Auction
The condition and authenticity of all the records in our auction section are always carefully and closely scrutinised. If you enjoyed our auctions, then you may also enjoy checking out our latest soul additions.
Jerry Williams
If You Ask Me (Because I Love You) / Yvonne
Calla : 116 (45s)
"If You Wanted To Hear Love Music - I Would Get All The Angels Pluck Their Harps"
"If You Asked For A Glass Of Water - I Would Run All The Rivers Dry"
"If You Wanted Someone Else - I Would Gracefully Step Aside"
Prepare yourself for an unparalleled teleportation back to the most exciting days of your life! When I sung the above lines at the very top of my voice, a few words wrong, but I didn't, neither did the person next to me, equally engrossed belting out his version of the lyrics.
Jerry Williams is all set to deliver the finest example of the BIG Soul production, ever committed to vinyl. No one could ever forget the galvanising effect of dancing (and singing along to) this NS anthem. Sounded by others in the same hypnotic trance of elatedness. That moment you knew you belonged to an exclusive club of like-minded youngsters with "Soul" running through their veins.
Jerry's passion for his partner seeps from every word, with Richie Rome encapsulating that burning love with a celestial girl-choir emitting soaring "Doo Da Do, Da Dooo I Love You". The combination of distant horns and in those zipping strings culminating into a monumental break, just long enough for Jerry to catch his breath, returning at full-throttle bringing the song to it's climax.
This 1966 testament of love from Jerry Williams to his wife Yvonne, has gone down in Northern Soul history as being one of the most influential NS classics of all time. Completely and unconditionally loved by every Northern Soul pupil who has ever heard it inside any of the many Northern dance cathedrals that resounded to it...
In short it changed the destiny of countless teenagers, who are still today chasing that "high" of hearing Jerry Williams for the first time...
PS the flipside is damn good also..
Condition Report
Two clean labels, the red is rich and free of fade. There is a soft storage graze over the Y in the bracketed last line of the title. See images. Vinyl carried bright glossy surface, a few storage
Edward Hamilton
Baby Don't You Weep / Tell Me
Mary Jane : P 1005 (45s)
Every Northern Soul club in England during the mid-70's simmered over to boiling point, on a wave of togetherness, every time this monumental Motor City dancer hit the turntables.
Written by part of the greatest neighbourhood writing team of the time; Fred Bridges & Richard Knight again crafting a very special moment in the history of Northern Soul. Swirling strings cut the air, peppered by rhythmic Bongos; the perfect carpet to weave a standout vocal into. The throaty, expressive "Hamilton" presence canters through the magnificent production, cradled by his teammates "The Arabians" lifting the session with their timely support, as Edward hits all the crescendos head-on. Then comes one of the most fabulous instrumental breaks ever dropped into a Soul production. Strings build up momentum, bongos beat harder and the Hamilton vocal steps back.. as the arrangement explodes, with thumping violins attacking the air, then an enthusiastic guitar breaks through bridging everything together.; leaving you breathless in it's wake of soulfulness.
A song nobody as ever tired of, to this day it still sends shivers through my body, amplified by memories of my Northern Soul infancy.
I've recently added this 45 to my DJ box again, even though I'm certainly not noted for playing oldies no matter how good they are. The reason I've started carrying this disc around with me again, is the staggeringly fabulous B-side "Tell Me". I'm always on the lookout for songs we didn't pay enough attention to, along the way...I remember thinking the flip was pretty good back in 1976, but recently playing it for the first time in an age; a total knockout tune smacked me square between the ears.
"Tell Me" is perfect for a revisit in today's dancefloor mood, whilst "Baby Don't You Weep" is always a great choice for memory lane.
Two killer sides, and one I'm aiming to use in the future. It's well overdue for the Northern Soul congregation got to hear a tune we passed over 40 years ago...
Listen and "weep"
The flipside we all overlooked because the a-side is just THE BEST!
Condition Report
Two beautifully clean labels, not a hint of water damage, that so often plagues this record. Vinyl has good gloss, revealing only light hairlines, plays strong loud ad clean. Check out the uplifting double soundfile
Frankie Alexander
No Seat Dancin / Take Time Out For Love
DeElegance : DE 0102 (45s)
On this dance session he transports himself 300 miles east to Nashville to work with another studio legend "Robert Riley" who along with "Ted Jarrett" was the driving force for Soul Music in Nashville.
Ben's time spent rubbing shoulders with the likes of Isaac Hayes, Staple Singers etc. shines through on this intricate mid-tempo delight. Adorned with slick girl group choruses, subtle stabbing trumpet prompts pumping pricise hol;e through the excellent jazz fusion keyboard work; keeping the session sailing on through on track, producing a fabulous dance offering.
When it comes to 80's indie rare Soul productions, this seamless meeting of the minds has everything it takes, to pleasure the dancers.
To pleasure the DJ the condition is flawless.
Condition Report
Two flawless labels, immaculate vinyl. As good as it gets condition.
Shells
Baby, Oh Baby / Angel Eyes
London : 45-HLU 9288 (45s)
Originally released in the USA on Johnson Records, owner Hiram Johnson's passion for recording vocal artists that have yet to "make" it, later made his label so very collectable, but at the time, not that profitable; as this Shells "Baby, Oh Baby" was one of only two releases that actually hit. Prompting a British release in February 1961 as the Doo-Wop sound starting to pick up a little airplay. But no such luck for this release, immediately falling into obscurity on the back of Radio Station negligence. Today it is considered one of the most elusive London 45s from the early 60's, giving up two standout examples of the R&B harmony group sound.
LIsten to the two soundfiles and witness 5 boys at the very top of their game. Then read the rather impressive condition report.
Condition Report
Flawless condition, two labels unblemished labels no even the hint of a spindle trail or turntable outings.. Full gloss vinyl reveals on the finest sleeve storage hairlines under direct light. Strong Mint minus. surface ha
Little Rose Rhythm And Blues
Who Can You trust? / I'm In Bad Shape
Palladium : P-616 (45s)
Little Rose is about to take you on wall-of-death dance ride - featuring the wildest saxophone display ever committed to vinyl!
Condition Report
Two clean labels, full gloss clean vinyl, revealing only the merest blemishes, none of which react with the stylus.
Carmelita
Rosbud / Isn't It Lonely
Carmen : CJS 1001 (45s)
Willie Hoskins has delighted the Soul collector and dancer so many times before with his lush arrangements on Boola Boola etc. from his Bay Area, Oakland studio. This time he goes south to Los Angeles joining the equally talrented producer Jerry "Pynes" Pittman the pairing nailing two absolute beauties on one disc.
We lead with the side Jerry & Willie chose as the a-side "Rosebud", an excruciatingly pure Soul production saturated in "Just Like A Rosebud" "Carmelita sings of her man's power to refresh her emotions and her life. This session draws the same emotions out of me that "Color Him Father" did the first time I heard it. Inspiring, uplifting, joyous testament of recognition of another person making your life so much better. I've not heard this record in quite a few years, today it set off exactly the same emotions inside, it did 16 years ago.
Back in the early 00's it was world renowned Australian DJ "Miss Goldie" that knocked everyone sideways with her new discovery "Isn't It Lonely" not surprising as records of this quality rarely show themselves. Again Carmelita displays the same impassioned delivering supported by lavish choruses, a bank of swirling strings, cradle her beseeching delivery of her broken romance. Hitting the high notes with ease, her dismissal of her returning boyfriend is a truly a great monent in the annals of D.I.Y. modern Soul.
If today "MIss Goldie" was still the solitary owner of this disc, Soul Sam would be sleeping on Melbourne beach every night, banging on the lady's door for ownership. I believe no amount of money could have persuaded a sale of this doubly-delicious statement of Soulful Dance. Both sides just curl me up with delight!!
Condition Report
Two flawless label, immaculate vinyl. As good as it gets condition.
She Trinity
Promise Me You'll Cry / Yellow Submarine
Columbia : DB 7992 DJ (45s)
We were told, week in, week out that Mickie was a wonder-producer so we gave him slack, as he must know what he's talking about. I've never really given his irritating arrogance a second thought until this evening.
In August 1966 Mickie produced this highly sought after girl version of The Beatles anthem "Yellow Submarine", a record that is considered of great interest as a Beatles novelty 45. With novelty groups just coming into play, Bonzo Dog Do Dah Band had just broke surface. Mickie must have thought this ingenious spin-off could pay dividends. Of course it didn't, even with a break imitating The Kingsmen's "Louie Louie" could save it's banality. A record very wanted because it's so bad?
The girls must have been really excited being transferred by EMI from Canada to England, She Trinity were to work with one of Britain's up and coming studio masters. What must they have thought when the final product was played back to them? What an anti-climax, but the puzzling thing is, the flipside is a truly spectacular mid-60's girl group cocktail of Psyche, R&B, Soul & Prog.
A truly inventive "James Bond" inspired intro, a powerful sister vocal from Robyn Yorke reaching out with occasional tones of Grace Slick bubbling through, the "You Didn't Say A Word" riffs slicing interludes that keep you riveted as it's atmospheric waves that roll over you. "Promise Me You'll Cry" is surely a lost 60's treasure, that transcends Prog Rock dipping it's toes into R&B, even tickling Northern Soul possibilities.
A great song with endless possibilities for pleasuring several different genres. So what was Mickie Most thinking about, riding Beatlemania releasing a pile of tosh like "Yellow Submarine" ? Then going on TV to criticize hopeful showbiz newcomers... I think just like Simon Cowell he was thinking about making his first £50,000,000 and being included in Britain's Rich List whilst he was still a young man, now that why he was considered qualified to judge.
But purists though, will be shaking their heads when hearing "Promise Me You'll Cry" thinking that Mickie could have had the first all-girl Psyche/R&B band delivering high-end "Haight-Ashbury" right here in England.
But of course Mickie already had The Animals, Herman's Hermits, Donovan, Lulu under his wing .. I don't imagine "Yellow Submarine" was anything to him other than a learning curve toward unimaginable success. I wonder if he ever listened to "Promise Me You'll Cry" again after it went to press? Surely a man of his talent for spotting prowess, would have suddenly recognised, a girl super-group that just needed a break with the right material.
Condition Report
two clean red & white promo labels, vinyl has good gloss revealing only sdi=oft fine hairlines under direct light. as you can hear it plays superb crisp and clean.
Sweet
Mr. McGallagher / Get On The Line
Parlophone : R 5848 (45s)
Before The Sweet became leaders in Glam Rock their penchant Psychedelic/Prog Rock, was evident when they were a club-circuit band called "Wainwright's Gentlemen" later as the "Sweetshop" they'd fit in some Prog Rock into their crowd-pleasing act of Motown & R&B. So we lead with the original flipside, rather than the commercial act of plagiarism, when Sweet were presented with an Archies album track, another Jeff Barry & Andy Kim's composition for an "Archies" on RCA ."Get On The Line" The Archies of course had a monster worldwide hit with "Sugar Sugar" Lew Warburton, John Burgess & Roger Easterby must have been hoping some of the magic formula would rub off. "Get On The Line" is unmistakably sugary "Sweet"
Whilst the flipside take the form of their later RCA flipsides, finely honed and calculated "Prog Rock".
So check out "Mr. McGallagher" from the very first flick of the plectrum, wicked Prog Rock unfolds. Reaching vocals, float over a cloud of highly skilled guitar rhythms with a wicked instrumental partition of guitar and keyboard wizardry, lifting the session yet another notch.
There's a stark contrast of "Sweet's" desire for chart success and their passion for Progessive Rock... The Sweet are very talented musicians, which every heavu=y rock h=fan already knew, often purchasing their RCA hits solely for the flip.
Before you today is the super-elusive, infinitely rarer STOCK copy in flawless condition, still housed in birth-sleeve. That will leave you wondering, what if "Sweet" had signed for "Vertigo" what their musical output would have been?
Condition Report
A flawless copy, most like previously unplayed vinyl (the spindle hole was pleasingly tight), full gloss vinyl revealing on the merest storage blemish under direct light. Two clean labels, there is a hint of a Radio Caroline file number on the a-side label, but is so faint I can't read it and it will certainly no show on the images. All housed in it's original birth sleeve. a truly beautiful example.
Barbara Banks
Ain't I Worth A Dime / Livin' Love
Smash : S-2011 (45s)
Another New York songbird under the guidance of Bob Crewe and his dream team. Here with her debut 45, the original version of Laine Hill's "Ain't I Worth A Dime". A mid-paced Soulful floater of the highest quality; considered an "Island Soul" Grail with Herb Bernstein's calculated arrangement the perfect beseeching backdrop for Ms Banks to stroll through. Bernstein's genius of guiding celestial girl choruses through a maze of strings, horns, plucking notes of Harp, suddenly bombarded with a crashing kettle drum outburst; Bernstein then contrasting the crescendo with a swirling clarinet breeze, lifting this session into greatness. As an exasperated girl asks her boyfriend "Ain't I Worth" the cost of a phone call. .
A shade better than Laine Hill's second take on this great song a year later, Barbara's original is drenched in subtleties that bring you back for more than one listen, as this atmospheric stepper washes its charm all over you.
One of my all-time favourite Soul Girl moments created by a gifted New Yorker who never fails but to impress.
Condition is just as blinding as the song.
Condition Report
Promo rubberstamp on a-side label, flipside label is mint. Vinyl has full gloss previously unplayed quality. As good as it gets condition.
Charades
The Key To My Happiness / Weeping Cup
MGM : 13540 (45s)
In short:
THIS IS NORTHERN SOUL!! at it's incomparable BEST! When you're on the dancefloor and this is dropped...it will most likely be the defining moment of your evening. Sounds like this, were the inspiration for droves of teenagers travelling 100's of miles a weekend for the chance to dance to these exception powerful productions. It is also why those same teens are still doing it 50 years further down the line.
Distilled vocal-group Northern Soul!! at its most-potent!
Now listen to The Ambers - Potion Of Love and wonder why Howard Fowles isn't one of Northern Soul's often heralded heroes.
Condition Report
Two clean black stocker label, tiny bb drill in label. Vinyl reveals light surface marks but as you can hear it plays crisp, loud and true. There is however a light edge wave on the run-in but NOT affecting play. A rare opportunity to acquire a Northern Soul Trophy at a reasonable price, we think.
Coco & Ben
Good Feeling / See the World (As It Is)
Earth World : TR 2700 (45s)
Not only Utterly BRILLIANT but unparalleled in the world of D.I.Y. Soul Sister creations.
How on earth a record of this breath-taking quality can ever start life as a flipside is bemusing; this is a distilled Soul dancer of the very highest order. but then flip it over and you start to understand why, as the other side is only a smidgen off being every note as good.
A back to back winners guaranteeing a euphoric dancefloor uplift every time. which ever side to drop the needle on.
The very best of 70's rare Soul that leaves you breathless..
Condition Report
Two clean labels, good gloss on the a-side vinyl, the faintest of hairlines, soft ticks on the intro, soon lost in the electrifying music. The b-side carries a tad more hairlines than the "Good Feeling " side, again there is soft crackle of the intro, soon gets left behind on a wave of sax-loaded Soulfulness.
Ambers
Potion Of Love / Another Love
Smash : S-2111 (45s)
Same producer as the Verve “I Love You Baby” Howard Fowles again delights with two frenetic dancers, again shimmering with vocal group unity. Just like he did when with associate Horace Ott part crafting The Charades "Key To My Happiness" again, outrageously potent East Coast Northern Soul overwhelms your being.
"Potion Of Love" as a flawless white promo, is far rarer than the Charades on MGM promo and every note as good. Perhaps the only reason tis magnificent 45 has not sailed past the Charades in value, is that less NS DJ's own a copy to batter your senses with.
That dual piano intro, introducing a soaring falsetto, is the starting point, that rockets me back to the low-level, drenched in condensation, ceiling of the Catacombs. Where on that small staging, you could stretch up and run your fingertips along dislodging concession of salty water, for an indoors tropical rainfall to cool your overheated head. What a thrill having a shower in over 100 degrees of Northern Soul euphoria. "Potion Of Love" a superior slice of Northern Soul played at a superior club, a memory that shall never leave me. I had no idea until I gained ownership some time later that the flipside was every second as good, if not better!
A Northern Soul double hitter of the highest quality, we feel has been totally under-valued through the years, because it hasn't been played to death by the oldies DJ's..
Today it's second lease of life is ready to spring forth.. no matter which side you drop the arm on!
One of the all-time-greats! Twice over...
Condition Report
Two totally clean labels, vinyl is archive, previously unplayed condition. No Northern Soul DJ has ever owned this disc, former library copy.
Booker T. and the M.G.s
Green Onions / Behave Yourself
London : HLK 9595 DJ (45s)
A Musical revolution was starting to happen in Tennessee led by the brother / sister team of Jim Stewart and Estelle Axton. They had created in Memphis a new blending of R&B and Jazz at Satellite Records, before progressing to the now legendary Stax label.
Already releasing killer instrumentals in 1961 like the Mar-keys "Last Night", then just a few months later Booker T. and the M.G.s - "Green Onions" . A captivating sound that led those European Modern-Jazz revolutionaries away from straight Jazz headlong into R&B dance. Laying the foundations which would later, slowly but surely evolved into the Northern Soul movement as we know it today..
"Green Onions" was one of the major catalysts for the all-night Soul clubs, to rise to the dizzy heights of popularity. "Green Onions" was also a major ingredient, driving the MOD movement, a new sound providing a springboard for every all-night DJ and fledgling R&B band.
So to own this iconic cornerstone of our history, as a 1962 London yellow demo, is owning a huge part of Northern Soul's colourful history. Not many records released in the UK could claim responsibility for fuelling an embryonic club culture into the worldwide fan-base it enjoys today.
It was also an inspiring starting point for bands like Graham Bond Organization, Georgie Fame and The Blue Flames, Zoot Money’s Big Time Roll Band etc. Stax could hardly have envisaged the effect that Booker T. Jones, Steve Cropper, Al Jackson & Lewie Steinberg could have had on the trendsetting youngsters of England, when they knitted together the infectious rhythms of Hammond, brass & guitar into irresistible dance music.
For the Northern Soul scene, for MOD culture this 45 is an historical disc, here in its rarest form.
Condition Report
4 prong centre fully intact , an indecipherable signature on a-side label, see image. Otherwise those beautiful both yellow promo labels are clean. Vinyl has good gloss, revealing some light surface hairlines when angled in the light, as you can hear it plays crisp bright and strong, all housed in original London sleeve.
La Reine La Mar
That's Not The Way To Love / Mama I Don't Wanna
Cloud Records : 503 (45s)
Marion Stewart 'I Must Be Losing You' on "R" Records utilized the same compelling backing track as this 1965 release, with most preferring this rarer original 1965 version.
Pulling heavily from the influence of New York and those muscular Brill Building productions, a heavenly girl choir hang in the air as La Reine pleads for her man not to abandon her love. Convincingly sung with imploring passion reserved for a despairing girl in love. Expressive and brilliantly played out, leaving you requiring at least one more play to take in all the elements, filing the studio that daty.
As New York big production girl tunes go, this is undoubtedly one of the very strongest, and so challenging to acquire.
Condition Report
two clean labels, vinyl reveals light surface hairlines, not affecting play.
Soul Reflections featuring Carol Jones
Reflections Walk Groovin' In The Basement / I Love You Baby
R M R : RMR 45-86866 red vinyl (45s)
Heavy basement Funk on one side, under the street lamp sweet soul on the other.
Apparently an 8 man gathering of like minded Soul boys releasing one of the very few 60's Soul 45s the state of Wyoming ever gave birth to.
Top side we lead a killer Deep Funk, a muscular lead voice encourages a fabulously mean bass guitar, subtle horns lift the backtrack, driving Hammond pulses coast the landscape, squealing prompts from a funky-edged saxophonist. A fabulously abrupt ending ...this truly is killer funk from the outback.
The flipside is a jewel in the crown of group harmony collecting. A session blending Deep and Sweet in equal proportions. This side has a scratch that clicks, not too badly but does detract from the value of one of the rarest harmony Soul ballads on Planet Earth. It is up to you to decide whether you'll ever see another copy and could this be a window to owning something very special indeed, at an affordable price.
Condition Report
two otherwise clean labels with handwritten D.J. copy on label, a-side vinyl reveals some light surface marks but plays well, just occasional soft background tick it you listen hard. Funk side Ex harmony Ballad side vg.
Masters Of Soul
Lovely Little Lassie / same: 3:11 mono version
Duke: DK 481 DJ (45s)
You will not hear a clearer example of togetherness, as this highly accomplished group roll out exquisite sweet soul, served ice-cold as precise falsetto entwines with distant seamless harmony rolling in from the background.
One of those records you just don't want to end, delicately washing over you. So precise, so tight, so beseeching it holds your attention for the full 3 minutes of utterly slick dreamy Sweet Soul. Sympathetically decorated by dark n' moody strings and considerate caressing of the guitar...
The end result is absolutely stunning!
This is Quintessential group harmony Soul rarity - hugely in-demand both sides of the Atlantic.
Condition Report
Unblemished Mint - vinyl, still housed in birth sleeve, x x on label is the only freckle of the landscape of record perfectness.
Roy Robert
I Know What To Do To Satisfy You / same: Instrumental
Tina : 500 (45s)
Call me.. " I Know What To Do To Satisfy You" his convincing cajoling woven into a magnificent NS dance arrangement.
Crooning the words, as if he had used them a 100 times before. A fabulous dance recording benefitting from a sultry saxophone solo, Roy the smooth-talker glides along exuding confidence as he states his case for some late night comforting.
You can't help but be charmed by this charismatic "Soul Singer" with this his finest Northern Soul dancev 45, in the finest possible condition!
This is an immaculate copy, you'll not encounter a finer copy. !
Condition Report
Two totally clean labels, vinyl also perfect, condition is as good as it gets.
Oscar "Big Blues" Black
Love Love Love / Trouble Mind Blues
Atlantic : 45-956 (45s)
Only one other documented sale of an original 45 this century.. now that's rare!
Full band backing from Oscar's Orchestra includes a wild saxophone partition, giving pause to "Big Boy's" rich vocal that draws as picture of the big man struttin's the stage in some smoky low-ceiling Southside club. But that all we can do is imagine. as there is so little or nothing documented about this Blues singer. Or indeed the 45 itself. It was of course issue on a 10" shellac 70rpm. But this too is excruciatingly elusive.. with the 1952 7" unicorn-rare.
The record itself is marked, but that doesn't for a moment, diminish my pleasure of finding a small piece in the huge jigsaw o Chicago Blues.
We'll never see this 45 again, and we doubt you will too.
Condition Report
multiple surface marks, both side carry crackle on playback but the extreme rarity of this 7" overrides the low condition.
Willie Wade
When Push Comes To Shove / Come Into My World
Nite Life : 70,001 (45s)
The two recordings could not be further apart more distant poles apart. But isn't that the irresistible allure o Northern Soul, no stone unturned, no style overlooked or ignore. A scene driven by so many differing tastes the best pf each genre bubbling to the top, meeting open minds and open arms.
"When Push Comes To Shove" having notes of Little Anthony at his peak, a considerate arrangement involving a cooing male group cradling those pleading words. Simplistic piano pulses lifting it into another dimension. Whether it be blisters on your feet and palms that excites you, or the inner calm of gliding through Crossover Soul at it's very finest.. emotionally absorbing as you lose yourself in its pleading, hopefulness.
Crossover Northern Soul? Right up there jostling with Chuck Cockerham, James Phelps for pole position of the greatest Crossover tunes ever..
The flipside is also outstanding, but "When Push Comes To Shove" just knocks it way out the park... for me one of the greatest 60's Soulful Gliders of all time.
But I still dream of finding a Jades - I'm Where It's At - on this simplistically gorgeous green Nite Life label - one day.
Condition Report
full gloss vinyl, revealing only the merest sleeve storage blemish or two. PLays sweet, crisp and clean. A-side label has a few h2o droplet stains, no flaking, text is unaffected, just cosmetic freckles..
Maxine Brown
Let Me Give You My Lovin' / We Can Work It Out
Wand : WND 1128 (45s)
Stylus virgin with just stunning fidelity.
It's a floor packer with no previous history of meeting the stress of the Northern Soul DJ circuit.
You couldn't wish to own a finer copy, of this exquisite slab of Sister Northern Soul.
No need to review the qualities of standout recording - just click the soundfile - resist if you can
Condition Report
two squeaky clean labels, tiny bb drill, vinyl reveals only the merest sleeve storage blemishes when angled under light, squeaky clean sound.
Darrow Fletcher
The Pain Gets A Little Deeper / My Judgement Day
London: HLU 10024 DJ (45s)
Does collecting 60's British Soul 45's get any better than owning "Darrow" in the full glory of a London yellow demo?
A Twisted Wheel anthem from February 1966 when nobody in the UK had the slightest idea who this Chicago purveyor Soul devastation was.
Condition Report
Two very clean promo labels, vinyl reveals numerous soft surface hairlines becoming visible when titled in the light , but as you can hear, the song plays, loud, crisp clean and clear. Flipside carries a few more marks, occasional soft tick or pop along the way.All housed in birth sleeve. Gorgeous!
Bits'N Pieces
Keep On Running Away / Sinner ( Have You Been There )
Nasco : 033 (45s)
For me this 45, with it's unforgettable vocal style, stands out in my crystal clear euphoric recall of those heady days on the East Coast Soul scene.
A listing in honour of Mary and Colin Chapman, East Coast King & Queen Of Soul who orchestrated those legendary mid-70's allniters, that had hundreds of dedicated Northern Soul fans travelling those long and winding roads to the very edge of the North Sea. The following swelled to unmanageable crowds so very quickly, that Mary hired the Winter Gardens down the road apiece, to accommodate the overspill... who could ever forget leaving the steaming cauldron of the Pier for that near 1 mile walk in January to follow your favourite DJ for his 2nd set of the evening. That biting wind, spitting sea spray plus the freezing temperature change was an experience that will never thaw from your memory.
So listen now why these youngsters made that pilgrimage every Saturday night for year on year.. this was a Cleethorpes Pier anthem!!
a floor-filler that had the place a stomping... and it was all started as Mary's brainchild back in 1973.. with a Sunday all dayer in a small top room in the Winter Gardens..
Todaty the place and the Chapman husband and wife team, are true legends within the strange world of Northern soul...
Condition Report
Two crisp, clean label, mint minus vinyl, all still housed in birth-sleeve
Yellow Brick Road
Trick Me, Treat Me / She Loves Me (She Loves Me Not)
Mercury : 73051 (45s)
For those of you who are deadly serious about owning the Northern Soul anthems in their very rarest "beyond challenging" releases. Here is the withdrawn and unique prototype for Northern Soul classic of COBBLESTONE - Trick Me, Treat Me - previously undocumented off-the-scale rarity, with only two known copies out there.
From 1968 to 1971 New York based "Yellow Brick Road" recorded for Laurie records without breaking through into the big time, even though they tried with 9 releases. Prolific writing team Billy Carl & Reid Whitelaw had a rethink of the artist credit of this 45 they had high hopes of becoming a hit. Withdrawing it before release then relaunching it as "Cobblestone", it made very little difference and again sales frustratingly never hit for "Yellow Brick Road" no matter how this tight group were packaged.
First starting life as a legendary Richard Searling cover/up under the guise of "The Tempos - Love Me Like A Man". It certainly was flush with the same ingredients as "Countdown Here I Come". Another RS Secret Sound that rocketed to become a Wigan Casino polarizing monster, packing the dancefloors all over the country. Later on, equally as motivating the crowd at Cleethorpes Winter Gardens. The perfect Northern Soul dance fuel for those long all-night sessions.
Yellow Brick Road / Cobblestone found Northern Soul success again as Billy Carl & Reid Whitelaw went for a 3rd. name change; releasing the stunning "Magic Night - If You And Had Never Met”
Before you today is a Rarest Of The Rare previously undocumented Northern Soul anthem, for those of you who chase those "impossibles" of Northern Soul - they just don't come any rarer than this!
Condition Report
archive condition vinyl revealing on mild sleeve storage hairlines, soft filing rub to the a-side label, flipside label is perfect. see images. y
Al Hughes
Take It Or Leave It / Stop And Think
Scope : S-03027 (45s)
The first 45 on this tiny Detroit label who only achieved 5 releases, all of which are highly collectable, with this example the only one with the elaborate designed that stands out in a crowded world of label-art. But this rare disc is so much more than just a pretty face, it is an out of control Northern Soul juggernaut, about to crash straight through your living room.
Brutal drumming instantly captures your attentions, that eye widening intro explodes even further as a searing girl group jumps into action. A shockingly potent, real-deal classic style Northern Soul is about to disarm you. As Al Hughes’s roaring vocal starts its defiant assault. It's all there, nothing but nothing is held in reserve, full power, foot to the floor and the brakes are broken!
PROPER NORTHERN SOUL from the Motor City
A snarling “Take It Or Leave It” is the message, no room for compromise as the barrage of brass ensures there’s no time to think, pause, reconsider or negotiate...just “Take It Or Leave It”
Condition Report
Two beautifully clean labels, not a blemish to spoiled that stunning vista, vinyl reveals only the merest sleeve storage surface hairlines and plays perfect
Notations
Need Your Love / Just Nothing Left To Give + promo info release sheet
Chapter 1 : SCH 174 + press sheet (45s)
What this 1972 project did provide for the Northern Soul scene was an elusive 45 with two sides that snugly fits the Northern Soul criteria of unavailability and danceability. This girl trio carries some pedigree also; lead singer Michele Hendricks is the daughter of "Poet Laureate of Jazz" Jon Hendricks, also famed as the best "Scat" singer of his time. So no surprise 19 year old Michele delivers such a seamless vocal on this session, but currently enjoying being compared to her father Jon, also as Jazz scat performer supreme.
Girl two, is Kim Roberts former vocalist with "The Rebel Rousers" and "The Migil Five" also having a solo single on Decca under the guidance of Joe Meek & Geoffrey Stephens at R.G.M. studios. Girl Three, Beth Allen had a wealth of session singing behind her before this opportunity of recording her first single came along.
Full marks to arranger/producer Bernard Cochrane, what an inspired choice for the a-side, as they rework the Duke Browner, Detroit composition "Need your Love" that the Lollipops released on V.I.P. but so hard to acquire as the recording is only available as the elusive V.I.P. release copy currently changing hands for eye-watering sums, the flipside of "Cheating Is Telling On You" The Notations do a superb job of it, just as good and a fraction of the price.
the flipside "Just Nothing Left To Give" is a meatier production which has received Northern Soul attention back in the 70's.. a full orchestra production, crammed with honkin' horns, zipping strings and a fabulously enthusastic saxophone breaking through before the end.
Well you may be thinking, how did accrue all this information on this one disc only gathering. This auction 45 comes with an A4 promo info sheet, that were sure UK collectors will treasure. Sent inside the sleeve to Radio Caroline for review judging by the condition we think it received only a ciursory listen.
Fabulous condition, fabulous record, of a very sought after "Lollipops - Motown" guided by the immortal Duke Browner. Listen to the elusive UK interpretation, we think you'll be impressed.
Condition Report
4 prong centre fully intact, two clean labels, no writing, stickers or marks. The A4 promo sheet sent with this 45 to Radio Caroline immaculate.
Jonsey's Combo featuring Fletcher Smith Squares
Ting Ting Boom Scat / A Rolling Heart Gathers No Love
Combo : 45-79 (45s)
This week its a 1955 Los Angeles creation lifting my senses with compelling Mambo/R&B pulses n' rhythm that has really caught my ear. I knew someone somewhere must be DJing with this magnetic killer. A quick google note the inventive multi-genre DJ in Dan Goldsboro has already hooked into its addictive charms. We feel this freestyle commitment to forgotten lost gems is taking off worldwide, we hope over the coming months we can locate a few more narcotic off-the-wall tunes to feed the growing demand.
California's Jonsey's Combo featuring Fletcher Smith's Squares only made a couple of 45's the other ones being the equally sought after "Sweet Su" backing up vocal group The Starliters.
"Ting Ting Boom Scat " amalgamates Jazz, Latin, Doo-Wop and R&B into one mesmerizing mid-50's dance session you can't help but fall for.. elevated by a sizzling saxophone solo in the middle, accompanied by heavy percussion and latin piano & cowbell thwacks, momentarily parting those rich booming harmonies.
.
This would "fly" in any R&B orientated club, or in any other DJ set that doesn't like to follow the crowd...but pulling from the vast array multi-genres of dance through the decades, to ignite their crowd...
long may it continue...
Condition Report
Two clean labels, very soft storage rub, number stamped on flipside label. See images. Vinyl has surface marks, <br />
Dandy
Reggae In Your Jeggae / Reggae Shuffle
Down Town : DT 410 (45s)
Not a rare 45 maybe, but certainly very sought after and highly elusive in fine clean condition.
This is a record from a time when it was fashion to defaced labels, remove the push-out centre displaying used and abused scratched and clicking vinyl. And why not indeed this was a sound to party with
This 45 has none of those devaluing flaws,
Tough to acquire with DJ playable and collection prized conditions.
Condition Report
as described above. listen and see images provided
College Boys
Love Is A Treasure / Someone Will Be There
Blue Beat : 45/BB 202 (45s)
The beginnings of SKA, lavishly decorated with enthusiastic brass, an eccentric display of trumpet skills scatter themselves across the session with the two vocals bouncing of Prince Buster's lively creation.
flip it over for a Skully Simms & Gitsy Willis composition, again drenched in heavy horns as the two voice bounce of each other, as the saddened lyrics are set in the contrast of an uplifting saxophone lifting the atmosphere for the singing to follow.
two beautifully primitive 1963 recordings, perfectly capturing the essence of the time and place when Prince Buster had just launched his own label, the springboard for one of the greatest Jamaican artists of all time.
Blue Beat 202 an elusive number in the Blue Beat run, giving up two authentic examples of Jamaica 1963.
Condition Report
4 prong centre intact, two clean labels (see images), vinyl reveals light surface hairlines, but plays well (listen)
Roland Alphonso / Maytals
Mellow Mood / Marchin' On
Banana: BA 340 (45s)
The flip is lively vocal group dancer, heavy chanting call and answer again giving up a fabulous instrumental partition splitting the uplifting throwback dance rhythms decordated with muscular male vocal.
Two great sides with "Mellow Mood" being one of the slickest instrumental to emerge from Studio One at the time.
Now check out the dream condition.
Condition Report
Two flawless label, 4 prong centre intact, full gloss vinyl reveals only a few soft sleeve storage hairlines. a strong mint minus - dream condition still housed in wavy top birth sleeve
Holy Disciples
Trying To Make A Hundred / Peace Of Mind
Song Bird : 1208 DJ (45s)
Before you, is one of the very finest and most elusive examples of this hard to capture genre.
An ear-opening vocal, driving funky-edged guitars provide the landscape for a deliciously gravelled voice, to inspiringly sing about his quest for longevity. With the whole choir in full agreement, a torrential downpour of Soul fills your space. Vocally uplifting, instrumentally motivating, dancefloor filler. Hugely sought after, as copies rarely come to market, especially in this fine clean condition.
A killer tune, showcasing how over the decades, dedicated cratediggin' DJ's and collectors have maintained Northern Soul freshness and vibrancy. By following all those spokes of diversity, that keep springing up from that central hub of Northern Soul.
This recording is a superb example of just how Northern Soul continually twists, turns and shifts minds, opinions and styles. Long may the likes of Greg Belson, Mark Dobson, Soul Sam, Fonsoul Bcn, Billy Kealy etc. keep pushing the boundaries far and beyond the expectations we clung on to during the previous century.
Long may it continue.. now listen to a standout reason for my enthusiasm.
Condition Report
Two clean promo labels. Vinyl carries full gloss and plays perfectly.
Sweet Things
I'm In A World Of Trouble / Baby's Blue
Date : 2-1522 (45s)
An adventure into new music you'd never heard before, set up a tantalizing anticipation of planning your weekend with like-minded friends. Was it to be The Catacombs in Wolverampton, Va Va's in Bolton, The Highland Room at the Blackpool Mecca, Leeds Central, The Torch in Stoke On Trent or maybe more local, The Brit in Nottingham. All these places were in fierce competition with each other to play the best discoveries, if it was an "exclusive" that was even better. To travel 200 / 300 miles to hear an "exclusive" new tune, was never considered too far.
In California there was Simon Soussan unearthing mind-blowing previously unknown 60's Soul dance 45's. In Canada Martin Koppell's legendary trips over the border to Detroit, John Anderson's forays into most every USA major city, Ian Levine's family holidays to Florida. All contributed to triggering an avalanche of spectacular Northern Soul discoveries, on the home front there was Bostock's of Bradford and their unbelievable haul of over a 1,000,000 USA 45's to trawl through. It was all happening in the first few years of the 70's decade.
Being fed of a diet of Rod Stewart, Mud, T. Rex, Sweet, Mungo Jerry with little teasers by The Tams hey Girl Don't Bother Me and Supremes - Stoned Love reminding us where our true musical passions lie.
It is records like the genius of Van McCoy guiding Francine "Peaches" Barker and her two friends Dyanne Stewart, Nancy Johnson replicating the "Motown Sound" just transported us away from the radio bombardment of British pop tedium into an nirvana of escapism into USA Soul.
For me and many others "The Sweet Things" epitomises that unrepeatable pre-Wigan experience, that hit you right between the eyes on the very first hearing, so very Motownesque instant girl group Northern Soul that just kept yo dancing.
It was of course one of thodse titles that came over from L.A. on the "Soultown", bootlegs that would later also become so very collectable..
Here's an anthem dripping in euphoric recall, presented in impeccable condition - still housed in its birth sleeve - note this example is the particularly rare VINYL press NOT the styrene.
Condition Report
Two pristine labels, vinyl that reveals only the merest sign of warehouse sleeve storage. all housed in an impeccable birth-sleeve
Reuben & Alfonso Ramos
Slip Away / You Can Make It If You Try
Capri Records : CA-130 DJ (45s)
Reuben Ramos takes Jimmy Hughes's classic Muscle Shoals statement, giving it an uplift raising the pace from a pleading ballad, into a mid-paced Northern Soul cruiser. Staying true to the authenticity to Alabama Southern Soul but lifting the pace, adding extra horns, bringing the guitar upfront for full effect. It is rare indeed for a Muscle Shoals classic to be bettered by anyone, but the Ramos's delivers a killer take on the MS anthem. The accomplish "Southern" guitar opening gives way to an on his knees plea for his girl to slip away late at night for an illicit meet up. His desire is palpable his voice stretching out in yearning... drenched in Soul, portrayed by a aching need.
Vocally superb, instrumentally authentic.. a very rare tune by two "unknown" Texas Soul Boys.
Flipside is a Deep Soul conversation of Gene Allison's Vee Jay recording "You Can Make It If You Try" perhaps Ted Jarrett's most telling composition. Reuben & Alfonso craft a very convincing remake, utilizing beseeching horns, whirling Hammond decorated by considerate guitar picking. A killer Deep Soul update with the same redeeming features as the a-side, these guys from Texas have distilled Soul running through their veins...
A dog-rare disc, giving up two great sides.
Condition Report
Full gloss vinyl revealing on the merest storage hairlines, both sides play mint...Two clean and very attractive labels, a-side label has a tiny nimble nibble area just left of the text "Slip" see images. Flipside label is flawless
Bonnie & The Treasures
Home Of The Brave / Our Song
London : HLU 9998 DJ (45s)
Charlotte was Bonnie, debunking decades of rumour that Bonnie was an alias for Ronnie Bennett of the Ronettes. Bonnie was a busy session singer who was chosen by L.A.'s Jerry Riopelle to head-up this session, he of course later cut some standout sessions with Clydie on Imperial. Charlotte continued her "voice for hire" career working for Rodd Keith's vanity label Preview by under the name Bonnie Graham singing vanity-poems Rodd Keith had put to music for 45 release.
Bonnie & The Treasures was a one-off project released in the USA on that highly colourful Phi-Dan label. Arranged and produced in Los Angeles by two accomplished musical directors Nick DeCaro & Jerry Riopelli; Charlotte never released a record with the pair again, but Clydie produced her finest work whilst under one of the other's command.
"Home Of The Brave" another fabulous Barry Mann & Cynthia Weil composition, was also recorded by Jody Miller at the same time, Jody's release was a hit, Bobbie's take stumbled and fell by the wayside to become an highly collectable 45 no matter what side of the Atlantic the label was.
Before you today is this legendary record's rarest format, in breath-taking condition. an October 1965 British promo, looking almost a gorgeous as these two songbirds sound.
A piece of Phil Spector history that he didn't have very much to do with.
Condition Report
Two clean promo label, running time rubber stamp on the a-side only. Spectacular Mint minus vinyl
Ike and Tina Turner
Such A Fool For You / Oh Baby! (Things Ain't What They Used To Be)
London : 5,592 (45s)
Here is the highly sought after 1966 Belgium 45. So listen to the untold power Phil Spector injects into his "Wall Of Sound" backing rolled out for the Queen of R&B.
Destructive blitzing brass, pulsating bass guitar drives the arrangement as Tina's Tigeress roar nails Ike Turner's the lyrics to that wall. Embellished by a screaming girl-group chorus, the recording becomes an unstoppable force for dancefloor invasion. Tina outstrips all those pulsating horns, the booming bassline, heavy duty percussion leading the song on a course of devastating R&B you just can't stand still too.
A DJ essential at the moment as this tune fills the dancefloors across Europe...
If you want more of this style, just flip it over, for another cataclysmic Northern Soul experience, this time Tina feline snarls are woven an arrangement enhanced by burping Saxophone punctuation. This Kent Harris song did come out as a 45 in the UK on A&M in 1969.. just imagine Ty Karim singing her husband's composition "Oh Baby! (Things Ain't What They Used To Be) "
two truly great songs presented back to back on this 1966 Belgium 45 both delivered at penetrating full volume..
Condition Report
Two clean labels, vinyl reveals surface marks, none of which intrude into the fidelity of the music. Listen.. and prepare to be inmpressed.
Little Johnny Allen
Throw Away Your Troubles / She's The Girl For Me
Bullseye : B-105 (45s)
We notice that irrepressible international DJ Fonsoul Bcn has been championing this for a couple of years, with nobody seemingly challenging his exclusivity, having himself won the only copy to ever appear on popsike..
Although this "vinyl-unicorn" is not in our usual impeccable condition for listings on these pages; the sheer weight of its rarity comes down on the side of ownership first, then the unenviable task of locating an upgrade, with which we wish you luck.
"Little Johnny" composed the a-side himself, we are veering towards thinking this artist is the same Johnny Allen, as the creator of "The Theme from Shaft" and Motown "Big Wheel of creativity". As that Johnny Allen was an highly accomplished pianist, and this 1956 session brandishes a rather nimble piano break in the middle. A potent Black Rocker that was probably never issued by dart-playing Englishman Woody Hinderling owner of New York based "Bullseye" label. Woody would pull in recordings countrywide, so Detroit resident Johnny Allen could easily got this into the local New York market.
Any info unveiling who the "Bullseye" "Jimmy Allen" really is, would be most welcome on this very mysterious disc. What is no mystery though, is that this tune thumps out R&B dance by the truckload, with the flipside is nearly as good; it offer two huge slices of R&B that is currently the preserve of one of Europe's most inventive DJ's.
Condition Report
Two promo labels carry mild storage browning two faded red X's, see images. The vinyl has multiple light surface hairlines, nothing deep or clicky. Visually vg but plays a grade better (listen)
Bill Johnson Quintet with Luther Dixon
Traveling Stranger / So Sweet Of You
Baton : 239 DJ (45s)
This is the original version, from the man who wrote it, played at the correct 45rpm speed not a tampered with, speeded up or slowed down. Unlike the files you may encounter on YouTube. This is the real deal, that recently received a reissue on the flipside of the girl version by Ann Leonardo, also the poorer for the artificially adjusted RPM. Check out this mighty, moody monster benefitting from Luther Dixon booming vocal, that surely should never be diluted by the slider pitch adjustment.
Down n' dirty, super-cool tune, fully supported by a soaring male group chorus and a snappy enticing dance beat. The saxophonist grabs the mood, serving up a snarling interlude that will have you snaking around the room.
This is R&B/Popcorn at it's most addictive, a crowd pleaser of huge proportions.
Seldom seen for sale in such fine clean condition.
Condition Report
Two clean promo labels, vinyl reveals just the merest of storage hairlines, as you can hear it plays crisp, clean, loud and true.
Clydie King
Soft And Gentle Ways / He Always Comes Back To Me
Imperial : 66172 (45s)
The Page Boys, Billy & Gene once again deliver spectacular girl vocal Northern Soul from California.
It matters not which side you chose to drop the stylus on first. Both sides give up ravishing girly NS, as the L.A. songbird and former "Raelette" flexes her mesmeric voice. Clydie is today recognized as one of the most talented girl backing singers in the business. But the Rare Soul collectors are enamoured with all her work she did as a solo artist, with every 45 she released being held in high regard. This is the 3rd. of her highly coveted Imperial releases; this time working under the guidance of Gebne & Billy Page with Marshall Leib at the helm.
Both sides are potent big production Northern Soul beauties, as "Motown" influenced Los Angeles wanted a piece of the "Girl Sound" phenomena of Detroit. Sadly for her, all 3 of Clydie's superior 45's on Imperial failed to score in the USA and again it was left to the Northern Soul scene to bring them alive.. and present them to a very appreciative British audience.
So now click the soundfile and prepare yourself for two slick full orchestra productions of note. The side we lead with lead with the captivating "Soft And Gentle Ways" a string filled production with full girl group choruses, creating an absorbing Soulful abyss you'll have on repeat play. Then listen to the equally spellbinding flipside "He Always Comes Back To Me" again encapsulates everything we seek in a Sister Northern Soul experience.
Clydie King a Soul princess with the voice of an Angel.
Flip it over and the "My Love Grows Deeper" the more "Motown" uninfluenced side of the two was surprisingly relegated to the flip.. as the finished product of "Missing My Baby" impressed so much.. as so often happened in the 60's what we now consider "perfect" Northern Soul languishes on the flipside.
Here is a top value 45, offering not one but two treasures of our scene, from a lady with the voice of an Angel.
Condition Report
A flawless copy - archive condition!
Ted Taylor
Somebody's Always Trying / Top Of The World
OKeh : 4-7198 (45s)
Seems strange this potent screamer was written by a man who went on to lift Bob Dylan to stardom.. but Columbia's in-house writer/producer Bob Johnston (aka Joey Byers) who from 1965 was a driving force behind Dylan's success.
"Somebody's Always Trying" underlines Bob Johnston' versatility, his creativity providing a string of "frustration" phrases for that sizzling Ted Taylor vocal, to shred up with blistering intensity.
Wow! this is Northern Soul R&B at it most inspiring - no wonder the dancefloor becomes overload the moment Ted's intimidating vocal starts...
The tough-guy end of NS R&B at it's most scintillating.
Condition Report
A stunning copy, archive condition, labels, vinyl housed in birth sleeve
Perfections
So Lonely / Baby Don't You Go
Big "B" : 851N-800 (45s)
Enjoying current "Niter" spins that are triggering huge demand for ownership. Now is the time to catch this spectacular slab of vocal group Northern Soul on the rise, presently picking up enviable NS DJ attention, with 1000's of you yet to own a copy...the value can only go one way. Especially when the flipside is equally coveted by those devotees to male-vocal-group-harmony strollers. Here we have another two-way winner.
We lead with the soaring dance experience "So Lonely". Triumphant horns and pattering drums are the starting-pistol for a tapestry of male-vocals to embroider a rich platform for a merciless icy-cold falsetto to cut through the lilting harmonies adding edgy dance qualities as it takes control of the arrangement. Soaring voices are partitioned by this searing lone voice, as his teammates paint a landscape of heavenly harmony. The relentless highly pitched "Baby Baby" is the glue for the brass and chanting backing to hold together as one... a 45 that has always had the potential to become a monster, now in the hands of a few A-list trendsetters we can see nothing stopping this tune climbing the heights sitting alongside any 4-figure vocal-group Northern Soul dancer you care to mention... this is every note as good.
With the bonus of a standout Lowrider sweet-harmony ballad hidden away on the other-side, there's a really good chance it may never come into Northern Soul ownership... both camps poised for competition for a real rarity giving up two fabulous sides. "Baby Don't You Go " is a masterclass in street-corner harmony with a cutting gravelled soulful lead, laying back into rich harmonies, bolstered by a falsetto, enriched with a booming baritone's well-timed walk-in parts. This is late 60's Soul-group harmony at its exquisite best!
"You Know I'm Gonna Make You Mine" that's what 3 corners of the globe will be whispering.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, showing only light signs of caring storage... Vinyl has a few very soft blemishes available eye but not the ear.
Doris Troy
Just One Look / 1963 USA press
Atlantic : 8088 (LP)
inc. such Doris winners as "hat'cha Gonna Do About It" "ust One Look", "Bossa Nova Blues" plus a multitude of non-45 recordings.
Somewhere Along The Way, Draw Me Closer, A School For Fools, Be Sure, Someone Ain't Right, Stormy Weather.
Almost 60 years old and in stunning condition. One for the discerning Soul collector who appreciates super Sister singer from one of the all time great.
Condition is everything - immaculate copies are so very challenging to acquire!
You'll not locate a better example.
Condition Report
Two perfect labels, original inner sleeve, immaculate full gloss vinyl, cover reveals only the merest signs of careful storage, soft corner tip rub. front and back cover faces totally clean. as is the spine.. rare condition indeed
Larnelle Harris
Give Me More Love In My Heart / same: 3:49 stereo version
Benson : 5330 (45s)
This is listing for those of you serious about collecting and DJing with "impossible" rare-soul-dance 7" singles.
Listen to an instantly inspiring "Gospel" dance recording. With a Stevie Wonder "Another Star" beginning, gliding into a swirling "Jacksons-style" zipping strings intro enriched by a full blown brass prompting, wah-wah guitar pulses cradling Larnelle's impressive vocal you have on-the-spot Soulful-Dance. An immediate dancer that never relents its motivational rhythms carrying that flawless vocal. One damn good tune, you can't help but fall in love with its full production involving a girl Gospel choir backing, a recording filled with joyous, hopefulness and spirit.
A really strong Soulful dance tune, in it by far it's rarest form,.
Now go find another 7" single if you can...
Condition Report
Light h2o stain text is unaffected, vinyl reveals some light surface marks,
J.Delgado
Sons Of Slaves / At The Feast
P M : P.M.S. 003 (45s)
This 1978 solid centre UK press, benefits from precise mastering and high quality vinyl. A beseeching social commentary on the evils of slavery, cradled by a male harmony chorus. Resulting in an effective and seamless slab of crystal clear "Roots" that has endured for over 40 years.
Do not overlook the flipside not issued in Jamaica at the time. A delicious falsetto led Roots with full vocal-group harmony.
Two great sides - this copy is in astonishingly clean, condition!
We are unlikely to be able to match its flawlessness in the future.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, full gloss vinyl, shows only the merest sleeve storage hairlines when tilted under direct light.
Kenny Smith
Lord What's Happened / The Same Old Story
Goldspot : 108328 (45s)
Rumours, falsification of the facts especially when it surrounds it's most colourful character, the much maligned Simon Soussan.
Mostly by people who have never met him, dealt with him or even spoken to him. Whilst he was certainly the "naughtiest" Northern Soul pioneer of them all, with all manner of trickery accompanying vinyl dealings. People quickly forget that Simon was also the first man to discover an absolute plethora of Northern Soul anthems, no matter what recent writing may assume, during his record dealing career, his relentless hunt for the Northern Soul sound, was responsible for so many now classic rare NS records, it would take an alternative book dedicated to the man's colourful life to fully document his huge influence on the Northern Soul scene. Good and bad.
So to suggest, the fact that Simon Soussan had Kenny Smith "Lord What's Happening.." on Goldspot listed on one of his extensive rare-record sales lists, makes this highly elusive 45 a bootleg is utterly ludicrous. As this Goldspot press is the very first version the Blackpool Mecca anthem; Colin Curtis made into a countrywide classic after the legendary Rare-Soul DJ broke it single-handed; against all the odds. From raised eyebrow beginnings into a dancefloor monster in every NS Club in the UK.
The Goldspot 45 is not only it's first incarnation, it is (according to our 20 year old database) almost 10 times rarer than the General American original promo and 15 times rarer than the styrene bootleg. Which ironically Simon allegedly repressed at Monarch Recording in Los Angeles. All can be confirmed by any google method you care to use.
Before you today is the authentic FIRST incarnation of a "Lord What's Happening Too Your People" classic that has been woven into the very fabric of Northern Soul since Colin daringly backed his "outside the box" thinking and played it to an astonished Blackpool Mecca faithful in the first half of the 70's decade.
Simon was certainly not the "Messiah", he was a very naughty boy. But he also discovered more great Northern Soul recordings than he is given credit for. With the exception of John Anderson, more than any other Northern Soul rare vinyl dealer, period.
The ever vigilant NS Soul police and misinformed rumour mongers, please take note. This disc on Goldspot is by far the recordings rarest form, the very first mix of this revolutionary NS classic.
Can we now drop all charges on this disc, against one of the scenes most prolific contributors, with many other offences guilty as charged and a weighty file full of "taken into consideration".
Not many DJ's or collectors can boast of owning this highly elusive 45. The rush for ownership is now on, as today it is emerging "THE" version to play, with it's fresh rawness, being perfect to stir the crowd, in this ever-evolving Northern Soul scene.
Condition Report
Vinyl reveals some minuscule surface hairlines, but as you can hear it plays crisp and clean, even on the quite spoken intro. Visually EX play mint minus. A-side label has a couple of tiny sticker removal scars (see images)
Homesteaders
Riff Rock / Lonely Day
End : E-1017 (45s)
Both sides will be of interest, we lead with is a strong instrumental stroller, featuring muscular guitar riffs riding muscular piano pulses, with a dirty saxophone blowing through from the back. Gradually Mr. Sax pushes his way to the front, taking the lead as the instrumental progresses. Subtle ramps up into rasping stabbing reed intrusions; the guitarist then showcases his craft aided by enthusiastic drumming the instrumental lifts up another notch.
A Surf walking with a pinch of attitude.
Flip it over for something completely different, the flipside is a R&B ballad led by a rich girl vocal, cradled by male vocal group harmony. again the guitar produces a worthy solo contribution, with her guys floating in at the end. One of the label's oddities, a seldom seen listing for this iconic label.
Condition Report
Clean a-side label, flipside label has a tiny name on it, see images. vinyl is a neat clean excellent, revealing only the merest signs of play or handling. a few soft blemishes, as you can hear it plays really clean.
Bill Craddock
Lulu Lee / Ah, Poor Little Baby
Date: 1007 (45s)
Billy Crash Craddock boy-wonder of Greensboro, North Carolina released to 45's at local labels, his reputation gained him a contract with Columbia. This his first release for Columbia's newly launched Date label failed sell. Both sides raw, uncompromising Rockabilly dance tunes, not a commercial note played on either side. Success in his early years eluded Billy in his home country, but in the late 50's he became as Australian teen-idol which kept him going. A string of USA releases through the 60's and a solitary album failed. it was not until 1969 more than a decade after this double-rocker that Billy got his first USA hit, for his perseverance.
This 1958 double-helping of raw Rockabilly today stands as a testament to 19 year old Billy's endurance to make it in the music industry.
Two rebellious rockers - one elusive disc..
Condition Report
two clean labels, vinyl reveals light surface marks, but as you can hear both sides play crisp, loud and true,
Augustus Pablo
405 / Duck It Up
Creole : CR 1004 (45s)
A quirky journey into the highly addictive effect the Jamaican manipulation of the Trombone can have on you. Directed by "The Teacher" Herman Chin-Loy from his state-of-the-art Aquarius studio, but for some unknown reason "405" not receiving a Jamaican release as a 45. The flipside "Duck It Up " finding its way onto the flipside of Alton Ellis's "Arise Blackman" in Jamaica,
A hard record to acquire, as UK only, especially in spectacular condition.
Now listen to two fabulous instrumental attributed to Augustus Pablo with an uncredited master of the Trombone begging for you attention.
Condition Report
4 prong centre intact, two squeaky clean orange and yellow label (see images) vinyl most likely unplayed before with lifted the double soundfile, still housed in its wavy-top birth sleeve
Velvelettes
Needle In A Haystack / Should I Tell Them
Stateside: SS 361 DJ (45s)
Norman Whitfield and William "Micky" Stevenson's collaboration forms a chain of timeless metaphors. 400 year old Cervantes phrases from Don Quixote, earlier coined by Thomas Moore as "Go Looking For a Needle In A Meadow". That timeless line, rang so true for the teenagers of 1964, seeking a partner. For the MODS who frequented "The Twisted Wheel" it became a Soul club anthem, that wasn't a hit the first time out in the UK, but by 1966 it was one of the best loved Tamla Motown records of the time. With EMI reissuing it on no less than 7 times through 4 decades up to the end of the century. Along with their equally adored "He Was Really Sayin' Something" "Lonely, Lonely Girl Am I" The Velvelettes were the girl group darlin's early Soul and youth club nights right across the UK.
Astonishingly Motown never rewarded the group with an album, allegedly the big decision makers were persuaded not to encroach of the soaring success of the Supremes, Marvelettes or Martha and the Vandellas. REad intio tat what you will, the fact remains these ladies under the guidance two of Motown's greatest writer/producers Whitfield & Stevenson never did get their uncompleted album to market.
Before you today is the beginning of England's love affair with Bertha Barbee, Carolyn Gill, Mildred Gill, Norma Barbee and the very rarest and most wanted form of this fabulous slab of Motown that started these ladies on a bitter sweet journey of serious Motown and Soul adulation but amazing this timeless classic never ever broke into the British top 40, indeed their only minor chart entry was "These Things Will Keep Me Loving You"
A super-clean 1964 Red & White demo is not only a thing of real beauty but also a euphoric reminder of our "roots"
Condition Report
Two clean labels merest printing smudge on the first S of the release number. Otherwise glossy clean promo labels, vinyl hardly has a blemish, just the finest of sleeve storage hairlines revealed when angled in the light.
Timeless Legend
I Was Born To Love You / I Was Born To Love You part 2
Dawn-Lite : 012005 (45s)
Few, if any 1980's productions whip up a storm like this dos. Totally ignoring the crass influences of fashionable disco, but instead manipulating a triumphant brass section to smack you aside the head. A more compelling invitation to dance would be hard to find. The explosion of runaway horns takes to the air, with even more exciting hard-blown manipulation to follow, the group grabs a hold, harnessing all that racing power with an equally high-octane vocal response.
This is, without fear of contradiction the most exciting fusion of Soul harmony vocals, harnessing a barrage of brass, ever created during the 80's.
AWESOME, incomparable Rare Soulful dance!
A crown jewel in any collection or DJ box.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, vinyl to match. A mighty fine clean copy.