Sly & the Family Stone - Fresh

Today Marks The 52nd Anniversary of Sly & The Family Stone’s 6th Studio Album “Fresh” Originally Released June 30, 1973.

“Fresh” is the sixth album by American funk band Sly & the Family Stone, released by Epic/CBS Records in June 1973.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and at #7 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Albums chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album "If You Want Me to Stay", "Frisky" and “If It Were Left Up to Me”.

"If You Want Me to Stay" reached #12 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Chart, and at #3 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles Chart.

"Frisky" reached #28 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles Chart and #79 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Chart.

“If It Were Left Up to Me” reached #57 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles Chart

“Fresh” was ranked number 186 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time.

Track-listing

1. In Time

2. If You Want Me to Stay

3. Let Me Have It All

4. Frisky

5. Thankful N' Thoughtful

6. Skin I'm In

7. I Don't Know (Satisfaction)

8. Keep on Dancin'

9. Qué Será, Será (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)

10. If It Were Left Up to Me

11. Babies Makin' Babies

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Dynasty - Adventures in the Land of Music

Today Marks The 45th Anniversary of Dynasty’s 2nd Studio Anniversary “Adventures in the Land of Music” Originally Released on June 30, 1980.

“Adventures in the Land of Music” is the second studio album by Los Angeles, California-based R&B group Dynasty, released in 1980 on SOLAR Records.

The album reached #11 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart, and at #43 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "I've Just Begun to Love You" and "Do Me Right".

"I've Just Begun to Love You" peaked at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart, #6 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #87 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Do Me Right" reached #34 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The album was produced by Leon Sylvers III.

Track-listing

1. I've Just Begun to Love You

2. Groove Control

3. Take Another Look at Love

4. Day and Night

5. Do Me Right

6. Something to Remember

7. Adventures in the Land of Music

8. Ice Breaker

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Atlantic Starr - Atlantic Starr

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of Atlantic Starr’s Debut Self-Titled Album “Atlantic Starr” Originally Released on June 30, 1978.

“Atlantic Starr” is the self-titled debut album by R&B/funk band Atlantic Starr released in 1978 on A&M Records.

The album reached #21 on the U.S. Billboard R&B/Soul charts and at #67 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tape chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album "Stand Up", “Gimme Your Luvin'” and "Keep It Comin'".

"Stand Up" peaked at #16 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart and at #26 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

“Gimme Your Luvin'” was the second single from the album it was released in the United Kingdom, The song reached #66 on the UK Singles chart.

"Keep It Comin'" reached #49 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart.

The nine-piece band also had an impressive showing on the Billboard R&B charts with "(I'll Never Miss) The Love I Never Had" and "With Your Love I Come Alive".

The album was produced by Bobby Eli, founding member and lead guitarist of Philadelphia studio group MFSB.

Track-listing

1. Stand Up

2. Keep It Comin'

3. Visions

4. Being in Love With You Is So Much Fun

5. (I'll Never Miss) The Love I Never Had

6. Gimme Your Lovin'

7. With Your Love I Come Alive

8. We Got It Together

9. Don't Abuse My Love

10. Where There's Smoke There's Fire

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Cameo - Cardiac Arrest

Today Marks The 48th Anniversary of Cameo’s Debut Studio Album “Cardiac Arrest” Originally Released on June 29, 1977.

“Cardiac Arrest” is the debut studio album by New York City funk band Cameo released in 1977 on Chocolate City Records.

The album reached #16 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart, and at #116 on the U. S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes charts.

Four songs were released as singles from the album, "Find My Way", "Rigor Mortis", "Post Mortem" and

"Find My Way" peaked at #3 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

"Rigor Mortis" reached #33 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Post Mortem" reached #70 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Funk Funk" reached #20 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The album was produced by Larry Blackmon.

Track-listing

1. Still Feels Good

2. Post Mortem

3. Smile

4. Funk Funk

5. Find My Way

6. Rigor Mortis

7. Good Times

8. Stay by My Side

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

The Brothers Johnson - Winners

Today Marks The 44th Anniversary of The Brothers Johnson’s 5th Studio Album “Winners” Originally Released on June 29, 1981.

“Winners” is the fifth studio album by American funk and R&B band The Brothers Johnson released in 1981 on A&M Records.

The album peaked at #10 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and at #48 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Albums chart.

Two songs were released as singles “The Real Thing” and “Dancin' Free”

“The Real Thing” peaked at #11 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart and at #67 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

“Dancin' Free” reached #51 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. The Real Thing

2. Dancin' Free

3. Sunlight

4. Teaser

5. Caught Up

6. In the Way

7. I Want You

8. Do It for Love

9. Hot Mama

10. Daydreamer Dream

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

The Pointer Sisters - So Excited!

Today Marks The 43rd Anniversary of The Pointer Sisters’ 9th Studio Album “So Excited!” Originally Released on June 29, 1982.

“So Excited!” is the ninth studio album by the Pointer Sisters, released in 1982 on Planet Records.

The album reached #24 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart and at #59 on the U.S. US Billboard 200 chart.

Three songs were released as singles "American Music", “I'm So Excited” and “If You Wanna Get Back Your Lady”

"American Music" peaked at #9 on the U.S. Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, #23 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and at #16 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

“I'm So Excited” reached #28 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart, #30 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and #46 on U.S. Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.

“If You Wanna Get Back Your Lady” reached #44 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, #48 on the U.S. Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and #67 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

 "See How the Love Goes", was supposed to be the actual third single from the album, However it was shelved due to its controversial subject matter.

Prince’s song “I Feel for You” was covered by the Pointer Sisters, They were the first artist to release a cover version of the song in 1983. Chaka Khan’s version was released in 1984 on the album of the same name.

The album was remastered and issued on CD with bonus tracks in 2010 by Big Break Records.

Track-listing

1. I'm So Excited

2. See How the Love Goes

3. All of You

4. Heart Beat

5. If You Wanna Get Back Your Lady

6. I Feel for You

7. Heart to Heart

8. American Music

9. I'm So Excited (12" Mix)

10. If You Wanna Get Back Your Lady (12" Mix)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

James Brown - Hell

Today Marks The 51st Anniversary of James Brown’s 38th Studio Album “Hell” Originally Released on June 28, 1974.

Hell is the 38th studio album by American musician James Brown. The album was released in 1974, by Polydor Records.

The album peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Soul Albums chart and at #35 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tape chart.

Three songs were released as singles in 1974, "My Thang", "Papa Don't Take No Mess" and "Coldblooded".

"My Thang" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard R&B singles chart and reached #29 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Papa Don't Take No Mess" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard R&B singles chart and reached #31 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Coldblooded" reached #99 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

Track-listing

1. Coldblooded

2. Hell

3. My Thang

4. Sayin' It and Doin' It

5. Please, Please, Please (Remake)

6. When the Saints Go Marchin' In

7. These Foolish Things (Remind Me of You)

8. Stormy Monday

9. A Man Has to Go Back to the Cross Road Before He Finds Himself

10. Sometime

11. I Can't Stand It '76'" (Remake of "I Can't Stand Myself (When You Touch Me)")

12. Lost Someone (Remake)

13. Don't Tell a Lie about Me and I Won't Tell the Truth on You

14. Papa Don't Take No Mess

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Wild Cherry - Wild Cherry

Today Marks The 49th Anniversary of Wild Cherry’s Debut Self-Titled Album “Wild Cherry” Originally Released on June 27, 1976.

“Wild Cherry” is the debut studio album by Ohio Funk rock band Wild Cherry, released in 1976 on Epic Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B LPs and at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

The album released their hit song "Play That Funky Music" the band 's only hit major single.

 "Play That Funky Music" peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on September 18, 1976; it was also No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The single was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America for shipments of over 2 million records and eventually sold 2.5 million in the United States alone.

The album went platinum in the United States selling 1,000,000 units.

Track-listing

1. Play That Funky Music

2. The Lady Wants Your Money

3. 99½

4. Don't Go Near the Water

5. Nowhere to Run

6. I Feel Sanctified

7. Hold On

8. Get It Up

9. What in the Funk Do You See

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Prince & The Revolution - Purple Rain

Today Marks The 41st Anniversary of Prince & The Revolution’s Movie Soundtrack “Purple Rain” Originally Released on June 25, 1984.

“Purple Rain” is the sixth studio album by Prince and the second album with his band The Revolution, it’s was released as a music soundtrack for his debut film “Purple Rain” it was released in 1984 on Warner Bros Records.

The album peaked at #1 on both the US Billboard Top R&B Albums and the US Billboard 200 charts.

Five songs were released as singles from the album "When Doves Cry”, "Let's Go Crazy", "Purple Rain", "I Would Die 4 U” and "Take Me with U".

"When Doves Cry” peaked #1 on the U.S. Billboard US Hot Black Singles, US Dance Club Songs and US Billboard Hot 100 charts.

"Let's Go Crazy" peaked #1 on the U.S. Billboard US Hot Black Singles, US Dance Club Songs and US Billboard Hot 100 charts.

"Purple Rain" peaked at #1 on U.S. Billboard Hot Rock Songs chart, #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and at #3 on the US Hot R&B Songs chart.

“"I Would Die 4 U” peaked at #8 on the US Billboard Hot 100, #11 US Hot R&B Songs chart and at #50 on the Billboard US Dance Club Songs chart.

"Take Me with U" reached #25 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart and at #40 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

“Purple Rain” was considered Prince's commercial peak, with total sales standing at 25 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of all time.

The album was certified 13× Platinum in the United States by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

Prince & the Revolution won Grammy Awards for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal and Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media, while Prince also won the Academy Award for Best Original Song Score for the film Purple Rain.

The album was re-issued on June 23, 2017. It is the first Prince album to be remastered and reissued, and was released in a variety of formats, including a 20-track Deluxe edition with unreleased bonus tracks and a 35-track Deluxe Expanded edition with additional B-sides, rarities and a live DVD of the Purple Rain Tour from 1985.

Track-listing

1. Let's Go Crazy

2. Take Me with U

3. The Beautiful Ones

4. Computer Blue

5. Darling Nikki

6. When Doves Cry

7. Baby I'm a Star

8. Purple Rain

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

One Way - Shine On Me

Today Marks The 42nd Anniversary of One Way’s 5th Studio Album “Shine on Me” Originally Released on June 24, 1983.

“Shine on Me” is the fifth studio album by by the R&B Funk band One Way released in 1983 on MCA Records.

The album reached #27 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart and at #164 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.

Two singles were released from the album the title track "Shine on Me" and "Let's Get Together".

"Shine on Me" reached #24 on the U.S. Billboard US R&B Singles chart and at #42 on the US Dance Songs chart.

"Let's Get Together" reached #44 on the U.S. Billboard US R&B Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. Shine On Me

2. So Afraid It's Over

3. Didn't You Know It

4. Bring It Down

5. Sugar Rock

6. Let's Get Together

7. Together Forever

8. Shake It Till It's Tight

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Fat Larry’s Band - Breakin' Out

Today Marks The 43rd Anniversary of Fat Larry's Band’s 6th Studio Album “Breakin' Out” Originally Released on June 24, 1982.

“Breakin' Out” is the sixth studio album by Philadelphia funk band Fat Larry's Band released in 1982 on WMOT Records.

The album reached #58 on the U.S. Billboard 200 charts.

Two songs were released as singles from the album “Act Like You Know” and “Zoom”.

“Act Like You Know” reached #67 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, and at #24 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Play charts.

“Zoom”reached #89 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, The song was a major hit in the United Kingdom it peaked at #2 on the UK Singles charts.

The song "Act Like You Know" became the band’s biggest hit single it was featured on the Grand Theft Auto: Vice City soundtrack).

The notable success of "Zoom" in the United Kingdom resulted in the song being featured on the Christmas 1982 episode of the British TV sitcom Only Fools and Horses titled "Diamonds Are for Heather".

Track-listing

1. Act Like You Know

2. Traffic Stopper

3. Zoom

4. House Party

5. Breakin' Out

6. Be My Lady

7. Golden Moment

8. Video

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

 

 

Average White Band - Soul Searching

Today Marks The 49th Anniversary of The Average White Band’s 4th Studio Album “Soul Searching” Originally released on June 24, 1976.

“Soul Searching” is the fourth studio album by Scottish funk and R&B band

The Average White Band released in 1976 on Atlantic Records.

The album peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart, and at #9 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes charts.

Three songs were released as singles, the album’s title track “Queen Of My Soul", “Soul Searching” and “A Love Of Your Own”.

"Queen Of My Soul" reached #21 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, and at #40 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Soul Searching" peaked #4 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles charts.

"A Love Of Your Own" at #35 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, #101 just beneath the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 charts.

The album was certified Platinum in the United States by the RIAA for sales of over 1 million copies.

Track-listing

1. Overture

2. Love Your Life

3. I'm the One

4. A Love of Your Own

5. Queen of My Soul

6. Soul Searching

7. Goin' Home

8. Everybody's Darling

9. Would You Stay

10. Sunny Days

11. Digging Deeper

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

 

Slave - Just a Touch of Love

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Slave’s 4th Studio Album “Just a Touch of Love” Originally Released on June 23, 1979.

“Just a Touch of Love” is the fourth album by the Dayton, Ohio funk band Slave, released in 1979 on Cotillion Records.

The album peaked at #11 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and at #92 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Albums chart.

Two singles were released from the album, the title track "Just A Touch Of Love " and "Funky Lady (Foxy Lady)".

"Just A Touch Of Love " peaked at #9 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart and at #26 on the U.S. Billboard Disco Club Play charts.

"Funky Lady (Foxy Lady)" reached #55 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles charts.

“Just a Touch of Love” was the band's second album with the vocals of Steve Arrington and Starleana Young. Vocalist Curt Jones joined the band at this time.

The song “Just a Touch of Love” was covered by R&B singer Keith Sweat in 1997. It was titled “Just a Touch” and appears on the album of the same name.

Track-listing

1. Just a Touch of Love

2. Are You Ready for Love?

3. Funky Lady (Foxy Lady)

4. Roots

5. Painted Pictures

6. Thank You

7. Shine

8. Warning

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Tom Browne - Love Approach

Today Marks The 45th Anniversary of Tom Browne’s Sophomore Studio Album “Love Approach” Originally Released on June 23, 1980.

“Love Approach”is the second studio album by American jazz/funk trumpeter Tom Browne released in 1980 on GRP Records.

The album reached #1 on both of the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B LPs and the U.S. Billboard US

Jazz Album charts. It also reached #18 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

The album released the hit single "Funkin' for Jamaica (N.Y.)" it peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at No.9 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

The song "Forever More" from the album was heard as part of the beginning and end of the broadcast day on the NBC affiliate in Columbus, Ohio, WCMH-TV in the mid 1980s.

Track-listing

1. Funkin' for Jamaica (N.Y.)

2. Her Silent Smile

3. Forever More

4. Dreams of Lovin' You

5. Nocturne

6. Martha

7. Moon Rise

8. Weak in the Knees

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Morris Day - It's About Time

Today Marks The 21st Anniversary of Morris Day’s 4th Studio Album “It's About Time” Originally Released on June 22, 2004.

“It's About Time” is the fourth solo album by R&B Funk singer Morris Day released in 2004 by Hollywood Records.

The album was released after a 12 year hiatus, Morris Day released four new songs with previous hits, recorded live with the modern line-up of The Time.

The live material was poorly edited to remove curse words and to fade abruptly between songs, removing most of the audience reactions. The patchiness of the album was not received well.

Track-listing

1. The Bird

2. Jungle Love

3. Gigolos Get Lonely Too

4. Cool

5. Ice Cream Castles

6. Get It Up / 777-9311

7. Girl

8. Fishnet

9. Ain't a Damn Thing Changed

10. In My Ride

11. Two Drink Minimum

12. Last Night

By Romie Rome For Musique Funkology.

The Commodores - In The Pocket

Today Marks The 44th Anniversary of The Commodore’s 9th Studio Album “In the Pocket” Originally Released on June 22, 1981.

“In the Pocket” is the ninth studio album by the American R&B/Funk group the Commodores, released in 1981 by Motown Records.

The album peaked at #4 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart, and at #13 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes charts.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "Lady (You Bring Me Up)" and "Oh No".

"Lady (You Bring Me Up)" peaked at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart, and at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 charts.

"Oh No" peaked at #4 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and at #5 on both the Billboard’s Hot Black Singles and Adult Contemporary charts.

“In the Pocket” would serve as Lionel Richie’s last album with the Commodores as he left the band to start a solo career the following year.

The album was certified platinum in the United States by the RIAA selling a million copies.

Track-listing

1. Lady (You Bring Me Up)

2. Saturday Night

3. Keep on Taking Me Higher

4. Oh No

5. Why You Wanna Try Me

6. This Love

7. Been Loving You

8. Lucy

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

KC & The Sunshine Band - Do You Want To Go Party

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of KC & The Sunshine Band’s 6th Studio Album “Do You Wanna Go Party” Originally Released on June 22, 1979.

“Do You Wanna Go Party” is the sixth studio album by the funk and disco group KC and the Sunshine Band it was released June 1979 on the TK Records label.

The album reached #19 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart and at #50 on the U.S. Billboard Billboard Top LPs & Tape chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album the title track "Do You Wanna Go Party", "Please Don't Go" and "I Betcha Didn't Know That".

"Do You Wanna Go Party" peaked at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Songs chart and at #50 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Please Don't Go" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Billboard Hot 100 and at #27 on the Adult Contemporary chart.

"Please Don't Go" was the band’s last number one hit in the United States.

"I Betcha Didn't Know That" reached #25 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Songs chart.

Track-listing

1. Hooked On Your Love

2. I've Got The Feeling

3. Ooh, I Like It

4. Please Don't Go

5. I Betcha Didn't Know That

6. Que Pasa?

7. Do You Wanna Go Party

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

René & Angela - René & Angela

Today Marks The 45th Anniversary of René & Angela’s Debut Self-titled Studio Album “René & Angela” Originally Released on June 22, 1980.

“René & Angela” is the debut studio album by Funk, Soul duo René & Angela released in 1980 on Capitol Records.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "Do You Really Love Me" and "Everything We Do".

"Do You Really Love Me" reached #43 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Everything We Do" reached #39 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

All tracks composed by René Moore and Angela Winbush; except where indicated

Tracklist

1. "Do You Really Love Me" – 3:21

2. "Turn It Out" – 4:20

3. "Everything We Do" – 5:27

4. "Hotel California" – (Don Felder, Glenn Frey, Don Henley) – 4:49

5. "I Don't Know (Where Love Comes From)" – 4:15

6. "Free and Easy" – 5:50

7. "Love Won't Slip Away" – 4:36

8. "Strangers Again" – 2:58

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

The Kay-Gees - Find a Friend

Today Marks The 49th Anniversary of The Kay-Gees’ 2nd Studio Album “Find a Friend” Originally Released on June 21, 1976.

“Find a Friend” is the second studio album by American funk and disco group The Kay-Gees released in 1976 by Gang Records.

 The album was produced by Khalis Bayyan aka Ronald Bell of Kool &The Gang for his production company K.G. Productions.

The song “Waiting at the Bus Stop (Part 1)” was the album’s lead single it reached #52 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart.

“On The Money” was the second single released from the album it failed to reach the Billboard charts.

Track-listing

1. Find a Friend (Prelude)

2. On the Money

3. Keep On Saying

4. I Believe in Music

5. Be Real

6. Together

7. Acknowledgement

8. Waiting at the Bus Stop

9. Inspiration

10. Thank You Dear Lord

11. Mr. Nothin'

12. S.T.P (Singing, Teaching & Preaching)

13. Find a Friend (Conclusion)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Dynasty - Out of Control

Today Marks The 39th Anniversary of Dynasty’s 6th Studio Album “Out of Control” Originally Released on June 21, 1988.

“Out of Control” is the sixth studio album by by the Los Angeles, California-based R&B group Dynasty, released in 1986 on SOLAR Records.

The album reached #86 on the U.S. Billboard Top Black Albums chart, and at #82 on the U.S. Billboard Top Pop Albums chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album “Don't Waste My Time” and “Tell Me (Do U Want My Love)?”

“Don't Waste My Time” reached #41 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

“Tell Me (Do U Want My Love)?” reached #56 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

“Out of Control”was the band’s final studio album, ironically the album cover is identical to their previous album “Daydreamin’” which was released in 1986.

Track-listing

1. Don't Waste My Time

2. Out Of Control

3. Way Out

4. Give Your Love To Me

5. Tell Me (Do U Want My Love

6. One Girl

8. Cherry Red Bikini

9. Tuff Love

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Jimmy "Bo" Horne – Goin' Home For Love

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Jimmy "Bo" Horne’s 2nd Studio Album “Goin' Home for Love” Originally Released on June 21, 1979.

“Goin' Home for Love” is the second studio album by disco-funk musician Jimmy "Bo" Horne released in 1979 on Sunshine Sound Records.

The album reached #42 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's charts.

Three songs were released as singles from the album “Spank”, “You Get Me Hot” and “Without You”.

“Spank” reached #48 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Play charts, and at #55 on the Billboard Hot Soul Singles charts.

“You Get Me Hot” reached #18 on the Billboard Hot Soul Singles charts, and at #101 just beneath the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 charts.

“Without You” reached #78 on the Billboard Hot Soul Singles charts.

The album was produced by Harry Wayne Casey & Richard Finch.

Track-listing

1. You Get Me Hot

2. Goin' Home For Love

3. Get Lifted

4. Without You

5. Spank

6. (They Long To Be) Close To You

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Platypus - Cherry

Today Marks The 45th Anniversary of Platypus’ 2nd Studio Album “Cherry” Originally Released on June 20, 1980.

“Cherry” is the second studio album by Dayton, Ohio funk band Platypus released in 1980 on Casablanca Records.

“Cherry was the band’s second studio album which failed to chart on the Billboard charts,

Two songs were released as singles from the album “Color Blind” and “Appreciate Your Love” both singles were released a month apart but failed to chart either due to poor promotion or distribution.

The band was part of the Dayton, Ohio funk scene, a hub for funk bands in the 70s and 80s.

Despite not being as well-known as some other Dayton funk bands with chart hits, their music is still appreciated.

Track listing

1. Cherry

2. Pearl

3. Giving You All My Love

4. Ice Cream Delight

5. Have a Good Time

6. Appreciate Your Love

7. You and Me

8. Color Blind

9. Smokin' on the One

10. N.Y., N.Y. - The World's My Home

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

The System - Sweat

Today Marks The 42nd Anniversary of The System’s Debut Studio Album “Sweat” Originally Released on June 19, 1983.

“Sweat” is the 1983 debut studio album by American American synth-pop, funk duo The System, The album was released in 1983 on Mirage Records.

The album reached #14 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and at #94 on the U.S. Billboard 200.

The album two commercially successful songs "It's Passion" and "You Are in My System".

"It's Passion" was their debut single it reached #23 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play charts.

"You Are in My System" peaked at #10 on the

 U.S. Billboard R&B Singles Chart, #14 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart and at #64 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

The album was produced by the duo David Frank and Mic Murphy.

Track-listing

1. Sweat

2. You Are in My System

3. It's Passion

4. Stand Up And Cheer

5. I Won't Let Go

6. Go For What U Know

7. Now I Am Electric

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

A Taste of Honey - Another Taste

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of A Taste of Honey’s 2nd Studio Album “Another Taste” Originally Released on June 18, 1979.

 “Another Taste” is the second studio album by the American disco/funk band “A Taste of Honey”released in 1979 on Capitol Records.

The album reached #26 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LPs chart and at #59 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Two songs were released as singles "Do It Good" and “Race”.

"Do It Good" peaked at #13 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart, #72 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart and at #79 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart.

“Race” was the second single released from the album it failed to reach the Billboard charts.

The album was produced by Larry Mizell & Fonce Mizell and was co-produced by A Taste of Honey.

Track-listing

1. Do It Good

2. The Rainbow's End

3. Dance

4. I Love You

5. Race

6. Let's Begin

7. Take The Boogae Or Leave It

8. Your Love

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Loose Ends - The Real Chuckeeboo

Today Marks The 37th Anniversary of Loose Ends’ 4th Studio Album “The Real Chuckeeboo” Originally Released on June 18, 1988.

“The Real Chuckeeboo” is the fourth studio album by British R&B group Loose Ends released in 1988 on MCA Records.

The album reached #16 on the U.S. Billboard Top Black Albums chart, and at #80 on the U.S. Billboard 200.

Three songs were released as singles from the album "Mr. Bachelor", "Watching You", and "Life"

"Mr. Bachelor" reached #11 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"Watching You" peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"Life" reached #32 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

The Real Chuckeeboo is the last album to feature all three original members; Carl McIntosh, Jane Eugene and Steve Nichol.

The album was mainly written and produced by Loose Ends and co-produced by longtime collaborator Nick Martinelli, it also features contributions from Leon Ware and Caron Wheeler.

Tracklist

1. Watching You

2. (There's No) Gratitude

3. The Real Chuckeeboo (Tomorrow / Mr. Bachelor / You've Just Got to Have It All )

4. Life

5. What Goes Around

6. Easier Said Than Done

7. Hungry

8. Is It Ever Too Late?

9. Remote Control

10. Magic Eyes (bonus track)

11. Until a Tear (bonus track)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Switch - Switch

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of Switch’s Self-Titled Debut Album “Switch” Originally Released on June 17, 1978.

“Switch” is the debut studio album by Ohio-based soul/funk band Switch released in 1978 on Gordy Records.

The album peaked at #6 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul LPs chart and at #37 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

"There'll Never Be" was released as the album’s lead single it peaked #6 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart and at #36 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"I Wanna Be Closer" was released as the album’s second single it reached #22 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart.

The album was produced and arranged by Switch band members Gregory Williams, Bobby DeBarge and Jody Sims. It was overseen by The Buley Brothers and was executively produced by Jermaine and Hazel Jackson.

Track-listing

1. I Wanna Be With You

2. There'll Never Be

3. I Wanna Be Closer

4. We Like To Party...Come On

5. Fever

6. You Pulled A Switch

7. It's So Real

8. Somebody's Watchin' You

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Klymaxx - Never Underestimate the Power of a Woman

Today Marks The 44th Anniversary of Klymaxx’s Debut Studio Album “Never Underestimate the Power of a Woman” Originally Released on June 17, 1981.

“Never Underestimate the Power of a Woman” is the debut album by all-female R&B Funk band Klymaxx. Released in 1981 on SOLAR Records.

The album was produced by Lakeside’s band members Stephen Shockley and Otis Stokes, both also contributed to some of the album’s song writing as well.

The album’s title “Never Underestimate the Power of a Woman” is taken from an American magazine last published by the Meredith Corporation.

Upon the album’s release it failed to reach the Billboard charts.

Two songs were released from the album the title track “Never Underestimate the Power of a Woman” and "I Want to Love You Tonight".

“Never Underestimate the Power of a Woman” reached #74 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Song chart.

The second single "I Want to Love You Tonight" failed to reach the Billboard charts.

Track-listing

1. All Fired Up

2. I Wish You Would (Tell Me Something Good)

3. I Want to Love You Tonight

4. You're the Greatest

5. Never Underestimate the Power of a Woman

6. The Beat of My Heart (is for You)

7. No Words

8. Can't Let Love Just Pass Me By

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Cameo - Single Life

Today Marks The 40th Anniversary of Cameo’s 11th Studio Album “Single Life” Originally Released on June 17, 1985.

The album peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and No. 58 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Albums chart.

The album released three singles "Attack Me with Your Love", The album’s title track "Single Life" and the song “A Good-Bye”.

"Attack Me with Your Love" peaked at #3 on the US Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and at #39 on the US Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

The album’s title track “Single Life” peaked at #2 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and at #26 on the US Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

The third single “A Good-Bye” reached #76 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart

The album “Single Life” was Cameo’s seventh to be certified Gold by the RIAA for sales of over 500,000 copies.

Track-listing

1. Attack Me With Your Love

2. Single Life

3. I've Got Your Image

4. A Good-Bye

5. I'll Never Look for Love

6. Urban Warrior

7. Little Boys – Dangerous Toys

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

WAR - Why Can't We Be Friends?

Today Marks The 50th Anniversary of WAR’s 7th Studio Album “Why Can't We Be Friends?” Originally Released on June 16, 1975.

“Why Can't We Be Friends?” is the seventh studio album by American band War, released on June 16, 1975 by United Artists Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B LPs and at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

The album released two of their most popular songs as singles, the album’s title track “Why Can't We Be Friends?” and “Low Rider”.

“Why Can't We Be Friends?” Peaked at #6 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and at #9 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

“Low Rider” peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart and at #7 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

The album “Why Can't We Be Friends?” was listed as one of Billboard’s number-one R&B albums of 1975.

Track-listing

1. Don't Let No One Get You Down

2. Lotus Blossom

3. Heartbeat

4. Leroy's Latin Lament (Medley)

5. Smile Happy

6. So

7. Low Rider

8. Why Can't We Be Friends?

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

The Isley Brothers - Winners Takes All

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of The Isley Brothers’ 17th Studio Album “Winner Takes All” Originally Released on June 16, 1979.

“Winner Takes All” is the seventeenth studio album by the Isley Brothers, released in 1979 on T-Neck Records.

The album peaked at #3 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and at #14 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Albums chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album "I Wanna Be With You", "Winner Takes All" and “It's A Disco Night (Rock Don't Stop)".

"I Wanna Be With You" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Winner Takes All" the album’s title track was the second single from the album it failed to reach the Billboard charts.

"It's A Disco Night (Rock Don't Stop)" reached #27 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #90 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Winner Takes All” was the first Isley Brothers album to embrace disco rhythms.

The disco element helped songs such as "I Wanna Be With You" and "It's a Disco Night (Rock Don't Stop)" become hits. However, the band did not release any ballads from the album, making it one of the few times since 1973 that they not release a ballad as a single.

The album was successful enough on both the pop and R&B album charts and and eventually went gold after selling past 500,000 copies.

The album was remastered and expanded for inclusion in the 2015 released CD box set The RCA Victor & T-Neck Album Masters, 1959-1983.

Track-listing

1. I Wanna Be with You (Parts 1 & 2)

2. Liquid Love (Parts 1 & 2)

3. Winner Takes All

4. Life in the City (Parts 1 & 2)

5. It's a Disco Night (Rock Don't Stop) (Parts 1 & 2)

6. (Can't You See) What You Do to Me?

7. Let's Fall in Love (Parts 1 & 2)

8. How Lucky I Am (Parts 1 & 2)

9. You're the Key to My Heart

10. You're Beside Me (Parts 1 & 2)

11. Let Me into Your Life (Parts 1 & 2)

12. Love Comes and Goes (Parts 1 & 2)

13. Go for What You Know

14. Mind Over Matter (Parts 1 & 2)

15. It's a Disco Night (Rock Don't Stop)" (12" Disco Version)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Sun - Destination: Sun

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Sun’s 4th Studio Anniversary “Destination: Sun” Originally Released on June 15, 1979.

“Destination: Sun” is the fourth studio album by Dayton, Ohio funk band Sun released in 1979 on Capitol Records.

The album reached #17 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and at #85 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Albums chart.

Two songs were released from the album as singles "Pure Fire" and "Radiation Level".

"Pure Fire" reached #65 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart.

"Radiation Level" reached #25 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart.

Destination: Sun’s album cover-art was designed by Japanese illustrator Shusei Nagaoka whose best known for music album cover art in the 1970s and 1980s. Artists for whom he illustrated covers include Electric Light Orchestra, Earth, Wind & Fire, Deep Purple, Space, Maze, George Clinton, Kitaro, Rose Royce, Caldera, and Pure Prairie League.

Track-listing

1. Radiation Level

2. Pure Fire

3. I Want To Be With You

4. Everybody Disco Down

5. Light Of The Universe

6. Deep Rooted Feeling (Stand Up)

7. Baby I Confess

8. Hallelujah Spirit

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Mother’s Finest - Another Mother Further

Today Marks The 48th Anniversary of Mother’s Finest’s 3rd Studio Album “Another Mother Further “ Originally Released on June 15, 1977.

“Another Mother Further” is the third full-length studio album by Atlanta funk-rock group Mother's Finest. It was released in 1977 on Epic Records.

The album reached #134 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.

A total of four songs were released as singles “Baby Love”, “Piece Of The Rock”, “Dis Go Dis Way, Dis Go Dat Way” and “Thank You For The”.

The song “Baby Love” was released as a single, It reached #58 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart and at #79 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LPs chart.

Their song "Truth'll Set You Free" was covered by R&B group Labelle on their 2008 album, Back to Now, after Nona Hendryx and Joyce Kennedy performed it on the international Daughters of Soul tour in 2004.

Track-listing

1. Mickey's Monkey

2. Baby Love

3. Thank You for the Love

4. Piece of the Rock

5. Truth'll Set You Free

6. Burning Love

7. Dis Go Dis Way, Dis Go Dat Way

8. Hard Rock Lover

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Heatwave - Too Hot to Handle

Today Marks The 49th Anniversary of Heatwave’s Debut Studio Album “Too Hot to Handle” Originally Released on June 15, 1976.

“Too Hot to Handle” is the debut studio album by funk-disco band Heatwave, released 1976 on Epic Records.

The album peaked at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul LPs chart, and at #11 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

Five songs were released as singles from the album "Ain't No Half Steppin'", "Super Soul Sister", "Boogie Nights", "Too Hot to Handle" and "Always and Forever".

The album’s first two singles "Ain't No Half Steppin'" and "Super Soul Sister" both failed to chart in the United States and the United Kingdom.

"Boogie Nights" peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, and at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles charts,

"Too Hot to Handle" was released as a single in the United Kingdom it reached #15 on the UK singles chart.

"Always and Forever" peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and #18 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The song "Turn Out the Lamplight" appeared on George Benson's album Give Me the Night, a song written by Temperton, which was produced by Quincy Jones.

The album was remastered and reissued with bonus tracks in 2015 by Big Break Records.

Track-listing

 All tracks are written by Rod Temperton.

1. Too Hot to Handle

2. Boogie Nights

3. Ain't No Half Steppin'

4. Always and Forever

5. Super Soul Sister

6. All You Do Is Dial

7. Lay It on Me

8. Sho'nuff Must Be Luv

9. Beat Your Booty

10. Turn Out the Lamplight

11. Slip Your Disc to This

12. Special Offer

13. Boogie Nights (single version)

14. Too Hot to Handle (single version)

15. Always and Forever (single version)

16. Ain't No Half Steppin' (single version)

17. Boogie Nights (12" disco version)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Breakwater - Breakwater

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of Breakwater’s Debut Self-titled Studio Album “Breakwater” Originally Released on June 15, 1978.

“Breakwater” is the debut self-titled studio album by Philadelphia funk/soul band, Breakwater released in 1980 by Arista Records.

The album reached #173 on the U.S. Billboard Black Albums chart.

Three songs were released from the album "Work It Out", "No Limit" and "You Know I Love You"

"Work It Out" reached #71 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles charts.

The songs "No Limit" and "You Know I Love You" both failed to reach the Billboard charts.

The song “Do It Till The Fluid Gets Hot” was the b-side of the song “No Limit” it received heavy rotation on urban radio stations.

Track-listing

1. Work It Out

2. You Know I Love You

3. Unnecessary Business

4. No Limit

5. That's Not What We Came Here For

6. Feel Your Way

7. Do It Till The Fluid Gets Hot

8. Free Yourself

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Betty Davis - Crashin’ From Passion

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Betty Davis 5th Studio Album “Crashin' From Passion” Originally Released on June 14, 1979.

“Crashin' From Passion” is the fifth and final studio album by R&B, Funk singer Betty Davis released in 1979 on Light in the Attic Records.

The album was released off the heels of from a series of setbacks. Three years earlier, after recording her fourth album, Is It Love Or Desire, Davis was dropped from her label and the LP was subsequently shelved. In 1978, her beloved band Funk House went their separate ways.

Betty Davis relocated to Hollywood to focus on songwriting. Before long, British manager Simon Lait (Toni Basil), offered to fund her next project.

Davis reunited with former Funk House guitarist Carlos Morales and brought together industry veterans like fusion drummer Alphonse Mouzon and session bassist Chuck Rainey. Old friends Anita and Bonnie Pointer (The Pointer Sisters) and Patryce “Choc’let” Banks joined Davis on vocals, as did Motown legend Martha Reeves. The resulting album, Crashin’ From Passion, was her most musically diverse, blending elements of reggae and calypso (“I’ve Danced Before”), jazz (“Hangin’ Out in Hollywood,” “Tell Me a Few Things”), dark synth-pop (“She’s a Woman”), and even disco (“All I Do Is Think of You”). Equally exploratory are Davis’ vocals, as she trades in her signature sass and snarls for more nuanced stylings.

Among the album’s few funk tracks is “Quintessence of Hip,” in which Davis hails musicians like Bob Dylan, Billie Holiday, Stevie Wonder, and John Coltrane, while deftly integrating elements of their work. The song also offers a moment of stark vulnerability, as she sings, “Isn’t rich? Isn’t it queer? Losing my timing so late in my career.” It would prove to be a prophetic line in the months to follow.

The mixing process was mired by artistic differences and then cut short, amid the death of Davis’ beloved father. Bereft and exasperated, Davis returned home for the funeral, setting into motion her retirement from the music industry. Crashin’ From Passion, meanwhile, would be shelved for 15 years and licensed for a CD-only release, without Davis’ consent, in the ‘90s.

This 2023 edition of the album, made with Davis’ full approval and cooperation, marks its first official release and first time ever on vinyl.

The package was designed by GRAMMY®-winning artist, Masaki Koike, while the album cover features an incredible shot of Betty captured in London in the mid-1970s by renowned photographer Kate Simon.

Crashin’ From Passion was remastered by Grammy nominated engineer Dave Cooley at Elysian Masters and pressed on vinyl at Record Technology, Inc. (RTI). The accompanying booklet includes a treasure trove of rare photos from the era, plus lyrics, and new liner notes by writer, ethnomusicologist, and Betty’s close friend, Danielle Maggio, who integrates interviews that she conducted with Davis, marking her last ever interviews.

Back story credit to LIGHT IN THE ATTIC website.

Track-listing

1. Quintessence Of Hip

2. She's A Woman

3. No Good At Falling In Love

4. Tell Me A Few Things

5. I've Danced Before

6. You Make Me Feel So Good

7. I Need A Whole Lot Of Love

8. Hangin' Out In Hollywood

9. All I Do Is Think Of You

10. Crashin' From Passion

11. You Take Me For Granted

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

 

René & Angela - Street Called Desire

Today Marks The 40th Anniversary of René & Angela’s 4th Studio Album “Street Called Desire” Originally Released on June 13, 1985.

“Street Called Desire” is the fourth and final studio album by Funk, Soul duo

René & Angela released in 1985 on Mercury Records.

The album peaked at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Black LPs chart, and at #64 on the U.S. Billboard Top Pop Albums chart.

Six songs were released as singles from the album, “Save Your Love (For #1)”, "I'll Be Good", "Secret Rendezvous", "Your Smile", "You Don't Have to Cry" and "No How – No Way".

“Save Your Love (For #1)” peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Black Singles chart, #3 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart, and at #Billboard Hot 100 just beneath the Billboard Billboard Hot 100.

"I'll Be Good" peaked at #4 on the U.S. Billboard Black Singles chart, #7 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart, and at #47 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

"Secret Rendezvous" reached #54 on the UK Singles chart.

"Your Smile" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Black Singles chart, #47 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart, and at #62 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

"You Don't Have to Cry"        peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Black Singles chart, and at #75 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

"No How – No Way" reached #29 on the U.S. Billboard Black Singles chart,.

“Street Called Desire” would be their only album released on the Mercury label. The duo disbanded in 1986.

Track-listing

1. Save Your Love (For #1)

2. I'll Be Good

3. No How – No Way

4. You Don't Have to Cry

5. Street Called Desire

6. Your Smile

7. Who's Foolin' Who

8. Drive My Love

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

L.T.D. - Devotion

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of L.T.D.’s 6th Studio Album “Devotion” Originally Released on June 13, 1979.

“Devotion ” is the sixth studio album by Los Angeles, California Funk-Soul band L.T.D. released in 1979 on A&M Records.

The album peaked at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul LPs chart, and at #29 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album ""Dance 'N' Sing 'N'", "Share My Love" and “Stranger”.

"Dance 'N' Sing 'N'" reached # 15 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Share My Love" reached #69 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

“Stranger" reached # 14 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. One on One

2. Share My Love

3. Stand Up L.T.D.

4. Say That You'll Be Mine

5. Dance 'N' Sing 'N'

6. Sometimes

7. Promise You'll Stay

8. Stranger

9. Feel it

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

The Pointer Sisters - Black & White

Today Marks The 44th Anniversary of The Pointer Sisters’ 8th Studio Album “Black & White” Originally Released on June 12, 1981.

“Black & White” is the eighth studio album by the Pointer Sisters, released in 1981 on the Planet Records.

The album peaked at #9 on the U.S Billboard .Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and at #13 on the U.S.Billboard 200 chart.

Four songs were released as singles from the album "Slow Hand", "What a Surprise!", “Sweet Lover Man” and "Should I Do It".

“Slow Hand” peaked at #2 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and the US Cash Box Top 100. The song also peaked at #6 on the US Billboard Adult Contemporary and at #7 on the US Billboard Hot R&B Songs charts.

"What a Surprise!" reached #52 on the US Billboard Hot R&B Songs charts.

“Sweet Lover Man” was the third single from the album it failed to reach the Billboard charts.

"Should I Do It" reached #13 on the US Billboard Hot R&B Songs chart and at #19 on the US Billboard Adult Contemporary chart.

“Black & White” was certified Gold in September 1981. The album was remastered and issued on CD with bonus tracks in 2009 by Wounded Bird Records.

Track-listing

1. Sweet Lover Man

2. Someday We'll Be Together

3. Take My Heart, Take My Soul

4. Slow Hand

5. We're Gonna Make It

6. What a Surprise

7. Got to Find Love

8. Fall in Love Again

9. Should I Do It

10. Holdin' Out for Love

11. What a Surprise (Original Edit)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

The Emotions - Rejoice

Today Marks The 48th Anniversary of The The Emotions’ 4th Studio Album “Rejoice” Originally Released on June 10, 1977.

“Rejoice” is a studio album by American R&B vocal group The Emotions, released in June 1977 by Columbia Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart and #7 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.

Two hit singles were released from the album "Best of My Love" and "Don't Ask My Neighbors".

"Best of My Love" peaked #1 on both of the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. The song also reached #11 on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

"Don't Ask My Neighbors" peaked at #7 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #44 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Best of My Love" won a Grammy for Best R&B Performance By a Duo or Group with Vocals, and an American Music Award for Favorite Soul/R&B Single. "Best of My Love" has also been certified Platinum in the US by the RIAA.

The album was certified platinum in the United States by RIAA.

Track-listing

1. Best of My Love

2. A Feeling Is

3. A Long Way to Go

4. Key to My Heart

5. Love's What's Happenin'

6. How'd I Know That Love Would Slip Away

7. Don't Ask My Neighbors

8. Blessed

9. Rejoice

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Chuck Brown & The Soul Searchers - Salt of the Earth

Today Marks The 51st Anniversary of The Soul Searchers’ 2nd Studio Album “Salt of the Earth” Originally Released on June 10, 1974.

“Salt of the Earth” is the second studio album by the Washington, D.C. Go-Go Funk band The Soul Searchers released in 1974 on Sussex Records.

Two songs were released as singles from the album “Blow Your Whistle” and “If It Ain't Funky”.

“Blow Your Whistle” reached #31 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

“If It Ain't Funky” reached #74 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The song "Ashley's Roachclip" became one of the most sampled songs in hip hop music.

Eric B. & Rakim sampled "Ashley's Roachclip" on their song "Paid In Full" on their album Paid In Full in 1987.

LL Cool J sampled "Ashley's Roachclip" on his song "Jack The Ripper" on the B-Side of his 12" "Going Back to Cali" single in 1988.

Run–D.M.C. sampled "Ashley's Roachclip" on their song "Run's House" on their album Tougher Than Leather in 1988.

Public Enemy sampled "Blow Your Whistle" on their song "Who Stole the Soul?" on their album Fear of a Black Planet in 1990.

2Pac sampled "We Share" on his song "Old School" on his album Me Against the World in 1995.

Eve sampled "Blow Your Whistle" on her song "Tambourine" on her single in 2007.

Lloyd featuring Lil Wayne sampled "Ashley's Roachclip" on his song "Girls Around the World" on his album Lessons in Love in 2008.

Track-listing

1. I Rolled It You Hold It

2. Blow Your Whistle

3. Close To You

4. Funk to the Folks

5. Ain't It Heavy

6. Windsong

7. Ashley's Roachclip

8. We Share

9. If It Ain't Funky

 By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Average White Band - Cut the Cake

Today Marks The 50th Anniversary of The Average White Band’s 3rd Studio Album “Cut the Cake” Originally released on June 10, 1975.

“Cut the Cake” is the third studio album by Scottish funk and R&B band

The Average White Band released in 1975 on Atlantic Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart, and at #4 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes charts.

Four songs were released as singles, the album’s title track “Cut The Cake", "If I Ever Lose This Heaven", "School Boy Crush" and “Cloudy”.

"Cut The Cake" peaked at #7 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, #10 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, and at #13 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs charts.

"If I Ever Lose This Heaven" reached #25 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, #39 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"School Boy Crush" at #33 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, #22 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Cloudy" failed to chart in the United States.

The follow-up album to the immensely successful AWB in 1974, recording was plagued by creative and artistic differences, with several members of the band walking out of the studio on three occasions. One point of conflict was the band's mourning for original drummer Robbie McIntosh, who died of a heroin overdose in 1974.

The album was dedicated to was dedicated to "our friend and brother Robbie McIntosh."

Track-listing

1. Cut the Cake

2. School Boy Crush

3. It's A Mystery

4. Groovin' the Night Away

5. If I Ever Lose This Heaven

6. Why

7. High Flyin' Woman

8. Cloudy

9. How Sweet Can You Get

10. When They Bring Down the Curtain

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Sylvester Stewart (March 15, 1943 – June 9, 2025)

Sylvester Stewart (March 15, 1943 – June 9, 2025

Sly Stone, born Sylvester Stewart on March 15, 1943, was a pivotal figure in American music, known for his lead role in the groundbreaking band Sly & The Family Stone.

He transitioned from a radio DJ and record producer to a legendary musician, influencing rock, soul, funk, and hip-hop.

Stone's influence extended beyond music, with his band being one of the first major racially integrated groups in rock history.

As leader of the first major integrated band to include Black and white men and women, Sly and the Family Stone shattered racial barriers while crafting a groundbreaking sound that influenced generations of musicians.

The band's brief but profound reign from 1968 to 1971 captured the euphoria and eventual disillusionment of the Woodstock era, speaking for a generation through anthems of community and nonconformity.

Sly Stone's death marks the loss of an icon for funk rock music and popular culture.

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Con Funk Shun - Burnin' Love

Today Marks The 39th Anniversary of Con Funk Shun’s 11th Studio Album “Burnin' Love” Originally Released on June 9, 1986.

“Burnin' Love” is the eleventh studio album American R&B and funk band Con Funk Shun released in 1986 on Mercury Records.

The album reached #25 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart and at #121 on The Billboard 200 chart.

Two songs were released as singles “Burnin' Love" and "She's a Star".

“Burnin' Love" the album’s title track peaked at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"She's a Star" reached #80 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. Do Ya

2. Burnin' Love

3. How Long

4. Jo Jo

5. She's Sweet

6. She's A Star

7. It's Time Girl

8. You Make Me Wanna Love Again

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

James Brown - There It Is

Today Marks The 53rd Anniversary of James Brown’s 33rd Studio Album “There It Is” Originally Released on June 9, 1972.

“There It Is” is the 33rd studio album by American musician James Brown. His second release for Polydor Records.

The album peaked at 10 on the U.S. Billboard R&B charts and #60 on the U.S. Billboard 200.

The album contained five of his early-1970s hits. Four songs were released as singles from the album, "I'm a Greedy Man", "Talkin' Loud and Sayin' Nothing", "King Heroin" and the title track "There It Is".

"I'm a Greedy Man" peaked at #7 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart and at #35 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Singles chart.

"Talkin' Loud and Sayin' Nothing" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart and #27 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"King Heroin" peaked at #6 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #40 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"There It Is" at #4 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart and at #43 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. There It Is, Part 1

2. There It Is, Part 2

3. King Heroin

4. I'm A Greedy Man, Part 1

5. I'm A Greedy Man, Part 2

6. Who Am I

7. Talking Loud and Saying Nothing

8. Public Enemy #1, Part 1

9. Public Enemy #1, Part 2

10. I Need Help (I Can't Do It Alone)

11. Never Can Say Goodbye

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Teena Marie - Congo Square

Today Marks The 16th Anniversary of Teena Marie’s 13th Studio Anniversary “Congo Square” Originally Released on June 9, 2009.

“Congo Square” is the thirteenth studio album by American singer and songwriter Teena Marie. was released on Stax Records.

“Congo Square” peaked at #4 on the US R&B Albums chart and #20 on the Billboard 200.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "Can't Last a Day" and You Baby".

"Can't Last a Day" Day", a duet with Faith Evans, peaked at #41 on the U.S. Billboard Adult R&B Songs chart and at #41 on the U.S. Billboard R&B singles chart.

“You Baby" reached #100 on the U.S. Billboard R&B singles chart.

The album features collaborations with Teena Marie's daughter Alia Rose—who records under the name of Rose LeBeau and rapper MC Lyte, as well as Faith Evans, George Duke and Shirley Murdock.

“Congo Square” would be Teena Marie’s only album for the revived Stax label and the final album released before her death in late December 2010.

Track-listing

1. The Pressure" (featuring MC Lyte)

2. Can't Last a Day" (featuring Faith Evans)

3. Baby I Love You

4. Ear Candy 101

5. Lover's Lane" (featuring Howard Hewett)

6. Marry Me

7. You Baby

8. Milk N' Honey (featuring Gail Gotti and Rose LeBeau)

9. What U Got 4 Me

10. Rovleta's Jass

11. Congo Square (featuring George Duke)

12. Harlem Blues

13. Black Cool

14. Ms. Coretta

15. Soldier Boy (featuring Shirley Murdock)

16. The Rose N' Thorn

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

The Fatback Band - On The Floor With Fatback

Today Marks The 43rd Anniversary of Fatback’s 17th Studio Album “On the Floor with Fatback” Originally Released on June 7, 1982.

“On the Floor with Fatback” is the seventeenth studio album by American funk and disco band Fatback released in 1982 on Perception Records.

The album reached #28 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart.

Two songs were released as singles "On the Floor" and "She's My Shining Star".

"On the Floor" reached #36 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart.

"She's My Shining Star" reached #76 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. On The Floor

2. U.F.O. (Unidentified Funk Object)

3. Burn Baby Burn

4. She's My Shining Star

5. Hip So Slick

6. Do It To Me Now

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

The Isley Brothers - The Heat Is On

Today Marks The 50th Anniversary of The Isley Brothers’ 13th Studio Album “The Heat Is On” Originally Released on June 7, 1975.

“The Heat Is On” is the thirteenth studio album by American soul and funk group the Isley Brothers, released June 7, 1975, on T-Neck Records and Epic Records.

The album peaked at #1 on both of the U.S. Billboard Black Albums and U.S. Billboard Pop Albums charts.

Two singles were released from the album, "Fight the Power (Part 1 & 2)" and "For the Love of You (Part 1 & 2)".

"Fight the Power (Part 1 & 2)" peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Club Play Singles chart.

"For the Love of You (Part 1 & 2)" reach #22 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Singles Chart.

The album was certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), with shipments of two million copies.

“The Heat Is On” was reissued on compact disc in 2001 by Epic Records.

Track-listing

1. Fight the Power (Part 1 & 2)

2. The Heat Is On (Part 1 & 2)

3. Hope You Feel Better Love (Part 1 & 2)

4. For the Love of You (Part 1 & 2)

5. Sensuality (Part 1 & 2)

6. Make Me Say It Again Girl (Part 1 & 2)

7. Fight The Power" (Live at Bearsville Studios)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Midnight Star - No Parking on the Dance Floor

Today Marks The 42nd Anniversary of Midnight Star’s 4th Studio Album “No Parking on the Dance Floor” Originally Released on June 6, 1983.

No Parking on the Dance Floor is an album by American R&B band Midnight Star, released on June 6, 1983 by SOLAR Records.

The album peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and at #27 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Albums charts.

Four songs were released as singles "Freak-A-Zoid", "Wet My Whistle", the title track "No Parking (On the Dance Floor)" and "Night Rider".

"Freak-A-Zoid" peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart, #44 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart and at #66 on The Billboard Hot 100 chart.

"Wet My Whistle" peaked at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart, #15 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart and at #61 on The Billboard Hot 100 chart.

"No Parking (On the Dance Floor)" peaked at #43 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart, #44 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart and at #81 on The Billboard Hot 100 chart.

"Night Rider" was released as the album’s fourth single but failed to chart on the Billboard charts.

"Slow Jam" though it wasn’t officially released as a single it became quite storm classic as it was in rotation on urban airways.

The song “Electricity” also received fair radio plays it was also popular in nightclubs.

“No Parking (On the Dance Floor)" was Midnight Star's most successful album.

Track-listing

1. Electricity

2. Night Rider

3. Feels So Good

4. Wet My Whistle

5. No Parking (On the Dance Floor)

6. Freak-A-Zoid

7. Slow Jam

8. Playmates

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

New Birth - Dream Merchant

Today Marks The 50th Anniversary of New Birth’s 7th Studio Album “Dream Merchant” Originally Released on June 6, 1975.

“Dream Merchant” is the seventh album by American funk and R&B collective New Birth, released in 1975 by Classic Sound, Inc.

This rare album was released in 1975 contains previously released songs from the album “Blind Baby” and songs that were released on the “Love Potion” album that was released in 1976.

The title track “Dream Merchant” reached #1 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles" chart and at #36 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

This album contains a live version of “The Long and Winding Road" which reached #91 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles" chart.

Track-listing

1. Baby Don't Get Hooked On Me

2. Dream Merchant

3. Forever

4. The Long And Winding Road

5. Why Can't I

6. Hurry Hurry

7. Sure Thing

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Earth, Wind & Fire - I Am

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Earth, Wind & Fire’s 9th Studio Album “I Am” Originally Released on June 5, 1979.

“I Am” is the ninth studio album by the American band Earth, Wind & Fire, released in1979 on ARC/Columbia Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart, and at #3 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Five songs were released as singles from the album, "Boogie Wonderland",

"After the Love Has Gone", "In the Stone", "Star" and “Can't Let Go"

“Boogie Wonderland” peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, #6 on the Billboard Hot 100, and #14 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play charts.

"After the Love Has Gone" peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, #2 on the Billboard Hot 100.

"In the Stone" peaked at #23 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, #58 on the Billboard Hot 100.

"Star" peaked at #47 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, #64 on the Billboard Hot 100.

"Can't Let Go" was released as a single in the United Kingdom it reached #46 on the UK Singles charts.

The album was produced by Maurice White, “Boogie Wonderland” was co produced by Al McKay.

The album was certified 2× Platinum in the United States selling more than 2,000,000^ copies.

The album was reissued in 2004 with three bonus tracks,

Track-listing

1. In the Stone

2. Can't Let Go

3. After the Love Has Gone

4. Let Your Feelings Show

5. Boogie Wonderland (featuring The Emotions)

6. Star

7. Wait

8. Rock That!

9. You and I

10. Diana

11. Dirty (Interlude) (featuring Junior Wells)

12. Dirty (Junior's Juke) (featuring Junior Wells)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.