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.
Jimmy Rogers
What Have I Done / Trace Of You
Chess : 1687 (45s)
One of the most-wanted of all the late 50's Southside Chicago blues movers. The Jimmy was a former valued member of Muddy Water's team before he branched out achieving some R&B chart with "That's All Right" in 1950 and "Walking By Myself" in 1954 but neither of those sides match up the the addictive brilliance, that mesmeric voodoo influences drill through you during the "What Have I Done" or "Trace Of You" brutal transmission.
The choice is up to you which side to drop the arm on, the result is the same. Moody, lounge "Walk" styled R&B stroller littered with 50's descriptiveness "You got me koo-koo Baby, koo-koo in My Head" woven into a backdrop of searing harmonica, hard-hit drumming and beckoning bass guitar pulses. It's a dancefloor igniter, a beguiling R&B stroller of the highest order.
Flip it over for "Trace Of You" gives up deliberately aggressive poking of the piano keyboard, the perfect intro for Jimmy's grizzly vocal, the call is answered every time by shrill jumping girl choruses; sizzling hot harmonica bears down on the arrangement, slicing the song in two with a brutal break, adding yet another edge to this savage R&B dancer.
Which side do we prefer? I've change my mind 4 times, whilst writing this review, shall we say both sides are equally towering with those distilled Southside influences just jumping out at you, every chance they get..
.
Condition Report
two clean labels, unblemished archive condition vinyl - a remarkable copy.
Hunt, Lunt & Cunningham
Meanwhile Back In The Forest / On The Night
Pye : 7N.45125 (45s)
This obscure 6 member band, from London lead by the notoriously nonchalant Roon Hutton (Andrew to his mother) who wove a fabulously haunting folk-rock landscape to decorate the heavenly sister-vocal of songbird Lynne Pearson. Gentle guitar intro for the hovering lead voice, to build her performance as eventually the male team members join in on this wonderfully evocative folk-rock dream-like recording. Guided by the famous innovator of THE WHO - Peter Meadon.
Mr. Meadon does a great job, but maybe not with the group name, which DJ's avoided at all costs.
One of the reason why this cool session is so very rare.
Not many collectors have heard its hypnotic charms or indeed the mesmerizing vocal powers of folk songbird Lynne Pearson.
Condition Report
two clean labels, 4 prong intact, mint perviously unplayed vinyl, still housed in birth-sleeve.
P. P. Arnold
Everything's Gonna Be Alright / Life Is But Nothing
Immediate : IM 040 autographed (45s)
Mint minus super clean vinyl.
One of the least seen, most wanted of all the UK created Northern Soul recordings and certainly the best!
Act accordingly the opportunities of owning this disc are so few and far between.
Yes, a British Holy Grail and some... especially with P. P. 's hand on it.
Condition Report
Autographed and dedicated a-side label, fine clean vinyl, full gloss revealing the merest soft hairlines under light.
Edward Hamilton and The Fifes
I'm Gonna Love You / Call Me
Jameco : 2008 (7")
A beautifully clean copy of the New York press of this fabulous vocal-group double from the desk of Melvin Davis, arranged by the legendary L.P.T's. Johnny Mills hitting through that attention seeking drumming on the intro, Billy McCoo on bass, Curtis Trusell on guitar and the gifted Fred Bridges hammering out that relentless piano backing.
The silky "Hamilton" vocal with his signature, slightly panting, reaching out style. Receives huge support, from frantic heavy-duty-horns and a rich male-group harmony (The Fifes) and enthusiastic studio sound effects. Really inspiring Northern Soul fills your space. Jubilant trumpets blast the way, constant drum pulse driving the arrangement, with occasional well timed "whip cracks" for added effect, whilst the exuberant male harmony chorus drive home Edward's promise of love!
The not as obvious flipside is every note as good, with the "Fifes" again delivering harmonic perfection. Subtle horns allowing every syllable of Edward's desperation to "hear from his girl" to ring through crystal clear. His need is palpable, underpinned by some of the finest male-harmony you could ever wish to hear.
Two great sides, a hard disc to find in such clean condition.
Giving up, as you already know, not one but two killer Motor City Northern Soul dancers.
Condition Report
Two totally clean labels, bight glossy mint minus vinyl
Dramatics
Toy Soldier / Hello Summer
Crackerjack : 4015 (45s)
Just as they did soon after, when they changed their name to "The Legends" to record on the coveted Mickay's label, not forgetting the great work the threesome did with J. J. Barnes before he joined Ric-Tic. This recording involving many future Detroit-doyens who went onto greater things, shortly after. With Mike Terry's subtle blows evident throughout, but more noticeable on the almost as good flipside "Hello Summer". Each team member splitting to follow successful careers elsewhere in the city. The 1964 identity change, allowing Ed Wingate to use the "vacant" name with a different gathering on the Wingate label, which launched the careers of one of the greatest soul-vocal groups of all-time The Dramatics under Don Davis & Tony Hester.
So here are the "first" Dramatics, coincidently displaying the same luxurious harmony fluidity as their namesakes. Listen to an impressive piece in the jigsaw of early sixties Detroit Northern Soul. Two finger-popping uplifters saturated in the addictive charms, that sets this city apart, when it comes to creating soul music. This is a glorious Motor City street-corner symphony on the march, the voices lifted by magnificent arrangement of the horns, dripping with the quality that helped all the contributors move on to better things.
I adore BOTH sides, an elusive 45 that is so challenging to acquire as a clean play perfect copy.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, fine clean strong gloss vinyl, rare condition for this record a strong Ex+. Plays superbly clean.
Jimmy Preacher Ellie
I'm Gonna Do It By Myself / Go Ahead On
Movin': M-136 (45s)
But here is the very rarely encountered Compton, California local press from the summer of 1966. Giving up two imposing R&B dancers, shimmering with slick ghetto-attitude and muscle.
As with all Fats Washington projects, he lays down an intimidating backdrop for Jimmy's sometimes guttural snarls, sometimes aerial and smooth vocal as he changes his pitch at will, whilst riding a Hammond keyboard rhythms of dance. Steady percussion, a discreet saxophone lies in wait for the chance to instill even more persuasion into the session. As Jimmy The Preachers start to wail, in a most inspiring way.
This is moody but totally classy R&B dancer, showcasing smooth expressive vocal changes, riding a rich tapestry of the brass, keyboard, drumming and that bonus of the killer sax break.
The flipside should not be overlooked, as it is every note as impressive. Fats works his magic again this time using blasting horns, plus his now warmed sax-man pushing the limits with squealing intrusions which Jimmy responds with more cultured wailing. To be honest I'm struggling to make my mind up which is the better side. Both encapsulate everything that is great about R&B Northern Soul.
A listing for those of you who delight in owning those FIRST BORN records on their neighborhood labels, giving up value for money two for the price of one!.
Condition is superb
Condition Report
Two clean labels, a the promo "pointing finger" rubberstamp indicating Mr. DJ you need to play both sides. Vinyl carries full gloss, with just a few soft surface hairlines revealed under light. Strong play perfect mint minus.
Rotations
We Want Freedom / When He Slowly Moves Away From You* plays "Don't Ever Hurt Me"
Emandolyun : EM 12224 (45s)
"We Want Freedom" was a previously unissued track made available in minuscule ltd press of 200 circa 1992. Today these "special" discs are very seldom seen for sale, with "We Want Freedom" being held in high regard among vocal group harmony and rare soulful dance connoisseurs.
"When He Slowly Moves Away From You" was an error on "Manny's" part side is a miss-press, that plays their Law-Ton recording "Don't Ever Hurt Me". The lost recording of the rather fine intended recordinng, eventually got a long over due issue, when it was released in 2009 on the Roxanne label, after the wonderful ground work from Dave Thorley to make it available.
Underlining the pure vocal group quality that The Rotations have crafted through the years. Their six 45s all highly collectable, sought-after and valuable. All of the transmit seamless male harmony dance soul.
Two great sides, you also need to track down the real "When He Slowly Moves Away From You" before it's too late.
Now listen to two real vocal group winners.
Condition Report
Two Clean label, full gloss mint minus vinyl. A beauty!
Maurice Williams
Being Without You / Baby Baby
Deesu : 302 (45s)
As you're transported back and into the two most vibrant Soul allnighters of the time. Inside an heated space, records of this calibre elevated these rooms into explosive atmosphere's.
Hear that intense drum-roll intro, brushed aside by a brutal barrage of brass; rumbling across the A80 towards the M62 west to "The Casino" and rebounding back again.. Those Saturday nights in 1976 thru 78, the air must have been filled with stompin' Northern Soul music wafting from east to west, with only Long-Eared Bats picking up those vital vibrations..
THIS IS NORTHERN SOUL! encompassing everything we love about the sound. The classic style, at it's most imposing. From the first note to the last it's a tune that galvanized two clubs and 1000's of teenagers to a lifestyle never to be eclipsed...a culture that may never die...
Having said all that.. how did we back in the day, miss the rather good flipside ? "Baby Baby" is also drenched in everything required to pump up a dancefloor... a recommended surprise drop for the enterprising NS DJ
Condition Report
two clean labels, strong bright gold text, rich unfaded full depth green landscape. full gloss vinyl revealing just a couple of superficial sleeve storage hairlines when angled in the light.
Rita Dacosta
Don't Bring Me Down / The Golden Days Of Now
Pandora : M-7050 (45s)
This find was the then unknown Weybridge production, first mix before it was remixed and issued by New York Mohawk label with a new "Spice Production" personality. Besides being ridiculously rare the Pandora first label also is much more subtle in its approach to Rita booming vocal.
What the actual connection with the St. Petersberg / Clearwater / Tampa Bay area was, I don't know, but over the decades the only rare finds of this disc, seemed to have been consistently around that area of Florida. Now there's a puzzle, because arranger, producer Bert Keyes had his roots firmly planted in New York. At the time of its unveiling at Cleethorpes, I was very excited and expected a mad rush to see this new version, from inquisitive collectors ad DJs. The opposite happened, although the dancefloor filled to tipping point, as Rita's potent outbursts always triggered dancing mayhem. Hardly anybody notice the vasat difference between the known version and this subtly served NS delight.
Other the years though, free of distractions from enhancing drugs, the bustle of the crowd, this seriously rare 45 has become a top-want for those seeking out tge rarest versions of the top NS classics.
Unlike my 1976 find, this copy is in full gloss mint minus condition, with two perfect labels, that stood out like a sore-thumb that day it was crammed haphazardly in a large cardboard box with only Art Freeman on Jumbo and Delorise Berry on Gator for a soulful companions.
A good day's junking in a charity shop that was...
Condition Report
Two totally clean labels, full gloss vinyl revealing only the merest fine sleeve storage hairline when angled in the light.
Johnny Maestro & The Crests
I'm Stepping Out Of The Picture / Afraid Of Love
Scepter : SRM 12112 (45s)
The Northern Soul anthem that defines the 100 Club's passion for the BIG PRODUCTION.
A 100 Club signature tune with few, if any comparable challenger's!
There is always a slot in any NS DJ set, to drop this colossal production in to, changing the mood, upscaling the moment, as Johnny's anguished but resolved voice soars on a wave of full orchestral triumph! As he decides it's time to "Step Out The Picture" although she has had him "Fooled For Such A Long, Long Time" he's made up his mind, he's now leaving a selfish love affair. (proud of himself as he reflects upon her unnecessary indifference)
We are so used to the Soul Man in denial, as he apologetically begs for his girl's return, how uplifting it is to hear a jubilant “enough is enough” decision being made by one of New York's greatest ever vocalists. Not for the first time the brilliantly storytelling lyrics from Mark Barkan and Ben Raleigh, are set to a Northern Soul Brill Building production, but for me and most everyone else this is the greatest of them all.
The combination of Johnny's muscular key-changing vocal, The Crests lush harmony support, the intricate orchestral arrangement carrying those picture-painting lyrics, heralds this NS beater head & shoulders above all-challengers for No. 1 Northern Soul big-production of them all.
LOVE IT!
Condition Report
Two clean stock copy labels, tiny bb drill, vinyl is immaculate a so very near Manship Mint!
Shirley Johnson
Too Big To Cry / same: instrumental
Lashawn : LA 010 (45s)
Masterful Sister Northern Soul crossover of the very highest order! From the desk of accomplished Norfolk soulman Wilson Williams, who himself has showered his lyrical prowess with his ABC album and his highly sought after local "How Big" 45 releases.
What a perfect marriage Shirley Johnson and Wilson make. Shirley's commanding vocal, sounding like Denise LaSalle or Betty Wright (high praise indeed) as she dismisses love-inflicted pain, brushing it off with a "I'm Too Big To Cry". Shirley certainly is "big"! Big in presence, big in delivery and huge in her convincing inner strength, as she plays out the "My man has done me wrong" lyrics; with poise, calm and soul sister class.
A recording, that epitomizes female Northern Soul crossover, a total dancefloor floor winner, suffering from only one thing...
EXTREME RARITY!
Condition Report
Tiny name "Ray" on a-side label, otherwise clean. vinyl reveals multiple soft suface hairlines
Ken Boothe
Is It Because I'm Black / version
Splash : 7631 (45s)
Ken Boothe convincing version of the Syl Johnson Chicago civil rights anthem, Ken rendition carries dance pulse of considerable weight and passion, giving it a whole new dimension. The Jamaican treatment, for me, taking this seminal song to yet another level.
That's why we have decided to list it on the "Soul" pages rather than with the Reggae listings, as at this momet in time it is having a profound affect over through on-line DJ set and the impending Sunday chills that reverberated with Ken's magnificent interpretation before lockdown.
Listen and prepare to be mesmerized by this deconstruction of a timeless song, that amazing trumps the original!
Very hard to acquire in clean condition.
Condition Report
a minuscule x on a-side label, otherwise two clean faces. vinyl carries full gloss revealing only a few soft surface hairlines.
Verma Lewis
You Do / Somebody Help Me
Gold Token : GT 103 (45s)
Opening up with barrage of triumphant trumpets, joyous vocal group choruses cradle Verma through this solid upbeat Northern Soul dancer, that few DJs own. We know very little about the singer, and would suggest the creators could easily have credited it to a girl group, as the persistent girl choruses amount to an enthusiastic uplifting girl group session.
Written by the mysterious Verma herself, produced by the Larry Johnson and his team; who created a huge output of indie soul releases through his Hollywood based “Vended” and associated labels. Larry calling upon Bettye Swann’s about to become arranger Hank Jernigan, for the finishing touches.
Another soul obscurity from Larry’s workplace, an enterprise that spawned great Northern Soul contributing acts, like the Bobby Mac, Lashons, Del-Rays, Ruby Sherry, Gene Carter, Resonics etc etc.
Who ever “Verma” was, she sure had a commanding voice, but no more 45s of her own, to our knowledge. Proper sister Northern Soul for those collector / DJ’s who likes a little mystery in their play sets and collections.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, full gloss mint minus vinyl, revealing just a few soft sleeve storage hairlines under light. Plays flawless.
Freddie Levi
Love Ballad / Dub Ballad
Life : 4874 (45s)
This version driven by that highly regarded session band gathering the Soul Syndicate dircted by Earl "Chinna" Smith, you can hear "Chinna" guitar licks talking to you throughout this killer mid-p[aced delight.
"Love Ballad" by Freddie McGregor is every bit as captivating, very soul with subtle Reggae undertones that seep under your skin. Listen and prepare to move this version into your favourite soulful-steppers as Feddie hits some glorious notes of passion.
Condition is sublime, this is a challenging 7" to acquire in any condition, this one looks previously unplayed.
A real treasure in this archive preservation.
Condition Report
two clean labels, full gloss mint minus vinyl - and exceptional copy
Cookie Jackson
Do You Still Love Me / Blind Love
Progress : 912 (45s)
Intimidating Northern Soul that started life "covered up" as "Mickie Champion - I've Gotta Know" an instant NS dancefloor hit.
A vortex of sister attitude that smacks you between the eye, an explosion of driving percussion, heavy-duty keyboard, twangy blues guitar decorates the session throughout. Squealing girl-choir affirming Cookie's question "Do You Still Love Me?" with bruising "I Got To Know" chants; before sliding back into seamless cooing of vocal support throughout.
A young future Motown hitmaker James Anthony Carmichael, under the experienced wing of Zeke Strong, the pair whipping up the perfect storm, to carry Cookie's heavy-handed appeals to her man.
A totally killer dancer, delivered by one sassy lady, her girlfriends guided by a pupil and his master...
Stand still if you can when this baby lifts off..
Condition Report
Two clean gold labels, vinyl reveals multiple soft surface hairlines, as you will hear it loud and clear, occasional low tick. Sound crashes through loud ad clear.
Rufus Lumley
I'm Standing / Let's Hide Away ( Me and You )
Holton : H-5001 (45s)
It is because this was a 100% Rufus Lumley creation, composed, arranged and produced himself and was never intended at any point to be dance to or considered to be Soul. It was the burgeoning all-night club culture of the late 60's that deemed it perfect to dance to. That culture of course found 1000's more b-sides that nobody had ever heard of or thought were ever records anybody would be inspired to dance to... but the infancy of Northern Soul was relentless in seeking out new material, to set their club or themselves apart. Rufus Lumley fitted that remit perfectly.
I was 18 years of age when I first heard this torrent of Northern Soul, from a man with blue-eyes, sweeping blonde hair and wide, whiter than white bleached tombstone smile.
An unlikely source you'd think for a mountainous vocal, fully capable of riding the barrage of brass, and those relentless shell-shocking rapid fire piano keys. It was after-all down to Rufus himself the crafting of this rumbling slab of Northern Soul. Rufus's uncompromising booming vocal, riding a production of equal menace. Instant Northern Soul just add the stylus...
First discovered when Martin Barnfather, after his weekly browse through "Record Mirror's" new release reviews; noticed, the reviewer thought, the then unknown Rufus Lumley sounded a "bit like Elvis". Martin certainly appreciated a bit of "The King" so he ordered a copy blind. Wow.. how pleased was he, when Rufus worked his gatecrashing charm, emitting dance-power of such magnitude.
Martin wisely didn't tell too many people about his "vinyl-jackpot-win", EMI quickly deleted the 45 that never received any Radio attention and a legendary tune was born..
It was 7 years later, was when I first heard it, down that fabled cellar-of-Soul our regular Saturday afternoon rendezvous inside an "Aladdin's Cave" at "Select-A-Disc" Arkwright Street, Nottingham.
Northern Soul records in that tiny space had the power the take you off your feet. Imagine me and my buddies, having that intro blasted in our ears for the very first time.
WOW what THE %*&! ... is this! I instantly stretched my neck over the turntable, in was on Stateside.. it looked magnificent, it sounded spellbinding.."Is this for sale" I asked. It was "but it's gonna cost you a tenner" that was 8 times more than I'd ever paid before, and £10 was all I had left from my £14 gas fitting apprentice brown-envelope.
But I had to own it, I was now penniless but I felt like Royalty... what a tune to own, it soon became a Kirby Lane Youth Club anthem, as every Friday night I would proudly play it.. it was the greatest record I'd ever owned...
The power of Northern Soul and Rufus Lumley had embedded another indelible NS memory in my head, that still sparks those shivers down the neck, every time I encounter that thumpin' intro and that booming vocal... that sounds absolutely nothing like Elvis.. btw.
Just one of many examples of the embryonic British Northern Soul culture, that picked their own music to dance to, from wherever they could find, with no prejudices, preconceptions or boundaries. If it moved you inside and made you want to dance it was a candidate for the turntable as long as it crossed the line from pop to soul...
This B-side became a monster, the Northern Soul movement became the biggest underground music collectors scene on the planet, an evolution driven by youngsters rejecting conformity by discovering their own music - Rufus Lumley - I'm Standing - a flipside that nobody would have ever heard or danced to, if it wasn't for those young 60's music pioneers from Great Britain.
Condition Report
Vinyl reveals only a few light marks, some soft surface hairlines, as you can hear none of which affect play. Both labels are squeaky clean, a tiny bb drill its only flaw. A fabulous example of this legendary classic.
Jay Player
Love Is The Answer / Love Is The Answer part 2
Bevnik : JP 556 (45s)
When extreme talent get together in one room, exceptional music is sure to be created.
Back in 1982 Billy Butler, Alan Harris an Al Johnson collaborated in Baltimore, Maryland. Bringing together three great musical minds, crafting stunningly uplifting 80's soulful dance.
To compliment Jay's urgent vocal delivery, the trio pull together a crew of provocative girls enriching the arrangement, opening the proceedings as they glide on warm thermals of considerate horns, keyboard, and unstated guitar picking, as glorious strings fill the air. All classily presented as a Jazz/Soul recording, brilliantly avoiding all temptations to fall into a crass cliché-crammed disco crowd-pleaser.
Totally soulful, as Jay Player's vocal darts in and out hitting the high notes when necessary but nothing is strained or forced. This is free flowing fluid soulful dance at its most exhilarating; all the elements seamlessly complimenting each other, as you'd expect from three soul men who know exactly how to create a superior dance recording and choosing the perfect voice to carry out their vision, putting the emphasis on soulful-dance.
Thankfully this inspirational dancefloor journey is extended on the flipside, including a most-magnificent bongo/string instrumental break, that those girls deliciously exploit all your erogenous zones with celestial choruses.
Two great sides, from Baltimore's finest guys at the controls.
Condition Report
Two flawless
Magnetics
Count The Days / When I'm With My Baby
Sable : 101 (45s)
First discovered in the autumn of 1977 under a piano in a house in Columbus, Ohio to grace the turntables of Cleethorpes Winter Gardens, but not as the truly awesome "Count The Days" but as the magnificently motivating "When I'm With My Baby".
In those heady days of the upbeat dancer, the beauty of "Count The Days" somehow passed me by. That actually the song was a complete masterpiece of the Chicago vocal-group sound. A glorious showering of male voices, woven into a haunting arrangement constructed by one of the Chicago genius conductors, Richard Evans. Richard also presided over the group's other magnificent Sable 45 "I'll Keep Holding On". Richard Evans is now becoming an often noted musical director on these pages for crafting standout Northern Soul.
After years of being a blinkered Northern Soul DJ, seeking only dancefloor energy to drop onto the turntables. "Count The Days" has since been elevated to the dizzy heights, of my all-time top 10 Northern Soul singles.
The subtle softness of the bass guitar intro, drifts ghost-like, on a wave of vocal group cooing, opening up the way for Lee McKinney's edgy vocal to cut its path through, to those heart-rending lyrics. Considerate percussion invites you onto the dancefloor. Then Richard Evans gently dresses-up the landscape with heavenly horns and the scene is now set for you to absorb those beseeching lyrics. Lee counts the days of the week, affirmed by his teammates as they glide skyward on a now blasting brass thermal.
This seamless flowing cocktail of group vocals and instruments digs deep into your senses, as does singer's intense urgency to get back home to his girl. Presumably after a gruelling tour of duty in Vietnam.
The side that took Cleethorpes by storm on its debut is pure undiluted vocal-group Northern Soul, an instantaneous dancefloor incendiary-device saturated with everything we love, to be able to fully express yourself on the Northern Soul dancefloor.
PROPER NORTHERN SOUL. which ever side you drop the arm on! A seriously rare 45. A GRAIL, saturated in the ability to lift your day, your week, your year - actually your life - as this is a must own before you die Northern Soul experience.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, bright crisp vinyl revealing only soft background crackle on the run-in of "Count The Days"
Epitome Of Sound
You Don't Love Me / Where Were You
Sandbag: S 101 DJ (45s)
Except to say this authentic original WHITE PROMO is 100's yes 100's of times rarer than the stock copy. Currently change hand for eye-waterinng sums.
If you are going to take ownership of one of the greatest Northern Soul creations ever made... make it the rarely encountered WHITE PROMO!
Respect and love, Robert Paladino..
you and your team have sent 1000's of young British Northern Soul fans into ecstasy for over 5 decades..
Condition Report
Clean labels no writing, tears, stickers or stains, see images. Vinyl reveals some very light surface hairlines, none affecting play.
Philip James
Keep On Loving / Keep On Loving part 2
Longwood: 1908 (45s)
Condition Report
Two clean labels, full gloss vinyl, only the finest of hairlines visible when angled in the lights, play perfect.
Edwin Starr
Time / Running Back And Forth
Tamla Motown : TMG 725 DJ (45s)
Condition Report
Two perfect green and white promo labels, flawless full gloss mint vinyl!
Paramount Four
Sorry Ain't The Word / Baby Without You
Kent : 6T 26 (45s)
With total bias, driven by my obsession with male vocal group soul harmony, especially if it's woven into an irresistible Northern Soul dance production... "Sorry Ain't The Word" the finest example of my first love in music.
Tennessee soul craftsman Robert Holmes once again delights with a seamless production right in the shadow of the mighty DOT records company of Gallatin, Tennessee. Making us again wonder why Dot rtecords never noticed such superior recordings on their doorstep.
This is a silky smooth, string cradled soulful glide into vocal-group excellent; The lead voice admitting his mistakes but realizes a simple apology isn't sufficient. "Sorry Ain't The Word", he is searching for something much more meaningful, to right his wrongs. The group play it out beautifully, tight seamless sweet harmonies. Caldwell Jenkins Jr.,William Earl ‘Cat’ Turner, James Wallace Simpson, and William Ellis Johnson draw heavily from the influences of soul gatherings of the time, hints of The Impressions, The Dells, The Vanguards melt into an understated cocktail of strings, muted horns, tingling keyboard and soft considerate drumming.
This is so classy, so memorable, for me NS vocal-group perfection. Bob Riley's arrangement full of creative, unusual dance rhythms that set it apart from the standard mid-60's male group dancers...
In all the glory of the a-side's brilliance, do not overlook the flipside, another spectacular "from the vaults" by Ace/Kent's detectives, an unissued duet version of Danny Monday's "Baby Without You"
What's no to adore about this 45...?
Condition Report
MINT!! Previously unplayed perfection.
Father's Angels
Bok To Bok / Don't Knock It
MGM: 1459 DJ (45s)
a Keith Minshull play, that became a "The Golden Torch" anthem circa 1972, when the Northern Soul instrumental was "King" before you today in the "King Of Those Kings".
Released by MGM in the UK only, with Jerry Ross not releasing his own production from his "Heritage" catalog. But MGM being under a contractual distribution commitment to Heritage. Ensuring they released more than just The Show Stoppers, Bill Deal and The Rhondels, Cherry People, Duprees etc. MGM chose this previously unissued track by The Father's Angels to reach their release quota, of "Heritage" offerings.
Jerry Ross told John Stratton of Select-A-Disc in 1975, when John was securing the "Bok To Bach" rights for the "Black Magic" label, that the Father's Angels were band of traveling Pennsylvania "Monks" all of whom were proficient musicians. Nobody was quite sure whether it was true at he time, but recent research seems to suggest they were indeed a largest gathering who were recommended to Ross by an Allentown priest.
With no writer credits seems this was a "Jam" session produced by Jerry Ross that coincidently just ticked all the Northern Soul boxes. So when the "two Dave's" from Manchester sold Steve Glover a copy of their new find, "Bok To Bach" was on its way to becoming the biggest most-wanted Northern Soul instrumental dancefloor destroyer in the UK circa 1972/73.
In 2021 this beyond-rare and utterly gorgeous Pink & Silver vision is still held in the highest esteem, so many old-school collectors have still yet to own a copy of, the most-influential Northern Soul instrumental of them all!
And it was issued in the UK Only!
Condition Report
Two bright clean pink demo labels, full gloss super clean vinyl.
Barbara Lynn
Movin' On a Groove / Disco Music
Jetstream : JS 829 (45s)
The gifted Barbara Ozen writes both sides of this delicious modern Soul dance experience. Her rich gravelly vocal the ideal contrast to her mentors, Huey P. Meaux's the silken arrangement heavily featuring Barbara prowess with the guitar, peppering a whirling keyboard backdrop, whilst pattering bongos pulses, driving Barbara into a seamless mood of highly accomplished soulful multi-tasking. An irresistible 70's dance giant unfolds.
Amazingly "Movin' On a Groove" started life as a flipside, another inspired Northern Soul turntable choice that unveiled its true potential, this record in the 90's the most-wanted of 70's dancers, that elevated it into classic NS position. A floor-filler back then and still a floor-filler today.
The flipside (the original A-side) is a delight also, a jerky jazzy/funky stroller rippling with class! Deceptively entitled "Disco Music" but is much more a jazz/funker than "disco" a slick stepper benefitting from Barbara's maturity with the mike, and fabulous hard-blown Houston-Horns that hang in the air throughout.
A spectacular double sider with "Movin' On a Groove" guaranteed just the very best of dancefloor reactions.
Condition Report
two clean labels, mint minus unblemished vinyl. Top copy..
Otis Smith
Let Her Go / Alley Full Of Trash And Bottles
Perception : 4 DJ (45s)
Or if your name is Dave Rivers, you'll be catapulted back to your cratediggin' youth when you discovered more new Northern Soul monsters, whilst vinyl 45 foraging in and around London. You'll also remember taking Otis Smith on a journey north to "The Torch" in Tunstall. Persuading Keith Minshull to play it, the instantly besotted Keith was then drove crazy, by your reluctant to sell.
Eventually Dave, you allegedly gave in when Keith's offer reached the insane sum of £40.00; an unheard of price for a previously unknown song. Keith of course played 3 or 4 times a set that night. By "going home time" Otis Smith was the most wanted Soul 45 in the country and Dave had renewed cashflow to go and find more records to tempt the Northern Soul DJ's with, as his relentless searches began again on the Monday.
Just imagine the "Torch" congregation when that mix of booming bassline and chiming vibes hit the air, then Otis's velvet-voice reverberated around those hallowed walls.
Let Her Go...You Don't Really Love that Girl,
Can't You See, That She Believes You Do
Why Keep Her Hanging On, When There's Nothing To Hang On To
Why Do You Tell Her Things, That You Know Won't Come True..
Let Her Go ... Do The Right Thing
Let Her Go...Be a Friend...
Let Her Gooowaoh, Let Her Go, You, Just Got To Let Go..
I Can't Help But Love Her So...
These lines mean more to the disciples of The Torch than most all Northern Soul records ever made. Go on tell me you've not sang it out loud as you danced...
IMMORTAL NORTHERN SOUL ... that will live forever...taking you to places.. that were just the very best of times.
Thanks Dave..
Condition Report
two clean promo labels, a minuscule sticker mark just over the "e" in perception, full gloss vinyl revealing only the merest soft hairline when angled in the light. still housed in birth-sleeve
J. J. Barnes
Our Love Is In The Pocket / All Your Goodies Are Gone
Revilot : 222 (45s)
A hard 45 to acquiire in nice condition.
Revilot's foundational 45 for Darrell Banks sitting on the flipside of "Open The Door To Your Heart" as this iconic label kicked off with one of Northern Soul greatest ever double siders. But of course "Our Love Is In the Pocket" was always far to good, to ever just be a flipside. Enter the label's other iconic male vocalist J. J. Barnes to rival the original. As you can hear this song is again elevated into Northern Soul perfection. A song that has got EVERYTHING sung by an artist that portrays it in it's finest light, partitioned by a sax-break to die for.
Their has always been controversy surrounding this iconic record. Do you prefer the original take by Darrell? Or does J. J. lift it just a little bit higher? My personal preference is for J J.'s silkier delivery and the celestial girl choir held high on the power of Mike Terry's booming baritone blasts. But the debate doesn't stop their. Do you prefer the gorgeous multi-colored Revilot label prone to storage wear and fade or does your eye like the fleshiness of the pink label vista that this Revilot gives up.
Choices, choices, choices?
But all this debate is pointless when to the reality is the PINK is pressed in durable VINYL and the multi-coloured alternative is pressed in fragile styrene.
and of course all these points are totally irrelevant when you are presented with this 56 year old, the memories release by the soundfile will be the deciding factor.
Detroit Northern Soul at its most motivational. and do not overlooked the fabulous Northern Soul instrumental on the flipside..."All Your Goodies Are Gone" this needs to be heard! Pattering Bongos, triumphant trumpets, Dennis Coffey-esque guitar riffs, peppered allover with glorious burping saxophone interrupts... a brilliant instrumental that screams DETROIT ... this has slept for too long.
Condition Report
two clean label, with not for sale sticker on a-side label, strong gloss vinyl, there is a tiny mark in the last 1/3 rd. You may be able to detect a few of low-fi tcks as it passes over it. all lost in the musuc
Wally Cox
This Man / I've Had Enough
Wand : WND 11233 DJ (45s)
Another wonderful example of Chicago Soul productions upping their game towards the end of the 60’s decade and the beginning of the 70’s. As Gene Chandler pulled together some of the city’s most progressive writers and arrangers into his fold.
Again we are talking about Gene enlisting the head of Cadet’s house-band Richard Evans weaving together a creative landscape for Wally’s battle-worn, jagged-edge vocal, making a delicious contrast to the Richard Evans blending of the piano / bongo intro, simultaneously decorated with beckoning celestial girls soaring overhead, brilliantly opening the way for Wally to stride on in.
Yes, what a team “The Duke” has again assembled, headed up by the creative Evans, a real-professor of jazz/soul, summoning up relentless barrage of swirling strings, peppered by a hailstorm of bongos - announcing those immortal opening words
“They Say You Have Lot Experience Baby - With A Lot Of Ups And Downs” - “But You Won’t Give Me Your Heart Little Girl - Now You Don’t Want
Me Around”
This is one of the ultimate Northern Soul male-rejection songs, lifted further into frustration and despair by those urgent girl choruses; ratcheting the pain of the “knock-back”, as Wally unashamedly reveals his desperation for her love. So exquisitely executed from both the male and female standpoint. One of those dance records you can’t avoid immersing yourself in, as you immediately feel his pain…
“This Man Wants You, This Man Needs You, Give Him A Chance”
First gracing the Northern Soul scene in the early 70’s. Made to the available later by Pye to become of of their best selling “Disco Demand” 45’s, also adorning the best selling 1975 Pye compilaztion album "Greatest Disco Demands”
But as the elusive December 1970 UDSA promo housed in its original Wand sleeve, is a such thing of beauty, the UK Pye reissue being rebuffed by NS DJs quicker and harder than Wally was in the song.
Truly inspiring Northern Soul in its rarest clothes..
Condition Report
Two clean promo labels, strong gloss on vinyl, revealing only some soft surface blemishes from a lifetime snug in its birth-sleeve.
Dr. Alimantado
Jah Have Mercy / Plea I Cause
Ital: 2448 (45s)
Written, arranged & produced by Winston Thompson for his own label Ital.
Condition Report
two clean labels, vinyl shows full gloss mint minus, a-side vinyl has a tiny wash of tippex on the intro, gives off a soft near inaudible tick on the first few turns. otherwise abd absolute standout copy.
Brenda Holloway
When I'm Gone / I've Been Good To You
Stateside Australia: OSS 173 DJ Australia (45s)
A thing of real beauty! A true rarity! Immaculate beyond imagination!
The history of "When I'm Gone" also piques my interest, just as much as Brenda's sumptuous performance. "When I'm Gone" of course was lined up to be Mary Wells's next big hit, to be released straight after the tidal-wave of worldwide sales of her biggest Motown hit "My Guy" had subsided. "When I'm Gone" was perfect for Mary Wells to repeat million seller with. But Mary had been unhappy for quite some time, having the low royalties from her 1960 contract she had signed when she was only 17 years of age. Mary was determined to leave Motown, much to the disappointment of Berry Gordy who tried desperately to renegotiate her contract. But Mary had already had her head turned and she signed a lucrative deal with 20th. Century Fox.
As expected Berry Gordy scrapped Motown's impending "When I'm Gone" release they had already printed a picture sleeves for. In typical unfazed Gordy style, he immediately replaced Mary's cancelled 45, with a 100% Smokey Robinson session that created what many consider Brenda's finest Motown moment. A recording that has remained deep in the hearts of British Motown and Northern Soul fans for over 55 years.
Today this iconic recording is presented here, in by far and away its least encountered format, a perfect 1965 Australia promo, a Motown/Northern Soul collectors trophy of the highest order.
Do not ponder, we are not going to see a copy as perfect as this one - most likely ever!
Condition Report
A perfect archive copy, utterly flawless still housed in its original birth-sleeve, most like unplayed, so we have lifted the soundfile from a previous British copy listing. So you receive a virgin-unplayed copy.<br /> Pulse racing condition, a vinyl-vista I'll never experience again!
Pulse racing condition, a vinyl-vista I'll never experience again!
Darrow Fletcher
It's No Mistake / Try Something New
Crossover : 980 (45s)
Back in time, as a teenager, we would all be looking forward to the weekend's adventure, solely to dance to soul records you couldn't hear anywhere else. Now I'm a pensioner I'm still doing the same thing, travelling to Great Yarmouth's annual Soul Essence weekender because I know I'm gonna hear records of this quality. Currently the preserve of discerning on-line DJ sets, or those much-missed chillout Sundays, where tunes like Darrow Fletcher's - It's No Mistake - make the lazy day go so swimmingly well.
After decades of being highly coveted by collectors and one of the finest examples of the soulful dance genre, it still hasn't yet crossed over to the NS mainstream. But received huge exposure in the North at places like The Orwell, Canal Tavern at Thorne etc. Venues where discerning DJs served up Michelin star dance soul. Some records are possibly too darn Soulful grab the attention of the masses.
Surely not!
As how could anybody not adore Darrow Fletcher and not be totally in love with this song. To be fair "It's No Mistake" is pretty elusive, as it is only available as the non-selling store copy. So maybe not too many NS mainstream DJ's own a copy? Whatever the stumbling-block for this 45 not being one of the most-wanted rare-soulful-dance 45s's on the scene. That will change at some point, as it is just one of the most sublime NS modern dancers of them all, and the reason this pensioner and his missus travel to places, we would never normally go to.
To hear Darrow in full flow, cradled by soaring strings, is a blissful experience.
It's a MASTERPIECE that every NS DJ should strive to have in their box - listen and float away on the warm thermals of a "Northern SOUL Giant" who made us all cry when he graced the stage at Cleethorpes Weekender and made us dream of owning his cancelled Crossover album, that these two tracks would have been part of.
Listen and weep, then listen and swoon, then listen and dance... you know ownership in the right hands is gonna make this awesome tune, leap to the next level.
Condition Report
MINT in birth-sleeve - previously unplayed perfection
Mary Love
Lay This Burden Down / Think It Over Baby
Modern : 45xM 1029 DJ (7")
But NS DJ and sound conscious collector, will love the super clean vinyl, strong gloss on both sides, revealing just a few fine surface hairlines under light. PLays loud, crisp and clean.
So very importaht when it is exploding with proper Northern Soul on every note, driven by the production power of Arthur Wright, the ideal backdrop for the unrelenting vocal potency of Mary Love's impassioned delivery, you have destructive top-drawer "Northern Soul" presented here in seldom seen October 1966 Los Angeles promo copy.
Listen to an unparalleled sister dancefloor destroyer that has demolished British dancefloors since the infancy of Northern Soul "The Twisted Wheel" "King Mojo" etc. the top 60s allnite clubs this song was an anthem. Giving up the perfect inspiration for the amphetamine fueled dancers. This is not only devastating Northern Soul dance at it very finest, it is also Mary Love at her most-tortured. Listen as she peppers a monumental Arthur Wright dance creation with despairing, desperate "Gospel" inspired lyrics. Strangely contradicting the joy and inspiration you experience whilst dancing, Mary Love is purging herself of all her ever-mounting pain.
A thundering girl-NS-Anthem, with few, if any equals.
listen and prepare to be inspired..
Condition Report
PROMOTION COPY NOT FOR SALE text has been redacted on both sides. A-side label has a worn FOR DEMONSTRATION USE ONLY NOT FOR SALE sticker oin place. Flipside label has a soft 20% h2o stain coming down from the top (see images). Vinyl is super clean, strong gloss, revealing just a few fine surface hairlines under light.
Gaylads
Tears From My Eyes / Never Let Your Country Down
Studio 1 : SO 2002 (45s)
Clement Dodd amalgamates the two eras brilliantly.
"Tears From My Eyes" a sulking C. S. Dodd project, rarely comes to market in any condition. This copy has two clean labels, 4 prong centre removed. Vinyl gives up some soft ticks and pops along the way, but nothing that detracts or override the beckoning pulses of this haunting Rock Steady experience of rich male vocals, gliding over compelling dance rhythms. Taking it into Belgium "Popcorn" territory, but first and foremost a killer example of 1967 moody Rock Steady.
"Never Let Your Country Down" C. S. Dodd injects only feel-good beats with uplifting hard-blown, triumphant brass support. As the Gaylads take a nationalistic view, advising a patriotic stance of never letting your country down. Delivered in an optimistic carnival style delivery, but always keeping the vocals in glorious tight harmony, upbeat and inspiring.
Two great sides who under C. S. Dodd has several hits "Stop Making Love" "Lady in the Red Dress", "Don't Say No", "You Should Never Do That" etc. but the moody "Tears From My Eyes" staying relatively obscure, rising up in later years as, their most-wanted Studio 1 / Coxsone 45.
In any condition this is trophy 45.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, 4 prong centre removed. Vinyl reveals m multiple surface marks.
Mickey Lee Lane
(They're All In ) The Senior Class / The Zoo
Swan : S-4199-S (45s)
His association with John Linde & Pete Antell continued into 1964 when the the pair arranged & produced this debut Swan 45 for the clearly gifted Mickey. With Linde and Antell allowing him to express himself with a cocktail of Rockabilly, Garage & R&B culminating in this, an irresistible double helping of Rock n' Roll featuring some savagely innovative guitar playing. A guitar break complimenting his brutal vocal style with a pause of excellence. The uncompromising "Senior Class" crosses boundaries, ticking all three boxes of these dance genres.
Flip it over and Mickey Lee Lane pushes the envelope even further, as he unleashes a truly brilliant explosion of his extreme guitar prowess, introducing his aggressive gravel coated vocal, highly skilled in delivering relentless tongue-twisting lyrics that leave you breathless. This is no sing-a-long Rock'n Roller this is a belligerent discharge of pent-up genius.
Take a listen to this guy uncork his true self and start a run of five 45s that today are considered essential collectors items.
Both sides ground-breaking Philadelphia like you've never heard it before!
Then Mickey armed with insane guitarist skills driven by unbridled (guitar and vocals), Bobby Butts (sax and vocals), Mike DeVivo (lead vocals), John Linde (drums) and Mickey Lee Lane (bass).
Before Mickey crashes back into the fray.
Condition Report
two clean labels, full gloss mint minus vinyl, reveals only the merest sleeve storage hairline under light.
Big Daddy Rogers
I'm A Big Man / Be My Lawyer
Midas : 9006 (45s)
Written by the prolific Chicago lyricist Verlie Rice, who's work with the M-Pac/One-der-Ful/Mar-V-Lus grouping of colourful labels is legendary.
When in 1968 those iconic labels finally folded, Verlie's presence was still being felt across the Windy City when this Goliath was let loose...
whether by design or coincidence rhythms from Mel Torme's addictive "I'm Coming Home" were replicated in the background whilst the "Big Daddy" did exactly what it said on the can...The "big man" he strode out, he stalked and he threatened, whilst demolishing everything before him; until those hints "Coming Home Baby" evaporated, laying down a ferocious track of R&B dance. Aided by an angry saxophonist, giving his instrument an unforgiving slapping, making it squeal for mercy; as all this time Big Daddy's gnarled voice is growling like a Grizzly Bear who's dropped his prize Salmon back in the river.
High octane adrenaline is injected into it's veins, right from the very start, as a droning bass guitar drags you onto the dancefloor.. then the Big Daddy goes to work on you...
Check out Verlie's lyrics; full of spectacular one-liners, like "She's Got A Sweet Tooth And She Loves My Jelly Roll" and "I Will Hurt You, I'm Gonna Take You To The Wood Shed And Drop A Couple Of Planks On You " This guy has to be taken seriously.
This is real-deal R&B Northern Soul, a classic that without exception ignites the atmosphere, just like a huge angry Bear has just gatecrashed your room..,
Condition Report
X on a-side label, glorious mint minus vinyl. Top copy, straight from the USA absolutely no Northern Soul circuit outings,
Sheiks
Missing You / Tell Me Bird
Parlophone : R 5500 (45s)
Silky harmonies with deliciously quirky high-pitches in the delivery, peppered with simplistic but highly effective guitar corridors throughout. A rather brilliant and unusual production, that will have you on repeat play as you try and digest its truly inventive but unconventional make-up.
A five man beat-group from Portugal with a fabulous command of the English language, an overriding command of silky harmonies and deft guitar playing. Click the soundfile and prepare to be entranced, by, what at first you think are the naïve vocals, but soon realize they are all deliberately served off-key, which is absolutely this 45's attraction. Accomplished plectrum work decorates the verses and it works brilliantly; in no time at all you'll be hooked into its unique makeup.
The flipside has an even more eccentric flow to it. the lead vocal maybe starts off making you wince, then all of a sudden you "get it". As it creeps under your skin, the guitar earworm accompaniment opens up hairlines in your structure for this unusual song to bury itself in to. it is actually very darn right addictive.
A cult 45 that only those who have dug very deep over the years, will know anything about. A record that rewards your curiosity two times over.
Two great sides, one extremely rare disc.
Condition Report
two clean labels, 4 prong centre intact. fine clean vinyl, full gloss with only fine storage hairlines on the surface. a very fine example still housed in its birth-sleeve.
Austin Taylor
Why O Why / Can't You See I'm Busy
Sprout Artist: 731 (45s)
With the prolific J. R. Bailey under the eye of lady label entrepreneur Zelma Sanders, the same combination that served up that impressive Sity and James on Sprout. "Why O Why" also sits under the radar of New York obscurity. This Austin Taylor session is even rarer than that! No confirmed information on this artist with the brazen-booming voice, only his early 60’s Sam Cooke inspired mid-tempo grooves.
Now, some years later, he is in very good company with Zelma & Jimmy guiding things. Summoning up a hard-blown saxophone display to enrich and match up to Austin’s snarling vocal. A muscular background, then the sax-man gets the opportunity halfway through, to leave his mark. Letting rip with an imposing solo, which he repeats just before the end. A fabulous compliment to Austin Taylor throaty crooning.
Meaty Northern Soul of a the very rarest kind.
Flip it over Deep Soul scholars with really appreciate Austin's strapping approach to this imploring "Zelma Sanders" created ballad, lifted by girl-group choruses and again the the sax-man bolsters the background. Strong tune!
Two sides previously unknown to us, street-level Big Apple soul, with neighborhood edge and attitude ... we love it twice-over.
The lead side is as featured on the 2013 Kent CD that was crammed with serious rarities - "New Breed Blues with Black Popcorn" a 24 track journey into the rarest of the rare...
As a vinyl 45, we think this is an "impossible" rarity.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, full gloss unblemished vinyl, giving up just very fine sleeve contact hairline under light!
Rubin
You've Been Away / Baby You're My Everything
Kapp : K-869 DJ (45s)
of the biggest NS dancefloor m,otivators of them all.
By November 1967 they repeated that feat, by producing the other ultimate dancefloor destroyer. Rubin - You've Been Away - the two ultimate Northern Soul stompers that will libe in the heart of the Northern Soul scene forever.
Both tunes WIGAN CASINO ANTHEMS with few rivals, both from the desk of Bob Schwartz and Randy Irwin.
Do not overlook Rubin's heartfelt version of Jerry Williams's "Baby You're My Everything" a mighty New York beast-ballad well worthy of your attention
Condition Report
An opportunity to acquire a Northern Soul classic top 50 all time great at an affordable price. Multiple light surface marks but plays well and both promo labels are free of any major flaws.
Patty Stokes
Is It True / Good Girl (Can You Be)
Mir-A-Don : M-D 1005 (45s)
BEFORE YOU TODAY IS THE MOST WANTED GIRL VOCAL NORTHERN SOUL CROSSOVER TUNE OF THEM ALL.
The reason I say this, here's a double-delight of Northern Soul I first heard in circa 1977 when I found a handful of Mir-A-Don 45s about 7 different 45's a few copies of each. But this one stood out as being a different label colour and by a girl at the time I'd never heard of.. Just imagine my delight when it turned out to be classic style Northern Soul.. "Good Girl (Can You Be)" was an unknown and a killer. I considered dead-right for Wigan Casino was my first thought, so I rang Richard Searling and played him it down the phone. Sounded absolutely brilliant, whether he bought a copy, I can't remember; but Soul Sam certainly did. Closely watching his reactions as he played it, the barometer for the asking price went full circle. His hands started twitch and twiddle the controls of the record player (good sign), then his shoulders started to move (very good sign), then I got the ultimate vote of YES!
When Soul Sam's hips started wriggle ever so slightly...(the best sign) I knew he loved it.
After that Soul Sam wiggle-dance, his poker face was an utterly useless bargaining tool, when he lifted the record off the decks and pronounced "Not Bad" and casually threw the record of a pile of "Maybe's". He of cause went home with a copy, at a "Not Bad" price..
But through this journey not once, did I or anyone else playing the disc notice the utterly breathtaking excursion into Northern Soul Crossover that "Is It True" s[pills from the speakers.. not until after the millennium did those "shifting sands" start to move towards superior mid-paced Soulful dancers like "Is It True", today it's the stomping "Good Girl" that nobody seems to mention or play..
For me personally, "Is It True" today is a huge part of my DJ set, it is without question one of the ultimate Sister mid-tempo grooves of all-time.. and seems to be getting bigger and bigger by the day.. Without exception when I drop it, somebody will come to the stage and ask "what is this...?" I have recently been asked by several DJs seeking ownership of this crucial Crossover spin, to sell it.
Click the soundfile and take a deep breath, Patty Stokes is about to hit you with impeccable Northern Soul Crossover, followed by a top-drawer, classic style Northern Soul girl dancer, backed beautifully by "The Ascots" vocal group harmonies.. this too is a fantastic tune that may yet have it's day again.. when the sands shift back the quality Northern Soul 45s that haven't been played to death.
Two great sides, one very elusive disc, now perched at the very pinnacle of the NS femme-crossover-tree.
Condition Report
Good gloss, just a few fine soft hairlines revealed when angled in the light. As you will hear none affecting play on either side. Both labels are clean, with full depth blue, no fade or rub, totally clean; no X's, writing, stickers, tears or stains. A very fine copy indeed
Helen Shapiro
He Knows How To Love Me / Shop Around
Columbia : DB 7340 (45s)
After Helen’s meteoric rise to fame, from her school band “Susie and the Hula Hoops” that featured Marc Bolan on guitar. To her 2 number 1 solo hits at the age of 14, voted “Best British Female Singer at the age of 16. Helen followed her attraction to USA R&B in 1964. But failing to achieve a hit or even break into the top 30 for that year or any year that followed there after.
Both sides of this her rarest 45, underline Helen’s powerhouse vocal drenched in that personal love for the emerging soul sound. Her 14 track album for 1964 “Helen Hits Out” was sadly an ironic title, as Helen was totally now out of “hits” as she moved in her “soul” era. “Helen Hits Out” is an album crammed with soul covers, inc: “Shop Around” but no sign of her brilliant own composition “He Knows How To Love Me” which remained 45 only.
Her producer Ivor Raymonde, jazz pianist, arranger. Was already guiding Dusty Springfield to her own meteoric rise to fame and fortune, whilst the incredibly talented Helen’s career was in decline. Two polar opposites, but Ivor’s output with both ladies was of the highest quality.
On this seldom seen 45, her sublime almost spoken intro immediately captures your attention, with her beautifully mysterious dusty-throat delivery ensuring you must hear more. Then Ivor rolls out a fabulous dance arrangement; a cocktail of Latin influenced cowbells start to shower the intro, before accelerating triumphant trumpets lift the session into an irresistible NS dancer. Helen’s presence is then enhanced further by swirling strings, but still pelted by those relentless dance-inducing cowbell pulses. Raymonde then goes for the crescendo by adding choir choruses into the background. A magical instrumental break incorporating all the Latin influenced instruments already in place, a nonchalant Helen strolls back for the classy piano tail off from the fingers of the producer… closing a truly memorable session.
Throughout all that capitivating musicianship, the over-riding pleasure is the magnificent teenage vocal of an apparently “in love” Shapiro.
It is purely academic that her version of ‘“Shop Around” is also exceptional.
In a conversation I had decades ago, with Helen’s recording engineer Terry Tompkins. Terry’s thoughts were “If it wasn’t for Helen’s natural shyness coupled with her unwillingness to be part of the high pressure fakery of show business. Helen would have rose to become one of the world’s greatest female singers ever”. Instead Helen chose her work carefully, doing only what she loved whether it be stage, TV or fronting top British jazz bands in small personal venues. Or touring with her own one woman show “Simply Shapiro” Helen is without question one of the greatest female voices ever to emerge from these shores.
“He Knows How To Love Him” is by far her classiest Northern Soul offering.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, 4 prong centre intact, still housed in birth sleeve.
Thelma Lindsey
Prepared To Love You / Why Weren’t You There
Magic City : MC 006/5 DJ (45s)
Two spectacular Detroit-diva delights hit you smack between eyes, the is heavy-duty Northern Soul at its most powerful. It's a hard choice which side is the superior-stomper. After more than 45 years, I still can't decide.
As you will hear both sides give up quintessential Northern Soul, real deal dance recordings presented on one of Detroit’s most attractive labels.
This delicious double helping of top drawer Northern Soul is just as click away...
sending out a far more persuasive message for ownership ... than wordy superlatives from us ever could.
THIS IS NORTHERN SOUL!
Condition Report
The rarely seem promo labels, reveal writing and X X nothing too distracting (see images). Vinyl gives up multiple light surface marks, none of which react with the stylus, as you can hear it plays a strong true ecxcellent. listen to the impressive double soundfile listed directly ace emitting perfect true sound!
Preston Love
Ali Baba's Boogie / That's All Right Baby
Ultra : 103 (45s)
Preston Love the master of the Sax!
As a young man he played with Count Basie's Orchestra, forming his own band in the early 50's working with jazz greats like Biullie Holiday, Lena Horne, Billie Holiday, Wynonie Harris etc. This heavy weight R&B Popcorn vocal/instrumental was born when he teamed up with his friend and fellow Californian Johnny Otis. With Johnny's Show adding the the vocal element whilst Preston Love wielded his sax-power and directed the interjections of the haunting flute, Johnny directed the vocal support.
Pressed in March 1956, the rarity features a glorious cocktail of R&B, Jazz and Swing - perfect Popcorn dancefloor fuel. Flute intro sets the Far East backdrop in place, male vocal chants of "Ali" are gatecrashed by Preston Love's blow-hard Saxophone, momentarily stealing the show; until a blues plectrum cuts the song into ribbons by some magnificent slide-guitar intrusions. The flute snakes its way back in, followed by more chants of "Ali" and you cannot prevent this narcotic creation from creeping under your skin.
A killer tune, underlining the addictive dancefloor possibilities that an accomplished Jazz/R&B gathering can create, when friends get together and jam!
The flipside requires some appreciation also, the backing arrangement credited to "The Love Bugs" but is essentially his close friend Johnny Otis and team.
Condition Report
Two flawless labels, archive condition vinyl, revealing just soft signs of a lifetime in its brown-birth-sleeve.
Ritchie Adams
I Can’t Escape From You / Road to Nowhere Name
Congress: CG 256 DJ (45s)
Very remote, so we are surprise to be able too offer a near perfect example for the 2nd. Time in 12 months, the last copy ended after an cyberspace dog-fight to the death. We imagine this listing will be met with similar fervor.
Putting three of New York's most-creative music-men in one room was always gonna produce something very special. Richie Adams, Jerry Ragovoy & Artie Butler conjure up one of the most instantly recognizable Northern Soul stompers of all time.
Jerry Ragovoy summoning up a searing girl-group chorus, Ritchie attacks his own lyrics with screaming enthusiasm; whilst Artie Butler's mastery of the piano, blasts holes in a relentless arrangement. This is an awesome session lifted yet another level by a a strapping saxophone break, then Artie B. is off again, racing into a piano solo with no equals.
THIS IS NORTHERN SOUL !!
.. at it's most compelling... a driving force that has inspired the NS dancefloors of Britain for decades..
How great to hear it again.. and adrenaline rush I thought I'd forgotten, when i found it, repeated when I dro
Condition Report
Two totally clean labels. Play perfect vinyl that only revealing soft surface hairlines, a small superficial graze, all cosmetic as it plays mint. All housed in the nearly as rare, highly coveted authentic Congress company sleeve.
Johnny Nash
( I'm So ) Glad You're My Baby / Stormy
MGM : 1480 DJ (45s)
Top side has recently enjoyed Northern Soul turntable outings, with it's fabulous intro instantly pulling you towards the dancefloor. A very special production indeed, one you just can't ignore as Johnny again confirms himself as one the greatest "soul" voices of the last century! Supported by a full male-group chorus and a fully stock orchestra. This recording seamlessly flows right through you, inspiring stuff that is long overdue for Northern Soul acclaim. As Mickey Stevenson uses all of his Motown experience to conjure up a mountain arrangement to match this crooner's velvet vocal.
Also check out the wonderful big production "Stormy" not the Buddy Buie & James Cobb composition that makes us all swoon when the Supremes purr out those lyrics; but an equally captivating presentation of Detroit poetry by Leon Ware & Vicki Basemore that you will find yourself submerging into its irresistible charms. "Stormy" is an overlooked masterpiece of the "Soul" big production. A surprise candidate for the last record of the night, such a stirring atmosphere it creates.
Two wonderful sides, just like the label...a memorable standout, all round Northern Soul treasure... especially in these clothres and in such pristine condition.
Condition Report
Two clean promo label, full gloss mint minus vinyl, still housed in birth sleeve, a magnificent copy.
Sandy Hadley
Since I Found A Love / I'll Never Try To change You
So-Char : SC 12000 (45s)
You are viewing in my opinion one of the very RAREST of Northern Soul originals, not many can boast ownership of an authentic original. This Bobby Martin Philly creation as an authentic original so very seldom comes to market.
In the world of internet record dealing, only a handful have surfaced this century. Underlined by DISCOGS "never" in the previous sales notation. Until recently only showing the "bootleg" copy, this first press "Bell Sound" stamped copy, is super-rare and in dream pristine archive condition, dare we say "impossible"
If you were not around in 1975/76 you need to take a listen to the genius of Robert L. Martin aided by Steve Schulman molding distilled stompin' Northern Soul. After Bobby Martin's piano builds, calling in a barrage of horns, punctuated by a Mike Terry style low-blow saxophone, carrying Sandy's expressive vocal along on a wave of Philly enthusiasm. Caressed by a shrill girl-group chorus, carrying the song headlong into a screaming saxophone break, ratcheting the session up and beyond!
Backdrop & spin time.. proper real-deal Northern Soul... with Bobby Martin adding layer after layer of Philly punch into the mix, up and up it soars, until you are swept away on complete torrent of pure Northern Soul ... until breathless the session gently trickles away...
This 45 was of course a simultaneous Wigan Casino and Cleethhorpes Pier smash in the mid-70's, that gave rise to a horrid vinyl bootleg.
But under today's OVO scrutiny you just don't hear it played.. begging the question "just how many DJ's presenting a Wigan Casino or Cleethorpes Pier oldies tributes, actually own a proper Sandy Hadley"? We're presuming hardly any of today's Niter-Jock's can boast ownership of a Bona-fide, authentic original first press.
Having raved about its unquestionable Northern Soul pedigree, we must mention a rather wonderful Beat Ballad flipside, with Bobby Martin & Steve Schulman incorporating a full orchestra for a fantastic "Beast Of A Stroller" showcasing what a seamless but muscular vocal Sandy gives up ...
Sunday chill-out material at it's most powerful - Those Carib Soul boys get a listen I think you may appreciate it. Two great sides so rarely encountered as the authentic original - and never at this level of perfection!
Condition Report
A perfect archive copy - utterly flawless - previously unplayed - MINT!
Gene Woodbury
Ever Again / That's Not Half Bad
Del-Val : 1005 (45s)
A divisive song for some. Only because the scene is equally split trying to decide which version is better, which version is the one to own. Bernie Williams on Bell or Gene Woodbury on Del-Val.
Ever since Colin Curtis circa 1973, first played this irresistible take by Bernie Williams, the chase was on to own a copy was on. But the extreme rarity, validated throughout the years pushed the Bernie Williams demand and value to the outer limits of most collector's budgets. What a collectors relief when, in the late 70s the intrepid vinyl-hunter John Anderson R.I.P. discovered another version, surfacing for a brief tome in small quantities. On its attractive "mother" label Joe Stevenson's local Del-Val, the company that licensed the Bernie Williams to Bell in the first place..
So the debate begins and seems to be a 50% 50% split on which version is the best, which one is the best to own?
My opinion is Bernie Williams is infinitely rarer the Gene Woodbury but is a styrene press, Gene Woodbury was scarce but is now much rarer as nobody seems to want to sell a copy they may own.
The scenario at the moment is Gene Woodbury's value has rocketed 5 fold in recent times, with no sign of it slowing down. Bernie Williams value currently simmering over £4k, it is still beyond most collectors budgets. If your a NS DJ "Ever Again" is a crucial 45 to own, vinyl press at a 1/4 of the price.. seems an investment no-brainer opportunity.
Here is Gene Woodbury which 50% of the scene think is the best version, pressed in vinyl in superb condition. At this level of condition and we have a notion the values between "Bernie" and "Gene" will one day maybe nearly sit in parity.
Condition Report
Two perfect labels, vinyl reveals some soft surface marks, only the briefest of hairlines under direct light. Playback is totally clean, which ever side you drop the arm on.
Sebastian Williams
Get Your Point Over / I Don't Care What Mama Said ( Baby I Need You)
Ovide : 249 DJ (45s)
The Houston, Texas Northern Soul brilliance ticks all those boxes and more.
Condition Report
Two perfect promo labels, full gloss Manship mint vinyl. as good as it gets condition.
Sorry, this auction has ended.
Horace Andy
Lonely Woman / Lonely "version"
Song Bird : SB 1085 (7")
Condition Report
Two clean white design labels, full gloss most likely previously unplayed vinyl, still housed in wavy-top birth sleeve
Big Youth / Augustus Pablo
Tippertone Rocking / Stardom (version)
Lion : 8077 (45s)
Condition Report
two flawless labels - full gloss previously unplayed vinyl - as good as it gets