Month: January 1971

THE WHISPERS: There’s A Love For Everyone; It Sure Ain’t Pretty (Hard Core Unemployed) (Janus).
Presumably this superb male Soul Vocal Group is the same that cut the outstandingly beautiful ‘As I Sit Here‘ (and a version of ‘Doctor Love‘) on the Dore label a few years back. In any case, this Sugar Pie De Santo-penned slowie is the follow-up (on yet another label) to the group’s recent big hit on Soul Clock, ‘Seems Like I Gotta Do Wrong‘. Lovely singing on this good side, yet the prettily-constructed lurching slow flip, with its strong message, is even gooder!

THE MAIN INGREDIENT: I’m So Proud; Brotherly Love (RCA).
Yet, the Impressions’ oldie slowie done with exquisite harmonious taste, to help make this column a real Soulful treat for Christmas. Both sides are beautiful, restful gems of vocal music.

GLADYS KNIGHT & THE PIPS: If I Were Your Woman (Soul).
The best from Gladys in ages is a great gritty bluesy slowie that, thankfully, owes nothing in its concept to Motown. Tough words, tougher singing. Continue reading “January 2, 1971: The Whispers, The Main Ingredient, Gladys Knight & The Pips, Overton Vertis Wright, Joe Simon”