The Blackbyrds - Action

Today Marks The 48th Anniversary of The Blackbyrds’ 5th Studio Album “Action” Originally Released on September 1, 1977.

“Action” is the fifth studio album by American R&B/jazz-fusion band the Blackbyrds, released in 1977 on Fantasy Records.

The album peaked at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul LPs chart, and at #43 43 on the U.S. Billboard Top Pop LPs chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album, "Street Games", "Soft and Easy", and "Supernatural Feeling".

"Street Games" was released as the album’s first single it failed to chart on the Billboard charts.

"Soft and Easy" reached #30 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Supernatural Feeling" reached #19 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The album “Action” has also been certified Gold in the US by the RIAA.

Track-listing

1. Supernatural Feeling

2. Lookin' Ahead

3. Mysterious Vibes

4. Something Special

5. Street Games

6. Soft and Easy

7. Dreaming About You

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Kool & the Gang - Spirit of the Boogie

Today Mark's The 50th Anniversary of Kool & The Gang's 6th Studio Album "Spirit of the Boogie" Originally Released on August 1, 1975.

"Spirit of the Boogie" is the sixth studio album by Kool & the Gang, released in 1975 on De-Lite Records.

The Album peaked at #48 on Billboard's Top LPs & Tapes chart, #5 on Billboard's Top R&B Albums chart and at #18 on Billboard's Top Jazz LPs chart.

Two singles were released of the album, The title track "Spirit of the Boogie" peaked at #35 on Billboard's Hot 100 chart and at #1 on Billboard's Hot R&B Songs chart.

The second single released of the album "Caribbean Festival" peaked at #35 on the Billboard Hot 100 and at #6 on Billboard's Hot R&B Songs chart.

"Spirit of the Boogie" can be seen as a follow-up to their Wild and Peaceful (1973); the instrumental "Jungle Jazz" uses the same basic rhythm track heard in "Jungle Boogie", but lets the players improvise on their instruments (saxophone, trumpet and flute).

References to earlier works can be noticed ("Ancestral Ceremony" contains the line: "making merry music...", which was the name of a song from their 1972 album, Good Times).

"Spirit of the Boogie" features Donald Boyce, who was rapping on "Jungle Boogie". Some African influence can be felt, and the band even play in a West-Indian style on "Caribbean Festival", another instrumental track, with once more room for improvisation.

Tracklisting:

1. Spirit Of The Boogie

2. Ride The Rhythm

3. Jungle Jazz

4. Sunshine And Love

5. Ancestral Ceremony

6. Mother Earth

7. Winter Sadness

8. Caribbean Festival

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Chic - Risqué

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Chic's 3rd Studio Album “Risqué” Originally Released on July 30, 1979.

“Risqué” is the third studio album by New York City, disco-funk band Chic released in 1979 on Atlantic Records.

The album peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Soul charts, and at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Three songs were released from the album as singles, "Good Times", "My Forbidden Lover" and "My Feet Keep Dancing".

"Good Times" peaked #1 on both of Billboard’s Hot Soul Singles and Hot 100 charts. The song also peaked at #3 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

"My Forbidden Lover" peaked at #3 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. The song also reached #15 on the UK singles chart

"My Feet Keep Dancing" peaked at #3 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. The song failed to enter US Billboard R&B chart Top 40 reaching #42. on the chart.

"Good Times" has been extensively sampled in other artists' works, most notably in the first top 40 rap single, "Rapper's Delight" by Sugarhill Gang, that same year. "Will You Cry" was sampled in "Just a Moment" by Nas from the 2004 album Street's Disciple.

The album went platinum in the United States selling over one million units.

Risqué became one of the records that defined the disco era, The album became highly influential not only within the movement, but also in other genres such as hip hop, art rock and new wave.

In 2020, Rolling Stone ranked the album at number 414 on their list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.

The album was produced by band leaders Nile Rodgers and Bernard

Track-listing

1. Good Times

2. A Warm Summer Night

3. My Feet Keep Dancing

4. My Forbidden Lover

5. Can't Stand to Love You

6. Will You Cry (When You Hear This Song)

7. What About Me?

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Zapp - Zapp

Today Marks The 45th Anniversary of Zapp’s Debut Self-Titled Album “Zapp” Originally Released on July 30, 1980.

Zapp is the debut studio album by Dayton, Ohio funk band Zapp, released in 1980 on Warner Bros. Records.

The album peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard R&B chart and reached #20 on the U.S. Billboard 200.

Two songs were released as singles from the album, "More Bounce to the Ounce" and "Be Alright".

"More Bounce to the Ounce" peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, #19 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart, and at #86 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Be Alright" reached #26 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

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

The album has been cited as one of the definitive albums of early 1980s electro funk and partially influenced the creation of the G-funk sound of hip hop music genre which became popular on the West Coast of the United States during the early and mid 1990s.

“More Bounce to the Ounce” is featured in the films Boyz n the Hood, Mi Vida Loca, Losing Isaiah, Hate, Any Given Sunday, Blue Hill Avenue and Straight Outta Compton, the 2002 Rockstar video game Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, and the 2018 South Park episode "A Boy and a Priest". It was also in an episode of "New Girl" (Season 4, episode 20).

Track-listing

All songs written by Roger Troutman.

1. More Bounce to the Ounce

2. Freedom

3. Brand New Player

4. Funky Bounce

5. Be Alright

6. Coming Home

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Eddie Hazel - Game, Dames and Guitar Thangs

Today Marks The 48th Anniversary of Eddie Hazel’s Debut Studio Album “Game, Dames and Guitar Thangs” Originally Released on July 29, 1977.

“Game, Dames and Guitar Thangs” is the debut studio album by P-Funk guitarist Eddie Hazel released in 1977 on Warner Bros. Records.

“Game, Dames and Guitar Thangs” was Eddie Hazel's only album that was released until his untimely death in 1992, when it was followed by several posthumous releases.

The album featured many of P-Funk’s alumni including Michael Hampton, Garry Shider, Glenn Goins, Bootsy Collins, Billy Bass Nelson, Cordell Mosson, Jerome Brailey, Tiki Fulwood and Bernie Worrell.

The album also featured Lynn Mabry, Dawn Silva, and Gary Cooper on vocals.

The album was produced by Eddie Hazel and George Clinton.

In 2004, Rhino Records issued Game, Dames and Guitar Thangs as a numbered, limited-edition compact disc. As bonus tracks, the Rhino CD included the four songs that made up the hard-to-find Jams From The Heart EP (1994).

After Rhino's limited release sold out, Collector's Choice Music released the album without the extra songs.

The album was re-released in 2012 by RealGoneMusic in gatefold form.

Track-listing

1. California Dreamin'

2. Frantic Moment

3. So Goes the Story

4. I Want You (She's So Heavy

5. Physical Love

6. What About It?

7. California Dreamin' (Reprise)

8. Smedley Smorganoff (bonus track)

9. Lampoc Boogie (bonus track)

10. From the Bottom of My Soul (bonus track)

11. Unkut Funk (bonus track)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Rose Royce - In Full Bloom

Today Marks The 48th Anniversary of Rose Royce’s Sophomore Studio Album “In Full Bloom” Originally Released on July 29, 1977.

“In Full Bloom” is the second album released by American funk band Rose Royce on the Whitfield Records on July 1977.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul LPs chart and #9 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

Four songs were released as singles from the album "Do Your Dance", "It Makes You Feel Like Dancin'", "Ooh Boy" and "Wishing on a Star".

"Do Your Dance” peaked at #4 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart, #20 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart and at #39 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"It Makes You Feel Like Dancin'" reached #20 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

"Ooh Boy" peaked at #3 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart and at #72 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Wishing on a Star" reached #52 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart and at #101 just beneath the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

The album was produced by Norman Whitfield.

The album was remastered and reissued with bonus tracks in 2016 by Big Break Records.

Track-listing

1. Wishing on a Star

2. You Can't Please Everybody

3. Ooh Boy

4. Do Your Dance

5. You're My World Girl

6. Love, More Love

7. Funk Factory

8. It Makes You Feel Like Dancin

9. Do Your Dance (Part 1)

10. Ooh Boy" (Single version)

11. Wishing on a Star (Single version)

12. It Makes You Feel Like Dancin' (Single version)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

The Time - The Timw

Today Marks The 44th Anniversary of The Time’s Debut Self-Titled Album “The Time” Originally Released on July 29, 1981.

“The Time” is the 1981 debut studio album by Minneapolis funk rock band The Time released in 1981 by Warner Bros. Records.

The album peaked at #7 on the US Billboard Top Soul LPs chart and at #50 on the US Billboard Top LPs & Tape chart.

Three singles came from the album: "Get It Up", "Cool" and "Girl", with the first two charting within the top ten on the R&B charts.

"Get It Up" peaked at #6 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B singles chart and at #16 on the U.S. Billboard Club Dance Song chart.

“Cool” peaked at #7 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B singles chart and at #16 on the U.S. Billboard Club Dance Song chart and at #90 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

“Girl” reached #49 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B singles chart.

The album was largely produced and arranged by Prince, credited as Jamie Starr, Morris Day was the only musician from the band who contributed to the album’s recording process.

The album was certified gold in the United States by the RIAA selling 500,000^ copies.

The original LP and singles gave no writer credits, only stating that "All Jams Published by Tionna Music". However, all compositions were registered with ASCAP, and the writer credits are derived from that source.

Track-listing

All tracks written by Prince unless where noted.

1. Get It Up

2. Girl

3. After Hi School (Dez Dickerson)

4. Cool

5. Oh, Baby

6. The Stick (Prince, Lisa Coleman)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

The Commodores - Midnight Magic

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of The Commodore’s 7th Studio Album “Midnight Magic” Originally Released on July 27, 1979.

“Midnight Magic” is the seventh studio album by Tuskegee, Alabama funk band The Commodores released in 1979 on Motown Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Albums chart, and at #3

on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album, "Sail On", "Still", and "Wonderland".

"Sail On" peaked at #4 on the U.S.Billboard Hot 100, #8 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles, and at #9 on the U.S. Billboard Adult Contemporary chart.

"Still" peaked at #1 on both the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles, and the U.S.Billboard Hot 100 charts. It also peaked at #6 on the U.S. Billboard Adult Contemporary chart.

"Wonderland" reached #21 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart, #25 on the U.S.Billboard Hot 100 chart, and at #43 on the U.S. Billboard Adult Contemporary chart.

“Midnight Magic” was nominated for a Grammy Award in the category of Best R&B Performance by a Duo, Group or Chorus.

Track-listing

1. Gettin' It

2. Midnight Magic

3. You're Special

4. Still

5. Wonderland

6. Sexy Lady

7. Lovin' You

8. Sail On

9. 12:01 A.M. (Reprise)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

The Temptations - All Directions

Today Marks The 53rd Anniversary of The Temptations’ 16th Studio Album “All Directions” Originally Released on July 27, 1972.

“All Directions” is the sixteenth studio album by Detroit, Michigan Soul, Funk. Group The Temptations released in 1972 by Gordy Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B LP's chart, and at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "Mother Nature" and "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone”.

"Mother Nature" reached #27 on the U.S. Billboard Best Selling Soul Singles chart, and at #92 on the Billboard Hot 100.

"Papa Was a Rollin' Stone” peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, and at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Best Selling Soul Singles chart.

"Papa Was a Rollin' Stone" was originally written for the psychedelic funk group The Undisputed Truth, Their version of the song was released earlier that year on May 9, 1972 , The Temptations version was released on September 28, 1972.

According to legend, lead singer Dennis Edwards didn't want to sing "Papa's" opening lines, because his own father had died on the third of September, but in actuality, Edwards' father had died on the third of October. In addition, his father was a minister, "a good, steady, religious man", not a "rolling stone".

"Papa Was a Rollin' Stone" won three Grammy Awards in 1973: Best R&B Performance by a Group for the Temptations, Best R&B Instrumental Performance for Whitfield and arranger/conductor Paul Riser's instrumental version of "Papa" on the single's b-side, and Best R&B Song for Whitfield and lyricist Barrett Strong.

The album was included in the book 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die.

The album “All Directions” was produced by Norman Whitfield.

Track-listing

1. Funky Music Sho Nuff Turns Me On

2. Run Charlie Run

3. Papa Was a Rollin' Stone

4. Love Woke Me Up This Morning

5. I Ain't Got Nothin'

6. The First Time Ever (I Saw Your Face)

7. Mother Nature

8. Do Your Thing

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Zapp - Zapp III

Today Marks The 42nd Anniversary of Zapp's 3rd Album "Zapp III" Originally Released on July 25, 1983.

“Zapp III” is the third studio album by the American funk band Zapp. It was released on July 25, 1983, by Warner Bros. Records.

The album peak at #39 on Billboard's Hot 100 charts for a number of 4 weeks in the top 50.

The single "I Can Make You Dance" peaked at #102 on Billboards US Dance chart and at #4 on Billboard's R&B charts.

The album contains 7 funky songs with tracks "Heartbreaker" and a live version of previous hit "Doo Wa Ditty" (live) is amongst fan favorites.

Track List:

1. "Heartbreaker"

2. "I Can Make You Dance"

3. "Play Some Blues"

4. "Spend My Whole Life"

5. "We Need The Buck"

6. "Tut-Tut (Jazz)"

7. "Doo Wa Ditty" (live)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Eddie Hazel - Game, Dames and Guitar Thangs

Today Marks The 48th Anniversary of Eddie Hazel’s Debut Studio Album “Game, Dames and Guitar Thangs” Originally Released on July 25, 1977.

“Game, Dames and Guitar Thangs” is the debut studio album by P-Funk guitarist Eddie Hazel released in 1977 on Warner Bros. Records.

“Game, Dames and Guitar Thangs” was Eddie Hazel's only album that was released until his untimely death in 1992, when it was followed by several posthumous releases.

The album featured many of P-Funk’s alumni including Michael Hampton, Garry Shider, Glenn Goins, Bootsy Collins, Billy Bass Nelson, Cordell Mosson, Jerome Brailey, Tiki Fulwood and Bernie Worrell.

The album also featured Lynn Mabry, Dawn Silva, and Gary Cooper on vocals.

The album was produced by Eddie Hazel and George Clinton.

In 2004, Rhino Records issued Game, Dames and Guitar Thangs as a numbered, limited-edition compact disc. As bonus tracks, the Rhino CD included the four songs that made up the hard-to-find Jams From The Heart EP (1994).

After Rhino's limited release sold out, Collector's Choice Music released the album without the extra songs.

The album was re-released in 2012 by RealGoneMusic in gatefold form.

Track-listing

1. California Dreamin'

2. Frantic Moment

3. So Goes the Story

4. I Want You (She's So Heavy

5. Physical Love

6. What About It?

7. California Dreamin' (Reprise)

8. Smedley Smorganoff (bonus track)

9. Lampoc Boogie (bonus track)

10. From the Bottom of My Soul (bonus track)

11. Unkut Funk (bonus track)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Johnny “Guitar” Watson - Giant

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of Johnny "Guitar" Watson’s 9th Studio Album “Giant” Originally Released on July 24, 1978.

“Giant” is a funk album by the American funk musician Johnny "Guitar" Watson released in 1978 by DJM Records.

The song “Gangster of Love” was released as a single from the album, The song reached #32 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. Miss Frisco (Queen Of The Disco)

2. Tu Jours Amour

3. Gangster Of Love

4. Guitar Disco

5. Wrapped In Black Mink

6. You Can Stay But The Noise Must Go

7. Baby Face (She Said Do Do Do Do)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

The S.O.S. Band - Too

Today Marks The 44th Anniversary of The S.O.S. Band’s Sophomore Studio Album “Too” Originally Released on July 23, 1981.

“Too” is the second album by the R&B, Funk band The S.O.S. Band, released in 1981 on Tabu Records.

The album reached #30 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul LPs chart and at #117 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

Two songs were released as singles in 1981, "Do It Now (Part 1)" and “You”.

"Do It Now (Part 1)" reached #15 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart.

“You” reached #64 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart.

The album was produced by Sigidi Abdullah.

The album was digitally remastered and reissued on CD with bonus tracks in 2013 by Demon Music Group.

Track-listing

1. It's a Long Way to the Top

2. Do It Now

3. There Is No Limit

4. You

5. Stay

6. Are You Ready?

7. Do You Know Where Your Children Are?

8. For the Brothers That Ain't Here

9. Unborn Child

10. Do It Now" (Long Version)

11. Do It Now" (Part 1)

12. Do It Now" (Part 1 - Short Version)

13. Do It Now" (Part 1)

14. You (Long Version)

15. There Is No Limit (Long Version)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

James Brown - Love Over-Due

Today Marks The 34th Anniversary of James Brown’s 55th Studio Album “Love Over-Due” Originally Released on July 23, 1991.

“Love Over-Due” is the 55th studio album by Funk-Soul musician James Brown released in 1991 on Scotti Brothers Records.

The album reached #51 on the U. S Billboard Top R&B Albums chart.

The song "(So Tired of Standing Still We Got to) Move On" was released as the album’s only single.

"(So Tired of Standing Still We Got to) Move On" reached #48 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, and at #91 on the U. S Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. (So Tired of Standing Still We Got) Move On

2. Show Me

3. Dance, Dance, Dance to the Funk

4. Teardrops On Your Letter

5. Standing On Higher Ground

6. Later for Dancing

7. You Are My Everything

8. It's Time to Love (Put a Little Love In Your Heart)

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 Meters - Trick Bag

Today Marks The 49th Anniversary of The Meters 7th Studio Album “Trick Bag” Originally Released on July 22, 1976.

“Trick Bag” is the seventh studio album by the New Orleans funk group The Meters released in 1976 on Reprise Records.

The album peaked at #48 on the U.S. Billboard R&B charts, which was considered a letdown compared to their previous album "Struttin'," which reached #32.

The song “Disco Is the Thing Today” was released as the lead single from the album it reached #87 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The name "trick bag" comes from their cover of the Earl King single of the same name.

The phrase "trick bag" refers to a deceptive situation or trap, often used in blues and related musical genres.

In the context of The Meters' album, the title "Trick Bag" may allude to the band's challenges in achieving commercial success despite their musical talent and innovation.

Track-listing

1. Disco Is the Thing Today

2. Find Yourself

3. All These Things

4. I Want to Be Loved by You

5. Suite for 20 G

6. Doodle Loop (The World Is a Little Bit Under the Weather)

7. Trick Bag

8. Mister Moon

9. Chug-a-Lug (Push 'n' Shove)

10. Hang 'Em High

11. Honky Tonk Women

12. Love the One You're With

13. What More Can I Do?

14. Down by the River

15. Come Together

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

 

 

 

The Commodores - Machine Gun

Today Marks The 51st Anniversary of The Commodore’s Debut Studio Album “Machine Gun” Originally Released on July 22, 1974.

“Machine Gun” is the debut studio album by Tuskegee, Alabama funk band The Commodores released in 1974 on Motown Records.

The album reached #22 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul LPs chart and at #138 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

Four songs were released as singles from the album, I Feel Sanctified, Machine Gun, The Zoo (The Human Zoo) and Superman.

“Machine Gun” the album’s title track reached #7 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles, and at #22 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

“I Feel Sanctified” peaked at #12 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles, and at #75 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"The Human Zoo" was released as a single in the United Kingdom it reached #44 on the UK Singles charts.

“Superman” was released as a single in the United Kingdom it reached #53 on the UK Singles charts.

“The Bump” was another fan favorite from the album it was released as a singles in 1975 and was also featured on their second album “Caught In The Act “.

The drum break in the track "The Assembly Line" has been sampled many times, mainly used in Hip Hop, Drum & Bass and Jungle music.

Track-listing

1. Machine Gun

2. Young Girls Are My Weakness

3. I Feel Sanctified

4. The Bump

5. Rapid Fire

6. The Assembly Line

7. The Zoo (The Human Zoo)

8. Gonna Blow Your Mind

9. There's a Song in My Heart

10. Superman

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Stevie Wonder - Fulfillingness' First Finale

Today Marks The 51st Anniversary of Stevie Wonder’s 17th Studio Album “Fulfillingness' First Finale” Originally Released on July 22, 1974,

“Fulfillingness' First Finale” in 2974 is the seventeenth studio album by American singer, songwriter, musician, and producer Stevie Wonder, released in 1974 on Tamla Records.

The album peaked at #1 on both the Billboard Top LP's & Tapes chart and the Billboard Soul LP's charts.

Two singles were released from the album, "You Haven't Done Nothin'" and "Boogie on Reggae Woman".

"You Haven't Done Nothin'" peaked at #1 on both of Billboard’s Hot Soul Singles and the Billboard Hot 100 charts.

"Boogie on Reggae Woman" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, and at #3 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

Other fan favorites were "Heaven Is 10 Zillion Light Years Away" and "Creepin'".

The song "They Won't Go When I Go" was the only one on the album that Wonder did not write by himself. His co-writer was Yvonne Wright, who co-wrote songs with Wonder for other albums.

Wonder performed this song, along with "Never Dreamed You'd Leave in Summer", at Michael Jackson's memorial service on July 7, 2009.

"You Haven't Done Nothin'", which launched a pointed criticism of the Nixon administration bolstered by clavinet, drum machine, and a cameo by the Jackson 5.

Luther Vandross covered the song “Creepin’” in 1985 for his album “The Night I Fell in Love”

All songs written by Stevie Wonder, except "They Won't Go When I Go", written by Wonder and Yvonne Wright.

 Track-listing

1. Smile Please

2. Heaven Is 10 Zillion Light Years Away

3. Too Shy to Say

4. Boogie On Reggae Woman

5. Creepin'

6. You Haven't Done Nothin'

7. It Ain't No Use

8. They Won't Go When I Go

9. Bird of Beauty

10. Please Don't Go

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

 

 

Midnight Star - Work It Out

Today Marks The 35th Anniversary of Midnight Star’s 8th Studio Album “Work It Out” Originally Released on July 21, 1990.

“Work It Out” is the eighth studio album by R&B-Funk Band Midnight Star. Released in 1990 on SOLAR Records.

The album reached #41 on the U.S. Billboard Top Black Albums chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album, "Do It (One More Time)", "Luv-U-Up" and "Red Roses".

"Do It (One More Time)" reached #12 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"Luv-U-Up" reached #58 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"Red Roses" was released as the album’s third single it failed to chart.

“Work It Out” was the last album the band recorded for SOLAR Records.

The album was produced by Midnight Star.

Tracklist

1. Do It (One More Time)

2. Work It Out

3. All I Want

4. Money Can't Buy You Love

5. The Love Of My Life

6. Luv-U-Up

7. Red Roses

8. One Life To Live

9. If Walls Could Talk

10. Take Your Shoes Off

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

 

Funkadelic - Free Your Mind... and Your Ass Will Follow

Today Marks The 55th Anniversary of Funkadelic's 2nd Studio Album "Free Your Mind... and Your Ass Will Follow" Originally Released on July 20, 1970.

"Free Your Mind... and Your Ass Will Follow" is the second studio album by American funk rock band Funkadelic, released in 1970 by Westbound Records.

The album was recorded at United Sound Studios, Audio Graphic Services, and G-M Recording Studios in Detroit.

George Clinton described the recording as an attempt to "see if we can cut a whole album while we're all tripping on acid."

The album's gatefold cover forms something of a visual pun, echoing the sentiments of the album title.

The woman holding her arms towards heaven in an ecstatic pose is found to be nude upon opening the sleeve.

The original 1970 issue's artwork featured the woman facing downward, and the "Free Your Mind..." title in brown.

Reissues beginning in 1990 reversed the woman's direction (substituting an alternate photograph where her head is more inclined and her fingers are more widely fanned), and have varied the placement and color of the text.

1. Free Your Mind And Your Ass Will Follow

2. Friday Night, August 14th

3. Funky Dollar Bill 3:14

4. I Wanna Know If It's Good To You

4. Some More

4. Eulogy And Light

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Fat Larry's Band - Feel It

Today Marks The 49th Anniversary of Fat Larry's Band Debut Studio Album “Feel It” Originally Released on July 20, 1976.

“Feel It” is the debut studio album by Philadelphia-based soul, funk band Fat Larry's Band released in 1976 on WMOT Records.

Two songs were released as singles from the album “Fascination” and “Center City”.

“Fascination” reached #39 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Song chart.

“Center City” was the second single from the album. It was released in the United Kingdom it reached #31 on the UK Singles Chart.

Track-listing

1. Feel It

2. Nighttime Boogie

3. Down on the Avenue

4. Music Maker

5. Center City

6. Fascination

7. Life of an Entertainer

8. We Just Want to Play for You

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Donald Byrd - Black Byrd

Today Marks The 52nd Anniversary of Donald Byrd’s 41st Studio Album “Black Byrd” Originally Released on July 18, 1973.

“Black Byrd” is a studio album by Jazz-funk trumpeter Donald Byrd released in 1973 on Blue Note Records.

The album is the first of his Blue Note albums to be produced by Larry Mizell, assisted by his brother, former Motown producer Fonce.

The title of the album inspired the name of Byrd's apprentice group, The Blackbyrds.

In the jazz funk idiom, The album is among Blue Note Records' best selling album releases.

The album’s compositions were written and composed by The Mizell Brothers.

Track-listing

1. Flight Time

2. Black Byrd

3. Love's So Far Away

4. Mr. Thomas

5. Sky High

6. Slop Jar Blues

7. Where Are We Going?

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Rufus - Rufus

Today Marks The 52nd Anniversary of Rufus’s Debut Self-titled Album “Rufus” Originally Released on July 18, 1973.

“Rufus” is the debut Delft-titled studio album by American R&B-funk band Rufus, released inv1973 on ABC Records.

The album reached #44 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul LPs chart, and at #175 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

Three singles were released from the album "Slip 'n Slide", "Whoever's Thrilling You (Is Killing Me)" and "Feel Good".

"Slip 'n Slide" reached #110 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Whoever's Thrilling You (Is Killing Me)" reached #40 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Feel Good" reached #45 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The album is notable for an upbeat rock/soul sound that would be replaced by a more heavy direction into funk and jazzy-styled recordings.

The album features vocals by Chaka Khan and and multi-instrumentalist Ron Stockert. Though the band’s focus wasn't on Khan’s vocal abilities the band's artistic direction was led by Ron Stockert.

Shortly after this album's release and struggling with the group's slow climb to success, Stockert would leave the band during sessions of the group's next album, Rags to Rufus. By then, Khan's role would be updated and as the group became successful in later years, most of the focus of the band would lay solely on Khan's shoulders.

The album was produced by Bob Monaco.

Tracklist

1. Slip 'n Slide

2. Keep It Coming

3. There's No Tellin'

4. Maybe Your Baby

5. I Finally Found You

6. Feel Good

7. Satisfied

8. Haulin' Coal

9. Whoever's Thrilling You (Is Killing Me)

10. Love the One You're With

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Dynasty - Your Piece of the Rock

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Dynasty’s Debut Studio Album “Your Piece of the Rock” Originally Released on July 17, 1979.

“Your Piece of the Rock” is the debut studio album by the Los Angeles, California-based R&B group Dynasty released in 1979 on SOLAR Records.

Upon its release the album didn’t chart in the United States.

Four songs were released from the album as singles, "Your Piece of the Rock", "When You Feel Like Giving Love (Dial My Number)", “Don't Want to Be a Freak (But I Can't Help Myself)” and “It's Still a Thrill”.

"Your Piece of the Rock" didn’t chart in the United States, However the song reached No. 20 on the UK Singles Chart in late 1979.

"When You Feel Like Giving Love (Dial My Number)" failed to chart as a single in both the United States and United Kingdom.

“Don't Want to Be a Freak (But I Can't Help Myself)” reached #36 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, and at #38 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Singles charts.

“It's Still a Thrill” reached #38 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Singles charts.

The album was produced by Leon Sylvers III and Dynasty.

Track-listing

1. Your Piece of the Rock

2. I Don't Want to Be a Freak (But I Can't Help Myself)

3. Satisfied

4. When You Feel Like Giving Love (Dial My Number)

5. It's Still a Thrill

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

New Birth - Ain't No Big Thing, But It's Growing

Today Marks The 54th Anniversary of New Birth’s 2nd Studio Album “Ain't No Big Thing, But It's Growing” Originally Released on July 17, 1971.

“Ain't No Big Thing, But It's Growing” is the second studio album by American funk and R&B collective New Birth, released in 1971 on RCA Records.

The album reached #50 on the U.S. Billboard Best Selling Soul LP's chart, and at #189 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

The song "It's Impossible" was released as the album’s lead single.

"It's Impossible" reached #12 on the U.S. Billboard Best Selling Soul Singles chart and at #52 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

Despite their charting with "Impossible,' the group would not come into their own until their fourth album, "Birth Day" in 1972.

The album established their trademark covers of other people's hits, most notably, in addition to "It's Impossible", The Five Stairsteps' "Ooh Child", Bread's "Make It With You", The Jackson 5's "Never Can Say Goodbye" and James Taylor's "Fire And Rain".

The album was produced by the band’s mentor Harvey Fuqua and his assistant Vernon Bullock.

Tracklist

1. O-O-H Child

2. Make It With You

3. Never Can Say Goodbye

4. How Good It Feels

5. It's Impossible

6. Honeybee

7. Fire and Rain

8. Oh What a Feeling

9. Let It Be

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Bernard Wright - Nard

Today Marks The 44th Anniversary of Bernard Wright’s Debut Studio Album “'Nard” Originally Released on July 17, 1981.

‘“Nard” is the debut album from American funk keyboardist Bernard Wright. It was released in 1981 by GRP Records and distributed by Arista Records.

The album peaked at #7 on the U.S. Billboard Top Jazz Albums chart, #23 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and at #116 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Albums chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "Just Chillin' Out" and “Haboglabotribin”

"Just Chillin' Out" reached #32 on the U.S. Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks chart and at #85 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

“Haboglabotribin” reached #78 on the U.S. Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks chart.

The song "Haboglabotribin" is featured in Grand Theft Auto V on the radio station Space 103.2. The song is also featured in the trailer for the Enhanced Edition of the game, which was shown during Sony’s PlayStation 5 reveal event.

Track-listing

1. Master Rocker

2. Firebolt Hustle

3. Haboglabotribin’

4. Spinnin'

5. Just Chillin' Out

6. Bread Sandwiches

7. Music is the Key

8. We're Just the Band

9. Solar

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Midnight Star - Victory

Today Marks The 43rd Anniversary of Midnight Star’s 3rd Studio Album “Victory” Originally Released on July 16, 1982.

“Victory” is the third studio album by Midnight Star released in 1982 by SOLAR Records.

The album reached #58 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Albums chart and at # 205 just beneath the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.

Two singles were released from the album "Hot Spot" and the album’s title track “Victory".

"Hot Spot" reached #35 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart and at #108 just beneath the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Victory" reached #83 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. Victory

2. Strike A Match

3. Move Me

4. Make Time (To Fall In Love)

5. Hot Spot

6. You Can't Stop Me

7. Be With You

8. Love Is Alive

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Rick James - Garden of Love

Today Marks The 45th Anniversary of Rick James' 4th Studio Album "Garden of Love" Originally Released on July 16, 1980 on Gordy Records

 "Garden of Love" is Rick James' fourth studio album on Motown sub-label Gordy.

The album reached #83 on the Billboard Top 200 chart and at #17 on Billboard's Top Soul LPs chart.

The album's lead single "Big Time" peaked at #17 in Billboard's Hot R&B Songs and at #38 on Billboard's Dance Club Songs chart.

The song "Mary -Go- Round" wasn't released as a single, but Rick James did perform the song on SoulTrain as an second performance alongside the lead single "Big Time". The episode aired Oct 11, 1980.

"Garden of Love " was Rick James' most underrated releases. The album went gold and was far from a flop, but Motown wanted double or triple platinum, and anything less was disappointing.

Though the album was a departure from the type of hard and rowdy funk that defined his previous albums "Come Get It!", "Bustin' Out of L Seven", and "Fire It Up" Since then, disappointment has given way to a deeper appreciation of Garden Of Love. "It is one of the great Motown concept albums," writes Veal, "a quintessential summertime jam, James's hidden masterpiece, and a solid testament to his vision and versatility."

Other standout songs were "Summer Love." Another song which Rick James performed on Don Kirshner's Rock Concert on August 26, 1980. The song "Island Lady" is another fan favorite on this often slept in album.

Tracklisting:

1. Big Time

2. Don't Give Up On Love

3. Island Lady

4. Gettin' It On (In The Sunshine)

5. Summer Love

6. Mary -Go- Round

7. Gettin' It On (In The Sunshine) Reprise

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

The Dazz Band - Hot Spot

Today Marks The 40th Anniversary of The Dazz Band’s 7th Studio Album “Hot Spot” Originally Released on July 16, 1985.

“Hot Spot is the seventh studio album by Cleveland, Ohio funk band the Dazz Band released in 1985 on Motown Records.

The album reached #24 on the U.S. Billboard Top Black Albums chart, and at #84 on the U.S. Billboard 200.

Two songs were released as singles from the album “Heartbeat” and the album’s title track “Hot Spot”.

“Heartbeat” reached #12 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart, and at #110 just beneath the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The album’s title track "Hot Spot" reached #21 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart, and at #33 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Music chart.

The album showcases a blend of their signature synth-funk sound with influences from new wave and synth-pop. While some tracks like "When You Need Roses" lean towards a more soulful, melancholy sound, the album is generally characterized by catchy funk grooves with a modern edge.

"Slow Rap" is praised for its superb production, featuring Jeff Lorber, and its mid-tempo, classy R&B feel.

"She Used to Be My Girl" is another standout, with its atmospheric guitar and echoed harmonies reminiscent of their earlier work.

While not always considered among the Dazz Band's essential albums, "Hot Spot" is generally regarded as an enjoyable listen, particularly for fans of their mid-80s output.

Track-listing

1. Only You Were In My Shoes

2. Hot Spot

3. Paranoid

4. All The Way

5. S. C. L. & P. (Style, Class, Looks And Personality)

6. She Used To Be My Girl

7. When You Needed Roses

8. Slow Rap

9. Hot Spot - (club mix)

10. Heartbeat - (12" version)

11. Let It All Blow - Special (disco remix)

12. Swoop (I'm Yours) - (12" version)

13. Joystick - (vocal 12")

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Zapp - Zapp II

Today Marks The 43rd Anniversary of Zapp’s Sophomore Studio Album “Zapp II” Originally Released on July 14, 1982.

“Zapp II” is the second studio album by American funk band Zapp, released on 1982 via Warner Bros. Records.

The album peaked at #25 on the US Billboard 200 chart and at #2 on the US Billboard R&B chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album album, "Doo Wa Ditty (Blow That Thing)”, "Dance Floor" and "Playin' Kinda Ruff".

"Doo Wa Ditty (Blow That Thing)” peaked at #10 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart and at #103 just beneath the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

“Dance Floor” peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart, #62 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart and at #101 just beneath the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Playin' Kinda Ruff" was released as the album’s third single it failed to reach the Billboard charts.

The album was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on September 21, 1982.

Track-listing

1. Dance Floor

2. Playin' Kinda Ruff

3. Doo Wa Ditty (Blow That Thing)

4. Do You Really Want an Answer?

5. Come On

6. A Touch of Jazz (Playin' Kinda Ruff Part II)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Brass Construction - Renegades

Today Marks The 41st Anniversary of Brass Construction’s 9th Studio Album “Renegades” Originally Released on July 12, 1984.

“Renegades” is the ninth studio album by Brooklyn, New York funk band Brass Construction, released in 1984 on Capitol Records.

The album reached #31 on the U.S. Billboard Black LPs charts. The album also reached #98 on the Official UK Albums Charts.

Three songs were released as singles,

"Never Had a Girl", "Partyline", and "International"        .

"Never Had a Girl" reached #38 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"Partyline" reached #53 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"International" reached #70 on the UK singles charts.

The album was produced by Randy Muller.

Track-listing

1. International

2. Never Had A Girl

3. We Can Bring It Back

4. Fascinating You

5. Partyline

6. Renegades

7. Dangerous

8. Closer To You

9. What Is The Law?

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Funkadelic - Maggot Brain

Today Marks The 54th Anniversary of Funkadelic's 3rd Album "Maggot Brain" originally Released on July 12, 1971 on by Westbound Records.

“Maggot Brain” is the third studio album by the American funk rock band Funkadelic, released by Westbound Records in July 1971.

The album reached #108 on Billboard's US pop chart while missing the UK chart, and also reached the top 20 of the U.S. Billboard R&B charts.

The album was produced by band leader George Clinton and recorded at United Sound Systems in Detroit during late 1970 and early 1971.

After the album was released, the band effectively disbanded drummer Tiki Fulwood was fired due to drug use; guitarist Tawl Ross reportedly got into an "acid eating contest, then snorting some raw speed, before completely flipping out" and has not performed since; bassist Billy Nelson quit over a money dispute with Clinton. Subsequently, only Clinton, Hazel, and keyboardist Bernie Worrell remained from the original Funkadelic lineup.

A 2005 reissue included three bonus tracks, among them an alternate mix of "Maggot Brain" featuring the full-band performance.

The album is perhaps best known for its 10-minute title track, an improvisation performed by guitarist Eddie Hazel.

Pitchfork named it the 17th best album of the 1970s.

In 2020, Rolling Stone ranked Maggot Brain the 136th greatest album of all time in its updated list.

1. Maggot Brain 10:10

2. Can You Get To That 2:45

3. Hit It And Quit It 3:44

4. You And Your Folks, Me And My Folks 3:29

4. Super Stupid 3:53

5. Back In Our Minds 2:35

6. Wars Of Armageddon 9:28

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Shalamar - The Look

Today Marks The 48th Anniversary of Shalamar’s 7th Studio Album “The Look” Originally Released on July 11, 1983.

“The Look” is the seventh studio album by American R&B group Shalamar, released in 1983 on SOLAR Records.

The album reached #13 on the U.S. Billboard Black LPs chart, and at #79 on the U.S. Billboard Top 200 Albums chart.

Four songs were released as singles from the album, "Dead Giveaway", "Over and Over", "Disappearing Act", and  "You Can Count On Me".

"Dead Giveaway" peaked at #10 on the U.S. Billboard Black Singles chart, and at #22 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Over and Over" reached #26 on the U.S. Billboard Black Singles chart.

"Disappearing Act" was the third single from the album it failed to chart in the United States, but reached #18 on the UK singles chart.

"You Can Count On Me" released in 1984 was the fourth and final single released from the album, it reached #77 on the U.S. Billboard Black Singles chart, and at #101 just beneath the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

“The Look” is the last Shalamar album to feature the classic line-up of Jeffrey Daniel, Howard Hewett and Jody Watley, as both Daniel and Watley would leave the group shortly before its release.

The album’s lead single "Dead Giveaway" was nominated for a Grammy in 1983 for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.

Track-listing

1. Closer

2. Dead Giveaway

3. You Can Count on Me

4. Right Here

5. No Limits (The Now Club)

6. Disappearing Act

7. Over and Over

8. You're the One for Me

9. You Won't Miss Love (Until It's Gone)

10. The Look

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

The Blackbyrds - Unfinished Business

Today Marks The 49th Anniversary of The Blackbyrds’ 5th Studio Album “Unfinished Business” Originally Released on July 11, 1976.

“Unfinished Business” is the fifth studio album by American rhythm and blues and jazz-funk fusion group the Blackbyrds released in 1976 by Fantasy Records.

The album peaked at #5 on the U.S. Jazz Album chart, #6 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Albums chart and at #34 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tape chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album "Unfinished Business", "Time Is Movin'" and "Party Land".

"Unfinished Business" peaked at #14 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

"Time Is Movin'" peaked at #15 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart and at #95 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Party Land" reached #30 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. Time Is Movin'

2. In Life

3. Enter In

4. You've Got That Something

5. Party Land

6. Lady

7. Unfinished Business

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

L.T.D. - Something to Love

Today Marks The 48th Anniversary of L.T.D.’s 4th Studio Album “Something to Love” Originally Released on July 11, 1977.

“Something to Love” is the fourth studio album by Los Angeles, California -based R&B Funk band, L.T.D., released in 1977 on A&M Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul LPs chart and at #21 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "(Every Time I Turn Around) Back in Love Again" and Never Get Enough of Your Love".

"(Every Time I Turn Around) Back in Love Again" Peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #4 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

 "Never Get Enough of Your Love" peaked at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #56 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

Track-listing

1. Age of the Showdown

2. (Won't Cha) Stay with Me

3. (Every Time I Turn Around) Back in Love Again

4. You Come First at Last

5. We Party Hearty

6. If You're in Need

7. Never Get Enough of Your Love

8. Make Someone Smile, Today!

9. Material Things

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Graham Central Station - Ain't No 'Bout-A-Doubt It

Today Marks The 50th Anniversary of Graham Central Station’s 3rd Studio Album “Ain't No 'Bout-A-Doubt It” Originally Released on July 11, 1975.

“Ain't No 'Bout-A-Doubt It” is the third album by Graham Central Station. Released in 1975 by Warner Bros. Records.

The album peaked at #4 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and at #22 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Albums chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album "Your Love", "It's Alright" and “The Jam”.

"Your Love" peaked at #4 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart, #19 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Singles chart and at #92 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart.

"It's Alright" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Singles chart and at #38 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

“The Jam” peaked at #15 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Singles chart and at #63 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The album was produced and arranged by Larry Graham.

Track-listing

1. The Jam

2. Your Love

3. It's Alright

4. I Can't Stand The Rain

5. It Ain't Nothing But A Warner Bros. Party

6. Ole Smokey

7. Easy Rider

8. Water

9. Luckiest People

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Curtis Mayfield - Super Fly

Today Marks The 53rd Anniversary of Curtis Mayfield’s Motion Picture Soundtrack “Super Fly” Originally Released on July 11, 1972.

“Super Fly” is the third studio album by American soul musician Curtis Mayfield, released on July 11, 1972 on Curtom Records.

The album was released as the soundtrack for the Blaxploitation film of the same name. Widely considered a classic of 1970s soul and funk music, Super Fly was a nearly immediate hit.

The album peaked at #1 on both the U.S. Billboard Pop Albums and the U.S. Billboard Black Albums charts. It also peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Jazz Albums chart and at #88 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart.

Three songs were released from the album "Freddie's Dead", the album’s title track "Superfly" and "Give Me Your Love".

“Freddie's Dead” peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard US Black Singles chart and at #4 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Singles chart.

"Superfly" peaked at #5 on the U.S. Billboard US Black Singles chart and at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Singles chart.

"Give Me Your Love" was the third single from the album it failed to reach the Billboard charts.

The singles “Freddie's Dead” and “Super Fly” both were certified Gold in the United States by the RIAA.

The album was also certified Gold by the RIAA selling 1,500,000 copies.

“Super Fly” was one of the pioneering soul concept albums, with its then-unique socially aware lyrics about poverty and drug abuse making the album a stand out.

The film and the soundtrack may be perceived as dissonant, since the film holds rather ambiguous views on drug dealers.

The album was a surprise hit that record executives felt had little chance at significant sales. Due to its success, Mayfield was tapped for several film soundtracks over the course of the decade.

Track-listing

1. Little Child Runnin' Wild

2. Pusherman

3. Freddie's Dead

4. Junkie Chase" (instrumental)

5. Give Me Your Love (Love Song)

6. Eddie You Should Know Better

7. No Thing on Me (Cocaine Song)

8. Think (instrumental)

9. Super Fly

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

The Time - Pandemonium

Today Mark's The 35th Anniversary The Time's 4th Studio Album "Pandemonium" Originally Released on July 10, 1990.

"Pandemonium" is the fourth studio album by American band The Time released in 1990 on Paisley Park Records.

The album is a tie-in with the film Graffiti Bridge, and several songs from the album appear in the film.

"Pandemonium" was the most collaborative album to be recorded by the Time, with all of the members of the live band contributing playing to the album for the first time.

 As with previous albums, Prince also contributed songwriting and playing to the album, but several of the songs were written collaboratively between Prince, Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, and Jesse Johnson.

The album peaked at #9 on the U.S. Billboard's Top Black Albums chart and at #18 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.

The album released two hit singles, “Jerk Out” and “Chocolate”.

"Jerk Out" peaked at #1 on Billboard's U.S. R&B chart and at #9 on the U.S. Billboard's U.S. Pop Singles charts.

"Jerk Out" also peaked at #6 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club charts.

"Chocolate" was released as the second single from Pandemonium, and was written by usual band collaborator Prince.

The song didn’t enter the US Billboard Pop Chart, but reached number 44 on the Billboard R&B Chart.

The Time broke up a few weeks after the release of this single.

Track-listing

1. Dreamland

2. Pandemonium

3. Sexy Socialites

4. Jerk Out

5. Yount

6. Blondie

7. Donald Trump (Black Version)

8. Chocolate

9. Cooking Class

10. Skillet

11. It's Your World

12. Sometimes I Get Lonely

13. Data Bank

14. My Summertime Thang

15. Pretty Little Women

By Romie Rome For Musique Funkology

The Bar-Kays - Soul Finger

Today Marks The 58th Anniversary of The Bar-Kay’s’ Debut Studio Album “Soul Finger” Originally Released on July 10, 1967.

“Soul Finger” is the debut studio album of The Bar-Kays, released in 1967 on Volt Records.

The band released their debut single "Soul Finger”. The song peaked at #3 on the U.S. Billboard R&B chart and #17 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The song was also the title track of their first album, which included nine other instrumental tracks recorded shortly after the single's release.

The band released their second single “Knucklehead” it reached #28 on the U.S. Billboard R&B chart and #76 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The recording of a full album began and was released in July. It was recorded by the legendary Tom Dowd and produced by staff producer Jim Stewart.

The album remains a staple of 1960s soul music with its relentless grooves and top-notch playing.

Songs like 'Knucklehead,' 'Bar-Kays Boogaloo,' and 'Pearl High' keep feet on the dance floor.

Elsewhere, the band showcased a variety of influences, such as the jazz touches in 'With A Child's Heart' and 'Hole in the Wall,' which evoke Jimmy Smith or Jack McDuff. Then there is the rock soul vibe of 'Don't Do That' and 'Theme from Hell's Angels.'

The original Bar-Kays band consisted of six members: Ben Cauley (trumpet), James Alexander (bass), Jimmie King (guitar), Ronnie Caldwell (electric organ), Phalon Jones (saxophone), and Carl Cunningham (drums).

Though all but one member of the Bar-Kays were black, Ronnie Caldwell was the only white member of the band.

The instrumental band, after being signed in early 1967, was tutored by Al Jackson, Jr. and the other members of Booker T. & the M.G.'s, which shows in the tightness of the rhythm section.

The original members of the Bar-Kays, with the exception of Ben Cauley and James Alexander, died in a plane crash on December 10, 1967.

The crash also claimed the life of soul singer Otis Redding whom the Bar-Kays served as his backing band.

Ben Cauley, the band's trumpet player, survived the crash. The band’s bassist James Alexander was on a different flight and also survived.

Track-listing

1. Soul Finger

2. Knucklehead

3. With a Child's Heart

4. Bar-Kay's Boogaloo

5. Theme from Hell's Angels

6. You Can't Sit Down

7. House Shoes

8. Pearl High

9. I Want Someone

10. Hole in the Wall

11. Don't Do That

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Funkadelic - Standing on the Verge of Getting It On

Today Marks The 51st Anniversary of Funkadelic's 6th Studio Album "Standing on the Verge of Getting It On" The album was released on July 10, 1974.

"Standing on the Verge of Getting It On" is the sixth studio album by Funkadelic, released on Westbound Records, released in July 1974.

The album reached #163 on Billboard's Pop Albums chart and at #13 on Billboard's R&B Albums chart.

The album is notable for featuring the return of guitarist Eddie Hazel.

On this album, the lyrics generally take a backseat to the music and the jamming. It is one of the most popular Funkadelic albums among fans and highlights the virtuosic guitar of the returning Eddie Hazel, who had departed following 1971's Maggot Brain.

Hazel co-wrote all of the album's songs, although the songwriting credits were mostly in the name of Grace Cook, Hazel's mother (a gambit by Hazel to avoid contractual difficulties with the publishing rights).

Track-listing

1. Red Hot Momma 3:28

2. Alice In My Fantasies 2:27

3. I'll Stay 7:13

4. Sexy Ways 3:06

5. Standing On The Verge Of 6. Getting It On 4:42

7. Jimmy's Got A Little Bit Of 8. Bitch In Him 2:30

9. Good Thoughts, Bad Thoughts 12:20

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Jimmy Castor Bunch - Maximum Stimulation

Today Marks 48th Anniversary of The Jimmy Castor Bunch’s 9th Studio Album “Maximum Stimulation” Originally Released on July 7, 1977.

“Maximum Stimulation” is the ninth studio album by the Jimmy Castor Bunch, released in 1977 on Atlantic Records.

The album’s title-track Maximum Stimulation" reached #82 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. E-Man Par-tay

2. Maximum Stimulation

3. Equal People

4. Mind Power

5. TR-7

6. Magnolia

7. The Return Of Leroy Pt.

8. The Return Of Leroy Pt. II

9. It Was You

10. Mandy

 

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Young & Company - I Like What You're Doing To Me!

Today Marks The 46 Anniversary of Young & Company’s Debut Studio Album “I Like What You're Doing To Me!” Originally Released on January 6, 1980.

“I Like What You're Doing To Me!” is the debut studio album by Orange New Jersey, funk band Young & Company released in 1980 on Brunswick Records.

Three songs were released as singles from the album the title track “I Like (What You're Doing To Me)”, (Strut Your Stuff) Sexy Lady, and “Waiting For Your Love”

“I Like (What You're Doing To Me) peaked at #10 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart.

This single, reportedly selling over 250,000 copies in the US, achieved international success, reaching the UK Top 20 in 1980.

“(Strut Your Stuff) Sexy Lady” reached #47 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart.

“Waiting For Your Love” failed to chart in the United States, but the song achieved success in the United Kingdom, reaching the Top 20 on the official UK charts in 1980.

Young & Company formed in East Orange, New Jersey, and originally known as The Youngs.

Young & Company featured the talents of brothers Billy, Kenneth, and Mike Young, supplemented by friends Buddy Hankerson on bass, drummer Dave Reyes, and vocalist Jacqueline Thomas.  The spotlight was on the attractive Ms. Thomas, while, judging by the songwriting credits, Billy, Mike and Buddy were the creative brains behind the outfit. 

So here's what the liner notes to their one and only LP say about this New Jersey-based outfit:

"Young & Company, a group that is destined for stardom in the '80s, a group that hails fro East Orange, New Jersey, brings today's sounds to you, the public. Sit back and relax, let Young & Company groove you.  

Three brothers and three friends give you a sound you won't let go.  

Their chart making single 'I Like What You're Doing To Me; is on its way to gold on their first try.  This LP demonstrates a determination by them to bring you a quality LP and let you know what their about. Kenny, Jackie, Billy Buddy, Mike and Dave want to thank you and to tell you to keep your ear on Young & Company."

Track-listing

1. Strut Your Stuff

2. Checking You Out

3. Party Jam (instrumental)

4. Got To Be Free

5. Love Me All Night

6. Mellow Mood

7. Waiting On Your Love

8. I Like What You're Doing To Me

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology

Terence Trent D'Arby - Introducing the Hardline According to Terence Trent D'Arby

Today Marks The 37th Anniversary of Terence Trent D'Arby’s “Introducing the Hardline According to Terence Trent D'Arby” Originally Released on July 6, 1987.

“Introducing the Hardline According to Terence Trent D'Arby” is the debut studio album by American singer and songwriter Terence Trent D'Arby released in 1987 days on Columbia Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, #4 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.

The album did significantly well overseas charting at #1 on the UK Albums, Australian’s ARIA and the Swiss Albums (Schweizer Hitparade) charts.

Five songs were released as singles from the album "If You Let Me Stay", "Wishing Well", "Dance Little Sister", "Sign Your Name" and

"If You Let Me Stay" peaked at #19 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, #47 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart and at #68 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Wishing Well" peaked at #1 on both the U.S. Billboard Soul Singles Chart and the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart and at #7 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

"Dance Little Sister" peaked at #7 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart, #9 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and at #30 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Sign Your Name" peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart, #4 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and at #13 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Adult Contemporary Tracks chart.

"Rain (remix)" was the last single released from the album it received little attention and didn’t have much impact on the charts.

The album was certified 5× Platinum (for sales of 1.5 million copies). Worldwide, the album sold a million copies within the first three days of going on sale.

The album was included in the book 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die.

Track-listing

1. If You All Get to Heaven

2. If You Let Me Stay

3. Wishing Well

4. I'll Never Turn My Back on You (Father's Words)

5. Dance Little Sister

6. Seven More Days

7. Let's Go Forward

8. Rain

9. Sign Your Name

10. As Yet Untitled

11. Who's Lovin' You

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

KC & The Sunshine Band - KC and the Sunshine Band

Today Marks The 50th Anniversary of KC & the Sunshine Band’s 2nd Studio Album “KC and the Sunshine Band” Originally Released on July 6, 1975.

“KC and the Sunshine Band” is the second studio album by Florida disco-funk band KC & the Sunshine Band released in 1975 on TK Records.

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

Three singles were released from the album "Get Down Tonight", "That's the Way (I Like It)" and "I'm So Crazy ('Bout You)".

"Get Down Tonight" peaked at #1 on both the Billboard Hot Soul Singles and the Billboard Hot 100. The song also peaked at #6 on the Billboard Hot Disco Singles chart.

"That's the Way (I Like It)" peaked at #1 on both the Billboard Hot Soul Singles and the Billboard Hot 100.

"I'm So Crazy ('Bout You)" reached #34 on the UK Singles Chart.

The song “Boogie Shoes” was featured on the album it was released on the song was featured on the “Saturday Night Fever soundtrack” in 1978.

“Boogie Shoes” reached #29 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, and at #32 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

The song "I Get Lifted" was another popular song from the album, although it wasn’t officially released as a single from the album it received heavy rotation on urban radio stations.

The song "I Get Lifted" was first recorded by George McCrae in 1974.

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

Track-listing

1. Let It Go (Part One)

2. That's the Way (I Like It)

3. Get Down Tonight

4. Boogie Shoes

5. Ain't Nothin' Wrong

6. I'm So Crazy ('Bout You)

7. What Makes You Happy

8. I Get Lifted

9. Let It Go (Part Two)

10. Get Down Tonight (Single Version)

11. That's The Way (I Like It) (Single Version)

12. Get Down Tonight (Tom Moulton Mix)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Rick James - Wonderful

Today Marks The 37th Anniversary of Rick James' 10th Studio Album "Wonderful" Originally Released on Reprise Records on July 5, 1988.

“Wonderful” is the 10th studio album by American musician Rick James, released in 1988 via Reprise Records.

The album reached No. 148 on the Billboard Top 200 chart. It includes the hit song "Loosey's Rap" which also features rapper Roxanne Shanté.

The single was one of the last of Rick James' releases to make the Billboard Hot Black Singles chart, and was his first number one on the Black Singles chart since 1983.

"Loosey's Rap" was also the last of four number ones on the Black Singles chart, staying at the top spot for one week. The single did not make the Billboard Hot 100, but reached #25 on the Billboard dance charts.

The 2nd single is the title track "Wonderful" was released as a single as well as a music video .

The 3rd single released from the "Wonderful" album was " Sexual Luv Affair"

Wonderful was Rick James' first album after leaving Motown Records and was his last album after being convicted of allegedly assaulting two women.

The album's standout tracks are "So Tight" which features Cameo's frontman Larry Blackmon, " Sexual Luv Affair", "Loosey's Rap" and "Hypnotize". The rest of the album is fairly good and was Rick's last great album.

Track-listing:

1 . Wonderful

2. Judy

3. Loosey's Rap

4. So Tight

5. Sexual Luv Affair

6. Love's Fire

7. I Believe in It

8. In the Girls' Room

9. Hypnotize

10. Sherry Baby

By Romie Rome For Musique Funkology

Maze - Inspiration

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Maze’s 3rd Studio Album “Inspiration” Originally Released on July 4, 1979.

“Inspiration” is the third studio album by Bay Area-based R&B group Maze. Released in 1979 on Capitol Records.

The album peaked at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart, and at #33 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Two singles were released from the album "Feel That You're Feelin'" and "Timin'".

"Feel That You're Feelin'" peaked at #7 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, and at #67 on the Billboard Hot 100.

"Timin'" reached #55 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

Tracklist

All Songs Written by Frankie Beverly

1. Lovely Inspiration

2. Feel That You're Feelin'

3. Call On Me

4. Timin

5. Welcome Home

6. Woman is a Wonder

7. Ain't It Strange

8. Lovely Inspiration (instrumental)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Midnight Star - Standing Together

Today Marks The 44th Anniversary of Midnight Star’s Sophomore Studio Album “Standing Together” Originally Released on July 3, 1981.

“Standing Together” is the second studio album by Midnight Star. It was released in 1981 on SOLAR Records.

The album peaked at #54 on the U.S. Billboard R&B chart.

Three singles were released from the album "I've Been Watching You", "Tuff " and "Can't Give You Up”.

"I've Been Watching You" reached #36 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Singles chart and at #63 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

"Tuff " reached #60 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Singles chart and at #63 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

"Can't Give You Up" was released as the album’s third single it failed to reach the Billboard charts.

Track-listing

1. Standing Together

2. Tuff

3. Can't Give You Up

4. Hold Out

5. I've Been Watching You

6. I Won't Let You Be Lonely

7. I Got What You Need

8. Open Up To Love

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

One Way - Wrap Your Body

Today Marks The 40th Anniversary of One Way’s 7th Studio Album “Wrap Your Body” Originally Released on July 3, 1985.

“Wrap Your Body” is a studio album by the R&B, Funk band One Way released in 1985 on MCA Records.

The album reached #28 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Albums chart and at #156 on the U.S. Billboard 200.

Three songs were released as singles from the album “Serving It”, “Let's Talk” and “More Than Friends, Less Than Lovers”.

“Serving It” reached #66 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart.

“Let's Talk” was released as the second single from the album it was released in the United Kingdom it reached #64 on the U.K. Singles chart.

“More Than Friends, Less Than Lovers” the album’s third single it reached #52 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. Let's Talk

2. Wrap Your Body

3. Believe In Me

4. Serving It

5. Don't Give Up On Love

6. More Than Friends, Less Than Lovers

7. If I Knew

8. Condemned

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.

Parliament - Up for the Down Stroke

Today Marks The 51st Anniversary of Parliament’s 2nd Studio album “Up for the Down Stroke” Originally Released on July 3, 1974.

“Up for the Down Stroke” is the second studio album by the American funk band Parliament it was released in 1974 by Casablanca Records.

The album peaked at #17 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LPs chart.

Two songs were released as singles the album’s title track "Up for the Down Stroke", “Testify” and "The Goose".

"Up for the Down Stroke" peaked at #10 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart and at #63 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Up For The Down Stroke" was later remade by Fred Wesley and the Horny Horns on their first album A Blow For Me and a Toot For You.

“Testify” reached #77 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Singles chart.

"Testify", "The Goose", and "All Your Goodies Are Gone" were remade from old Parliaments tunes from the 1960s.

The “The Goose" was the third single released from the album it failed to reach the Billboard charts.

The song "Whatever Makes My Baby Feel Good" was remade from the 1968 tune of the same name by Rose Williams and Funkadelic, however, Funkadelic had revamped it earlier in 1973 with the track "Can't Stand the Strain".

The album “Up for the Down Stroke” is notable in that it regenerated George Clinton's professional relationship with bassist Bootsy Collins, who had taken a two-year hiatus from the group. Collins would play a pivotal role in all of the Parliament albums released through Casablanca Records.

Track-listing

1. Up for the Down Stroke

2. Testify

3. The Goose

4. I Can Move You (If You Let Me)

5. I Just Got Back (From the Fantasy, Ahead of Our Time in the Four Lands of Ellet)

6. All Your Goodies Are Gone

7. Whatever Makes Baby Feel Good

8. Presence of a Brain

9. Up for the Down Stroke (Alternate Mix)

10. Testify (Alternate Mix)

11. Singing Another Song

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology