of changes in recent times. Not only the music itself ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 21 June 1977
BRITAIN HAS always been a happy hunting ground for the more soulful American singers and though they may not all see their name in lights, ...
Shalamar, Simon Soussan: Simon's 'Uptown Festival'
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 21 June 1977
THE NAME of Simon Soussan is synonymous with the authentic British Northern disco scene/sound. Before joining the "brain drain" and defecting to America (Los Angeles, ...
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 21 June 1977
IT WOULD hardly take much research to see that there is a whole new core or breed of musicians and groups who are breaking through ...
Detroit Emeralds: The Detroit Emeralds: Resurrection!
Report by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 21 June 1977
Abe, James and Ivory are back in harness and the Detroit Emeralds are riding high again. B&S gets together with the guys and catches up ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 21 June 1977
The brothers have graduated with honours from their teeny bopper image. They still retain the respect and adulation of their younger fans but now the ...
Aretha Franklin: Aretha Still Rules Okay
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 5 July 1977
A rare and exclusive interview with David Nathan. Aretha tells B&S about her new album, her movie and tour plans, and life on the West ...
The Supremes: New Supremes Will Spearhead New Motown Era
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 July 1977
The rumours suggested that the Supremes might soon be no more. But, though Mary is leaving to go solo, Susaye and Scherrie will continue with ...
Ralph MacDonald: King Of The Skins
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 5 July 1977
Ralph McDonald, the leading session percussionist and now a recording star in his own right. ...
Evelyn Thomas: Some Enchanted Evelyn
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 July 1977
Evelyn Thomas, a recent visitor to Britain, talks to B&S about her new album sessions. ...
Archie Bell and the Drells: The State Visit by Archie Bell and the Drells
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 July 1977
John Abbey talks to the man who was making disco records before Disco was even invented... ...
Hamilton Bohannon: This Smile Belongs To Hamilton Bohannon
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 July 1977
The Disco Man has the fastest-moving album of the day; that's why he's radiating happiness and joie de vie. ...
Brainstorm: UK Soulcharts Have A Brainstorm
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 July 1977
Although Brainstorm did well enough in the States with their debut single, Britain woke up to them first and they established themselves to a greater ...
The Platters: When Is A Platter Not A Platter
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 July 1977
When he leaves the group, it seems Herb Reed says he's been unable to use the name even though he first thought of it. But ...
Jerry Butler: The Return The Ice Man
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 July 1977
There were those who felt Jerry Butler might fade into obscurity. But, you can't keep a good man down and he's back with a vengeance...a ...
Jimmy Bo Horne: Seems To Me This Man's Gonna Happen
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 July 1977
John Abbey talks to cyclist-cum-Soulman, Mr. Jimmy Bo Horne ...
Johnnie Taylor: Johnnie's in the right place at the right time, again...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 July 1977
CBS is the right place to be today, says Mr. J. Taylor of Dallas, Texas. And who's to argue, considering his great success with the ...
George McCrae: Okay George, Diamonds Are Forever But
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 July 1977
In search of a new sound, George McCrae moved to New York to record his Diamond Touch album. But U.S. sales ain't been all they ...
The Facts of Life: The B&S Guide To The Facts Of Life
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 19 July 1977
Hey, hold on friends, we ain't about to explain all about naughty parts! No, no....this is the Facts Of Life group who are currently burnin' ...
The Floaters: "We're Floating along on the crest of a wave…"
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 July 1977
'Float On', the Floaters' disco monster was planned as an instrumental. But James Mitchell of the Detroit Emeralds dreamed the guys should ad-lib some vocals. ...
Tony Etoria And The 'X' Factor
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 July 1977
Tony's currently climbing both pop and Soul charts and seems to have that certain somethin' which could establish him as the first Black British Superstar... ...
Profile by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, August 1977
WE RECENTLY got the opportunity, alongside some of CBS' top executives, to check out a group recently signed to the company through a production deal ...
Aretha Franklin: Queen Aretha #1 – From Detroit to The Columbia Years
Retrospective by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 August 1977
An appreciation of the career of Aretha Franklin ...
The Trammps: Best Dressed Trammps You Ever Did See
Interview by John Abbey, David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 August 1977
"WE FEEL that maybe this one is going to go straight to the top!" exclaims Harold 'Doc' Wade, one member of the five-member Trammps who ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 August 1977
Billy Paul packs 'em in! ...
Garnet Mimms: Mr. Mimms Comes Truckin' On Back
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 August 1977
Garnet Mimms, already assured of a place in Soul's Hall of Fame, is back in business after a two-year lay-off spent cooling out and reflecting ...
Marlena Shaw …and happy days (aaaaay!)
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 August 1977
AND SHORTLY after arriving back at her Las Vegas home, Marlena Learned that CBS were inviting her to their annual conference – held this year ...
Marlena Shaw : Marlena Shaw: Sweet Beginnings
Interview by John Abbey, David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 August 1977
Re-united with producer Bert deCoteaux at Columbia, Ms. Shaw has really started to blossom. David Nathan and John Abbey gather th' fax from th' lady… ...
Shirley Brown: Counting Her Blessings
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 August 1977
ALL THOSE folk who dug the soulfully classic sound of Ms. Shirley Brown when the lady literally broke the charts up in 1974 (yes, it ...
The Hitchhikers: These Hitchhikers are motorin' along...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 August 1977
WITH THE increased number of albums being released by record companies generally and with so many of the albums being of such an increasing high ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 August 1977
Maze are recognised as Capitol's premier jazz band; but they really cut right across the board and sell to disco, funk, pop and rock fans ...
Aretha Franklin: Queen Aretha #2 – The Golden Years
Retrospective by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 August 1977
"THERE WAS a great zest, love and feeling for the music," states Jerry Wexler and when pressed further on the subject of that first session ...
Bob James: A Profile Of Mr Low Profile
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 August 1977
FIRST, there was One. Then Two. Naturally, then, Three And now there's Four. ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 August 1977
Jazz Reigns ...
Smokey Robinson: Smokey Hits The Big Time
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 August 1977
Smokey Robinson talks about his movie projects, recording and tour plans....and of his intention to visit Britain soon! ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 August 1977
NO, THE three above-named acts did not appear together in any kind of mammoth concert but we lumped them together because our reviews on each ...
T-Connection: The Nassau Connection
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 August 1977
Meet T-Connection, another slab of talent from funky Nassau. Their 'Do What You Wanna' is disco dynamite, but they plan to develop the serious side ...
Aretha Franklin: Queen Aretha #3 – Into the '70s
Retrospective by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 August 1977
1969 IS GENERALLY acclaimed as the year that saw something of a decline on Aretha's part. The decline was, in a sense, inevitable. The ridiculous ...
Brothers Johnson: Those Prolific Brothers Johnson
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 August 1977
With their 'Strawberry Letter 23' smash, George and Louis have consolidated their sensational breakthrough of last year. David Nathan caught up with them in New ...
Deniece Williams: No Free Time For Niecy
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 August 1977
THE SUCCESS story of 1977 certainly belongs to Deniece Williams. ...
Idris Muhammad: The Mountain Comes To Muhammad
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 August 1977
Turn This Mutha Out brought runaway success to Idris Muhammad, but his roots go back 20 years when he was drummer in Larry Williams' band. ...
Kenny Gamble: Kenny's Gamble Pays Off
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 August 1977
John Abbey talks to Kenny Gamble about the success of the Philadelphia International project which spearheads the whole 'Clean Up The Ghetto' campaign. ...
Minnie Riperton: 'Minnie Bird', The 5 - Octave Soprano Is Back
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 August 1977
MINNIE RIPERTON'S press bio reads: "The lady with the five and a half-octave coloratura soprano voice is a star". Without taking away from her talent ...
Randy Crawford: The Coming Of Age Of A Star
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 August 1977
PROVIDING ONE of the highlights for a recent sell-out concert in New York which featured Grover Washington Jr., was a young stylist who is quickly ...
Danny Williams: The Ensign's flyin' and Danny's back with a bang!
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 August 1977
AS JUST about anyone will readily inform you, the current hit single of 'Dancin' Easy' is a parody of the well-known TV advert, for the ...
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 August 1977
David Nathan traces the background of the rock, roots and reggae duo. ...
Aretha Franklin: Queen Aretha #4 – The Brand New Aretha
Retrospective by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 13 September 1977
Part 4 of an appreciation of the career of Aretha Franklin, by David Nathan... ...
Vernon Burch, Betty Wright: Betty Wright, Vernon Burch: Bottom Line, New York NY
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 13 September 1977
Betty Wright: super soul! ...
Betty Wright: The Final Ascent To Those Dizzy Heights
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 13 September 1977
David Nathan gets up-to-date with the lady and prophesises big success for her in coming months ...
Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes, Teddy Pendergrass: Rappin' with Teddy Pendergrass
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 13 September 1977
CURRENTLY fulfilling all the promise he's ever shown when with Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes with a flourishing solo career, we took a little ...
Boney M: That risqué sleeve: "I hadn't even thought of it that way," says Boney M's Marcia!
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 September 1977
SO, I asked the lovely Marcia Barrett, of Boney M., whether a sleeve that depicts virtually naked ladies and a gent wrapped up in chains ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 September 1977
John Abbey talks to Van McCoy who has just signed with MCA Records in a move to satisfy his desire to grow, as an artist ...
Aretha Franklin: Queen Aretha #5 – The Future
Comment by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 27 September 1977
David Nathan concludes his in-depth appreciation of Aretha Franklin ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 September 1977
Exclusive inter-galactic communication with the Star Wars victor ...
Nona Hendryx: Nona's Found Her Piece Of The Rock
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 27 September 1977
Nona Hendryx talks about her first solo album since the break-up of Labelle ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 27 September 1977
David Nathan hears from Keith Kilgo and Joe Hall how the group plan to pass on their hard-earned experience to newer up-and-coming acts... ...
The Emotions: Those Flowering Emotions Are Now In Full Bloom
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 September 1977
The young ladies have finally cracked Britain, and with their single snuggled at the top of the B&S chart the way now looks clear for ...
D.J. Rogers: Love, Music & Life (RCA PL12218)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 October 1977
THERE CAN be no disputing the fact that D.J. Rogers is one of the few relatively new names to actually come through with a distinctive ...
The Drifters: Ex Drifter Bill Chooses The British Way Of Life
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 October 1977
THE BRITISH soul colony – an ever expanding group of ex-patriot Americans who have chosen the British way of life – has had a goodly ...
Graham Central Station: Undiscovered Pioneers
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 11 October 1977
David Nathan talks to a true innovator, Mr. Larry Graham ...
Rose Royce: How Total Concept became Rose Royce
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 October 1977
It was as Total Concept that the Rose Royce combo came to London a few years ago. There followed a spell on the road with ...
Eddie Henderson: Soul Transfusion Brings success To Doc Henderson
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 October 1977
Eddie Henderson is a doctor of medicine and psychiatry, but currently he also has the hottest jazz-based album in the U.K. ...
Report by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 11 October 1977
David Nathan reports from New York on the Billboard Disco Convention 1977. ...
War: The Latest News From The War Front
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 October 1977
John Abbey talks to War's keyboard maestro, Lonnie Jordan, about their recent signing with MCA. ...
Jon Lucien: The Unique Mr Lucien
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 11 October 1977
"IT'S IN a developing stage. My career is moving to another level," are Jon Lucien's opening remarks the day before his New York appearance with ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 25 October 1977
David Nathan talks to Gary Byrd, one of New York's top deejays, lyricist for Stevie Wonder, and a young man with a mission or two ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 25 October 1977
Go For Your Guns Amigo: Them thar Isleys are due back in town with a new album... ...
Hodges, James & Smith: Hodges James and Smith: A Soulful Sound And A Bit Of Razzle Dazzle
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 October 1977
The ladies dislike any comparison with the Supremes and the Three Degrees but they have the charisma to take them right to the top. ...
The Stylistics: Stylistics Plead Guilty To Recent Lack Of Direction
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 October 1977
The guys feel they have been out of tune with the market for a while now but they are planning steps to get their career ...
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 25 October 1977
WHEN the sun shines, it shines on everybody. Similarly, that's what the group bearing the same name want their music to do... ...
Cameo: Still Going Strong After Rigor Mortis Has Set in
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 8 November 1977
B&S raps with the funky, funky 9-man band who play some pretty arresting music ...
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 November 1977
WHEN IT comes to our music, the fish-famed Scottish city of Dundee isn't exactly rivalling Detroit, Memphis or Philadelphia, is it? ...
Roy Ayers: The Ambidexterous Mind Of Roy Ayers
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 8 November 1977
IN AMONGST that unending list of people who've been patiently waiting in the wings for that catapult into the realms of superstardom is a gentleman ...
Grace Jones: The New Dahling Of The Disco Set
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 November 1977
Jamaican-born Grace began as an actress and model in New York and Paris. Now she's fast building a reputation as Disco Queen. ...
Tamiko Jones: John Abbey and Tamiko Jones: A Soulful Wedding In Atlanta
Report by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 November 1977
CERTAINLY one of the most exciting events of this year (might even qualify for the decade!) was the soulful wedding of our esteemed editor, Mr. John Abbey to the ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 November 1977
Twenty-five years continuous success… and with the original line-up still intact. Dave Nathan files this exclusive interveiw with Chuck Barksdale. ...
Dorothy Moore: More gold from Ms.Moore
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 6 December 1977
David Nathan catches up with chart-topper, Dorothy Moore, a very happy lady ...
Sylvester: How an ex-Cockette named Ruby Blue became Sylvester...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 6 December 1977
How an ex-Cockette named Ruby Blue became Sylvester... ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 6 December 1977
John Abbey talks to the group who found success in Philadelphia way before the whole Philadelphia thing happened... ...
Bobbi Humphrey: Bobbi Means Business
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 20 December 1977
Ms. Humphrey knows that talent isn't always enough to achieve success. Thus, she's formed her own management company and now stands or falls on her ...
Earth, Wind & Fire: Musical Giants
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 20 December 1977
ONE OF the gratifying success stories of this musical decade belongs unquestionably to a group who have literally become giants in the music world. We ...
Lamont Dozier: The Hitmaker Supreme Who Can't Read Or Write Music
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 20 December 1977
....but he's got a good ear and keeps cookin' up the goodies! David Nathan investigates the art of culinary composing, according to Lamont Dozier. ...
Barry White: Look Out For Barry In '78
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 December 1977
Barry White struck gold with his last single and album but he's set to surpass himself with his plans for next year ...
The Temptations: The Revitalised Temptations
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 December 1977
Some felt that the Temps wouldn't survive outside of Motown but the guys are happy with their initial tracks for Atlantic and plan to fight ...
The Fatback Band: Fatback Band: The Master Dance Combo...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 January 1978
John Abbey talks to Bill Curtis about the band that's not strictly a 'band' anymore ...
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 January 1978
VIRTUALLY everything that Earth, Wind & Fire touches turns to gold. One of the group's latest protegees consists of an eight-man aggregation known as Pockets. ...
Johnny "Guitar" Watson: Johnny Guitar Watson and the ups and downs of success...
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 January 1978
Johnny has come up with 3 gold albums in little more than a year but it seems that life at the top isn't always one ...
ZZ Hill: ZZ and The Making Of A Soul Classic
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 3 January 1978
'Love Is So Good When You're Stealing It' is one of '77's most soulful sides. David Nathan talks to ZZ Hill about his earlier days ...
Millie Jackson: In Tune With The People
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 17 January 1978
Soul's upfront lady makes sure she stays on target by taking time and trouble to talk to the people and staying in touch with what's ...
Roy Ayers, Idris Muhammad: Avery Fisher Hall, New York NY
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 17 January 1978
Ayers/Muhammad: funk in the snow ...
Shirley Caesar: The First Lady of Gospel
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 17 January 1978
IT'S LONG been acknowledged that some of the very finest black performers around today have their roots squarely and firmly in the gospel field. Everyone ...
Slave and the Freedom of Musical Expression
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 January 1978
The group are young and impatient to show their total musical prowess. Their second album shows a change of approach and is another attempt at ...
The Controllers: Four Young Men With A Soulful Message
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 17 January 1978
ALMOST EVER since the term "soul music" was coined – and it might be interesting to find out just who coined it first! – there ...
The Drifters: We haven't sung soul since Clyde McPhatter left!
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 January 1978
GROUPS COME, groups go. One day it'll rain, next day it'll be sunny. But one thing that you can rely upon is the fact that ...
Brass Construction: Brass Construction III (United Artists UAS 30124)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
WELL, THE question in hand for this album is simply this — are you fed up with the Brass Construction sound yet? If so, you'll ...
Brenda & The Tabulations: Brenda and The Tabulations: Coming Back For More
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
After five years of turning out soul classics, Brenda 'retired' to become a housewife. But now she's back in business and rarin' to go.... ...
Cissy Houston In Her Own Right
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
Cissy has sung behind countless superstars, from Elvis to Aretha, particularly during her stint as leader of the Sweet Inspirations. She's now out front again ...
Dee Dee Sharp: Dee-Dee Sharp Gamble: What Color Is Love (Philadelphia Int. PIR 82433)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
DEE DEE'S second album since coming out of retirement and the biggest puzzle in my mind is simply why this superlative set didn't make the ...
Earth, Wind & Fire: Earth Wind & Fire: All 'N' All (CBS 86051)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
ANY ALBUM that can go straight into the American charts at No. 1 and sell more than two million in its first month can't be ...
Eleanor Grant: Look Out For Eleanor In '78
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
ALTHOUGH AT present, the name of Eleanor Grant is barely known around the record buying brotherhood of the world, you only have to speak to ...
Fat Larry's Band: Fat Larry's slimming down (but getting bigger!)
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
Larry's losing weight, so he may be fronting Not-So-Fat-Larry's Band soon! Bat with their new Stax affiliation, he and the guys are getting bigger every ...
Fat Larry's Band: Fat Larry's Slimming Down (But Getting Bigger!)
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
Larry's losing weight, so he may be fronting Not-So-Fat-Larry's Band soon! But with their new Stax affiliation, he and the guys are getting bigger every ...
Gil Scott-Heron: Bridges (Arista SPARTY 1031)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
'Hello Sunday, Hello Road'; 'Song Of The Wind'; 'Racetrack In France'; 'Vildgolia'; 'Under The Hammer'; 'We Almost Lost Detroit'; 'Tuskegee'; 'Delta Man'; '95 South'. ...
Michael Henderson: Goin' Places (Buddah BDLH 5018)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
BEST KNOWN for his work with Norman Connors — he sang lead on 'You Are My Starship' — Michael is vocally similar to Marvin Gaye ...
T-Connection Make It 3 In A Row
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
THOUGH THE disco boom of the past two years will no doubt have its negative after-effects, there can be no disputing the fact that it ...
The Commodores: Live (Motown TMSP 6007)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
'Won't You Come Dance With Me'; 'Slippery When Wet'; 'Come Inside'; 'Just To Be Close To You'; 'Funny Feelings'; 'Fancy Dancer'; 'Sweet Love'; 'Zoom'; 'Easy'; ...
The Fantastic Four Are Back With A Bang
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
Courtesy of the disco boom, the Fantastic Four are back in business and scoring their biggest hit of all time... ...
Eddie Kendricks: The Two Sides of Eddie Kendricks
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
There's the man who goes on stage to work and the guy off-stage who's just a member of the public. "It's important those two people ...
Village People: Village People (DJM DJF20524)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
'San Francisco'; 'In Hollywood'; 'Fire Island'; 'Village People' ...
Hot: When You're Hot You're Hot
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 31 January 1978
ONE OF the biggest international hits of 1977 belongs to three, very attractive, very intelligent young women who go by the name of Hot. ...
Fat Larry's Band: Off The Wall (Stax STX 3004)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 February 1978
WHATEVER RECOGNITION Fat Larry James' Band has gained came via the disco world's unanimous support of their only previous album and, more especially, the 'Center ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 February 1978
Following a highly successful tour of major American cities, Mandrill are now anxious to become a truly international act. Plans are underway for them to ...
Patti Austin: The Jingle Queen Breaks Out
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 14 February 1978
David Nathan talks to a soulful lady whose dulcet tones can also be heard on numerous American TV commercials ...
Detroit Emeralds: The Emerald Behind The Floaters Gem
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 February 1978
HAVING FOUGHT their way back to prominence, the Detroit Emeralds are now set to consolidate themselves – not only in their own right but also ...
The Imperials: Old Doo Waps Never Die
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 February 1978
The Imperials discover that Britain love 'em ...
Earth, Wind & Fire, The Emotions, Deniece Williams: Earth Wind & Fire: Maurice White
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 February 1978
WITHOUT A shadow of doubt, Earth Wind & Fire is the most successful group that our music has ever given the world. In fact, after ...
The Commodores: Hot At Home An' Zoomin' In Europe
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 February 1978
SO, FOR the good news for European fans. The Commodores will definitely be touring Europe this April, and that is confirmed! ...
Gladys Knight and the Pips: The Pips: A Solo Album But No Split With Gladys
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 28 February 1978
After twenty-five years together, Gladys Knight and The Pips have become virtually a musical institution. Now, a new chapter is opening in the history of ...
The Blackbyrds: You can't put a price on education, say the Blackbyrds…
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, March 1978
The guys have always restricted their working schedule in order to further their education. This has cost them a lot of dollars but they figure ...
Al Green: The King Is Dead Long Live The King
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 March 1978
Al Green: the Logical successor to the title of King of Memphis... ...
Biddu's Planning For The Future
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 March 1978
WHEREAS MOST producers and artists are satisfied with concentrating on today, our old buddy. Biddu, is firmly trying to forge a new sound for the ...
Con Funk Shun: Confunkshun: Memphians With California Bloodlines
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 March 1978
The Magnificent Seven hail from the West Coast, but the band was born in Memphis ...
Parliament: Funkentelechy Vs. The Placebo Syndrome (Casablanca CALH2021)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 March 1978
I DON'T REALLY believe that there is a funkier band in the whole world than the Parliament brigade and this latest offering is all the ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 March 1978
Pleasure by name and pleasing to the ear, the guys look set to become one of the hot new acts of '78 ...
The Bar-Kays: Bar-Kays put the city back on the world's musical map...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 March 1978
"Shake your rump to the funk", the guys suggested, and the world tuned in to the new Memphis era ...
Judd Phillips: The Memphis Mercury Connection
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 March 1978
NO, IT ISN'T a devious underworld operation; rather, it is the efforts of the Chicago-based Mercury organisation to be the first major to capitalise on ...
Al Green, Willie Mitchell, Ann Peebles: Willie Mitchell: Gettin' Hi High Again
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 March 1978
Willie Mitchell has virtually forsaken his own career in favour of running Hi Records and putting the label back up there... ...
Ashford & Simpson, Michael Henderson: Avery Fisher Hall, New York NY
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 28 March 1978
Nick & Val: better than ever ...
Donna Summer, The Temptations: Latin Casino, Cherry Hill NJ
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 28 March 1978
Donna Summer: polished orgasms ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 March 1978
"Success can be the emptiest place in the world," says Freda..."Having a husband and now a son makes me realise just how empty my life ...
Herb Alpert, Hugh Masekela: Herb Alpert and Hugh Masekela: Herb and Hugh Fusion
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 March 1978
Herb Alpert and Hugh Masekela explain their Tijuana Meets Africa project ...
Joe Simon: Mr Consistency That's Joe Simon
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 March 1978
"I may not make more than one gold record a year," he says, "but every release sells about 300,000...and that's what keeps me going to ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 28 March 1978
Roberta Flack – the Star who likes to hang out just like everyday folks ...
The Blue Notes wanna be the black Beatles!
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 March 1978
The original Blue Notes, having endured the splits with Harold Melvin and Teddy Pendergrass, are aiming for versatility and the kind of musical freedom that ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 April 1978
It took Maze around nine months to go gold with their debut album but their second set has equalled that feat in just six weeks ...
Ralph MacDonald: The Percussive Roots Of Ralph McDonald
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 April 1978
Ralph's new album traces his musical roots from Africa to the Islands and America. Here he talks about his dual roles as artist and producer, ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 April 1978
IN THE two years of 'its' acceptance, Bootsy's Rubber Band has become established as one of America's leading progressive R&B bands. Each of their three ...
Kellee Patterson: Kellee Gets Fitted With Gold
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 April 1978
WELL, IT has taken a full six month cycle but Kellee Patterson has finally won her Gold disc for the interestingly titled 'If It Don't ...
Larkin Arnold: A Capitol Investment
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 25 April 1978
LET'S BE honest. A couple of years or so back and if you mentioned the name of Capitol Records, you thought of Glen Campbell, the ...
Al Green: Crosstalk With Al Green
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 9 May 1978
HE'S NOW acquired the tag "Minister of Soul" and "Love And Happiness" continues to be his message. He's racked up several millions in sales world-wide ...
Harvey Mason: Have Funk Will Travel
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 9 May 1978
ONE OF the most interesting developments in recent years on the contemporary music scene has been the recognition and attention paid to those folk who ...
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 9 May 1978
Since its revival a couple of years back, Cotillion Records has underlined Atlantic Records' commitment to black music. With pioneer Henry Allen at the helm, ...
Peabo Bryson: the sky's the limit...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 9 May 1978
With Reaching For The Sky as his newest album on Capitol, it's obvious that Mr. Peabo Bryson has lofty ideas! Fortunately, everyone seems certain that ...
Sylvester: Sylvester (Fantasy FT 538)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 May 1978
THE DISTINCTIVE gent created a bit of a stir with his disco offering, 'Down Down Down' and 'Over And Over', and now follows through with ...
Evelyn "Champagne" King: Broady's, New York NY
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 23 May 1978
Evelyn "Champagne" King: promising start... ...
The Floaters: Floaters serve up a little piece of Magic
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 23 May 1978
With their all-important second album, the guys are intent on proving they are far more than just one-hit wonders... ...
Funkadelic, Parliament: Parliament/Funkadelic
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 23 May 1978
After nearly twenty years together under the able guidance of Mr. George Clinton, Parliament and Funkadelic and associated entities have finally begun to receive the ...
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 23 May 1978
Parliament tear the roof off Washington ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 23 May 1978
One of the biggest records of 1978 belongs to a new group known simply as Raydio. With 'Jack & Jill' topping charts across both sides ...
Chic: How Chic's Bootlegged Single Became A Disco Smash…
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 6 June 1978
REGARDLESS of whether you happen to be one of the many millions of people who now frequent discos on what has become a vast international ...
Cuba Gooding Comes In From The Cold
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 6 June 1978
The former lead singer with The Main Ingredient has been away from the recording scene for just a year. In between, he's been busy preparing ...
Mandre: 'Soular' Soul From Outer Space
Profile by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 6 June 1978
ACCORDING TO Motown Records' press release: "Unknown to but an enlightened few until now, we have been visited many times by denizens from the other ...
Village People: The Macho Answer To Women's Lib
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 6 June 1978
With a debut album that proved to be a big disco item in 1977 and a new album already making strong headway, the six guys ...
Gene Chandler: The Duke Of Earl Is Back
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 June 1978
Having grown tired of working the chittlin' circuit, Gene went off the road to concentrate on the business side of things...and scored some notable successes. ...
The Trammps: How Chaplin Helped Give Birth To The Trammps
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 June 1978
The re-release of 'Disco Inferno', by way of its success in Saturday Night Fever, could give Trammps their first gold disc. B&S talks to Earl ...
Joe Tex: The Gut Feeling For A Hit
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 June 1978
Joe stays close to the streets and the people who buy the records. Thus, he has a good instinct for what's a likely hit and ...
The Manhattans: Manhattans Are Planning A Doo Wop Album
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 June 1978
The guys started out as a street-corner group and have always maintained an interest in the old doo-wap style. Now there's talk of them cutting ...
Sweet Thunder: Versatility Is The Name Of The Game
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 June 1978
AS THEIR biography says, the name of Sweet Thunder does sound like a paradox but if you listen to their new and charted album – ...
The Originals: A New Chapter Begins
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 June 1978
Until recently, the Originals had spent their career at Motown, and enjoyed great success. But, they felt it was time to move on and now ...
Bobbi Humphrey: Bobbi's Jam with Stevie
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 July 1978
Bobbi Humphrey tells B&S how Stevie Wonder came to play harmonica on her 'Home Made Jam' single in return for help she had contributed to ...
Bunny Sigler: Bundino Sigalucci, Reluctant Songwriter
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 4 July 1978
With a couple of albums under his belt from his days with Philly International and his hit of '67 'Let The Good Times Roll' behind ...
Dexter Wansel: The Message In His Music
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 July 1978
IF YOU take a look at virtually any album that comes out of Philadelphia International these days, you are almost certain to see Dexter Wansel's ...
Evelyn "Champagne" King: Bubblin' Over
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 4 July 1978
Currently the recipient of numerous accolades and predictions is the young lady known as Evelyn "Champagne" King. She certainly deserves all the praise she's getting. ...
Idris Muhammad: Idris Boogies On Up
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 July 1978
Idris Muhammad's new album is a deliberate attempt to widen his horizons and is set to surpass all that his Mutha album achieved. B&S examines ...
Martha Reeves & The Vandellas: Martha Reeves: Martha's Happier Than Ever Before
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 July 1978
WE MEET AGAIN is the apt title for Martha Reeves stunning debut album for Fantasy Records because it reunites her with one of the men ...
The Jimmy Castor Bunch: Bertha Butt meets Darth Vader... courtesy of Jimmy Castor, of course!
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 July 1978
WHEN IT comes to novelty disco tunes, Jimmy Castor has proven himself to be irresistible. Right from 'Hey Leroy, Your Mama's Calling You', through the ...
Faze-O repay Ohio Player's faith in them
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 July 1978
...and get SHE label off the ground! ...
Millie Jackson rings the changes
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 July 1978
Millie's new album is far more uptempo than any album she's ever done. Ironically, the track that most people are picking up on is a ...
Quincy Jones: Feelin' Great In '78
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 July 1978
Quincy Jones finds that the ideas and his music are just flowing these days, he feels like a man on the sea, just going with ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 July 1978
John Abbey talks to lead singer Eddie Levert and newest member Sammy Strain, and reports on just why and how the O'Jays have remained in ...
The Soul Children: back on to a good thing
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 July 1978
The threesome are back in business with David Porter and their 'Can't Give Up A Good Thing' single is lighting the way for the Stax ...
Hodges, James & Smith: Hodges, James and Smith: The Time Is Now
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 August 1978
WE AT B&S have always acknowledged the significance of timing. The right record at the right time and with the right company and suddenly a ...
Margie Joseph: Margie's Feeling Her Way To The Very Top
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 August 1978
Margie Joseph is using her God-given talent to the full. "My dream is to be a superstar," she says, "and I just don't want anyone ...
The Ohio Players: Ohio Players Come Out Of Hibernation
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 August 1978
John Abbey talks to Satch Satchell, the Ohio Players' spiritual leader. ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 August 1978
For her new album, Tasty, Patti has adopted a whole new approach. She tells David Nathan how she accepted the challenge of showing people another ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 August 1978
The 8-piece outfit spent most of their time in the studio until recently but with their fourth Fantasy album taking off they are currently on ...
The 5th Dimension: The Fifth Dimension
Overview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 August 1978
AFTER A period of time out of the recording limelight, The Fifth Dimension are back – with a new album ("Star Dancing"), a new record ...
Taste Of Honey: A Taste Of Honey: Funky-unky-unky
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 August 1978
Boogie Oogie Oogie has shot A Taste Of Honey to international stardom, but John Abbey discovers they are more than just pretty faces! ...
Average White Band: AWB Aim To Spread Their Wings
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 15 August 1978
Having signed an international deal with RCA records, the band plan to take their music around the world ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 August 1978
The man himself talks to John Abbey about his second Fantasy album, his attitudes, and his aims for the future. Another B&S exclusive... ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 August 1978
Having licked a serious drug problem, Etta is climbing to the top again and has been delighting audiences on the road with the Rolling Stones, ...
Prince Phillip Mitchell: Prince Phillip's Makin' It But Good
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 August 1978
As a songwriter, Phillip Mitchell has penned hits for such diverse talents as Millie Jackson, Candi Staton, Ben E. King and Joe Simon. Now he's ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 29 August 1978
Teddy talks to David Nathan about his professional plans and personal philosophies ...
Aretha Franklin: The Aretha Franklin Interview...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 29 August 1978
In one of the very rare interviews she grants, Lady Soul gave this in-depth story to B&S' David Nathan at her beautiful Encino, California home. ...
Candi Staton: Disco Confuses Candi
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 12 September 1978
As long as she can remember, people have been dancing to Candi Staton's records. "It's just a new word for an old style," she says ...
Crown Heights Affair: Crown Princes of Disco!
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 12 September 1978
WHEN IT comes to disco acceptance, few groups have attained the peaks that New York's Crown Heights Affair have managed over the past three years. ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 12 September 1978
The Queen of the Dancefloors, the inimitable Grace Jones ...
Johnny Bristol: Still Hangin' In There...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 12 September 1978
'HANG ON In There Baby' remains to this day one of the best selling R&B based records of all time. It carried its creator, Johnny ...
Rick James: The Punk Funk Of Rick James
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 12 September 1978
Rick's style has been dubbed Punk Funk in some quarters. He himself agrees the term might be apt as it signifies the rebellious aspect of ...
The Stylistics: Back 'In Fashion'
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 12 September 1978
In Fashion just happens to be the title of the group's debut album for the Mercury label and it looks like giving them their biggest ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 26 September 1978
The all-white chart-toppers don't try to sound black – it's their natural way. "We just want to play that groove,'' they say. "If there isn't ...
Atlantic Starr: Meet Atlantic Starr
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 26 September 1978
John Abbey talks to the 9-piece outfit who are storming the U.S singles and albums charts ...
Rose Royce: The Golden Success Story
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 26 September 1978
The band's three albums have all gone gold, and then platinum – some achievement! Percussionist Terry Santiel tells B&S of the debt they owe to ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 10 October 1978
Thirteen years on in her career, Betty Wright has finally begun to gain acceptance outside of just R&B circles. David Nathan reports... ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 October 1978
WHENEVER you think of the Miama Sound, the name of K.C. & the Sunshine Band immediately springs to mind. Via a long string of golden ...
Loleatta Holloway, Bunny Sigler: Loleatta Holloway: Queen Of The Night (Salsoul SSLP 1509)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 October 1978
THE LONG awaited second Gold Mind album from Loleatta and this time the lady is caught up with a myriad of production units. The whole ...
Sylvester: Step II (Fantasy F549)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 October 1978
SYLVESTER HAS carved a niche for himself in the disco world and his second Fantasy album will certainly consolidate his following around the nation's dancefloors. ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 October 1978
The lady's natural wit made her a runaway success on America's chat shows and her debut album was an international winner. Now she feels she's ...
Randy Jackson: Solo Randy Will Always Be Part Of The Jacksons
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 October 1978
THIS MONTH sees the release of the debut single by the latest of the super-talented children of Joe Jackson. Collectively, they are known to the ...
The Impressions: The Impresssions: Lasting Impressions
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 October 1978
After more than 20 years as a group, the guys are now bigger than ever in Europe. Recordwise, plans are afoot for them to record ...
Gloria Gaynor: The First Lady of Disco
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 7 November 1978
Although she may not have been scoring as consistently on the charts in recent times, Ms. Gloria gaynor — the acknowledged "Queen of Disco" — ...
The Sylvers: Golden Sylvers Look To The Silver Screen
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 7 November 1978
Edmund Sylvers tells David Nathan about the group's new record affiliation, their aims in the film world and plans for a European tour. ...
Jerry Butler: The Ice Man Returneth Home
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 November 1978
Jerry talks to B&S about his reunion with Gamble and Huff and his plans for the future... ...
Loleatta Holloway: Queen Of The Night
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 7 November 1978
The 'Cry To Me' lady talks to B&S about her new disco following... ...
Mtume: Not Just Funnin', Mtume Mean Real Business
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 7 November 1978
Mtume's jumping off point came when two of the guys wrote a hit for Roberta Flack, but they are more than just a songwriting team ...
Chic, Norma Jean Wright: Norma Jean: The girl from Chic with that certain something...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 7 November 1978
One of the brightest new stars on the horizon is a young lady whose voice has already been heard across the world. As lead singer ...
Timmy Thomas: The Gospel Freak
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 November 1978
The 'Why Can't We Live Together' man now has a dual role – as head of TK's Gospel division and leader of the Freak dancefloor ...
B.B. King: An Audience With The King
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 November 1978
The King in question is Mr. B.B. King and in this exclusive interview he talks to John Abbey about the future of the blues as ...
Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes: Harold Melvin and The Blue Notes: Back To Their Roots
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 November 1978
The rumours are that Harold Melvin and the group are set to return to Philadelphia International. Harold himself tells B&S how it is.... ...
Odyssey: The Native New Yorkers Hit The Road
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 5 December 1978
Odyssey held back from touring after their 'Native New Yorker' smash. But now, with their new single and album, they are eager to get out ...
George Clinton, Funkadelic, Parliament: Parliament Funkadelic: Watch Out The Mothership Is Coming
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 December 1978
Beware, Britain – the Mothership is coming! George Clinton and those extra-terrestial beings, Parliament-Funkadelic, are about to descend on to your cities. It will be ...
Barry White: The Man (20th Century Fox)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 December 1978
THE MAESTRO has consistently found support for his distinctive style and is currently riding both U.S. R&B and disco charts with his punchy 'Your Sweetness ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 December 1978
Eddie Henderson: I didn't get where I am today by not being danceable... ...
Bernie Worrell: P-Funk: Bernie Worrell, The Keyboard King
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 December 1978
THE LATEST Parliafunkadelicment member to shoot solo shots is Bernie Worrell, the keyboard king of Funkadelia. Entitled All The Woo In the World, the album ...
Funkadelic: P-Funk: Mike Hampton – Kid Funkadelic
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 December 1978
REPRESENTING the younger generation of Funkadelicans is Mike Hampton, a long-haired extrovert who plays perhaps the meanest guitar within our musical sphere. "I am not ...
Quazar: Outta The Woodshed An' Into The Charts
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 19 December 1978
The group spent some 6 years woodshedding (preparing themselves to face the public.) Now, as David Nathan reports, their hard work is paying handsome dividends... ...
The Brides Of Funkenstein: The Solo Talents Within The Parliafunkadelicment Thang…
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 December 1978
AS ONE would imagine, monogamy isn't in keeping with Dr. Funkenstein's image and so I guess it was only natural that when he launched his ...
George Clinton, Funkadelic, Parliament: The George Clinton Interview: Part 2
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 December 1978
Coinciding with the arrival of the whole Parliafunk-adelicment entourage in Britain for concert dates, B&S concludes its exclusive interview with the mastermind of the whole ...
Al Green: Soulful Al's not so Green in the disco stakes, either...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 January 1979
Mr. Green's first album in a year leans more towards disco than anything else he's released. But, he explains, it wasn't a deliberate move to ...
Cheryl Lynn: Cheryl's Trip Down The Yellow Brick Road
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 January 1979
"I'M JUST excited about the whole thing!" bubbles Ms. Cheryl Lynn and she has every reason for feeling that way. Her debut Columbia album and ...
Grover Washington Jr: Grover's Motown Seed Is bearing fruit a-plenty
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 January 1979
ALTHOUGH on odd occasions they have varied their musical direction – notably into Country & Western for a minute and via the Rare Earth Rock-Pop ...
Jean Carne: Jean Carn: Happy Is The Only Way To Fly...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 January 1979
Jean's second album, Happy To Be With You, is winning friends with R&B and jazz fans alike...and happy also sums up the way she feels ...
Johnny "Guitar" Watson: Johnny Guitar Watson: Guitar Giant!
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 January 1979
AFTER THE comparative failure of Funk Beyond The Call Of Duty, Johnny Guitar Watson is back with a vengeance. ...
Mother's Finest: one group under two grooves
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 2 January 1979
I DON'T know about you, but the image that I had always had of Mother's Finest was that they were a sort of Osmonds-type pop ...
Sarah Dash: Putting It Together Again
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 January 1979
After 16 years with the now legendary team of Patti Labelle & The Bluebelles (who after selling their hearts to the junkmen and disappearing over ...
Cameo: Ugly Ego (Casablanca CAL 2040)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 January 1979
NINE PIECE, self-contained group have established themselves a little bit more with every release since their arrival on the scene more than two years ago. ...
Chic: A Day In The Life Of Chic
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 January 1979
So what actually happens when you have the No. 1 pop, r&b and disco record in the nation? How does an average day transpire and ...
Dobie Gray Is Driftin' Back...
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 January 1979
"PEOPLE TEND to think that if you're not on the top of the charts, you fall flat on your face," states Dobie Gray. "Well, I've ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 January 1979
As his new album implies, Marc Cerrone surely has that Golden Touch...in fact, the album reportedly shipped gold in seven countries! ...
Heatwave: International Heatwave
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 January 1979
LONDON, England, is hardly renowned for its temperate climate but it can boast one long and consistent Heatwave because it is – and probably always ...
Peaches and Herb: On A Groove Thing...
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 January 1979
THEY'RE BOTH agreed: Peaches and Herb state almost unanimously that working on their latest album with producer Freddie Perren (the album is on Freddie's own ...
The Temptations: Temptations Thrive On Their New Found Freedom...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 January 1979
AFTER A rather disappointing first year with Atlantic Records, it looks as though 1979 will see the mighty Temptations searching in earnest to regain their ...
Al Jarreau: Days Of Future Past...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 January 1979
Since the release of his debut album three years ago, Al Jarreau has firmly established himself as a creative talent of the first order. He ...
Cameo: Sitting Pretty With Their Ugly Ego
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 January 1979
If the group's second album was two steps ahead of their debut set, then the new one is five steps ahead of either, they feel. ...
Chanson: There's No Holdin' 'Em Back
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 January 1979
James and David have worked as session musicians on countless hits but now, with their debut on Ariola, they've become an instant success in their ...
Chic: C'est Chic (Atlantic K50565)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 January 1979
THE FIVE piece Chic outfit have become one of disco's hottest properties and their 'Le Freak' hit is just about the most played record around ...
Peabo Bryson Comes Into His Own...
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 January 1979
With his debut album for Capitol, already certified as gold, Mr. Peabo Bryson is truly "reaching for the sky". His newest album, 'Crosswinds' looks set ...
Roy Ayers, Wayne Henderson: Roy Ayers and Wayne Henderson: Two superstars under a groove...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 January 1979
Add two liberal helpings of individual magic, stir gently, bring to the boil and serve funking hot! Roy Ayers and Wayne Henderson divulge their joint ...
Sylvester: Westbury Music Fair, Passaic, NJ
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 January 1979
OUR OUTSTANDING performance award of the month must surely go to Sylvester who literally turned the whole place out in Passaic, New Jersey, where he ...
The Staple Singers: Muscle Shoals Revisited...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 January 1979
IT CAN'T be coincidence that the minute the Staples return to Muscle Shoals, they come away with their best selling album since the last time ...
Donny Hathaway: A Tribute to Donny Hathaway
Obituary by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 13 February 1979
THE TRAGIC news of the death in mid-January of Donny Hathaway no doubt shocked the gifted singer-songwriter's many admirers across the world and it was ...
Chuck Brown & the Soul Searchers: Chuck Brown and The Soul Searchers: Bustin' Loose
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 February 1979
1979 HAS been acclaimed as the year that Funk would fight back. Proof of the truth of that statement can be found by simply looking ...
Instant Funk: The return of Funkkkkk
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 February 1979
Into the winner's circle with a three year old recording, Instant Funk now look set to become 79's major funk success. Read on... ...
Brass Construction: Randy Muller: Dance To The Music
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 February 1979
"The new Brass Construction album will have the same kind of rhythm pulse and good groove as the first one..." ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 February 1979
AFTER TWO rather varied albums, T-Connection have made up their minds that their about-to-be-released third album will be the one to kill the discos. ...
The Jackson 5, Michael Jackson, The Jacksons: The Jacksons: Ten Golden Years
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 February 1979
The guys recently celebrated ten years as a headlining act and B&S took the opportunity to talk to them individually and gather their thoughts on ...
The Neville Brothers: A Family Affair
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 February 1979
THE NAME of Neville is synonymous with the whole New Orleans sound. The eldest brother, Art, has invested more than twenty years into the music ...
Van McCoy Comes Out Of Retreat...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 February 1979
Having now emerged from a somewhat less fruitful period, following his huge international smash, 'The Hustle', Van McCoy talks of his recent creative and emotional ...
Chaka Khan: B&S award is more meaningful says Chaka...
Report by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 February 1979
ON THE face of it, the most surprising Poll winner this year was Chaka Khan's victory in the Female Vocalist division – where she edged ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 February 1979
WE GOT the opportunity to spear with Celi Bee (of Celi Bee & the Buzzy Bunch disco fame) on one of the lady's rare stopovers ...
Gene Chandler: The Duke Is Back
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 February 1979
RIGHT NOW, Gene Chandler's 'Get Down' is just about the biggest disco record in the country. Presently, Gene is touring the country promoting his biggest ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 February 1979
THE RELEASE of Straight From The Heart marks the return home of the Rance Allen Group. After a gap of four years – during which ...
Rose Royce: A Very Satisfying Year
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 February 1979
UNDOUBTEDLY, 1978 was The Year Of The Groups. Earth Wind & Fire, the Commodores and Rose Royce almost held a monopoly on the awards. Though ...
The Dixie Hummingbirds: Flyin' High
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 February 1979
THERE HAS been a whole lot of publicity about the fact that fifty years ago, Walt Disney was introducing Mickey Mouse to the world over ...
Rick James: Bustin' Out Of L Seven (Motown STML 12104)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 March 1979
WITHOUT A shadow of doubt, Canadian Rick James was one of the most significant discoveries of 1978. His 'You And I' and 'Mary Jane' singles ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 March 1979
The man triumphed in both Disco sections of the annual B&S Poll but, surprisingly, tells us that his next album might actually be his last ...
ADC Band: The ADC Band: All Fired Up...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 March 1979
THEIR BIOGRAPHY calls them a "funky renaissance band" and I guess that does just about sum up the ADC Band, Detroit's own band who have ...
The Commodores: 3 Times a Winner
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 March 1979
Lionel Ritchie and the Commodores triumphed in 3 sections of the recent B&S Poll. Here Lionel, who won the award as Best Songwriter, tells why ...
Evelyn "Champagne" King: Evelyn Champagne King: A Bubbling Bundle Of Talent
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 March 1979
From office cleaning to record stardom, the 'champagne' lady uncorks her story...and cites producer T. Life as the Rat in her life!!! ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 March 1979
Lead vocalist Greg Williams explains how a chance meeting with Jermaine Jackson led to the guys achieving their big breakthrough. Now they're readying their second ...
Bunny Sigler: A Disco Believer
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 April 1979
After 12 years, writer, producer, singer Bunny Sigler finally has the creative freedom to pursue all avenues to his own satisfaction. ...
Chaka Khan, Rufus: Chaka Khan: Chaka Really Is Every Woman
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 April 1979
OVER THE years, we have covered just about every possible facet of Chaka Khan's career. So, during a break whilst recording a new album with ...
Creme D'Cocoa: Philly Versatility
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 April 1979
VENTURE RECORDS was launched last fall and immediately attained its initial breakthrough with 'Do What You Feel', the debut release on a new quartet from ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 April 1979
After a lengthy absence from the charts, Edwin's back with a vengeance. And he's well tuned in to disco as some folks acclaim 'Twenty Five ...
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 10 April 1979
Still maintaining their link with the departed Chaka Khan – Rufus now find their diverse talents sprouting in all directions.... ...
Sister Sledge: Family Breakthrough
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 April 1979
WHOEVER CAME up with the idea of putting that beautiful family quartet, Sister Sledge, together with platinum Chic hitmakers, Bernard Edwards and Nile Rodgers, is ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 April 1979
ALTHOUGH 'Shoot Me' has been the vehicle for the world to become acquainted with Ms. Tasha Thomas, it is a somewhat unlikely source. 'Shoot Me ...
Bloodstone: Shining brightly, six years on...
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 April 1979
WOULD YOU believe that it's six years since Bloodstone hit the world's record charts with their haunting 'Natural High' ballad – probably one of the ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 24 April 1979
David Nathan talks to the GQ quartet, currently scoring with their 'Disco Nights (Rock-Freak)' opus and finds that they label their music as 'gentlemen's funk'. ...
Lakeside's talent survives the knocks...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 24 April 1979
HAVING THE strength and belief to stay together as a unit in the face of adversity is surely one of the tests that determines exactly ...
Natalie Cole: The Natalie Cole interview
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 April 1979
IN THREE short years, Natalie Cole has risen to the point where today she is a household name. In the past few months, Natalie has ...
Labelle, Patti LaBelle: The real, raw Patti LaBelle
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 April 1979
Patti is happier with her latest album than with anything she has ever done before, and feels that producer Skip Scarbrough has captured the real, ...
War: Luther Rabb: War's new bass man...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 May 1979
War's newest member is rarin' to go...as part of a very enthusiastic band, and as a solo act ...
Maze: The 'Inspiration' Behind Maze
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 May 1979
B&S raps to Maze leader Frankie Beverly who reveals the formula behind their 'rapid' rise to stardom. ...
Tavares: Tired Of That Flip Flop Music...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 8 May 1979
UNTIL THEY got caught up in the mad disco scramble – though admittedly they were one of the trendsetting groups in that category – the ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 8 May 1979
'Kiss And Say Goodbye' provided the Manhattans with a global hit, and now the enduring quartet look forward to continued success with their new album. ...
Millie Jackson: A few moments pleasure with Millie Jackson
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 May 1979
John Abbey talks to Millie about her new album, and her forthcoming set with Isaac Hayes... ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 May 1979
CURRENTLY PROVING to be one of 1979's hottest records is a tune which has literally exploded on the pop and r&b charts almost simultaneously. ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 May 1979
I DON'T know about you, but my impression of Joe Simon has always been of a sober, conservative character. Maybe it was his clean approach ...
Bruce Hawes: Bruces Hawes: Young Gifted Determined
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, June 1979
Perhaps one of the most encouraging signs in the black music field right now is the slow but sure emergence of a whole crop of ...
Amii Stewart: Amii's knockin' on stardom's door
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 5 June 1979
B&S talks to the very talented Ms. Amii Stewart ...
Black Music Association: A Singular Voice For The Black Music Industry
Comment by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 5 June 1979
The Black Music Association has just celebrated its first anniversary. B&S outlines its concept and success as a vehicle to preserve, project and further Black ...
Eddie Henderson: doctor at the crossroads
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 June 1979
With the music world making so many demands on his time, Eddie feels he may have to phase out his medical practice completely... ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 5 June 1979
By way of many fine recordings and countless live performances, Grover has become acknowledged as one of the decade's most talented musicians. But what of ...
James Brown: The original Disco Man
Report by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 5 June 1979
'People are doing what I was doing ten years ago and calling it Disco' ...
Lamont Dozier: Lamont Takes To The Road
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 June 1979
Lamont Dozier is putting together a show to promote his new album and these will be his first live gigs for some 20 years! ...
Taste Of Honey chase more sweet success
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 June 1979
It ain't easy emulating the huge success of a record like 'Boogie Oogie Oogie' but the hit group are setting out to do just that. ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 June 1979
The family group explain how the Jacksons inspired them to switch from gospel to contemporary music. ...
Randy Crawford, The Crusaders: The Crusaders: Street crusade
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 June 1979
B&S catches up with the Crusaders who have campaigned for jazz all over the world and whose new album is centred around 'street life'... ...
The Jimmy Castor Bunch: Jimmy Castor: Home
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 June 1979
AFTER AN absence of one album, the Jimmy Castor Bunch are back within the Atlantic family – this time on the Cotillion label. ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 June 1979
KLEEER IS another of the new signings that Atlantic has come up with of late. The sextet's debut record, 'Keeep Your Body Working', has already ...
Mary Wells: Back On The Right Track
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 19 June 1979
Showing every sign of being ready to get right back into the swing of things, we recently had the opportunity to rap with Ms. Mary ...
McFadden and Whitehead: Ain't No Stoppin' Gene and John Now
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 June 1979
The McFadden and Whitehead story began back in the 60's when they toured with Otis Redding as members of the Epsilons. Then, in the early ...
Minnie Riperton, Stevie Wonder: Minnie Riperton: How Minnie's cooking tempted Stevie Wonder
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 19 June 1979
2008 introduction: This interview was David's second face-to-face conversation with Minnie; at the time, she was dealing with health challenges – in 1976, she had ...
Prince Phillip Mitchell: Atlantic Crossing
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 June 1979
AFTER TEN years of giving his best songs to other acts – notably 'Starting All Over Again' for Mel & Tim, 'Hurt So Good' for ...
Sister Sledge: 'We really are family'
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 June 1979
THERE IS a certain closeness, a certain warmth about a family unit that is totally indestructible. It positively glows and when you are lucky enough ...
Tasha Thomas: The Glamor of Disco
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 June 1979
AS WE have so often said, one of the great things about the disco boom is that it has brought to the surface a whole ...
Narada Michael Walden: The Disco Awakening of Narada Michael Walden
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 June 1979
ALTHOUGH he has just come off of one of Atlantic's biggest ever disco records – 'I Don't Want Nobody Else' – Narada Michael Walden wants ...
Alton McClain & Destiny: Alton Meets Her Destiny
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, July 1979
ONE OF this year's giant left field records comes from three absolutely beautiful young ladies, Alton McClain and Destiny (D'Marie Warren and Robyrda Stiger). ...
Chic: An Interview with Nile Rodgers
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, July 1979
David Nathan talks to Nile Rodgers, co-founder of the fabulously successful Chic, whose new album is being tipped as another world-beater. ...
Earth Wind and Fire: Earth, Wind & Fire: Progress Is The Key
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, July 1979
THERE SEEMS TO BE absolutely no question that in terms of consistency, universal and international acceptance and popularity, Earth, Wind & Fire have no peers. ...
The Emotions: Emotions Laid Bare
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, July 1979
The girls divulge how they came to duet with EW&F on 'Boogie Wonderland' and talk at length about their songwriting activities... ...
The Spinners: Eternal Spinners
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, July 1979
TIMING AND distinctive sound are two of our favourite comments when it comes to reviewing music in B&S. Timing (and the inborn knowledge when to ...
The Floaters: Floating Into The Future
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, July 1979
WE'VE MADE this point on numerous occasions before – sometimes, a blockbuster hit can be the worst thing that can happen to a new act. ...
Anita Ward: Anita rings chart bell
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 July 1979
'RING MY BELL' is just about the hottest dance property in the land right now and it introduces to the world a young lady from ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 July 1979
ENCOUNTERED Gene Chandler, fresh from his European trek, where he was awarded a Silver Disc in London for sales exceeding 250,000 in the U.K. ...
Mass Production: Purest Mass Production
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 July 1979
ALTHOUGH THEY don't actually top the charts with their every release, Mass Production have established themselves over their three year recording stint with Cotillion as ...
Mike Theodore: High On Success
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 July 1979
WITH HIS second album on Westbound – High On Mad Mountain – seasoned producer/arranger, Mike Theodore is further consolidating on the success of his first ...
The Ohio Players: Up An' Dancin'
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 July 1979
"Arista are famous for their pre-programming scheme and they could afford us!" ...
Dionne Warwick: The real Dionne Warwick
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 3 July 1979
David Nathan provides a penetrating and objective insight into the evergreen Dionne Warwick – an artiste of undisputed pedigree and longevity... ...
B.B. King: B.B King: Reds and Blues
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 July 1979
"I learnt the true meaning of freedom...But I also believe that music is the international denominator for bringing people together" ...
Van McCoy: In Memory of Van McCoy
Obituary by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 July 1979
JULY HAS been a devastating month for our music because of the tragic, sad deaths of Minnie Riperton and Van McCoy. Both were highly creative ...
The Jones Girls: Keeping up with the Jones Girls
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 July 1979
Diana Ross and Gamble & Huff are useful people to have in your corner, and the talented trio openly acknowledge their gratitude and the belief ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 July 1979
THE COMMODORES have attained a peak that no black group before them has ever been able to attain. For 1978, they were the fourth best ...
Barry White: The Message Really Is Love...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 August 1979
IT'S an old criticism that so few people practice what they preach. But, in the case of Barry White, the title of his new album ...
Shirley Brown stretches out...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 August 1979
After her huge success with 'Woman To Woman', people expected Shirley to carry on rapping. Now she's resigned with Stax and her new album gives ...
Taka Boom: An Undisputed Talent
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 August 1979
Taka spent a year and a half with Undisputed Truth and now she's capitalising on that experience with her solo career... ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 August 1979
Commodore William King concludes this exclusive interview talking about the group's new album, the prospect of solo albums, touring plans, and a possible full-length movie... ...
Doris Jones And The British Link
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 August 1979
BECAUSE OF the nature of the music business, situations occasionally arise that go totally against the usual course of events. ...
Double Exposure: Secrets From The Locker Room
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 August 1979
B&S investigator probes behind the scenes and unearths the concept of the quartet's startling new album... ...
Carol Douglas: Get Into Carol's Life
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 August 1979
WITH THE release of her fifth album for Midsong International, Carol Douglas has reached a new stage in her career. ...
Michael Jackson's Peacock Music
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 August 1979
INTERVIEWS with Michael Jackson are few and far between. However, after the Jacksons' Platinum Party, at which the whole family was presented with platinum awards ...
Linda Evans: Solo Linda Scores Group Success
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 August 1979
HAVING TRIED on three occasions to establish herself within a group – on each occasion, a trio, by the way – Linda Evans decided that ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 August 1979
Pax Amantis?...the Custos Warriors?...Sun spokesman Byron Byrd explains all and then some... ...
Terry Callier's Poetry In Music
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 28 August 1979
Terry Callier is currently reaping the rewards of his considerable talents. But, save for a series of telephone calls from Elektra Records, it might have ...
The Trammps: Disco's Favourite Sons
Report and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 August 1979
IF THERE is such a thing as disco-land's favourite group, then that would surely have to be Trammps – five young men from Philadelphia who ...
Candi Staton: The Four Phases Of Candi
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 11 September 1979
"It's about time that people realized that we can do more than change diapers and wash up dishes!" ...
Five Special: Something Special
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 11 September 1979
THERE'S NO doubt that having a famous brother as your producer can certainly help you get the foot in the door, but these days with ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 September 1979
WITH THE disco boom now officially on the wane, maybe we can get back to normal business! But before we write off that whole dance ...
Mary Wilson: No One Can Sing "Baby Baby" Like Mary...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 11 September 1979
"I'D REACHED a point where, in order to maintain the level we had reached with the original Supremes, I'd have to do something myself. I ...
Michael Jackson: Off The Wall (Epic 83468)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 September 1979
THE FIRST solo album from Michael Jackson in many years and he has enlisted the productions support of Quincy Jones to produce a first class ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 11 September 1979
With 25 successful and productive years already accomplished, the Crusaders have only just begun! Drummer, Stix Hooper explains their formula for success and longevity, and ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 25 September 1979
Leaving a successful group for a solo career can prove to be a daunting challenge, but Bonnie Pointer looks to have made the right decision. ...
Teddy Pendergrass: The Sex Symbol Of Seventy Nine
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, October 1979
Teddy continues to fill the major stadiums across the States and now he tells David Nathan what it'll take to tempt him to Europe... ...
Billy Preston: No Longer Going Round In Circles!
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 October 1979
B&S talks to Billy about his early days with Little Richard and Ray Charles, his development as a solo talent and his recent pacting with ...
Bootsy Collins: Nothing Will Stop The Funk
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 October 1979
B&S drops in on Bootsy who says it out loud... ...
Candido: Technicolor Yul Brynner
Profile by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 October 1979
IT TOOK the advent of disco to allow percussionists to come to the fore, and challenging Ralph McDonald for the leading role in commercial percussionists ...
Central Line: Dingwalls, London
Live Review by Lloyd Bradley, Blues & Soul, 9 October 1979
CENTRAL LINE — COMING ON STRONG ...
Deniece Williams: A portrait of Niecy...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 9 October 1979
David Nathan takes a look behind the public image of Deniece Williams and reveals other aspects of the diminutive songstress... ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 9 October 1979
On the eve of their departure for their British concert dates, David Nathan talked to Chic about the chemistry that makes up their hit sound ...
Walter Murphy: Louie's Yer Uncle
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 October 1979
ONE OF the most unusual records currently climbing the lists is 'Full Tilt Boogie' by the even more strangely named group, Uncle Louie. ...
Ashford & Simpson, Diana Ross: Ashford & Simpson: Nick and Valerie's Hit Cure
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 6 November 1979
With the success of their recent albums and the ensuing singles hit, Ashford and Simpson have truly arrived. David Nathan finds out what makes them ...
Fern Kinney: Fern's In The Right Groove
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 November 1979
POPPY SEEDS have been the source of at least one good thing in this world. In the 60's there was a group called the Poppies ...
Ronn Matlock: Introducing Mr. Ronn Matlock
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 November 1979
RONN MATLOCK is the latest in an endless line of new talents who seem to be constantly emerging again from Detroit. Though his Hot City ...
Kilo: Worth Their Weight In Gold
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 November 1979
THOUGH KILO may be a new name to you their first album is only just on the streets now, their debut for Stax – the ...
Lenny Williams: Mr Consistency
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 November 1979
"It isn't time to start abandoning disco or anything as drastic as that. It's just that people want their music more varied these days." ...
George Clinton, Funkadelic, Parliament: P-Funk: Dispatches from Uncle Jam's H.Q.
Interview by Lloyd Bradley, Blues & Soul, 20 November 1979
The news that Dr Funkenstein is to retire has sent shock waves throughout the funk world, but has provided George Clinton with a little breathing ...
Sylvester: The Living Proof Of Disco's Heat
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 November 1979
'MIGHTY REAL' was, of course, one of Sylvester's biggest hits – his biggest in Europe, in fact. However, it is more than just the title ...
Tamiko Jones: Tamiko's Intercity Hit
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 20 November 1979
New York, Detroit, Atlanta, back to Detroit, on to Nashville. Those were the ports of call for Tamiko Jones. ...
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 December 1979
TAKE A tip from me...Nature's Divine are going to be a supergroup! This ten-piece ensemble from Detroit are already well on their way with their ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 December 1979
"TO ME, a punk is someone who says what's on his mind and who doesn't take no shit!" So says Rick James, one of our ...
Rufus and Chaka Khan: The Beat Goes On
Report and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 4 December 1979
ANY CONFUSION you may have had about the exact status of the group Rufus should now be pretty much clarified in your mind – we ...
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 4 December 1979
JEFFREY DANIEL, Jody Watley and Howard Hewett have quite a few good reasons to feel good right now. As the members of hit group Shalamar, ...
Dynasty claim their piece of the rock
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 December 1979
CURRENTLY ENJOYING their first major taste of success with 'I Don't Want To Be A Freak' is Dynasty, two young ladies and a young man ...
Gloria Gaynor: Come What May, '79 Was Going To Be Gloria's Year!
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 18 December 1979
SO YOU thought Gloria Gaynor was still just the original Queen of Disco? You figured she might not be able to repeat the phenomenal success ...
Jupiter Beyond Another Philly Breakout David Nathan
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 18 December 1979
CURRENTLY CAUSING quite a stir on the U.K. soul singles' chart is a record that's literally come out of left field to make a strong ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 January 1980
John Abbey talks to the Music Band's harmonica ace, Lee Oskar ...
Billy Preston, Syreeta: Billy Preston & Syreeta: Rebirth? A Fast Break is all it Takes...!
Interview by Lloyd Bradley, Blues & Soul, 29 January 1980
Lloyd Bradley talks to Billy Preston and Syreeta, the latest in a select line of classic hit pairings ...
Kurtis Blow: Rumble In The (Concrete) Jungle!
Interview by Lloyd Bradley, Blues & Soul, 29 January 1980
A Blow by Blow account... ...
Stacy Lattisaw, Narada Michael Walden: Narada's Awakening Continues...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 29 January 1980
Narada's 1979 chartbusting Awakening album paved the way for 1980 success. Now, the talented performer reveals his plans for continued acceptance and his aspirations for ...
Patrice Rushen: Rushen Invasion!
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 11 March 1980
BY THE TIME she was twelve, Patrice Rushen was a highly accomplished keyboard player and she developed into one of the highest regarded instrumentalists long ...
Chic, Sister Sledge: Sister Sledge: Sisters In Soul
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 25 March 1980
Just a year or so back, the sisters Sledge were considering going their separate ways. Happily, 1979 was a fantastic year for the girls and ...
The Gap Band: Rap with the Gap
Profile and Interview by Lloyd Bradley, Blues & Soul, 8 April 1980
What we got here, folks, is speech from the breach, as Lloyd Bradley traces the rise and rise of the Gap Band from the main ...
Chaka Khan, Rufus: Chaka Khan: Chaka's Naughty Bits
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 April 1980
Naughty is the title of Chaka Khan's new album, but she denies trying to project a 'naughty' image. However, she confesses to being naturally impish ...
Patti LaBelle: Patti Kicks Out!
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 April 1980
David Nathan catches up with Patti LaBelle, and finds she has plenty to say about the state of her career... ...
Live Review by Lloyd Bradley, Blues & Soul, 22 April 1980
WAR(RIORS) COME OUT TO PLAY-AY ...
War: Slippin' Back to Darkness...
Interview by Lloyd Bradley, Blues & Soul, 22 April 1980
JOHN MILTON (1608-1674), probably ranked among England's top five poets, once said "For what can war, but endless war, still breed?" I don't think me ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 6 May 1980
TO GET some measure of Michael Jackson's success during 1979, you only have to look at the B&S Poll results because Michael walked off with ...
Chic, Diana Ross: Diana Ross: Diana (Motown 8033)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 June 1980
'Upside Down'; 'Tenderness'; 'Friend To Friend'; 'I'm Coming Out'; 'Have Fun (Again)'; 'My Old Piano'; 'Now That You're Gone'; 'Give Up'. ...
Stephanie Mills: Sweet Sensation (20th Century Fox T603)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 June 1980
'Sweet Sensation'; 'Try My Love'; 'I Just Wanna Say'; 'Wish That You Were Mine'; 'D-a-n-c-i-n''; 'Still Mine'; 'Never Knew Love Like This Before'; 'Mixture Of ...
Stephanie Mills: The Stephanie Mills interview... The Sweet Sensation of Wizdom
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 June 1980
AT THE tender age of just twenty-three, Stephanie Mills has starred on Broadway, earned two Gold albums and a Gold single and headlined concerts in ...
Profile and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 July 1980
Having first met as members of the Miles Davis Band, Mtume & Lucas immediately sparked a mutual creative change which has resulted in a plethora ...
Con Funk Shun's Golden Spirit...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 July 1980
"It's a cold business," claim Con Funk Shun, but the seven piece funk aggregation couldn't be hotter right now... ...
Marvin Gaye: The Gaye-ity and Pain of the Love Man…
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 15 July 1980
In this B&S exclusive, Marvin Gaye tells Roger St. Pierre about his problems and his search for a soulmate, and runs through his next album, ...
Millie Jackson: For Men Only (Polydor 2391460)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 July 1980
'This Is Where I Came In'; 'This Is It'; 'If That Don't Turn You On'; 'I Wish That I Could Hurt That Way Again'; 'A ...
Randy Crawford: Now We May Begin (Warner Bros.)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 15 July 1980
'Last Night At Danceland'; 'Tender Falls The Rain'; 'My Heart Is Not As Young As It Used To Be'; 'Now We May Begin'; 'Blue Flame'; ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 12 August 1980
Chic's Bernard Edwards talks about the frustrations of being underestimated outside of the disco sphere; about the problems of producing the Diana Ross album; and ...
Odyssey: Hang Together (RCA 13526)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 12 August 1980
'Hang Together'; 'Never Had It At All'; 'Don't Tell Me, Tell Her'; 'Down Boy'; 'Follow Me'; 'Use It Up And Wear It Out'; 'If You're ...
Interview by Lloyd Bradley, Blues & Soul, 12 August 1980
ON THE west side of Los Angeles lies Venice, situated between LA proper and the ocean. Most of it is beach. ...
Tom Browne: Love Approach (Arista/GRP 5008)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 12 August 1980
'Funkin' For Jamaica (N.Y.)'; 'Her Silent Smile'; 'Forever More'; 'Dreams Of Loving You'; 'Nocturne'; 'Martha'; 'Moon Rise'; 'Weak In The Knees' ...
David Ruffin: Gentleman Ruffin (Warner Bros. K3416)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 October 1980
'I Wanna Be With You'; 'All I Need'; 'Love Supply'; 'Still In Love With You'; 'I Got A Thing For You'; 'Can We Make Love ...
Larry Graham's Maui Manoeuvres...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 October 1980
Larry's built his own studio on the Hawaiian island of Maui and the first project was his own solo album. But this doesn't signal the ...
Richard Tee: Natural Ingredients (CBS 84194)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 October 1980
'What A Woman Really Means'; 'Now'; 'The Nut's Off The Screw'; 'Tell It Like It Is'; 'Us'; 'Back Door Man'; 'Spinning Song' ...
Rick James, The Mary Jane Girls: Rick James' Case Of Life Or Death
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 October 1980
Our Punk Funk hero has a new perspective on life following his recent hospitalisation. He's had to readjust his lifestyle as it became a case ...
Rick James: Garden Of Love (Motown)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 October 1980
'Big Time'; 'Don't Give Up On Love'; 'Island Lady'; 'Gettin' It On'; 'Summer Love'; 'Mary-Go-Round'; 'Gettin' It On (In The Sunshine) Reprise' ...
Aretha Franklin: Lady Soul Cooks!
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 21 October 1980
David Nathan drops in on Aretha at home in Los Angeles to talk about her debut album for Arista and her first movie role.... and ...
Eumir Deodato, Kool and the Gang: Cruisin' with Deodato
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 21 October 1980
Eumir Deodato's interests have always spanned the whole musical spectrum, as reflected in his 1973 smash hit, 'Theme From 2001'. Currently, he's in the spotlight ...
Teena Marie: Irons In The Fire (STML)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 21 October 1980
'I Need Your Lovin''; 'Young Love'; 'First Class Love'; 'Irons In The Fire'; 'Chains'; 'You Make Love Like Springtime'; 'Tune In Tomorrow'; 'You Make Love ...
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 21 October 1980
'Can You Feel It'; 'Lovely One'; 'Your Ways'; 'Everybody'; 'Heartbreak Hotel'; 'Time Waits For No One'; 'Walk Right Now'; 'Give It Up'; 'Wondering Who' ...
The Pointer Sisters: Special Things (Planet K 52242)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 21 October 1980
'Could I Be Dreaming'; 'He's So Shy'; 'The Love Too Good To Last'; 'Evil'; 'Save This Night For Love'; 'We've Got The Power'; 'Where Did ...
George Clinton, Bootsy Collins, Roger & The Human Body, Zapp: Zapp: More Sound To The Pound...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 13 January 1981
Roger, Larry, Lester and Terry "Zapp" Troutman have "bounced" their way to the winners circle with their hit single and debut album. With an overload ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 February 1981
His album, titled Dirty Mind, has been banned by radio stations across America because of its lyric content but Prince aims to promote it on ...
Bootsy Collins: Bootsy Sweats it Out
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 April 1981
Bootsy Collins explains his foolosophy and talks about his long lay-off and the legal hassles surrounding The Rubber Band... ...
Diana Ross: To Love Again (Motown STML 12152)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 April 1981
AFTER THE massive success of the Chic produced Diana album, the chic Ms. Ross reverts back to her sophisticated approach for this set of nine ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 April 1981
ONE OF the year's first really big records is not only the debut release by a new group but it also gives birth to a ...
Maceo Parker, The Sweat Band: The P-Funk New Doo Crew… No Sweat, it's Bootsy's Banned Band!
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 April 1981
Maceo Parker explains that the Sweat Band is virtually a continuation of the Rubber Band ...
George Clinton, Funkadelic, Parliament: The P-Funk Noo Doo Crew: the Man with the Key to Funk
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 April 1981
George Clinton takes the lid off R&B... Rhythm and Business, that is! ...
Keni Burke, The Five Stairsteps: Keni Burke, One Step Ahead
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 14 July 1981
As a member of the Five Stairsteps in the mid-sixties, Keni worked on a number of Soul gems. Now, with his second solo album, he's ...
Lamont Dozier, Future Flight, Zingara: Lamont Dozier: Me an' my piano...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 28 July 1981
Despite a proven track record, the multi-talented writer, producer and artist, continues to strive for success, and STILL spends 4-5 hours every day sitting at ...
Change, Luther Vandross: Luther Vandross: The man most likely...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 November 1981
With a wealth of musical experience behind him, via a string of hits with Change, background sessions for a host of Soul's top names and ...
Earth, Wind & Fire: Earth Wind & Fire: Omni Coliseum, Atlanta GA
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 November 1981
THIS WAS the first time that Atlanta had seen Earth Wind & Fire in over a year and there was much speculation about their widely-publicised ...
Luther Vandross: Never Too Much (Epic EPC 85275)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 December 1981
ALTHOUGH 'NEVER Too Much' may be the first time that Luther Vandross has had his name high on the charts, it's far from the first ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 23 March 1982
To date, there have been five albums by Maze. Each one of them has gone Gold and two of the quintet are closing in on ...
The Jones Girls: Get As Much Love As You Can (Philadelphia Int. PIR 85347)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 23 March 1982
BRENDA, VALONE and Shirley Jones actually sing as good as they look and that's why they are one of the world's top vocal groups today! ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 6 April 1982
Part 2 of an in-depth interview with Frankie Beverly conducted just before the band's Euro debut success ...
Patrice Rushen: Hit The Road Pat...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 18 May 1982
Touring is Patrice Rushen's main aim for the next couple of years."I intend to make myself more visible, even if that means spending less time ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 August 1982
HOW MANY labels can you think of that can boast that their first single and first album releases both went straight to No. 1 in ...
Aretha Franklin, Luther Vandross: Aretha Franklin: Jump To It (Arista 204 742)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 August 1982
WELL, THE teaming of Aretha Franklin and Luther Vandross as her producer is magical and this is perhaps one of the really great Aretha albums ...
Rick James: Too much to do to get messed up now...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 September 1982
STREET SONGS sold excess of a million and was easily the biggest R&B-based album of 1981 and is, in fact, still on the charts after ...
The Valentine Brothers: Valentines' day is nigh
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 7 September 1982
IF EVER a record summed up the situation, then the Valentine Brothers' recent 'Money's Too Tight' smash in a pretty fair assessment of the predicament ...
Live Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 October 1982
FOR THOSE of you who consider the Time to be mere clones of Prince, let me put you right here and now. This seven-man band ...
Vanity 6: Vanity 6 (Warner Bros. 23716)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 October 1982
WELL, IF you thought Prince was raunchy, try these three ladies because if there is such a thing as musical porno, here it is! With ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 19 October 1982
From out of the P-Funk cauldron, the Troutman brothers have emerged supreme. In this exclusive and revealing interview, Roger Troutman explains the thinking behind the ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 November 1982
ALTHOUGH 'THE Message' has been one of the dancefloor world's biggest smashes of 1982, that success does not minimise the actual lyrical content of what ...
Cheryl Lynn, Luther Vandross: Cheryl Lynn: Cheryl & Luther's Instant Love Affair...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 November 1982
ONE OF the big success stories of the moment surrounds Cheryl Lynn, whose duet with Luther Vandross on 'If This World Were Mine' is currently ...
Gwen McCrae: Gwen's Return Trip
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 November 1982
WITH THE release of her second Atlantic album, On My Way, it looks as if the Florida born Capricorn, Gwen McCrae — born December 21 ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 30 November 1982
IN AN INDUSTRY that is male-oriented, the arrival of the eight-piece, self-contained and all girl group, Klymaxx is a welcome addition. The lovely ladies are ...
Millie Jackson: Hammersmith Odeon, London
Live Review by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 30 November 1982
GROIN-GRINDING, FOUL-MOUTHED, OUTRAGEOUSLY SENSUAL, Millie Jackson isn't exactly the kind of girl you would take home to meet Mum — but she sure is fun ...
Janet Jackson: Janet Jackson (A&M AMLH 64907)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 February 1983
JANET IS the youngest of the Jackson family and the latest to enter the recording fray. In her younger years, she also co-starred in the ...
The Valentine Brothers: First Take (Bridge)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 22 March 1983
THE EXTREMELY talented Valentine Brothers — John and Billy — hit the American charts with the pulsating 'Money's Too Tight' ditty and they now follow ...
Aurra: Live And Let Live (Salsoul SA 8559)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 May 1983
'Such A Feeling'; 'Coming To Get You'; 'Live And Let Live'; 'Undercover Lover'; 'Baby Love'; 'You Can't Keep On Walking'; 'One More Time'; 'Positive' ...
Debarge: The New First Family Of Motown
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 May 1983
IT SEEMS that Motown have finally found the successor to the Jacksons! After the ineffectiveness of the first album by the Debarge family, their second ...
Prince Charles & The City Beat Band: Lock Up Yer Women... Prince Charles Is Comin'
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 May 1983
IN DAYS of yore, it was not uncommon for plundering royalty to ravage the land and have their evil way with local wenches. But we ...
Lonnie Liston Smith: Escape From Limbo...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 May 1983
It's been almost three years since Lonnie Liston Smith came across with new product. But with his new Dreams Of Tomorrow set he's escaped from ...
The Valentine Brothers: Valentines Day
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 3 May 1983
IF EVER A record could be said to sum up the times we are all living through right now, then it must be the Valentine ...
The Whispers: Love For Love (Solar 60216)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 May 1983
ALTHOUGH SIDE one is sub-titled the "dancin' side" (and side two is the "romantic side"), that is somewhat misleading because to be truthful, only the ...
Dionne Warwick: Hammersmith Odeon, London
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 31 May 1983
PLAYING THE second of three concerts at the Odeon at the start of her three-week long British tour, Dionne Warwick proved why she has stood ...
Gladys Knight and the Pips: Gladys Knight & The Pips: Visions (CBS)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 May 1983
WHEN IT comes to sheer consistency and reliability, Gladys Knight & the Pips take some beating! They have that uncanny knack of teaming up with ...
Rick James, The Mary Jane Girls: The Mary Jane Girls: Rick's Chicks
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 May 1983
Any Rick James backing group is sure to be talented, suggestive and female! However, there's more to the Mary Jane Girls than at first meets ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 June 1983
ALTHOUGH JUICY Fruit may represent James Mtume's first taste of success as an artist, his whole career has been filled with his records because his ...
Mtume: Juicy Fruit (Epic EPC25399)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 12 July 1983
THE NAME of Mtume (pronounced Em-too-may) should be familiar to you because prior to 'Juicy Fruit'-ing his way to the top in his own right, ...
Phyllis Hyman: Phyllis Puts A Tiger In Her Tank...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 12 July 1983
Right now, Phyllis Hyman's career and her music is her whole life. "I live, breathe, think and eat music" she says. And with her Goddess ...
Gwen Guthrie: A Portrait of Gwen Guthrie
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 26 July 1983
IF YOU stop to think about it, the perfect credentials for a potential superstar must be having served an 'apprenticeship' as a background singer. The ...
Jennifer Holliday: Holliday Plans
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 November 1983
Jennifer Holliday has her aims firmly set: to become one of the best recording artists; to return to Broadway; and then to settle down to ...
Peech Boys: N.Y.C. Peech Boys: Life Is Something Special (Island)
Review by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 1 November 1983
THE FIVE New York City Peech Boys have already made their mark around the discos of the world and this new album is destined to ...
Rick James, Teena Marie: Teena Marie: Groovin' With Confidence
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 27 December 1983
Teena Marie's debut set for Epic is a concept album. She tells B&S how Rick James built her confidence to try something new... ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 July 1984
Despite a frustrating and depressing stint in Los Angeles, Cherrelle stuck to her guns and is now enjoying the success she fought for. ...
Report by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 31 July 1984
John Abbey reports from backstage at the opening of The Jacksons' Victory Tour, the most eagerly awaited tour for many a long year. The organisation, ...
Marcus Miller, David Sanborn, Luther Vandross: Marcus Miller: Bassline Return
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 14 August 1984
B&S EXCLUSIVE WITH MARCUS MILLER In this interview direct from the USA, the poll-winning bassman talks to John Abbey about his sparkling new album, the people ...
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 28 August 1984
Shakatak rap with B&S about their new album, their status internationally and, raw fish! ...
Earth, Wind & Fire, Barbra Streisand, Maurice White: Maurice White: White in Flight
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 11 September 1984
Maurice White talks to B&S — about EW&F's pause for thought, about his own solo album, about his productions for Barbra Streisand, and about some ...
Midnight Star: Star Attraction
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 5 February 1985
NOW HERE'S a trivia question I couldn't answer immediately! Which was the only group to have a Platinum album during 1984? ...
Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Alexander O'Neal, Prince: Alexander O'Neal: Alexander the Great!
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 28 May 1985
One of the most stylish albums so far released this year is the self-titled set from Alexander O'Neal. B&S checks out the singer's roots and ...
Angela Bofill, O'Jays: The O'Jays, Angela Bofill: Beverly Theatre, Los Angeles CA
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 28 May 1985
OCCASIONALLY, it's possible to witness a show in which the opening act is more impressive than the headliner. It doesn't happen too often — and ...
Luther Vandross: Night time was the right time says Luther
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 11 June 1985
Luther Vandross looks like having his first platinum album with The Night I Fell In Love. "Life is the way I always wanted it," he ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 9 July 1985
David Nathan conducts a very sober and enlightening interview with the former Wild Man of Funk whose drug and alcohol abuse took him to the ...
Whitney Houston: 2nd Generation Soul
Profile and Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 9 July 1985
TO SAY that we critics [sic] and journalists have been known to hype an artist would perhaps be the understatement of the year. However, in ...
Natalie Cole: Dicing with death
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 17 September 1985
Natalie Cole talks exclusively to B&S about the pain of yesterday and the hope for tomorrow ...
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 12 November 1985
With one of the last year's best-selling albums under her belt and her new LP, Promise ready to blaze the charts worldwide, life is pretty ...
The Neville Brothers: Shaw Theatre, London
Live Review by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 26 November 1985
CLOSE YOUR eyes and you could well imagine yourself in a packed Hammersmith Odeon, along with the young funkateer crowd, catching the latest hot new ...
Isley Jasper Isley: The Message in the Music
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 10 December 1985
MAKE NO mistake about it, by the time you read this in print, 'Caravan Of Love' will have given (Marvin) Isley, (Chris) Jasper and (Ernie) ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 24 December 1985
EVERY NOW and then, a gospel record will break into the commercial big leagues. When that happens, it poses a very big question for the ...
Alexander O'Neal: Alexander The Great conquers Britain!
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 25 March 1986
In a year when a little chap with a royal handle put Minneapolis on the musical map, it was an ex-football star, originally from Mississippi, ...
Sweet Honey In The Rock: B&S talks to Bernice Reagon — a lady with a mission...
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 22 April 1986
Her mission is to get black music the recognition it is due from the world at large and, equally important, to persuade America's black population ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 July 1986
Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis are currently the hottest producers in soul and here B&S goes back in time with the two men to discover ...
Sam Cooke, The Valentinos, Womack and Womack: Womack & Womack: Womack Inc. (U.K. Branch)
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 18 November 1986
Womack & Womack tell B&S about their future plans In America and Britain as residents ...
Freddie Jackson: Freddie, the ladies' fantasy man
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 16 December 1986
IN THE 37 year history of Billboard magazine's black charts, only four artists have ever replaced themselves at the No. 1 spot — Johnny Otis ...
Alexander O'Neal: Off the record
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 20 January 1987
One of the music's great recent discoveries takes five with Roger St. Pierre to talk about his career and his private life. ...
Hank Ballard and the Midnighters: Hank Ballard: The Original Twister
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 20 January 1987
B&S TALKS TO ONE OF THE TRUE UNSUNG HEROES ...
Anita Baker: Good songs, that's what count!
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 3 February 1987
The limelight has never been brighter for 'the songstress' Anita Baker but she always has time for a chat with B&S, David Nathan strikes up ...
Sam Moore, Lou Reed, Sam & Dave: Sam & Dave & Lou
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 3 February 1987
Golden oldies never die, but they come back in different guises. Sam Moore and Lou Reed are currently scoring with 'Soul Man' — a veritable ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 February 1987
"In a lot of ways, I guess I've taken the bass as far as it can be taken", says Stanley Clarke ...
Sylvester: Mutual Admiration Time
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 3 February 1987
For his new Mutual Attraction album, Sylvester has cut his version of Stevie Wonder's 'Living For The City', which he first heard at a club ...
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 17 February 1987
MIKI HOWARD — FROM DANCER, BACKGROUND SINGER AND SIDE EFFECT TO SOLO STAR ...
Michael McDonald: The Heart and Soul of Michael McDonald
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 14 April 1987
'Sweet Freedom' re-established Michael's R&B profile and here he explains to David Nathan why it has always been there. ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 12 May 1987
YOU MIGHT assume that after winning two Grammies, a couple of Soul Train Music Awards and having a two million-plus-selling album, Anita Baker would hear ...
Nona Hendryx, Labelle: The Nona Hendryx Interview: How To Dodge Bullets In A Few Not So Easy Lessons
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 26 May 1987
AS A RECORDING artist, Nona Hendryx has been considered something of an enigma for folks in the world of black music. She isn't mainstream R&B ...
Jocelyn Brown: Jocelyn For Position
Interview by John Abbey, Blues & Soul, 4 August 1987
ALTHOUGH JOCELYN Brown has had her fair share of hits — particularly in the UK — since she was catapulted to fame (not necessarily fortune, ...
Imagination: A Brand New Sound
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1 September 1987
AFTER A busy week talking to everyone's favourite stars and writing one's little fingers off, about the last place any sane music journalist would want ...
Keith Sweat: No. 1, No, Sweat!
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 12 April 1988
Keith Sweat's finally decided the day job's got to go after major success with his debut album and his top spot in the B&S Newcomers ...
Tony! Toni! Toné!: T! T! T! Who?
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 7 June 1988
LET'S START with a little quiz: what's the name of an old gospel song that became a mid-Sixties hit for a major instrumentalist and has ...
Meli'sa Morgan, Najee, Lesette Wilson: Hammersmith Odeon, London
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 5 July 1988
BEING A support act with much of your material unknown in the country which you are touring for the first time is hardly the most ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 5 July 1988
SINGER-SONGWRITER Siedah Garrett hasn't exactly had herself a bad year by anyone's reckoning. Aside from duetting with Michael Jackson on 'I Just Can't Stop Loving ...
Johnny Gill, New Edition: New Edition: New Beginnings
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 19 July 1988
Teen idols New Edition have a new lead vocalist, Johnny Gill, and a new, mature sound for their latest album. B&S discovers how the young ...
Shirley Murdock, Zapp: Shirley Murdock: A Woman's Point Of View (Elektra 960 791-1)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 19 July 1988
SO FAR, Shirley's career has been enjoying an assured, steady upward movement. Firstly, she landed the position as Zapp's featured female vocalist, then left for ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 August 1988
THE FORMER New Edition lead vocalist Bobby Brown began his solo career last year in fine style with a No. 1 black music hit, 'Girl ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 2 August 1988
"I WANT YOU to print this, right... print this badly. Froggy was my teacher. I'll never deny that. I started off carrying boxes for Froggy. ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 2 August 1988
Loose Ends' Steve takes 5 to bring us up to date with group activities and U.S. and U.K. emphasis. JeffLorez reports ...
Sheryl Crow, Michael Jackson: Michael Jackson: Wembley Stadium, London
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 2 August 1988
WEMBLEY STADIUM was isolated from the outside world in a vacuum of excitement and anticipation. 75,000 people were massed uncomfortably together on the promise of ...
Shirley Murdock, Roger Troutman: Shirley Murdock: Sheer Murdock
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 2 August 1988
Sheer ability, sheer quality and sheer hard work has seen Shirley Murdock move up from the ranks of backing singer to the edge of major ...
Eric B. & Rakim: Follow The Leader (MCA MCG 6031)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 30 August 1988
WITH RAP being caught in an apparent rut with many acts seemingly utilising too many of the same beats, riffs and grooves upon which to ...
Paula Abdul: Fresh: Paula Abdul
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 August 1988
AS HER Virgin Records' biography so accurately states, Paula Abdul has the distinction of having won music awards before her first single ('Knocked Out') was ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 27 September 1988
UNDOUBTEDLY THE most fitting tribute anyone can pay to a once successful record company after its halcyon days are seemingly over, is to allow the ...
La Toya Jackson: Will the next Jackson kindly step forward...
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 11 October 1988
Just as Michael completes his British dates, in flies La Toya to promote her new You're Gonna Get Rocked album. ...
Marley Marl, Roxanne Shanté: Marley Marl: In Control, Volume 1 (Cold Chillin' 925 783)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 11 October 1988
MARLEY MARL'S forte comes in diversifications within a safe context. Firstly, by finding infectious hooks with which to lace his jams, such as a deep, ...
Apollonia, Prince: Apollonia: Out Of The Crimson Court
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 25 October 1988
AFTER HER co-starring role in Prince's Oscar winning Purple Rain and the disbanding of Apollonia 6, a three-piece lingerie-clad all-girl group, chances are that, like ...
Luther Vandross: The Heat Is On!
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 25 October 1988
Now considered THE pre-eminent soul singer of the '80s, Luther talks to David Nathan about living with success, his new material and The Heat tour ...
Anita Baker: Giving You The Best That I Got (Elektra EKT 49 960 827-1)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 8 November 1988
LYRICALLY, THE strength of Anita's songs lies in their honesty. Reflecting on all aspects of love and the relationship, such is the purity, emotion and ...
Anita Baker, Perri: Anita Baker: Wembley Arena, London
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 8 November 1988
THE DIFFICULTIES in playing Wembley Arena have been well documented. Firstly, the imposing venue has never been conducive to allowing a warm, intimate atmosphere between ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 8 November 1988
When the likes of Gladys Knight, Whitney Houston, the Jacksons and Kool and the Gang amongst numerous others come knocking on your door, who do ...
Will Downing, Mica Paris: Mica Paris: Dominion Theatre, London
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 22 November 1988
DESPITE THE cancellation of her other U.K. dates, the Dominion houses a capacity audience to witness Brit soul star, Mica take on the acid (in ...
Morris Day, The Time: Off The Record With Morris Day
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 22 November 1988
The Clown Prince of Cool onstage, B&S catches Morris Day in both reflective and prophetic moods... ...
Vesta Williams: Spicy But Nice
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 November 1988
With a new album and a new svelte look, sassy singer Vesta Williams, is out to spread the word. David Nathan listens attentively ...
Cherrelle: Affair (Tabu 4607341)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 6 December 1988
VOCALLY CHERRELLE doesn't possess the most powerful of voices and thus her success relies strongly on the quality of tunes she is given to sing ...
Hot House: South (RCA PL 718855)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 6 December 1988
THIS IS an album that really portrays Hot House's talent for songwriting. Their country/soul style is performed with an endearing and emotive sympathy for quality ...
Hot House: South (RCA PL 718855)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 6 December 1988
THIS IS AN album that really portrays Hot House's talent for songwriting. Their country/soul style is performed with an endearing and emotive sympathy for quality ...
Keith Sweat: The Sweat Smell of Success
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 6 December 1988
EIGHTEEN MONTHS ago, had anyone mentioned the name Keith Sweat, chances are they would have received some sharp witticisms concerning something to do with deodorant. ...
Alexander O'Neal: The Gift of Song
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 20 December 1988
Alexander O'Neal talks to B&S about his new Christmas album and his consolidation on the international music scene. David Nathan reports. ...
Cherrelle: The Start Of The Affair
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 20 December 1988
"A LOT OF artists just lie, as if they don't go through the same problems everyone else has. That's ridiculous: my album is about life, ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 3 January 1989
Despite leading the new-wave of young black U.S. superstars, Bobby Brown still feels there's plenty of room for improvement ...
Monie Love: For The Love Of Monie
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 17 January 1989
NOT TOO many British 18 year olds have major record company recording contracts. Not too many British 18 year olds write their own lyrics, have ...
She Rockers: Rockers On A Roll
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 7 March 1989
British rap is gaining momentum at a rate of knots and the She Rockers aim to keep it that way ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 21 March 1989
EVERY NOW and again a certain buzz explodes onto the streets, evoking an excited aura that ignites and spreads from the specialist shops to the ...
Womack and Womack: Womack & Womack: Wembley Arena, London
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 16 May 1989
A COMFORTABLE musical gelling on vinyl is one thing, but a reproduction on the live stage is quite another. ...
Bobby Brown, Cookie Crew: Wembley Arena, London
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 11 July 1989
A PRETENDER to the thrones of Prince & Michael Jackson or merely the product of excessive hype, catchy beat-of-the-week tunes and some clever marketing? ...
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 8 August 1989
AS IF you didn't know, KRS One takes himself very seriously, and that's no bad thing. However, if he really is the peace maker that ...
Roxanne Shanté: Queen of Queens
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 22 August 1989
Having burst through from Queens to become Queen of Rap, Roxanne Shanté's now moved to New Jersey. And in the new year it's Washington — ...
A Tribe Called Quest: Quest For Innovation...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 5 September 1989
Hot new rappers A Tribe Called Quest have set out on a musical and mental journey. Group leader Q-Tip explains. ...
Adeva: Adeva! (Cooltempo CTLP 13)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 5 September 1989
AS THE New Jersey dance scene exploded onto UK dancefloors a few months back, there was always going to be a leader who helped its ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 5 September 1989
ADEVA IS a challenge. Everything about her and her career challenges safe stereotypes normally associated with career-building black female artists, ministers' daughters and male-female relationships. ...
Schoolly D: Am I Black Enough For You (Jive Hip 85)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 5 September 1989
IF THE erudite and informative sleeve notes on this album are anything to go by (they inform us, and I quote, "All songs written, produced, ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 3 October 1989
Talented and resourceful Kym Mazelle discusses artists restraints and restraining the artist! ...
Biz Markie: The Biz Never Sleeps (Cold Chillin' 1-26003)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 31 October 1989
RAP CLOWN Biz takes us on a lackadaisical cartoon journey through an array of fairly standard outings, both utilising Biz's comical vocal affectations as well ...
The Jungle Brothers: Nature Study
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 28 November 1989
WITH THE 1990's fast upon us, mass culture — both in fashion and music — seems desperate to see out the last decade of this ...
Queen Latifah: All Hail The Queen (Gee St/Tommy Boy Gee 45)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 26 December 1989
ANOTHER PUPIL of the Jungles/De La Soul/ Afrocentrism, psychedelic, daisy age school emerges (try saying that after... well just try saying that, anyway!) ...
Tony! Toni! Toné!: Exclamations From Tony! Toni! Toné!'s
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 22 May 1990
IF YOU'RE a young group and you hit first time out with your debut album achieving gold status, the big question is bound to be: ...
Johnny Gill: Johnny Gill (Motown ZL 72698)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 22 May 1990
THIS ALBUM'S been flying out of specialist shops at rate of knots on import, and rightly so. With Jimbo and Tel up against LA & ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 14 August 1990
If your state of mind is really at Woodstock and your spirit is on the dancefloor, than wacky dance-a-delic trio Deee-Lite may be just what ...
Boogie Down Productions: Edutainment (Jive Hip 100)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 28 August 1990
KRS-ONE, AS we all know, doesn't make music to dance to... although it's danceable. He doesn't make music that's going to attain daytime radio play... ...
Whitney Houston: An Interview with Whitney Houston
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 1991
SO MUCH HAS BEEN written and said about Whitney Houston since she burst on to the recording scene in 1985 with 'You Give Good Love', ...
Anita Baker: Anita & the Killing Machine
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 8 January 1991
The straight talking Anita Baker delivers her verdict on the state of R&B and the double standards applied by the U.S. music business. David Nathan ...
Gang Starr: Step In The Arena (Cooltempo CTLP 21)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 8 January 1991
G.U.R.U. KEITHY E and DJ Premiere have jam packed an album full of 18 mini story-like raps, which helps to promote a continued diversity despite ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 22 January 1991
On the brink of international acclaim, Baltimore vocalist Ultra Naté recalls early days of distinctly negative vibes ...
Mantronix: Mantronik the Dance King: No Messin'
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 5 March 1991
THERE'S LITTLE disputing the massive force Curtis Mantronik and the whole Mantronix aggregation have had on dance music in the '80's. Through early releases such ...
Will Downing: Turn Left for Musical Paradise
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 5 March 1991
AN ARTICLE inspired by Will Downing's landmark new album A Dream Fulfilled requires a somewhat profound opening line, so here goes: there comes a time ...
John "Jellybean" Benitez: Jellybean Benitez: 'Bean Meanz Bizness
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 19 March 1991
IF YOU were of the opinion that Jellybean Benitez, one of the mainstays of the East Coast club scene for the last decade, lives and ...
C+C Music Factory: Spotlight on Clivilles & Cole: The C&C Beat Generation
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 19 March 1991
B&S takes a walk on the wild side to meet up with David Cole, who, with Robert Clivilles, is currently hotter than hot. Trek on... ...
Stereo MCs: The Stereo MC's: "Lost" Cause
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 19 March 1991
Refusing to bow to style trends or pigeon-holing, the stereo MC's insist on being judged on their music only ...
Tony! Toni! Tone!: The Tonies Plan to Utilise UK Rough Stuff
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 19 March 1991
US hitmakers Tony! Toni! Tone! look to the "tougher" sound of London for continued success ...
Brand Nubian: All For One (Elektra)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 2 April 1991
THIS HAS been a hot import item for quite a while now and, when you hear it, you'll understand why. Whilst in many circles rap ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 2 April 1991
"Yo Jeff, man, I'm sorry, what can I say? I wanted this interview to happen as much as you did, but Hank's just too busy ...
John "Jellybean" Benitez: Jellybean: Spillin' The Beans (Atlantic 7567-82180-2)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 2 April 1991
JELLYBEAN'S NEVER made any secret of the fact that it's the commercial end of the dance music spectrum he's interested in. His work with Madonna ...
Massive Attack: Massive: Young Guns IV
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 2 April 1991
Massive have always been known for their individual stance in music making. Now the hard work appears to be paying off for the Bristol based quartet ...
En Vogue: No. 1 Out of the Box
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 April 1991
Having secured an almost unprecedented acceptance with their first LP, En Vogue intend to continue their high flying success story ...
Ice Cube, Laquan, Yo Yo: Ice Cube, Yo Yo, Laquan: Brixton Academy, London
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 30 April 1991
I'VE ALWAYS thought that the Brixton Academy, out of the larger venues, beats the likes of The Hammersmith Odeon and Dominion hands down when it ...
Johnny Gill: Four Times a Winner
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 April 1991
B&S poll scoop, US tour, new LP and the President's balls! ...
Loose Ends: Two Lips from Amsterdam
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 30 April 1991
The particular lips enunciating down the telephone line belonged to Carl McIntosh, leader of poll winners Loose Ends and a young man in demand. Carl ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 30 April 1991
B&S talks to Chimes members James Locke and Pauline Henry about their Poll success and their plans to maintain the impetus ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 30 April 1991
LAST ISSUE De La Soul made the comment: "the less talented you are as a singer, the better you seem to do in the commercial ...
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 30 April 1991
'New Jack Hustler (Nino's Theme)' — Ice-T; 'I'm Dreamin'' — Christopher Williams; 'I'm Still Waiting' — Johnny Gill; '(There You Go) Tellin' Me No Again' ...
De La Soul: De La Soul Is Dead (Big Life BLR LP8)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 14 May 1991
'Intro'; 'Oldies Of O's'; 'Talkin' Bout Hey Love'; 'Pease Porridge'; 'Skit 1'; 'Johnny's Dead AKA Vincent Mason (Live From The BK Lounge)'; 'A Roller Skating ...
James Brown, The J.B.'s, Fred Wesley: Fred Wesley: Right, Said Fred...
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 14 May 1991
Fred Wesley talks of funk, jazz and the idiosyncratic Mr. Brown ...
Herb Alpert: North On South St. (A&M 395 345-2)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 14 May 1991
'Jump Street'; 'It's The Last Dance'; 'Passion Lady'; 'North On South St.'; 'Paradise 25'; 'Na Na Na'; 'Funky Reggae'; 'Where's Tommy'; 'City Terrace'; 'I Can't ...
Womack and Womack: Womack & Womack: Family Spirit (Arista 261356)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 14 May 1991
'Family Spirit'; 'Uptown'; 'Refusal'; 'Living In A Different World'; 'United (In Paradise)'; 'My Dear (The Letter)'; 'Blue Jean Baby'; 'Danceworld'; 'Keep On Climbing'; 'Lonely Island'. ...
EPMD, Roger Troutman: Roger Troutman: Building Bridges
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 24 December 1991
Roger Troutman gets to grips with the young hip hop hopefuls who have long acknowledged the master's touch ...
Larry Heard aka Mr. Fingers, Robert Owens: Larry Heard: Heard Instinct
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 25 February 1992
A MAINSTAY ON THE CHICAGO HOUSE SCENE SINCE ITS BOOM IN THE MID EIGHTIES, LARRY HEARD HAS ALWAYS STUCK TRUE TO HIS MUSICAL CONSCIENCE. HIS ...
Joey Negro: Disco Lives: Joey Negro
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 7 April 1992
"So who is this disco fiend, Joey Negro, who has lent his remixing powers to the likes of Kenyatta and the Brand New Heavies? Is ...
En Vogue: Funky Divas (East West America)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 7 April 1992
'This Is Your Life'; 'My Lovin' (You're Never Gonna Get It)'; 'Hip-Hop Lover'; 'Free Your Mind'; 'Desire'; 'Giving Him Something He Can Feel'; 'It Ain't ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 7 April 1992
Jeff Lorez travels to Oakland, California to talk to writer/producers Foster & McElory about the apparent True Brit in their new "Funky Divas" album for En Vogue — and to the ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 7 April 1992
As the disco boom strikes UK club-land again, B&S touches base with New York DJ, remixer/producer, Frankie Knuckles, to trace disco's roots and chart it's ...
Chaka Khan: The Woman I Am (Warner Bros 7599-26296-2)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 21 April 1992
IF I HAD any say in what Chaka Khan recorded I'd go in the studio with her and a bunch of top musicians and play ...
Meli'sa Morgan: A Suitable Case For Treatment
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 5 May 1992
Psychiatrist, Dr. Jeff Lorez has moved his practice to New York. Enter his first patient... Meli'sa Morgan ...
Pete Rock & CL Smooth: Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth: Rock Steady & Smooth Talking
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 5 May 1992
Who helped revive PE's international status? Who brought weight back to Heavy D? Who have one of the hottest rap albums around? Pete Rock & ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 5 May 1992
Jazzie B feels Soul II Soul should be recognised for more than just their beats. The collective's new album Just Right Volume II aims to ...
Chaka Khan, Rufus: The B&S Hall of Fame: Rufus & Chaka Khan
Retrospective by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 5 May 1992
"I've been to hell and back... in a limousine!" (Chaka Khan) ...
Arrested Development: 3 Years, 5 Months and 2 Days in the Life Of... (Cooltempo/Chrysalis)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 19 May 1992
'Man's Final Frontier'; 'Mama's Always On Stage'; 'People Everyday'; 'Blues Happy'; 'Mr. Wendal'; 'Children Play With Earth'; 'Raining Revolution'; 'Fishin' 4 Religion'; 'Give A Man ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 19 May 1992
FLASHBACK: it's 1989 and El DeBarge is sitting in a conference room at Motown Records discussing his then new album, Gemini (his first in three ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 June 1992
Jam & Lewis have been voted the best songwriters in the B&S poll of the second year in succession. However, in a chaotic year, the ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 16 June 1992
When Phyllis Hyman opens her heart, it opens all the way, with no holds barred. In a totally frank and, candid interview, the B&S best female vocalist ...
Sounds of Blackness: S.O.B. Story!
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 June 1992
Gospel soul aggregation Sounds Of Blackness, having secured two major awards in the B&S Poll, intend to keep their music and their beliefs in harmony ...
Stevie Wonder: Wembley Arena, London
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 16 June 1992
WITH NO newly released album to promote, Stevie and band, backed by The Royal Philharmonic string section could afford to wallow in musical nostalgia and ...
Guy: Teddy Riley: The Life of Riley
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 June 1992
Poll winner Teddy Riley talks to B&S about the Guy split, Michael Jackson, his new record label and technology. ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 16 June 1992
Confirmed anglophile Will Downing cements his ongoing love affair with the British public by picking up three Poll category awards. The ever genial Mr. D ...
Al Jarreau: Moving Heaven and Earth
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 30 June 1992
A four year gap in between albums has caused Al Jarreau to carefully re-evaluate his career. The conclusions made and actions undertaken as shown on ...
Deee-Lite: The Message "Within"
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 30 June 1992
There's a means in Deee-Lite's madness. Their new album, Infinity Within aims to touch hearts and minds whilst keeping their feet firmly on the dancefloor ...
Loleatta Holloway: No More Free Samples
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 June 1992
Having been sampled to distraction by all and sundry and having suffered her fair share of rip offs, Loleatta Holloway is back with a new ...
Prince & the New Power Generation: Earls Court, London
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 30 June 1992
GOOD OLD Prince, where would we be without him? In an industry that often seems filled with blandness and conformity there's the lil' fella in ...
Ephraim Lewis: Wolverhampton Wanderer
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 28 July 1992
Wolverhampton to Beverly Hills is a long old trek to take but, Ephraim Lewis has made it, taking with him his distinctive brand of British ...
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 25 August 1992
IF AIN'T BROKE don't fix it. Working with Teddy Riley and L.A. & 'Face worked pretty well for Bobby Brown first time round and my ...
Brian McKnight: The Life of Brian
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 25 August 1992
He sings, he writes, he plays, he's just released his debut solo album and he's only twenty-two. Wow! ...
Mary Wells: a Tribute by Dave Godin
Obituary by Dave Godin, Blues & Soul, 25 August 1992
GIRL GODDESS OF R&B FANS... this title (long before political correctness had taken all the passion, fun and romance out of sexual desire), was the ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 25 August 1992
Ten City's new album, No House Big Enough sees them in stripped down, raw and uncompromising form, intent on causing dancefloor mayhem. ...
Freddie Jackson: Dinner Time With Freddie
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 8 September 1992
David Nathan dons his best bib and tucker and joins Freddie Jackson for dinner in LA, to discuss his new Time For Love album and ...
Boyz II Men, Toni Braxton, Bobby Brown, TLC: L.A. & Babyface: Reid All About It
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 9 September 1992
As if to ridicule the cynics who suggested that they'd passed their sell-by date, L.A. & Babyface are back with a bang and leading a two man assault on the music biz. L.A. Reid talks ...
Etta James: The Time Of Her Life
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 17 November 1992
With her new Jerry Wexler-produced The Right Time album showcasing Etta James at the pinnacle of soul creativity, the lady talks to Roger St. Pierre ...
Maceo Parker: Have Funk — Will Travel!
Interview by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 17 November 1992
Home is where the funk is for Maceo Parker and his on-the-road partners. He lives in Carolina, is managed from California, records in New York ...
Da Lench Mob, Ice Cube: Da Lench Mob: Straight Out Tha Jungle
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 1 December 1992
Da Lench Mob explain how the LA riots inadvertently gave birth to the title of their Guerillas In Tha Mist debut album. "We wanted to come out with a ...
Etta James: Town And Country Club, London
Live Review by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 1 December 1992
ETTA JAMES is a big, big lady, with a big, big voice — and she certainly made full use of her lung-power in wowing her ...
Ice Cube: The Predator (Island BRLP 592)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 1 December 1992
'The First Day Of School'; 'When Will They Shoot'; 'I'm Scared'; 'Wicked'; 'Now I Gotta Wet 'Cha'; 'Predator'; 'It Was A Good Day'; 'We Had ...
Regina Belle: The Blue Note, Greenwich Village, New York NY
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 1 December 1992
THE FAMED Blue Note club situated in Greenwich Village has been able to boast an impressive line-up of visiting female divas in recent weeks. With ...
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 1 December 1992
A SOUNDS OF Blackness album really is something of a musical adventure. This, as with the first is an exploration into the history and development ...
Blackstreet, Teddy Riley, Wreckx-N-Effect: Wiley Riley
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 1 December 1992
Jeff Lorez caught up with Teddy Riley when he was "on a kind of break", having just completed the Wreckx-N-Effect album and preparing forthcoming work ...
Robert Cray, B.B. King: B.B. King, Robert Cray: Hammersmith Apollo, London
Live Review by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 15 December 1992
KING BY name, King by nature — B.B. of that ilk was certainly well named. ...
Charles & Eddie: Soul Providers
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 15 December 1992
With the runaway success of their 'Would I Lie To You', Charles & Eddie suggest that maybe the public are ready for real songs and ...
Retrospective and Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 15 December 1992
Thanks to their inclusion in TV ads, a number of soul classics have enjoyed new leases of life and seem destined to remain firm favourites ...
Arrested Development: Astoria, London
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 29 December 1992
THERE ARE THOSE amongst the hardcore rap community who think Arrested Development's down home, rural southern porch-sitting image is a stereotyped one that will prove ...
David Sanborn, Rachelle Ferrell: Town & Country Club, London
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 29 December 1992
I HAVE TO admit, I don't think that the largely all standing T&C was the ideal venue for either of these acts. ...
Flyte Tyme 10th Year Anniversary, 1982-1992: The Jam & Lewis Story
Report by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 29 December 1992
I COULDN'T believe that I'd actually asked for a hotel wake-up call for 3:45am! By 4:30am I was struggling to keep my eyes open in ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 29 December 1992
To mark the tenth anniversary of Jam & Lewis's ultra-successful Flyte Tyme Productions, Jeff Lorez flew to Minneapolis and spoke to Jimmy Jam for more than eight hours over two ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 19 January 1993
Jeff Lorez continues his in-depth report on the tenth anniversary of Jam & Lewis's Flyte Tyme Productions. ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 2 February 1993
Jeff Lorez concludes his in-depth report on the tenth anniversary of Jam & Lewis's Flyte Tyme Productions ...
Tupac Shakur: 2 Pac: Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z (Interscope)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 16 March 1993
'Holler If Ya Hear Me'; 'Pac's Theme (Interlude)'; 'Point The Finga'; 'Something 2 Die 4 (Interlude)'; 'Last Wordz'; 'Souljah's Revenge'; 'Peep Game'; 'Strugglin''; 'Guess Who's ...
Da Lench Mob, Ice Cube, Kam: Ice Cube, Kam, Da Lench Mob: Brixton Academy, London
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 30 March 1993
I'VE GOT TO tip my hat to the Brixton Academy for consistency. ...
Regina Belle: Pride and Passion
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 March 1993
It had been three years since Regina's last album, but then she found herself topping the charts with her movie duet with Peabo Bryson. Now ...
Sade: Universal Amphitheatre, Los Angeles
Live Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 30 March 1993
THEY CAME, they saw, they conquered! Hot on the heels of the two million US sales for Love Deluxe, their latest album, UK group Sade ...
Frankie Knuckles: Bare Knuckles
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 13 April 1993
He wasn't exactly the most prolific remixer last year, but B&S readers still voted him the best in the business. He bares his soul to Jeff Lorez ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 27 April 1993
In this face to face interview conducted at his home in Beverly Hills, Ice-T talks to Jeff Lorez about the man behind the notorious myth... ...
Cathy Dennis, Janet Jackson, Madonna: Shep Pettibone: Spontaneous Combustion
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 27 April 1993
No amount of studio technology can ever compete with the priceless element of spontaneity to set things on fire, says Shep... ...
Kenny G: A breathless encounter with Kenny G
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 11 May 1993
It's questions and answers time for the chart-topping saxman as David Nathan catches up with him prior to his UK concert dates supporting Michael Bolton. ...
Aretha Franklin: Radio City Music Hall, New York NY
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 25 May 1993
IT WAS A packed Radio City Music Hall that turned out to witness the Queen Of Soul on this, the first of a two night ...
Joe Sample: Classic Invitation
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 25 May 1993
Joe's new Invitation album of standards provides him with the musical therapy he felt he badly needed and gave him the chance to "move on"... ...
Film/DVD/TV Review by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 20 July 1993
Tina: a legend in her own time ...
Brenda Russell: Talkin' Proud and Sayin' Something...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 20 July 1993
BRENDA RUSSELL, singer/songwriter extraordinaire, is sitting in the tasteful living room of her house, tucked away from the madness of LA at the end of ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 20 July 1993
TRYING TO please all of the people all of the time is no easy task and when you're a multi-faceted music man you run the ...
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 20 July 1993
To quote the title of her new album, "Ain't No Other" quite like MC Lyte. And the lady has her head well screwed on, getting ...
SWV: It's About Time (RCA/BMG 07863 66074)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 20 July 1993
IT'S ABOUT Time is a pretty applicable title for this group's release in the UK which has been long overdue. Into their umpteenth hit single ...
Judy Clay: Judy's private number rings at last!
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 14 September 1993
When David Nathan rang Judy Clay, he was amazed to learn that he would be conducting her first-ever full-out interview with any publication, despite her ...
Ronny Jordan: The Revolution Starts Here!
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 14 September 1993
Ronny Jordan feels he was 'born to play' and, having notched up a quarter million sales with his debut album and walked off with the ...
Keith Washington: Make Time For Love (Qwest/Warner Bros 4-45336)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 28 September 1993
THE FACT that, for me, the Maze chestnut, 'Before I Let Go', which is played by a live band, is the best cut on this ...
Kool Moe Dee: Greatest Hits (Jive 01241-41493-4)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 28 September 1993
KOOL MOE Dee's Terminator-1 type shades and shiny tracksuits do seem somewhat outdated by today's hip-hop standards and, to many, Moe Dee himself may be ...
Prince, Mavis Staples: Mavis Staples: A Voice Like No Other...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, 28 September 1993
Times were tough for Mavis Staples in the years when she and her family didn't have a deal... and then along came Prince and signed ...
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 28 September 1993
THE MAN KNOWS no bounds. Having already performed a half hour show for the BBC that morning, Prince was intent on ending his European tour ...
Tony Toni Toné: The Forum, Kentish Town, London
Live Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 28 September 1993
I'M A FAN of the Tonies... what they stand for, the music they make, the whole tongue in cheek element; their acknowledgement of Northern California's ...
Ultra Naté: Insane in the Brain
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 28 September 1993
The music industry can send a woman over the edge. Ultra Naté may see her new album, One Woman's Insanity, as a 'do or die' ...
Marcus Miller, David Sanborn, Luther Vandross: Marcus Miller: Back to the Future
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 12 October 1993
CATCHING UP with Marcus Miller is no easy task. Forget about trying his home in New Jersey because he's hardly ever there. Chances are you'll ...
Teddy Pendergrass: Preparing To Close The Door And Turn Off The Lights After 25 Glorious Years?
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 12 October 1993
Teddy celebrates the 25th anniversary of his highly successful career with his new A Little More Magic album, but he hints to JEFF LOREZ that ...
Garnet Mimms: Unsung Heroes: Garnet Mimms
Retrospective by Roger St. Pierre, Blues & Soul, 12 October 1993
Roger St Pierre tracks some of the legendary names from R&B history. ...
Dr. Dre, Warren G: Warren G: Nuthin' but a G thang
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 14 June 1994
Dre's l'il bro is carving his own particularly effective niche right now. Jeff Lorez gets some long distance information with Warren G. ...
Mariah Carey: Daydream Believer
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 24 October 1995
The outrageously successful singer talks to B&S about her new Daydream album; working alongside some of the industry's most prestigious names and her ever increasing ...
Bone Thugs-n-Harmony: Family Values
Profile and Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 21 November 1995
From out of Cleveland's mean streets to US stardom and chart status, B T-N-H maintain a closely-knit family circle. JEFF LOREZ pays a visit. ...
Coolio: Gangsta's Paradise (Tommy Boy 1141)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 21 November 1995
THE PHENOMENAL success of the single 'Gangsta's Paradise', taken from the Dangerous Minds soundtrack has hastened this, the album of the same name. It's Coolio's all important ...
The Pharcyde: Labcabcalifornia (Delicious Vinyl/Capitol)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 21 November 1995
THE PHARCYDE sneaked into our consciousness a few years back with the ridiculously infectious 'She Keeps On Passin' Me By' and they rode in strong ...
Aaliyah talks about her One In a Million album & more
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 1996
Just 17 but already something of a music biz veteran with a million selling debut album and dues-paying road activities behind her, the sweetly seductive ...
OutKast: ATLiens (LaFace 73008- 26029-2)
Review by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 17 September 1996
THIS IS certainly something of a change from their debut platinum selling set, but it makes for interesting listening never the less. OutKast's producers, Organized ...
Mariah Carey: Butterfly Kisses... Or In Bed With Mariah!
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 23 September 1997
Jeff Lorez flies to LA, does a spot of celeb-spotting and then spends a couple of hours interviewing Mariah Carey in bed on the subject ...
Mariah Carey: Beyond The Rainbow
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 2 November 1999
Sony's undisputed queen is about to release her brand new album, Rainbow, which highlights some very personal aspects of her roller coaster ride to superstardom. ...
Aaliyah: The M Factor (Movies, Music, Motivation)
Interview by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, 2000
Major record and movie success could just be the ingredients for an ego problem. However, the Native New Yorker singer/actress remains firmly rooted in reality. ...
D'Angelo: The Gift & The Curse
Retrospective by Jeff Lorez, Blues & Soul, May 2008
HE WAS a quiet, softly spoken, artsy type that clearly preferred to let his music do the talking. It seems like a lifetime ago. In ...
Interview by David Nathan, Blues & Soul, November 2008
IT'S A TOUGH CALL for most legendary soul music artists: how do you make a new album that will appeal to a contemporary audience while ...
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