Earth, Wind & Fire - Touch the World

Today Marks 38th Anniversary of Earth, Wind & Fire’s 14th Studio Album “Touch the World” Originally Released on October 30, 1987.

“Touch the World” is the fourteenth studio album by R&B/funk band Earth, Wind & Fire, released in 1987 on Columbia Records.

The album peaked at #3 on the U.S. Billboard Top Black Albums chart, and at #33 on the U.S. Billboard 200.

Four singles were released from the album, "System of Survival", "You and I", "Thinking of You" and "Evil Roy".

"System of Survival" peaked at #1 on three of Billboard’s charts, Hot Soul Singles, Hot Dance Club Play, and the Hot Dance Music/Maxi-Singles Sales charts. The song also reached #60 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"You and I" peaked at #1 on both the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play, and the Hot Dance Music/Maxi-Singles Sales chart. The song also peaked at #3 on the Billboard Hot Black Singles, and at #67 on the Billboard Hot 100.

"Thinking of You" peaked at #3 on the U.S. Hot Black Singles, and at #67 on the Billboard Hot 100.

"Evil Roy" reached #22 on the U.S. Hot Black Singles, and at #38 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

The album was produced by Earth, Wind & Fire’s band leader Maurice White. The album ended a four-year hiatus for the band, with Maurice White reforming the group by bringing back longtime members Verdine White, Philip Bailey, Andrew Woolfolk and Ralph Johnson.

“Touch the World” marked the debut of former Commodores guitarist Sheldon Reynolds to the lineup while Sonny Emory went on to fill the drum chair.

“Touch the World” was nominated for a Soul Train Award in the category of Best R&B/Soul Album – Group, Band or Duo.

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

Track-listing

1. System of Survival

2. Evil Roy

3. Thinking of You

4. You and I

5. Musical Interlude: New Horizons

6. Money Tight

7. Every Now and Then

8. Touch the World

9. Here Today and Gone Tomorrow

10. Victim of the Modern Heart

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©.

The S.O.S. Band - III

Today Marks The 43rd Anniversary of The S.O.S. Band’s 3rd Studio Album “III” Originally Released on October 29, 1982.

“III” is the third studio album by R&B and electro-funk group The S.O.S. Band released in 1982 on Tabu Records.

The album reached #27 on the U.S. Billboard Black Albums and at #172 on the U.S. Billboard 200.

Three songs were released as singles from the album, "High Hopes", "Have It Your Way" and "Groovin' (That's What We're Doin')".

"High Hopes" reached #25 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart and at #49 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

"Have It Your Way" reached #57 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"Groovin' (That's What We're Doin')" reached #47 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

 "High Hopes" is notable for being the first collaboration between the group and Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, who would go on to write and produce several hits for the group.

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

Track-listing

1. Can't Get Enough

2. High Hopes

3. Have It Your Way

4. Your Love (It's the One for Me)

5. Good & Plenty

6. Looking for You

7. These Are the Things

8. You Shake Me Up

9. Groovin' (That's What We're Doin')

10. High Hopes (Edit)

11. Good & Plenty (7" Version)

12. Good & Plenty" (12" Version)

13. Groovin' (That's What We're Doin') (Special Version)

14. Your Love (It's the One for Me) (US 12" Version)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.©

Funkadelic - Hardcore Jollies

The album reached #12 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart, and at #96 on the U.S. Billboard LP’s and Tapes charts.

Today Marks The 48th Anniversary of Funkadelic's 9th Studio Album "Hardcore Jollies" Originally Released on October 29, 1976.

“Hardcore Jollies” is the ninth studio album by the funk rock band Funkadelic, released by Warner Bros. Records and is their first album to be issued on a major label.

The album reached #12 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart, and at #96 on the U.S. Billboard LP’s and Tapes charts.

The album is dedicated to "the guitar players of the world." Originally, the first side of the album was called "Osmosis Phase 1" and the second side was "Terribitus Phase 2."

“Hardcore Jollies” was released one month after Funkadelic's final album for Westbound Records, “Tales of Kidd Funkadelic”, which was recorded during the same sessions.

“Hardcore Jollies” was the last Parliament-Funkadelic studio album to include three of the original members of The Parliaments: Fuzzy Haskins, Calvin Simon and Grady Thomas. Though uncredited, “Hardcore Jollies” features instrumental performances by guitarist Eddie Hazel.

The album has been reissued on compact disc by Charly Groove Records and Priority Records.

Track listing:

Osmosis Phase One

1. Comin' Round The Mountain

2. Smokey

3. If You Got Funk, You Got Style

4. Hardcore Jollies

Terribitus Phase Two

5. Soul Mate

6. Cosmic Slop (Live)

7. You Scared The Lovin' Outta Me8. Adolescent Funk

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©.

Earth, Wind & Fire - Last Days and Time

Today Marks The 53rd Anniversary of Earth, Wind & Fire’s 3rd Studio Album “Last Days and Time” Originally Released on October 29, 1972.

“Last Days and Time” is the third studio album by American band Earth, Wind & Fire, released in 1972 on Columbia Records.

The album reached #15 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and at #87 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.

The song "Mom" was released as a single from the album it reached #39 on the Cashbox R&B Singles chart.

The album includes covers of Bread's "Make It with You" and Pete Seeger's "Where Have All The Flowers Gone".

The album was produced by Joe Wissert and recorded at Sunset Sound Studios in Hollywood, California.

Track-listing

1. Time Is on Your Side

2. Interlude

3. They Don't See

4. Interlude

5. Make It with You

6. Power

7. Remember the Children

8. Interlude

9. Where Have All the Flowers Gone?

10. I'd Rather Have You

11. Mom

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©.

Johnny “Guitar” Watson - Funk Beyond The Call Of Duty

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of Johnny "Guitar" Watson’s 8th Studio Album “Funk Beyond the Call of Duty” Originally Released on October 28, 1977.

“Funk Beyond the Call of Duty” is the eighth studio album by blues, funk and rock musician Johnny "Guitar" Watson released in 1977 on DJM Records.

The album reached #84 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart.

Two singles were released from the album “It's A Damn Shame" and "Love That Will Not Die".

“It's A Damn Shame" was released as the album’s first single it failed to chart.

"Love That Will Not Die" reached #52 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

Johnny Watson wrote and performed most of the instruments, with notable contributions from a horn section that included Walt Fowler. His production is noted for its clarity and separation of instruments.

The lyrics are often humorous and clever, featuring clever asides and topical references from the 1970s, such as "makin' milk out of powder" and DC-10 planes.

The album is considered a "masterpiece" by some and is a testament to Watson's skill and prolific career.

Track List:

Side 1

1. "Funk Beyond The Call Of Duty"

2. "It's About The Dollar Bill"

3. "Give Me My Love"

Side 2

1. "It's A Damn Shame"

2. "I'm Gonna Get You Baby"

3. "Barn Door"

4. "Love That Will Not Die"

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Prince - 1999

Today Marks The 43rd Anniversary of Prince's 5th Studio Album "1999" Originally Released on October 27, 1982.

“1999” is the fifth studio album by Minneapolis, Minnesota musician Prince, released in 1982 on Warner Bros. Records.

“1999” became his first studio album recorded with his band the Revolution.

“1999” was Prince's first top 10 album on the Billboard 200, The album peaked at #9 upon release, The album also peaked at #12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and was fifth in the Billboard Year-End Albums of 1983.

Four singles were released from the album with each single released Prince released a new B-side single with each song.

The title track "1999" peaked at #44 on the Billboard Hot 100, a mid-1983 re-release later reached #12 in the US.

“How Come U Don't Call Me Anymore? was released as the non-album B-side to his 1982 single "1999".

“Rolling Stone ranked "1999" number 339 on their list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

"Little Red Corvette" was the second single released from the album the song peaked at #6 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The initial US single was backed with album track "All the Critics Love U in New York", while UK releases featured "Lady Cab Driver" or "Horny Toad".

"Delirious" was the third single and Prince's second Top 10 hit, peaking at #8 on the US Billboard Hot 100 during the fall of 1983.

"Horny Toad" was the B-side single to "Delirious" released on August 17, 1983.

"Let's Pretend We're Married" was the final single released off the "1999" album.

The song peaked at #52 on the US Billboard Hot 100.

The song "Irresistible Bitch" was the B-side to "Let's Pretend We're Married" The song became a fan favorite among Prince fans.

1999's critical and commercial success propelled Prince to a place in the public psyche and marked the beginning of two years of heightened fame via his following releases.

1999 received widespread acclaim from critics, and was seen as Prince's breakthrough album. On March 24, 1999, 1999 was certified quadruple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

Following Prince's death in 2016, the album re-entered the Billboard 200 and peaked at number seven, besting its original performance on the chart thirty-three years earlier.

A re-release and remaster of the album, including 35 previously unreleased recordings, was released in November 2019.

 1999 has been ranked as one of the greatest albums of all time by several publications and organizations.

The music videos for both "1999" and "Little Red Corvette" received heavy rotation on MTV, making Prince one of the first black artists to be prominently featured on the television channel.

According to the Rolling Stone Album Guide (2004), "1999 may be Prince's most influential album: Its synth-and-drum machine-heavy arrangements codified the Minneapolis sound that loomed over mid-'80s R&B and pop, not to mention the next two decades' worth of electro, house, and techno." It is also included on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.

In 2008, the album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

The album was released as a Remastered, Deluxe and Super Deluxe edition on November 29, 2019.

The most elaborate re-issue contains five CDs featuring previously-unreleased tracks, and a live DVD, with a total running time of 5 hours & 53 minutes. It reached the top 20 of the charts in Belgium, the Netherlands and Hungary.

Track-listing:

 1. 1999

2. Little Red Corvette

3. Delirious

4. Let's Pretend We're Married

5. D.M.S.R.

6. Automatic

6. Something In The Water (Does Not Compute)

8. Free

9. Lady Cab Driver

10. All The Critics Love U In New York

11. International Lover

By Romie Rome For Musique Funkology©.

Ray Parker Jr. - Woman Out of Control

Today Marks The 42nd Anniversary of Ray Parker Jr.’s Sophomore Solo Studio Album “Woman Out of Control” Originally Released on October 27, 1983.

“Woman Out of Control” is the second solo studio album by American musician Ray Parker Jr., released in 1983 on Arista Records.

The album reached #18 on the U.S. Billboard Black LPs chart and at #45 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album "I Still Can't Get Over Loving You", "Woman Out of Control" and "In the Heat of the Night".

"I Still Can't Get Over Loving You" reached #12 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Woman Out of Control" reached #71 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Songs chart.

"In the Heat of the Night" reached #64 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Songs chart.

The album was remastered and expanded by Funky Town Grooves in 2012.

Track-listing

1. Woman Out of Control

2. I Still Can't Get Over Loving You

3. Electronic Lover

4. In the Heat of the Night

5. I Don't Want to Know

6. She Still Feels the Need

7. Invasion

8. N2U2

9. Jack and Jill (Back Up the Hill) [1982 Version]

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.©

Stevie Wonder - Talking Book

Today Marks The 53rd Anniversary of Stevie Wonder’s 15th Studio Album “Talking Book” Originally Released on October 27, 1972.

“Talking Book” is the fifteenth studio album by American singer, songwriter, and musician Stevie Wonder, released in 1972 by Tamla Records.

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

Two songs were released from the album as singles "Superstition" and "You Are the Sunshine of My Life".

"Superstition" peaked at #1 on both of the U.S. Billboard Hot Rhythm & Blues Singles, and the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"You Are the Sunshine of My Life" peaked at #1 on both the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, and the U.S. Billboard Adult Contemporary charts. The song also peaked at #3 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Rhythm & Blues Singles chart.

“Talking Book” and “Music of My Mind”, released earlier the same year, are generally considered to mark the start of Wonder's "classic period".

The album earned Wonder his first Grammy Award, with "You Are the Sunshine of My Life" winning Best Male Pop Vocal Performance at the 16th Grammy Awards; "Superstition" also won Best Male R&B Vocal Performance and Best R&B Song.

The album “Talking Book” was voted number 322 in the third edition of Colin Larkin's All Time Top 1000 Albums (2000), and Rolling Stone ranked it number 59 on its list of the "500 Greatest Albums of All Time" in 2020.

Track-listing

1. You Are the Sunshine of My Life

2. Maybe Your Baby

3. You and I (We Can Conquer the World)

4. Tuesday Heartbreak

5. You've Got It Bad Girl

6. Superstition

7. Big Brother

8. Blame It on the Sun

9. Lookin' for Another Pure Love

10. I Believe (When I Fall in Love It Will Be Forever

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

 

George Duke - Master of the Game

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of George Duke’s 13th Studio Album “Master of the Game” Originally Released on October 26, 1979.

“Master of the Game” is the thirteenth studio album by Jazz-Funk keyboardist George Duke released in 1979 on Epic Records.

The album reached #18 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart, and at #125 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album, "I Want You for Myself", "Every Little Step I Take" and

"I Want You for Myself" (with Lynn Davis) reached #23 on both the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles, and the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

The songs "Every Little Step I Take" and "Games" both failed to chart as singles.

The album features contributions from vocalists Lynn Davis, Josie James and Napoleon Murphy Brock, guitarists David Myles, Ray Obiedo and Roland Bautista, bassists Byron Miller and Freddie Washington, drummer Ricky Lawson, percussionist Sheila Escovedo, trombonist Bill Reichenbach, trumpeters Jerry Hey and Gary Grant, and saxophonist Gary Herbig.

Track-listing

1. Look What You Find

2. Every Little Step I Take

3. Games

4. I Want You for Myself (featuring Lynn Davis)

5. In the Distance

6. I Love You More

7. Dog-Man

8. Everybody's Talkin'

9. Part 1 - The Alien Challenges the Stick / Part 2 - The Alien Succumbs to the Macho Intergalactic Funkativity of the Funkblasters

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Skyy - Skyyjammer

Today Marks The 43rd Anniversary of Skyy’s 5th Studio Album “Skyyjammer” Originally Released on October 26, 1982.

“Skyyjammer” is the fifth album by New York City based R&B funk band Skyy released in 1982 on Salsoul Records.

The album reached #22 on the U.S. Billboard Black LPs chart and at #81 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "Movin' Violation" and "Let Love Shine".

"Movin' Violation" reached #26 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"Let Love Shine" reached #39 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart and at #41 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

Track-listing

1. Movin' Violation

2. Won't You Be Mine

3. This Song Is For You

4. Miracle

5. Skyyjammer

6. Let Love Shine

7. Together

8. Freak Outta

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Zapp - The New Zapp IV U

Today Marks The 40th Anniversary of Zapp’s 4th Studio Album “The New Zapp IV U” Originally Released on October 25, 1985.

“The New Zapp IV U” is the fourth studio album by the Dayton, Ohio funk band Zapp released in 1985 on Warner Bros. Records.

The album peaked at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Top Black Albums chart, and at #110 on the U.S. Billboard 200.

The song "Computer Love" was released as the album’s lead single it peaked at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart, and at #13 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Music Maxi-Singles chart.

The song features the Gap Band’s Charlie Wilson and R&B singer Shirley Murdock.

The album became the band’s last studio album that featured Roger Troutman as he would embark on his solo career, The band would release their next studio album, titled Zapp Vibe would be released later in 1989.

Track-listing

1. It Doesn't Really Matter

2. Computer Love

3. Itchin' for Your Twitchin'

4. Radio People

5. I Only Have Eyes For You

6. Rock 'n' Roll

7. Cas-Ta-Spellome

8. Make Me Feel Good

9. Ja Ready to Rock

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

The Pointer Sisters - Energy

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of The Pointer Sisters’ 5th Studio Album “Energy” Originally Released on October 24, 1978.

“Energy” is the fifth studio album by the Pointer Sisters, released in 1978 on the Planet Records.

The album peaked at #9 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart and at #13 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart .

Three songs were released as singles from the album “Fire”, “Everybody Is a Star” and “Happiness”

“Fire” peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and at #14 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

“Everybody Is a Star” was released as a single in the United Kingdom, It reached #62 on the UK Singles chart.

“Happiness “ reached #18 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart, #20 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #30 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

The Rolling Stone Album Guide praised "Fire" as an "absolute killer single."

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

Track-listing

1. Lay It on the Line

2. Dirty Work

3. Hypnotized

4. As I Come of Age

5. Come and Get Your Love

6. Happiness

7. Fire

8. Angry Eyes

9. Echoes of Love

10. Everybody Is a Star

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Mother’s Finest - Mother Factor

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of Mother’s Finest’s 4th Studio Album “Mother Factor” Originally Released on October 24, 1978.

“Mother Factor” is the fourth studio album by American funk rock band Mother's Finest released in 1978by Epic Records.

The album reached #123 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album “Don't Wanna Come Back” and “Love Changes”.

 “Don't Wanna Come Back” reached #54 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Songs chart.

“Love Changes” reached #26 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Songs chart.

The album stayed on the pop charts for over 20 weeks, generating a mild R&B hit, and the group did some support tours.

Track-listing

1. Can’t Fight the Feeling

2. Tell Me

3. Watch My Stylin'

4. Love Changes

 5. Don't Wanna Come Back

6. Give It Up

7. Mr. Goodbar

8. I Can't Believe

9. More and More

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.©

Instant Funk - Witch Doctor

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Instant Funk’s 3rd Studio Album “Witch Doctor” Originally Released on October 23, 1979.

“Witch Doctor” is the 3rd studio album by American disco, funk band “Instant Funk” released in 1979 on Salsoul Records.

The album reached #23 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart and at #130 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Two singles were released from the album the title track “Witch Doctor” and “Bodyshine”.

“Witch Doctor” reached #35 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart

“Bodyshine” reached #41 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #103 just beneath the Billboard Hot 100.

 lTrack-listing

1. Slap, Slap, Lickedy Lap

2. Witch Doctor

3. I Had A Dream

4. Bodyshine

5. It's Your Love On My Mind

6. I Want To Love You

7. Scream And Shout

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Patrice Rushen - Pizzazz

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Patrice Rushen’s 5th Studio Album “Pizzazz” Originally Released on October 23, 1979.

“Pizzazz” is the fifth studio album by Jazz pianist Patrice Rushen, released in 1979 on Elektra Records.

The album peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Top Jazz Albums chart, #11 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Albums chart, and at #39 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Albums chart.

Three songs were released as singles, "Givin' It Up Is Givin' Up", "Haven't You Heard", and "Let The Music Take Me".

"Givin' It Up Is Givin' Up" reached #47 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Haven't You Heard" peaked at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs, #7 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, and at #42 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Let The Music Take Me" reached #50 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

Besides the hits, fan-favorite tracks like the ballad "Settle for My Love" and the upbeat "Let the Music Take Me" further solidify the album's legacy.

The song “Haven't You Heard” has been sampled by numerous artists including Zhané, Kirk Franklin, and Soulizm among others.

Zhané, sampled Patrice Rushen's “Haven't You Heard” for their 1994 song “Groove Thang” taken from their debut studio album “Pronounced Jah-Nay”.

Soulizm, sampled Patrice Rushen's “Haven't You Heard” for their 2004 songs “Give You Love”.

Kirk Franklin, sampled Patrice Rushen's “Haven't You Heard” for his song “Looking for You” taken from his 2005 album “Hero”.

The album became one of Patrice Rushen's most commercially successful album to date. It married soulful, introspective moments with upbeat, sophisticated funk and disco.

While some jazz purists may have had reservations, the album was a triumph from an R&B/pop perspective and is considered a rewarding and essential work.

Track-listing

1. Let the Music Take Me

2. Keepin' Faith in Love

3. Settle for My Love

4. Message in the Music

5. Haven't You Heard

6. Givin' It Up is Givin' Up

7. Call On Me

8. Reprise (Message in the Music)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Trent D'Arby - Neither Fish nor Flesh

Today Marks The 36th Anniversary of Terence Trent D'Arby’s 2nd Studio Album “Neither Fish nor Flesh” Originally Released on October 23, 1989.

“Neither Fish nor Flesh (A Soundtrack of Love, Faith, Hope & Destruction)” is the second album by American singer Terence Trent D'Arby, released in 1989 on Columbia Records.

The album reached #75 on the U.S. Billboard Top Black Albums chart and at #61 on the U.S. Billboard Top Pop Albums chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "This Side of Love" and "To Know Someone Deeply Is to Know Someone Softly"

"This Side of Love"didn’t chart in the United States. However it reached #83 in the United Kingdom’s UK singles chart.

"To Know Someone Deeply Is to Know Someone Softly" reached #47 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart. The song also reached #55 in the United Kingdom’s UK singles chart.

The album was a commercial disappointment, spending only four weeks on the UK Albums Chart, and was largely dismissed by critics as self-indulgent and overreaching.

Track-listing

1 – Declaration: Neither Fish Nor Flesh (1:43)

2 – I Have Faith In These Desolate Times (4:14)

3 – It Feels So Good To Love Someone Like You (3:38)

4 – To Know Someone Deeply Is To Know Someone Softly (4:27)

5 – I’ll Be Alright (5:58)

6 – Billy Don’t Fall (4:14)

7 – This Side Of Love (4:57)

8 – Attracted To You (4:03)

9 – Roly Poly (3:53)

10 – You Will Pay Tomorrow (4:54)

11 – I Don’t Want To Bring Your Gods Down (6:19)

12 – …And I Need To Be With Someone Tonight (3:04)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Dynasty - Right Back at Cha!

Today Marks The 43rd Anniversary of Dynasty’s 4th Studio Album “Right Back at Cha!” Originally Released on October 22, 1982.

“Right Back at Cha!” is the fourth studio album by the Los Angeles, California-based R&B group Dynasty. Released in 1982 on SOLAR Records.

The album reached #54 on the U.S. Billboard Black LPs chart.

The song "Check It Out" was released as the album's single it reached #39 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

The album was produced by group member Leon Sylvers III.

Track-listing

1. Check It Out

2. Strokin'

3. The Only One

4. Questions

5. Does That Ring a Bell

6. Straight Out

7. Right Back at Cha!

8. That's the Way I Feel About You

9. I Can't Stop Loving You

10. All's Fair in Love and War

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©.

Roger Troutman - Unlimited!

Today Marks The 38th Anniversary of Roger Troutman’s 3rd Studio Album “Unlimited!” Originally Released on October 21, 1987.

“Unlimited!” is the third solo album by Zapp frontman Roger Troutman released in 1987 on Reprise Records.

The album peaked #4 on the U.S. Billboard Top Black Albums chart and at #35 on the U.S. Billboard Top Pop Albums chart.

The song "I Want to Be Your Man" was released as the album’s lead single it peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart and at #3 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

The song was Roger's biggest R&B and crossover hit commercially.

The St. Petersburg Times deemed "I Want to Be Your Man" "one of the best records of '87."

The Song “Thrill Seekers” was the second song released as a single from the album it reached #26 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

The album also includes a cover of James Brown's 1965 single "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag"

Unlimited! is widely considered Roger Troutman’s best solo album, receiving praise for its blend of funk, jazz, and rock, and its continued use of his signature talkbox vocals.

Track-listing

1. I Want to Be Your Man

2. Night and Day

3. Been this Way Before (rap)

4. Composition to Commemorate (May 30, 1918)

5. Papa's Got a Brand New Bag

6. Thrill Seekers

7. Tender Moments

8. If You're Serious

9. Private Lover

10. I Really Want to Be Your Man

11. Bedistguitarist-A-Rown

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology. ©

Brass Construction - Brass Construction II

Today Marks The 49th Anniversary of Brass Construction’s 2nd Studio Album “Brass Construction II” Originally Released on October 20, 1976.

“Brass Construction II” is the second studio album by American funk-disco band Brass Construction, released in 1976 on United Artists Records.

The album peaked #3on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart and at #26 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

The song “Ha Cha Cha” was released as a single from the album it peaked at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, #11 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart and #51 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

The album was certified Gold for selling 500,000 copies in the United States.

Track-listing

1. Ha Cha Cha (Funktion)

2. Get To The Point (Summation)

3. Sambo (Progression)

4. Screwed (Conditions)

5. The Message (Inspiration)

6. Now Is Tomorrow (Anticipation)

7. Blame It On Me (Introspection)

8. What's On Your Mind (Expression)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.©

Chocolate Milk - Blue Jeans

Today Marks The 48th Anniversary of Chocolate Milk’s 7th Studio Album “Blue Jeans” Originally Released on October 20, 1981.

“Blue Jeans” is the seventh studio album by New Orleans, Louisiana Funk band Chocolate Milk released in 1981 on RCA records.

Two songs were released as singles, the album’s title track “Blue Jeans” and “Let's Go All the Way”.

“Blue Jeans” reached #15 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

“Let's Go All the Way” reached #14 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The album is noted for having a slightly different sound compared to their earlier works produced by Allen Toussaint, showcasing their musical evolution.

As a later album from a band known for their seven-album run on RCA from 1975 to 1982, Blue Jeans represents a significant piece of the group's discography and the funk era.

Tracklist

1. Blue Jeans

2. Like My Lady's Love

3. Running on Empty

4. Honey Bun

5. Let's Go All the Way

6. I've Been Loving You Too Long

7. Video Queen

8. Blue Jeans [7"]

9. Let's Go All The Way [7”]

10. Video Queen [12”]

11. Like My Lady's Love [7"]

12. Honey Bun [7"]

13. Take It Off [7"]

14. Who's Getting It Now [12']

By Romie Rome For Musique Funkplogy. ©

Prince - Prince

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Prince's Sophomore Album "Prince" Originally Released October 19,1979.

Prince is the second studio album by Minneapolis, Minnesota musician Prince. It was released in 1979 by Warner Bros. Records.

The album peaked at #22 on the The Billboard 200 chart and at #3 on Billboard's Top R&B Albums chart.

The album released four singles, The first single "I Wanna Be Your Lover" was released on August 24, 1979, as the lead single from the second album, Prince.

The song was Prince's first major hit single in the United States, reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 on January 26, 1980, holding the number 11 position for two weeks, and peaking at number one on the Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart for two weeks.

"Why You Wanna Treat Me So Bad?" is the follow-up single to Prince's first big hit, "I Wanna Be Your Lover". It is also Prince's first rock and roll-inspired single released.

The song did not make the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100 charts, although it did reach #13 on the R&B Singles charts.

"Still Waiting" was the third single from Prince's second album, Prince. It was Prince's first ballad to be released as a single and was mildly popular on the Billboard R&B chart.

 "Sexy Dancer" was the fourth single released from Prince's secon album, released in the UK as the second single from his self-titled second album. It was the first Prince single released outside the United States that was not released as a single stateside.

The album was written, arranged, composed, produced and performed entirely by Prince.

Overall, Prince was regarded as more diverse than For You, and performed better critically and commercially.

Track-listing:

1. "I Wanna Be Your Lover"

2. "Why You Wanna Treat Me So Bad?"

3. "Sexy Dancer"

4. "When We're Dancing Close and Slow"

5. "With You"

6. "Bambi"

7. "Still Waiting"

8. "I Feel for You"

9. "It's Gonna Be Lonely"

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology. ©

Slave - Show Time

Today Marks The 44th Anniversary of Slave's 6th Studio Album "Show Time" Originally Released on October 19, 1981.

“Show Time” is the sixth studio album by the Dayton, Ohio funk band Slave, released in 1981 on Cotillion Records.

The album peaked at #7 on Billboard's Top Soul Albums chart and at #47 on The Billboard 200 chart.

The lead single, "Snap Shot", peaked at #6 on the Billboard Soul Singles chart, #21 on Billboard's Dance Club Songs and #91 in The Billboard Hot 100 charts.

The second single "Wait for Me" peaked at #20 on the Billboard Soul Singles chart, #21 on Billboard's Dance Club Songs and #103 on The Billboard Hot 100 charts.

The third single "Party Lites" peaked at #21 on Billboard's Dance Club Songs chart.

“Show Time” was the last album that singer/drummer Steve Arrington recorded with the band before embarking on his solo career.

The album was produced by Jimmy Douglass, Recorded and engineered by Ed "The American" Garcis and was mixed by Jimmy Douglass and Slave's bassist Mark Adams.

In 2022, Iconoclassic Records released an expanded edition of “Show Time” It features two bonus tracks: the seven-inch single edit of "Wait for Me" and the extended 12-inch version of "Snap Shot." All of the original recordings has been newly remastered by Vic Anesini at Battery Studios.

A 16-page booklet completes this definitive reissue; it features a new, 3,600-word essay by A. Scott Galloway drawing on interviews with key personnel including Floyd Miller, Steve Arrington, Charles Cedell Carter, keyboardist-percussionist Sam Carter, and string arranger-conductor Cengiz Yaltkaya.

Track-listing:

01. Snap Shot

02. Party Lites

03. Spice Of Life (Oh Yes, You're The Best)

04. Smokin

05. Wait For Me

06. Steal Your Heart

07. For The Love Of U

08. Funken Town

09. Wait For Me (7" Version)

10. Snap Shot (12" Version)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology. ©

The Original 7ven - Condensate

Today Marks The 14th Anniversary of The Original 7ven’s Studio Album “Condensate” Originally Released on October 18, 2011.

“Condensate” is the fifth studio album by the American funk ensemble The Original 7ven, formerly known as The Time released in 2011 on Saguaro Road Records.

The album peaked at #10 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, and at #58 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.

The album marked the first new release in 21 years from the original members of The Time, operating under the new name The Original 7ven.

Despite the marketing challenges of the name change, the album was a long-awaited and well-received "dream come true" for fans, featuring the core members' original magic and a sound that was both familiar and fresh, with tracks like "#Trendin'" and "Lifestyle" highlighted for their blend of humor, lust, and contemporary elements like Auto-Tune. 

The album was produced by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis and Jesse Johnson.

Track-listing1. O7ven Intro

2. Strawberry Lake

3. O7ven Press Conference

4. Condensate

5. #Trendin

6. If I Was Yo Man

7. Role Play

8. Sick

9. Lifestyle

10. Faithful

11. Cadillac

12. AYDKMN

13. One Step

14. Toast to the Party Girl

15. Hey Yo

16. GoHomeToYoMan

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

The Jacksons - Goin' Places

Today Marks The 48th Anniversary of The Jacksons’ 12th Studio Album “Goin' Places” Originally Released on October 18, 1977.

“Goin' Places” is the twelfth studio album by the Jacksons released in 1977 on Epic Records.

The album reached #11 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LPs chart, and at #63 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Four songs were released as singles from the album "Goin' Places", "Find Me a Girl", "Even Though You're Gone", and "Music's Takin' Over".

"Goin' Places" peaked at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, at #52 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Find Me a Girl" reached #38 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Even Though You're Gone" was released in the United Kingdom it reached #31 on the U.K Singles chart.

"Music's Takin' Over" reached #40 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

“Goin' Places” would be the last Jacksons' album released as a joint venture between Epic Records and Philadelphia International Records.

The album sold over half a million copies worldwide. A concert tour to promote the album, named the Goin' Places Tour, ran from January to May 1978.

The album was produced by Kenneth Gamble & Leon Huff, McFadden & Whitehead, Victor Carstarphen, Dexter Wansel and The Jacksons.

Track-listing

1. Music's Takin' Over

2. Goin' Places

3. Different Kind Of Lady

4. Even Though You're Gone

5. Jump For Joy

6. Heaven Knows I Love You, Girl

7. Man Of War

8. Do What You Wanna

9. Find Me A Girl

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

 

 

Philip Bailey - Chinese Wall

Today Marks The 41st Anniversary of Philip Bailey’s 3rd Sole Studio Album “Chinese Wall” Originally Released on October 18, 1984.

“Chinese Wall” is the third solo album by American vocalist Philip Bailey, released 1984 on Columbia Records.

The album peaked at #10 on the U.S. Billboard Top Black Albums chart, and at #22 on the U.S. Billboard Top 200 Albums chart.

The album also reached #29 in the United Kingdom on The Official Albums Chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album, “Photogenic Memory”, “Easy Lover” and “Walking on the Chinese Wall”.

“Photogenic Memory” reached #61 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

“Easy Lover” peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, #3 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart, #7 on the U.S. Billboard Dance Club Songs and at #15 on the U.S. Billboard Adult Contemporary chart.

“Walking on the Chinese Wall” reached #46 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, and at #56 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

The song “Easy Lover” features Phil Collins of the band Genesis, jointly written and composed by Bailey, Collins, and Nathan East.

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

Track-listing

1. Photogenic Memory

2. I Go Crazy

3. Walking on the Chinese Wall

4. For Every Heart That's Been Broken

5. Go

6. Easy Lover" (duet with Phil Collins)

7. Show You the Way to Love

8. Time Is a Woman

9. Woman

10. Children of the Ghetto

11. Easy Lover" (Extended Dance Remix)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

 

Cameo - In the Face of Funk

Today Marks The 31st Anniversary of Cameo's 16th Studio Album "In the Face of Funk" Originally Released October 18, 1994.

In the Face of Funk is the sixteenth studio album by New York City funk band Cameo, released in 1994 on Way 2 Funky Records.

The album peaked at #83 on Billboard's Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.

The album released two singles "Slyde" and "You Are My Love".

"Slyde" peaked at #57 Billboard's Top R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.

 "Slyde" is a remake of Dayton Ohio's funk band Slave's classic song "Slide". They slowed the tempo down a bit and kicked things off with The Ohio Players classic horns of the classic songs "Skin Tight."

"You Are My Love" reached #99 on Billboard's Top R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.

The album "In the Face of Funk" was their first album of newly written material since 1992's Emotional Violence.

Apart from two new studio tracks on the 1996 live album, Nasty, Cameo did not release another album of new material until 2000.

Track-listing:

1. In the Face of Funk

2. Slyde

3. You Are My Love

4. Desire

5. Don't Say It's Over

6. BSU

7. The Man

8. A Special Love

9. We Can Make It Happen

10. Where

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.©

Cameo - Machismo

Today Marks The 37th Anniversary of Cameo's 14th Studio Album "Machismo" Originally Released on October 17, 1988.

Machismo is the 14th studio album by American funk group Cameo, released in 1988.

The album is the follow up to their most commercially successful album Word Up!.

The album reached No. 10 on the Billboard R&B chart, No. 56 on the Billboard 200 Pop Albums chart, and No. 86 on the UK albums chart. It was certified Gold by the RIAA for sales of over 500,000 copies.

Three singles were released from the album "You Make Me Work", "Skin I'm In" and "Pretty Girls."

"You Make Me Work" peaked at #74 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

“Skin I’m In” went to #10 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Singles chart.

The message of the song is about social injustice and equality for all people. Between performance and dance scenes, the music video features film from the civil rights movement and lead singer Larry Blackmon appears with half of his face painted black and the other painted white.

"Pretty Girls" peaked at #52 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Singles chart.

Chris Heim of the Chicago Tribune placed Machismo at No. 6 on his list of the top 10 albums of 1988.

Track listing:

1. You Make Me Work

2. I Like The World

3. Promiscuous

4. In The Night

5. Skin I'm In

6. Pretty Girls

7. Honey

8. Soul Tightened

9. DKWIG

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.©

Patrice Rushen - Patrice

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of Patrice Rushen’s 4th Studio Album “Patrice” Originally Released on October 17, 1978.

“Patrice” is the fourth, self-titled studio album by Jazz pianist Patrice Rushen, released in 1978 on Elektra Records.

The album peaked at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Top Jazz Albums chart, #27 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Albums chart, and at #98 on the U.S. Billboard Pop Albums chart.

Two songs were released as singles, "Hang It Up", and "When I Found You".

"Hang It Up" reached #16 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"When I Found You" reached #87 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The Hip-Hop group Hieroglyphics sampled "Didn't You Know?" on their song "You Never Knew" on their album 3rd Eye Vision in 1998.

While some jazz purists felt that Patrice's sparse electronic sound was less imaginative than her previous jazz recordings for Elektra, despite the album's merits the album showed her potential in the pop arena, the "big breakthrough" came with later albums like Straight From The Heart, which featured the global hit "Forget Me Nots" and solidified her influence on the R&B/soul genre.

Track-listing

1. Music of the Earth

2. When I Found You

3. Changes (In Your Life)

4. Wishful Thinking

5. Let's Sing a Song of Love

6. Hang It Up

7. Cha-Cha

8. It's Just a Natural Thing

9. Didn't You Know?

10. Play!

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Rick James - Fire It Up

Today Marks The 46th Anniversary of Rick James's 3rd Studio Album "Fire It Up" Originally Released October 16, 1979.

“Fire It Up” is the third studio album by Buffalo, New York musician Rick James, released on the Motown sub-label Gordy Records.

The album peaked at #34 on the The Billboard 200 and at #5 on Billboard's Top R&B Albums chart.

The single "Love Gun" was released from the album. The song peaked at #13 on the Billboard The Hot R&B Songs chart and at #32 on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

In February 22, 1980 Rick James Launched his "Fire It Up Tour" The concert featured a 22-year-old Prince as it's opening act.

Prince opened for James on 42 nights during the winter-spring tour of the U.S.

"Fire It Up" was certified gold by the RIAA, and between 1978 and 1982 was a period where Rick James established himself as the historical bridge between P-Funk and Rock.

“Fire It Up” was released on CD for the first time in 2010, by Universal Records. This item soon went out of print and has become a much sought after and very rare item for fans of Rick James and funk in general.

Track-listing:

1. Fire It Up

2. Love Gun

3. Lovin' You Is a Pleasure

4. Love in the Night

5. Come Into My Life

6. Stormy Love

7. When Love Is Gone

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology. ©

Brass Construction - Brass Construction IV

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of Brass Construction’s 4th Studio Album “Brass Construction IV” Originally Released on October 16, 1978.

“Brass Construction IV” is the fourth studio album by American funk-disco band Brass Construction, released in 1978 on United Artists Records.

The album reached #24 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart and at #174 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album “Help Yourself” and “Get Up”.

“Help Yourself” reached #58 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

“Get Up” reached #56 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. Get Up

2. One To One

3. Perceptions (What's The Right Direction

4. Pick Yourself Up

5. Help Yourself

6. Night Chaser

7. Starting Tomorrow

8. Sweet As Sugar

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology. ©

The Temptations - Truly for You

Today Marks The 41st Anniversary of The Temptations’ 30th Studio Album “Truly for You” Originally Released on October 15, 1984.

“Truly for You” is the 30th Three your album by The Temptations release in 1984 on Gordy Records.

The album peaked at #3 on the U. S. Billboard Black LPs chart, and at #55 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album "Treat Her Like a Lady", "My Love is True (Truly for You)", and "How Can You Say That it's Over".

"Treat Her Like a Lady" peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles, and at #48 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"My Love is True (Truly for You)" reached #14 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"How Can You Say That it's Over" reached #81 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

The album was the first full Temptations album to feature Ali-Ollie Woodson (credited simply as "Ollie Woodson"), who joined the group in 1983, replacing Dennis Edwards.

The album was produced by Earth, Wind & Fire’s guitarists Ralph Johnson and Al McKay.

Track-listing

All selections produced, arranged, and conducted by Al McKay and Ralph Johnson.

1. Running

2. Treat Her Like a Lady

3. How Can You Say That It's Over

4. My Love is True (Truly for You)

5. Memories

6. Just to Keep You in My Life

7. Set Your Love Right

8. I'll Keep My Light in My Window

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

The Commodores - Movin' On

Today Marks The 50th Anniversary of The Commodore’s 3rd Studio Album “Movin' On” Originally Released on October 14, 1975.

“Movin' On” is the third studio album by Tuskegee, Alabama funk band the Commodores released in 1975 on Motown Records.

The album peaked at #7 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart, and at #29 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "Gimme My Mule" and "Sweet Love".

"Gimme My Mule" Upon its release it failed to chart on the Billboard charts.

"Sweet Love" peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, and at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Sweet Love" became the band’s first Top 10 pop hit in the United States.

"Cebu", the album’s last track became a staple on the "Quiet Storm" radio stations, and appeared as a B-side to two of their later singles, "Fancy Dancer" (1976) and "Only You" (1983).

The cover artwork of the 2012 Van Halen album A Different Kind of Truth drew comparisons to that of Movin' On.

Track-listing

1. Hold On

2. Free

3. Mary, Mary

4. Sweet Love

5. (Can I) Get a Witness

6. Gimme My Mule

7. Time

8. Cebu (instrumental)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Rick James - Urban Rapsody

Today Marks The 27th Anniversary of Rick James' 12th Studio Album "Urban Rapsody" Originally Released October 14, 1997.

“Urban Rapsody” is an album by Buffalo, New York funk musician Rick James. It was released in 1997 by Private-I Records a subsidiary of Mercury Records.

The album reached #31 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart and at #170 on the U.S. Billboard 200.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "Player's Way" and "Turn It Out"both songs failed to reach the Billboard charts.

The album featured a guest appearances by Snoop Dogg on the song "Player's Way" and Rappin' 4-Tay on the album's title track "Urban Rapsody".

“Urban Rapsody” received a Parental Advisory sticker, James's only album with one. It was his first release since 1988's Wonderful, due to substance abuse problems and an extended period of incarceration.

“Urban Rhapsody” was the final album released in his lifetime. The album combines rap and funk.

Track-list:

1. "Urban Rapsody" (James, LeMelle, Rappin' 4-Tay)

2. "West Coast Thing" (James, Shepherd)

3. "Somebody's Watching You" (James, Shepherd)

4. "Back in You Again"

5. "Turn It Out"

6. "Good Ol' Days"

7. "Player's Way" (James, Snoop Dogg, Shepherd)

8. "Never Say You Love Me"

9. "It's Time" (James, Shepherd, Neb Love)

10. "So Soft So Wet" (James, Shepherd)

11. "Bring on the Love"

12. "Mama's Eyes" (James, Shepherd)

13. "Soul Sista"

14. "Favorite Flava" (James, Shepherd, Neb Love)

15. "Urban Rapsody (Reprise)" (James, LeMelle)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology. ©

Prince - Controversy

Today Marks The 44th Anniversary of Prince's 4th Studio Album “Controversy” Originally Released on October 14, 1981.

“Controversy” is the fourth studio album by Minneapolis, Minnesota musician Prince released in 1981, by Warner Bros. Records.

The album was produced by Prince, written (with the exception of one track) by him, and he also performed most of the instruments on its recording.

The album peaked at #21 on The Billboard 200 chart and at #3 on Billboard's Top R&B Albums chart.

The album released 3 singles in the United States and 1 single in the United Kingdom.

The title track "Controversy" peaked at #1 on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart and at #3 in Billboard's Hot R&B Songs chart.

"Let's Work" was the second single released in the United States. The song peaked at #1 on Billboard's Hot Dance Club Songs chart and at #9 on the Billboard Hot R&B Songs chart.

"Do Me, Baby" was the third single released in the United States from the Controversy album.

The song was credited as being written by him, it is alleged to have been written by his former bassist and childhood friend André Cymone.

In 1986, the song "Do Me, Baby" was covered by R&B singer Meli'sa Morgan.

The album was certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). It was voted the eighth best album of the year in the 1981 Pazz & Jop, an annual critics poll run by The Village Voice.

Track-listing:

1. Controversy

2. Sexuality

3. Do Me, Baby

4. Private Joy

5. Ronnie, Talk To Russia

6. Let's Work

7. Annie Christian

8. Jack U Off

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology. ©

Earth, Wind & Fire - Faces

Today Marks The 45th Anniversary of Earth,Wind & Fire’s 10th Studio Album “Faces” Originally Released on October 14, 1980.

“Faces” is the tenth studio album by the American band Earth, Wind & Fire released in 1980 on ARC/Columbia Records.

The album peaked #10 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs chart and at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul albums chart.

Four songs were released as singles from the album "Let Me Talk", "You", "Back on the Road" and "And Love Goes On".

"Let Me Talk" peaked at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #44 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"You" peaked at #10 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #30 on the U.S. Billboard Adult Contemporary chart.

"Back on the Road" was released in the United Kingdom as a single it reached #68 on the UK singles chart.

"And Love Goes On" reached #15 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, #57 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Play and at #59 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

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

Track-listing

1. Let Me Talk

2. Turn It Into Something Good

3. Pride

4. You

5. Sparkle

6. Back on the Road

7. Song in My Heart

8. You Went Away

9. And Love Goes On

10. Sailaway

11. Take It to the Sky

12. Win or Lose

13. Share Your Love

14. In Time

15. Faces

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology. ©

Prince - Love Symbol

Today Marks The 33rd Anniversary of Prince’s 14th Studio Album “Love Symbol” Originally Released October 13, 1992.

“Love Symbol” is the fourteenth studio album by Minneapolis, Minnesota musician Prince, and is the second of two albums that featured his backing band the New Power Generation. It was released in 1992, by Paisley Park Records and Warner Bros. Records.

The album peaked #5 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart and at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart.

Five songs were released as singles from the album "Sexy MF", "My Name Is Prince", "7", You.

"Damn U" and "The Morning Papers".

"Sexy MF" was released as an edited version in the United States , where it reached #66 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #76 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart.

"My Name Is Prince" reached #25 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart and at #36 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

“7” peaked at #3 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and at #67 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart.

“Damn U” peaked at #8 on the U.S. Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100 Singles chart and #32 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart.

"The Morning Papers" reached #44 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and at #35 on the U.S. Cash Box Top 100.

The official title of the album is an unpronounceable symbol depicted on its cover art, which Prince copyrighted under the title "Love Symbol #2", and adopted as his stage name from 1993 to 2000 to protest his treatment by Warner Bros. Records.

The release has been referred to under titles such as Love Symbol, Symbol Album, or Symbol.

Track-listing

1. My Name Is Prince

2.Sexy M.F.

3. Love 2 the 9's

4. The Morning Papers

5. The Max

6. Segue

7. Blue Light

8. I Wanna Melt With U

9. Sweet Baby

10. The Continental

11. Damn U

12. Arrogance

13. The Flow

14. 7

15. And God Created Woman

16. 3 Chains o' Gold

17. Segue

18. The Sacrifice of Victor

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology.©

Curtis Mayfield - Let’s Do It Again (Original Soundtrack)

Today Marks The 50th Anniversary of Curtis Mayfield’s “Let’s Do It Again”[Original Soundtrack] Originally Released on October 13, 1975.

“Let’s Do It Again (Original Soundtrack)” is a 1975 soundtrack of the motion picture of the same name released on Curtom Records.

Let's Do It Again is the Curtis Mayfield-penned and Staple Singers-performed soundtrack to the highly successful 1975 comedy film starring Sidney Poitier, Bill Cosby and Jimmie Walker.

The Soundtrack peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart, and at #20 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

The title track “Let's Do It Again” peaked at #1 on both the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles, and the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 charts.

In 2020 an anniversary edition was released by Omnivore Recordings.

This anniversary edition features digitally remastered audio, bonus tracks including single edits, liner notes from Grammy-Award-winning author Rob Bowman, and Photos and ephemera in the booklet.

All tracks composed by Curtis Mayfield, except for “Chase” was written by Quinton Joseph, Philip Upchurch, Gary Thompson, Floyd Morris, Joseph Scott, and Mayfield.

Track-listing

1. Let's Do It Again

2. Funky Love

3. A Whole Lot of Love

4. New Orleans

5. I Want to Thank You

6. Big Mac

7. After Sex

8. Chase

9. Let's Do It Again (Single Edit)

10. After Sex (Single Edit)

11. New Orleans (Single Edit)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Cheryl Lynn - Cheryl Lynn

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of Cheryl Lynn’s Debut Self-Titled Album “Cheryl Lynn” Originally Released on October 13, 1978.

“Cheryl Lynn” is the debut self-titled studio album by R&B/Soul singer Cheryl Lynn released in 1978 on Columbia Records.

The album peaked at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart and at #23 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart .

Three songs were released as singles from the album "Got to Be Real", Star Love" and "You Saved My Day".

"Got to Be Real" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles charts and at #12 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Star Love" reached #11 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart, #16 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #62 on the Billboard Hot 100.

"You Saved My Day" was the album’s third single it failed to chart.

The album was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on February 23, 1979.

Track-listing

1. Got to Be Real

2. All My Lovin

3. Star Love

4. Come in from the Rain

5. You Saved My Day

6. Give My Love to You

7. Nothing You Say

8.. You're the One

9. Daybreak (Storybook Children

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology. ©

Chaka Khan - Chaka

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of Chaka Khan’s Debut Studio Album “Chaka” Originally Released on October 12, 1978.

“Chaka” is the debut solo studio album by American singer Chaka Khan released in 1978 on Warner Bros. Records.

The album peaked at #12 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LPs chart, and at #12 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Two songs were released as singlesl from the album, "I'm Every Woman" and "Life is a Dance".

"I'm Every Woman" peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart, #21 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, and at #30 on the U.S. Billboard Disco charts. The song also peaked at #11 in the United Kingdom on their UK Singles Chart.

"Life is a Dance" reached #40 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

 "I'm Every Woman," has over the past three decades been re-released, remixed and covered a number of times, most notably by Whitney Houston in 1992 for the soundtrack album The Bodyguard, then featuring guest vocals by Khan herself and topping Billboard's Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart.

A remix of Khan's original recording was also a Top-Ten hit in the U.K. in 1989.

The remix was included on the compilation Life is a Dance - The Remix Project, the title track of which was the second single release from the Chaka album in early 1979 (US R&B number 40).

The album also features the ballad "Roll Me Through The Rushes", never commercially released as a single but still receiving considerable airplay in 1979, as well as Khan's cover version of Stevie Wonder's "I Was Made To Love Her", re-titled "I Was Made to Love Him".

Track-listing

1. I'm Every Woman

2. Love Has Fallen on Me

3. Roll Me Through the Rushes

4. Sleep on It

5. We Got the Love" (duet with George Benson)

6. Some Love

7. A Woman in a Man's World

8. The Message in the Middle of the Bottom

9. I Was Made to Love Him

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

George Clinton - Hey, Man, Smell My Finger

Today Marks The 32nd Anniversary of George Clinton’s 6th Solo Studio Album “Hey, Man, Smell My Finger” Originally Released on October 12, 1993.

“Hey, Man, Smell My Finger” is the sixth solo studio album by American funk musician George Clinton, released October 12, 1993, on Paisley Park Records.

The album reached #31 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart and at #145 on the U.S. Billboard 200.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "Paint The White House Black" and "Martial Law".

"Paint The White House Black" reached #63 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart and at #106 just beneath the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Martial Law" reached #60 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart .

The album features an array of musical guests including Prince, Dallas Austin, Humpty Hump (Shock G) from Digital Underground, Ice Cube, N'Dea Davenport, Dr. Dre, and Herbie Hancock, as well P-Funk alumni including Bootsy Collins, Bernie Worrell, Maceo Parker, and Fred Wesley.

The album went out of print soon after Paisley Park Records folded in late 1993.

Track-listing

1. Martial Law

2. Paint The White House Black

3. Way Up

4. Dis Beat Disrupts

5. Dis Beat Disrupts

6. Hollywood

7. Rhythm & Rhyme

8. The Big Pump

9. If True Love

10. High In My Hello

11. Maximumisness

12. Kickback

13. The Flag Was Still There

14. Martial Law (Single Version)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology. ©

Atlantic Starr - Yours Forever

Today Marks The 42nd Anniversary of Atlantic Starr’s 5th Studio Album “Yours Forever” Originally Released on October 11, 1983.

“Yours Forever” is the fifth studio album by White Plains, New York R&B band Atlantic Starr released in 1983 on A&M Records.

The album peaked at #10 on the U.S. Billboard Black LPs chart, and at #90 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.

Three songs were released as singles, Touch a Four Leaf Clover, More, More, More, and Second to None.

“Touch a Four Leaf Clover” peaked at #4 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart, and at #87 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

“More, More, More” reached #11 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

“Second to None” reached #50 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

“Yours Forever” was the last album to feature singer Sharon Bryant as a lead vocalist before she departed the group to pursue a solo career.

This was also the last album to be produced by James Anthony Carmichael, who was responsible for the group's two previous albums.

Track-listing

1. Yours Forever

2. Touch a Four Leaf Clover

3. More, More, More

4. I Want Your Love

5. Second to None

6. Island Dream

7. Who Could Love You Better?

8. More Time for Me

9. Tryin

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Bell & James - Bell & James

Today Marks The 47th Anniversary of Bell & James's Self-titled Debut Studio Album”Bell & James” Originally Released on October 10, 1978.

“Bell & James” is the debut self-titled studio album by Philadelphia musical group Bell & James, released in 1978 by A&M Records.

The self-titled debut album reached #31 on the Music Charts Archive.

The album featured the single "Livin' It Up (Friday Night)," a crossover hit that charted on both the U.S. Billboard R&B and Hot 100 charts.

The song reached #7 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles charts, and at #15 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

The song also reached No. 59 on the UK Singles Chart.

The album was well-received, with listeners appreciating its catchy hooks and solid production.

The album was produced by Bell & James, and was executively produced by Thom Bell.

Track-listening

1. Livin' It Up (Friday Night)

2. Three-Way Love Affair

3. Just Can't Get Enough (Of Your Love)

4. Ask Billie (They Tell Me)

5. You Never Know What You've Got

6. I Need You (Beside Me)

7. Don't Let The Man Get You

8. I Love The Music

By Romie Rome for Music Funkology ©

Bohannon - One Step Ahead

Today Marks The 45th Anniversary of Bohannon’s 13th Studio Album “One Step Ahead” Originally Released on October 9, 1980

“One Step Ahead” is the ninth studio album by drummer, percussionist Bohannon released in 1980 on Phase II Records Ltd.

Two songs were released as singles from the album, “Throw Down the Groove” and “Dance, Dance, Dance All Night”.

“Throw Down the Groove” reached #52 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart, and at #59 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

“Dance, Dance, Dance All Night” reached #76 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

The album was written, arranged and produced by Hamilton Bohannon.

One Step Ahead is praised for its pure, funky energy and infectious grooves.

Track-listing

1. Dance, Dance, Dance All Night

2. Throw Down The Groove (Part I)

3. Is It Real

4. Thinking Of You

5. April My Love (Part I)

6. April My Love (Part II)

7. Do What Cha Wanna Do

8. Throw Down The Groove (Part II)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Prince - Dirty Mind

Today Marks The 45th Anniversary of Prince's 3rd Studio Album "Dirty Mind" Originally Released October 8, 1980.

“Dirty Mind” is the third studio album by Minneapolis, Minnesota musician Prince released in 1980 on Warner Bros. Records.

The album peaked at number 45 on the Billboard 200 chart and at #7 on Billboard's Top R&B Albums chart. The year-end chart performance for Dirty Mind held the #30 position.

Three singles were released from the album "Uptown", "Dirty Mind" and "Do It All Night".

"Uptown" is the lead single from Prince's third album peaked at #101 on Billboard's Bubbling Under Hot 100 Singles chart and at #5 on both the Billboard Hot Soul Singles charts and the Billboard Hot Dance Club Songs charts.

"Dirty Mind" is the follow-up single in the US, and title track to Prince's third album The song peaked at #65 on the Billboard Soul chart.

Along with the tracks "Uptown" and "Head", "Dirty Mind" reached #5 on the Billboard Dance chart.

The 3rd song "Do It All Night" was released in the UK only. The B-side of the track was the controversial Dirty Mind ode to oral sex, "Head".The song opened Prince's Dirty Mind tour.

“Dirty Mind” has been considered by critics to be his most creative and boldest album, setting the standard for his artistic direction in the following years.

Track-listing:

1. Dirty Mind

2. When You Were Mine

3. Do It All Night

4. Gotta Broken Heart Again

5. Uptown

6. Head

7. Sister

7. Partyup

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology. ©

The Dazz Band - Invitation to Love

Today Marks The 45th Anniversary of The Dazz Band’s Debut Studio Album “Invitation to Love” Originally Released on October 7, 1980.

“Invitation to Love” is the debut studio album by Cleveland, Ohio R&B/funk band The Dazz Band released in 1980 on Motown Records.

Upon its release the album failed to reach the Billboard charts.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "Shake It Up" and the album’s title track “Invitation to Love"

"Shake It Up" reached #65 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #65 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

“Invitation to Love" reached #51 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart and at #109 just beneath the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

This debut album showcases what was to come from the Dazz Band, it displays a balance of soul and funk grooves that remain fresh and captivating, even decades after its release.

Track-listing

1. Shake It Up 5:05

2. Invitation To Love 5:01

3. Magnetized 4:00

4. Hello Girl 4:24

5. Skate Lovers 4:20

6. Carry On 4:24

7. Do It Again 3:58

8. Sooner Or Later 3:42

9. Beyond The Horizon 4:32

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Con Funk Shun - Fever

Today Marks The 42nd Anniversary of Con Funk Shun’s 10th Studio Album “Fever” Originally Released on October 7, 1983.

“Fever” is the tenth studio album by Vallejo, California funk band Con Funk Shun released in 1983 on Mercury Records.

The album reached #12 on the U.S. Billboard Black LPs chart, and at #105 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Two songs were released from the album as singles "Baby, I'm Hooked (Right into Your Love)" and “Don't Let Your Love Grow Cold”.

"Baby, I'm Hooked (Right into Your Love)" peaked at #5 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart, and at #76 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Don't Let Your Love Grow Cold" reached #33 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart, and at #103 just beneath the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.

"Can You Feel the Groove Tonight" became a standout track from the album.

“Fever” marked a shift in Con Funk Shun's sound, introducing more synthesizers and a more experimental approach, which was a departure from their earlier funk and disco-influenced style.

The album was produced by Eumir Deodato, a move that brought a different production style to their music, according to reviews of their later albums.

Track-listing

1. Can You Feel The Groove Tonight

2. Indiscreet Sweet

3. Baby I'm Hooked (Right Into Your Love)

4. Thinking About You Baby

5. Don't Let Your Love Grow Cold

6. Lovin' Fever

7. Hard Lovin'

8. If I'm Your Lover

By Romie Rome for Musique Finkology ©

The Fatback Band - 14 Karat

Today Marks The 45th Anniversary of The Fatback Band’s 14th Studio Album “14 Karat” Originally Released on October October 6, 1980.

“14 Karat” is the fourteenth studio album by American funk and disco band Fatback released in 1980 by Spring Records.

The album reached #16 on the U.S. Billboard Soul LP's chart and at #44 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Three songs were released as singles from the album "Let's Do It Again", To Be) Without Your Love and "Angel".

"Let's Do It Again" reached #55 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

“To Be) Without Your Love” was the second song from the album it failed to chart.

"Angel" reached #67 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. Let's Do It Again

2. Angel

3. Concrete Jungle

4. (To Be) Without Your Love

5. Your Love Is Strange

6. Lady Groove

7. Chillin' Out

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

 

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Mandrill - Just Outside of Town

Today Marks The 52nd Anniversary of Mandrill’s 4th Studio Album “Just Outside of Town” Originally Released on October 6, 1973.

“Just Outside of Town” is the fourth studio album by the Brooklyn-based soul/funk band Mandrill. Released in October 1973 on Polydor Records.

The album peaked at #6 on the U.S. Billboard Top Soul Albums chart and at #82 on the U.S. Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart.

Two songs were released as singles from the album "Love Song" and "Mango Meat".

”Love Song" reached #65 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

"Mango Meat" reached #40 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Soul Singles chart.

Track-listing

1. Mango Meat

2. Never Die

3. Love Song

4. Interlude

5. Fat City Strut

6. Two Sisters of Mystery

7. Afrikus Retrospectus

8. She Ain't Lookin' Too Tough

9. Aspiration Flame

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©

Lionel Richie - Lionel Richie

Today Marks The 43rd Anniversary of Lionel Richie’s Debut Solo Studio Self Titled Album “Lionel Richie” Originally Released on October 6, 1982.

“Lionel Richie” is the debut self-titled solo studio album by American singer Lionel Richie, released in 1982, on Motown Records.

The album peaked at #1 on the U.S. Billboard Black LPs chart and at #3 on the U.S. US Billboard 200.

Three songs were released as singles from the album "Truly", "You Are" and "My Love".

"Truly" peaked at #1 on both of Billboard’s U.S. Adult Contemporary and the Billboard Hot 100 charts. also peaked at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"You Are" peaked at #1 on both of Billboard’s U.S. Adult Contemporary chart and at #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

"My Love" peaked at #1 on both of Billboard’s U.S. Adult Contemporary chart, #5 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart and at #6 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Black Singles chart.

The album went 4× Platinum in the United States selling over 4,000,000 copies.

In 2003, Lionel Richie was re-released as part of a remaster series that saw two additional tracks added: a solo version of "Endless Love" and an instrumental version of "You Are". Eagles member Joe Walsh provided the guitar solo for the song "Wandering Stranger".

Track-listing

1. Serves You Right

2. Wandering Stranger

3. Tell Me

4. My Love

5. Round and Round

6. Truly

7. You Are

8. You Mean More to Me

9. Just Put Some Love in Your Heart

10. Endless Love (solo demo)

11. You Are (instrumental)

By Romie Rome for Musique Funkology ©