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The Story of Annette Snell and Southern Airways Flight 242

Annette Snell was a woman whose voice carried the weight of emotion and the warmth of southern soul. Born in Orlando, Florida, in 1945, she was a beacon of talent and determination, destined for greatness even in an era teeming with legendary singers. From an early age, she found solace in music, often performing in church choirs and local talent shows, her voice a mixture of honeyed soul and raw emotion.

In the late 1960s, Annette Snell’s life took a turn when she met George Kerr, a noted producer and songwriter in New York. She had been singing with a girl group called The Fabulettes, and Kerr saw something special in her—a deep, heartfelt sound that could move people. She recorded several singles with The Fabulettes, but it wasn’t long before Annette knew she had to step out on her own, to share her story, her voice, with the world as a solo artist.

By the early 1970s, Snell had begun to carve out her own path, signing with a few record labels and releasing singles like “You Oughta Be Here With Me” and “Footprints on My Mind.” These songs showcased her ability to blend sultry vocals with the heartbreak of love lost. Annette’s music wasn’t just about singing; it was about storytelling, each song a journey through the highs and lows of life.

Her break came in 1973 when she signed with the legendary southern soul label, Dial Records. Here, under the guidance of producer and founder Buddy Killen, Annette’s sound matured into something even more profound. She was poised to join the ranks of soul greats like Aretha Franklin and Gladys Knight. Her singles “Get Your Thing Together” and “Promises Should Never Be Broken” made waves, drawing attention from soul aficionados who knew they were witnessing the birth of a star. Her voice was a powerful instrument that could convey pain and joy in equal measure, and the world began to take notice.

In 1975, Snell was preparing for what would be her major breakthrough. Dial Records had arranged a recording session in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, a legendary hub for soul music. It was the same studio where stars like Wilson Pickett, Percy Sledge, and Aretha Franklin had created hits. Annette Snell was eager to join their ranks, to take her place among the soul elite.

But fate had other plans. On April 4, 1977, tragedy struck. Annette was on a flight from Atlanta to Muscle Shoals, excited about her recording session and the promise of a new chapter in her career. The flight, Southern Airways Flight 242, encountered a severe thunderstorm. The plane crash-landed on a highway in New Hope, Georgia, after both engines failed due to hail. Of the 85 passengers, Annette Snell was one of the 63 who perished.

The music world mourned the loss of a voice that had barely begun to reach its full potential. Her untimely death was a devastating blow, not just to soul music, but to the many fans and musicians who believed in her gift. Annette Snell’s legacy, however, did not vanish with her passing. Her songs continued to resonate, whispered through time, as part of the rich tapestry of soul music’s history.

Though she was taken too soon, Annette Snell’s music remains a testament to her talent, her passion, and her spirit. She embodied the essence of soul—a genre that spoke to the deepest human emotions—and her voice still echoes through the hearts of those who remember her. The world may have been robbed of the heights she could have reached, but the footprints she left behind tell the story of a singer who poured her soul into every note.

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Exploring the Musical Journey of Joy Unlimited: A Retrospective

Joy Unlimited was a notable German progressive rock band that emerged from Mannheim in 1969, evolving from a pop and beat group called Joy & The Hit Kids, which had been active since 1966. The band’s transformation reflected a shift towards more complex and sophisticated musical styles, integrating elements of psych, funk, and progressive rock.

The original lineup featured Joy Fleming (born Erna Strube), whose powerful vocal presence became a defining characteristic of the band. Their debut album under the name Joy Unlimited, “Overground,” was released in 1970, showcasing a blend of psychedelic and funky sounds. This album was confusingly released under different names in various countries: “Overground” in Germany, “Turbulence” in the UK, and “Joy Unlimited” in the US.

Joy Unlimited’s major breakthrough came with their second album, “Schmetterlinge” (1971), which was a concept album centered around the theme of metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly, symbolizing human development. This album was commissioned by the Stadttheater in Bonn as part of a ballet production, which helped elevate the band’s artistic profile. Joy Fleming left the band after this album to pursue a solo career, including representing Germany in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1975.

Following Fleming’s departure, the band continued to produce concept albums. “Reflections” (1973), another ballet-inspired work, featured American singer Ken Traylor and explored fundamental life themes through a mix of vocal and instrumental tracks. The band’s final album, “Minne” (1975), introduced Josef “Joschi” Dinier as the lead vocalist and incorporated medieval and folk influences, drawing on the poetry of Walther von der Vogelweide.

Throughout their career, Joy Unlimited was influenced by the progressive rock giants of their time, blending various genres and styles into a unique sound that included prog rock guitars, jazz flutes, and Renaissance piano. The band’s innovative approach and musical diversity have left a lasting impression on the progressive rock scene.

Despite disbanding in the mid-1970s, the members of Joy Unlimited continued to be active in the music industry, with some becoming successful producers. Joy Fleming remained a beloved figure in German music until her passing in 2017.

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The Soulful Journey of Tommie Young: An Unheralded Icon

Tommie Young, an artist whose voice and passion for soul music resonated deeply with her listeners, remains one of the most evocative yet underappreciated figures in the genre’s history. Born in Dallas, Texas, in the early 1950s, Tommie Young’s musical career, though brief, left an indelible mark on soul music, earning her a devoted following and a place in the hearts of true soul aficionados.

Young’s journey into music began in the church, a common starting point for many soul singers. Her early exposure to gospel music profoundly influenced her vocal style, infusing it with the emotional depth and spiritual intensity that would later define her career. Young’s powerful voice and expressive delivery caught the attention of Bobby Patterson, a noted musician and producer, who played a pivotal role in her transition from gospel to secular music.

Young’s entry into the secular music scene was marked by the release of her debut single, “Do You Still Feel the Same Way,” in 1972 under the Soul Power label. The song showcased her rich, emotive voice and quickly gained traction, propelling her into the spotlight. Her ability to convey deep emotion through her music resonated with listeners, earning her comparisons to soul legends like Aretha Franklin and Etta James.

The subsequent release of her album, “Do You Still Feel the Same Way?” solidified her status as a rising star in the soul music world. The album featured a mix of original tracks and covers, all delivered with Young’s signature vocal intensity. Songs like “She Don’t Have to See You (To See Through You)” and “You Came Just in Time” exemplified her talent for interpreting and transforming songs into deeply personal expressions of emotion.

Despite her promising start, Tommie Young’s career in the music industry was relatively short-lived. By the mid-1970s, she had largely stepped away from the spotlight, a decision influenced by the challenges and demands of the music industry. However, her impact during her brief career was significant. Young’s music continues to be celebrated by soul enthusiasts, and her recordings are sought after by collectors and reissued on various compilations.

Young’s influence extends beyond her recordings. Her style and emotional delivery have inspired countless artists who seek to capture the raw, heartfelt essence of soul music. Though she may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as some of her contemporaries, her contributions to the genre are undeniable and enduring.

Tommie Young’s story is a testament to the power of soul music to convey profound emotion and connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. Her voice, marked by its depth and sincerity, continues to resonate with those who appreciate the true essence of soul. In an industry often dominated by fleeting trends, Young’s timeless recordings serve as a reminder of the enduring power of authentic musical expression.

Today, Tommie Young may not be a household name, but her legacy lives on in the hearts of soul music lovers. Her contributions to the genre, though not always widely recognized, are a crucial part of the rich tapestry of soul music history. As new generations discover her music, Tommie Young’s voice will continue to find its way into the souls of listeners, ensuring that her legacy endures.

In celebrating Tommie Young, we acknowledge not just a singer but an artist who, through her music, offered a piece of her soul to the world. Her journey, though marked by its share of challenges, remains an inspiring chapter in the story of soul music.

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The Unforgettable Soul of Fontella Bass

 

Fontella Bass, a name that resonates with soul music enthusiasts, remains an emblematic figure in the annals of music history. Best known for her electrifying 1965 hit “Rescue Me,” Bass’s dynamic voice and emotional depth have left an indelible mark on the genre. Her journey through music is a testament to her resilience, talent, and the timeless appeal of soul.

Fontella Bass was born on July 3, 1940, in St. Louis, Missouri, into a musical family. Her mother, Martha Bass, was a gospel singer with the famous Clara Ward Singers, which provided Fontella with a rich musical foundation from an early age. Immersed in gospel music, she honed her vocal skills in church, which later became the bedrock of her powerful singing style.

In the early 1960s, Bass began her professional career as a pianist and singer, joining Little Milton’s blues revue. Her talents soon caught the attention of Chess Records, a prominent label known for nurturing African American musical talent. It was here that she collaborated with producer Billy Davis, which led to the creation of her most iconic song.

“Rescue Me” was released in 1965, featuring Bass’s commanding vocals and a rhythm that epitomized the essence of soul music. The song’s infectious energy and heartfelt lyrics quickly captivated audiences, propelling it to number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and number one on the R&B charts. Its success cemented Bass’s place in music history and remains a staple on classic soul playlists.

Despite the success of “Rescue Me,” Fontella Bass faced numerous challenges in her career. The music industry of the 1960s was rife with exploitation, particularly for African American artists. Bass struggled with contract disputes and financial issues, which hampered her career’s momentum. Moreover, she experienced difficulties in receiving proper royalties and recognition for her contributions to music.

Nevertheless, Bass’s passion for music never waned. She continued to perform and record, albeit with less commercial success than “Rescue Me.” Her subsequent releases, such as “Recovery” and “I Surrender,” showcased her vocal versatility and emotional depth, further solidifying her legacy as a soul singer.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Bass shifted her focus towards gospel music, returning to her roots and collaborating with her mother. Her contributions to gospel were significant, and she was revered for her ability to convey profound spiritual and emotional narratives through her music.

Fontella Bass passed away on December 26, 2012, but her legacy lives on. “Rescue Me” continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest soul songs of all time, and her influence can be heard in the works of numerous contemporary artists. Bass’s journey through the peaks and valleys of the music industry serves as an inspiration, illustrating the enduring power of talent and perseverance.

Fontella Bass’s life and career reflect the soul genre’s essence—emotional, resilient, and profoundly impactful. From her gospel beginnings to her rise to fame and subsequent challenges, Bass’s story is one of passion and determination. Her music, particularly the timeless “Rescue Me,” remains a testament to her extraordinary talent and continues to inspire generations of musicians and listeners alike.

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Sam Dees: The Undiscovered Soul Legend

Sam Dees, a name that resonates with soulful melodies and poignant lyrics, is a largely unsung hero in the world of soul music. Born on December 17, 1945, in Birmingham, Alabama, Dees has carved a niche for himself not only as a performer but also as a songwriter whose works have touched the hearts of many.

Growing up in the Southern United States during a time of significant social upheaval, Sam Dees’s early life was steeped in the gospel music of the church and the rhythm and blues heard on the radio. These influences are evident in his music, which combines the soulful expressiveness of gospel with the smooth grooves of R&B.

Dees’s first foray into the music industry was marked by his signing with the Chess Records in the late 1960s. However, it was his 1973 hit “Fragile, Handle with Care” that put him on the map as a soul singer to watch. His 1975 album “The Show Must Go On” produced by Atlantic Records, further solidified his reputation, featuring tracks that showcased his distinctive falsetto and emotional depth.

Despite these successes, Sam Dees remained somewhat in the background, overshadowed by more prominent contemporaries. Nevertheless, his impact was profound, particularly as a songwriter. His ability to write songs that resonated with authenticity and emotional vulnerability made him a sought-after writer for other artists.

Perhaps where Sam Dees truly shines is in his songwriting. With a talent for crafting lyrics that speak to the universal human experience, Dees has written for a plethora of artists, including Gladys Knight, The Whispers, and Loretta Lynn. His song “One in a Million You,” performed by Larry Graham, became a major hit, showcasing Dees’s versatility and ability to cross genre boundaries.

Despite never achieving the household name status of some of his peers, Sam Dees has been a significant influence on both his contemporaries and later generations of soul and R&B musicians. Artists like Aretha Franklin and George Benson have praised his unique sound and profound lyrical content.

His influence extends beyond the African American music scene, impacting the broader music industry and listeners worldwide. His tracks continue to be sampled and covered, testifying to the timeless quality of his work.

Today, Sam Dees continues to perform and produce music. He remains a revered figure among soul music aficionados and continues to garner respect from new artists and veteran musicians alike. His dedication to his craft and his ability to remain relevant in a changing musical landscape speak volumes about his talent and resilience.

Sam Dees may not have reached the commercial heights of some of his contemporaries, but his contribution to the world of music is undeniable. As a gifted songwriter and a soulful singer, he has left an indelible mark on the soul and R&B genres. For those in the know, Sam Dees is not just a musician; he is a storyteller whose tunes are imbued with the essence of life itself. His legacy is that of a true artist, one who has enriched the world with his melody and words.

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Donna McGhee: A Symphony of Soul and Disco

Donna McGhee, born on December 6, 1955, in Brooklyn, New York, has been a significant figure in the soul and disco music scenes. Known for her powerful vocals and infectious rhythms, Donna’s journey in music has been a blend of creative highs and challenging lows, reflecting the dynamic and evolving landscape of the music industry.

Donna McGhee’s musical roots are embedded deeply in her family and community. From a young age, she sang in her grandmother’s choir, the Lucille Robinson Ensemble, where she developed her foundational vocal skills. This early exposure to gospel music profoundly influenced her musical style and ethos.

In 1978, Donna McGhee made a significant mark on the disco scene with her solo album, “Make It Last Forever.” The album, produced by the renowned Greg Carmichael and Patrick Adams, became a cult classic in the disco genre. Its title track, “Make It Last Forever,” showcases Donna’s soulful voice set against a backdrop of lush disco orchestration, which has enchanted listeners for decades.

Beyond her solo work, Donna was an integral part of several bands, including The Fatback Band. Her collaborations extended through various facets of the music industry, where she worked with artists from different genres. Notable among her background vocal contributions are her works with mainstream and indie artists alike, ranging from Salt-N-Pepa to Teddy Pendergrass.

Despite her early success, Donna McGhee faced challenges in maintaining a steady solo career. The closure of the Red Greg label shortly after her debut album’s release led to a period of uncertainty. However, Donna’s resilience shone through as she continued to work in the industry, providing background vocals for numerous artists and occasionally releasing singles like “You Should Have Told Me” in the early 1980s.

In more recent years, Donna McGhee has continued to influence the music scene, collaborating with contemporary artists and producers, such as Shannon Harris in 2011 with the dance single “Remember The Time,” and Italian house music producer I Robots in 2015. These collaborations have helped introduce her to a new generation of music enthusiasts, ensuring her sound continues to evolve and resonate.

Donna’s work has received renewed interest thanks to reissues of her classic albums and singles, allowing new audiences to discover the depth and warmth of her musical prowess. Her influence is noted not just in her recordings but also in her ability to seamlessly blend genres and generations.

Donna McGhee’s musical journey is a testament to her enduring talent and adaptability. From her gospel choir beginnings through her disco successes to her role as a seasoned collaborator in the music industry, Donna exemplifies how passion for music can transcend the challenges of changing musical landscapes. Her legacy in the disco and soul genres is marked by her ability to capture the spirit of an era while continuing to inspire through her timeless sound.

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Mystery of Michael Andre Lewis aka Mandré

In the vast expanse of music history, few artists embody the spirit of innovation and mystique quite like Michael Andre Lewis, known professionally as Mandré. A visionary force in the 1970s funk and electronic music scenes, Mandré’s story is one of audacity, creativity, and a futuristic vision that seemed to leap from the pages of a science fiction novel directly into the grooves of vinyl records.

Michael Andre Lewis’s journey began in Omaha, Nebraska, where his prodigious talent for music was evident from a young age. Classically trained, Lewis’s early career saw him performing with luminaries such as The Supremes and Stevie Wonder, showcasing his versatility and flair. However, it was his move to Los Angeles and subsequent reinvention as Mandré that marked the true beginning of his avant-garde legacy.

Adopting the persona of Mandré, Lewis introduced a character shrouded in mystery, often appearing in a futuristic helmet and visor that obscured his identity. This was not just a gimmick but a profound statement on the nature of fame, identity, and the future of music. Mandré’s albums, released under Motown’s subsidiary Mowest, were a blend of funk, jazz, and electronic music, infused with the sounds of synthesizers and vocoders. They painted a vision of the future that was both otherworldly and deeply rooted in the rhythmic foundations of funk.

Mandré’s debut album, “Mandré” (1977), was a bold foray into the uncharted territories of synth-funk and space music, setting the tone for what was to come. Tracks like “Solar Flight (Opus I),” with its lush synthesizer landscapes and cosmic themes, became emblematic of his style. Despite producing three albums for Motown, Mandré remained somewhat of an enigma, with his music achieving cult status but eluding widespread mainstream success. His work, however, was profoundly influential, presaging the electronic and synth-based movements that would dominate the music industry in the decades following.

While Mandré’s discography might not have achieved the commercial heights of his contemporaries, his influence on the genres of funk, electronic, and experimental music is undeniable. Artists across genres have sampled his work, and his vision of a synthesizer-driven future has come to fruition in ways even he might not have imagined. Mandré’s music offers a glimpse into an alternate history of pop music, one where the boundaries between man and machine, the past and the future, are blurred.

Today, there’s a growing appreciation for Mandré’s contributions to music. As new generations of artists and listeners delve into the archives of electronic music, they discover in Mandré a pioneering spirit that resonates with contemporary sensibilities. His albums, once overlooked, are now celebrated as groundbreaking works that pushed the boundaries of what music could be.

Michael Andre Lewis, under his guise as Mandré, crafted a legacy that extends far beyond his discography. He envisioned a future where music transcended traditional boundaries, a vision that continues to inspire and challenge. In the pantheon of music history, Mandré stands as a testament to the power of innovation and the enduring allure of the mysterious. As we look back on his career, we’re reminded that the future of music, much like Mandré’s identity, is an ever-evolving mystery, one that invites us to listen and dream in equal measure.

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Soul’s best kept Secret Alice Clark

In the realm of soul music, there are artists whose talents shine brightly but fade all too quickly, leaving behind a legacy that lingers in the hearts of true music lovers. Alice Clark, a soul singer whose career spanned from 1968 to 1972, is one of them.

 

Born in 1947, in the vibrant neighborhood of Bedford-Stuyvesant in Brooklyn, New York, Alice Clark was immersed in music from a young age. Raised in a deeply religious family, she found her voice in the church choir, where she honed her vocal abilities and developed her signature style.

 

In 1964, when Bob Shad launched Mainstream Records, his primary objective was to record the music he personally enjoyed. Having previously worked under the constraints of Mercury and EmArcy in the 1950s, Shad seized the opportunity at Mainstream to create a catalog that showcased remarkable diversity. From Johnny Mandel’s evocative Harper soundtrack to the groundbreaking debut album of Big Brother & the Holding Company. Among the artists who captured Shad’s attention and compelled him to record was the talented singer Alice Clark.

 

Between 1968 and 1972, Alice Clark embarked on a relatively short recording journey in New York for a subsidiary of Jubilee. However, during this period, Clark’s personal circumstances were far from ideal. Dean Rudland mentions in his liner notes for Alice Clark: The Complete Studio Recordings 1968-1972, it was evident that Alice was facing challenges in her life. Billy Vera, the writer and producer of her initial recordings, shared insights, stating,”I got the impression her life wasn’t that great. She… had kids and belonged to a religious order that forbade either bathing or washing hair, I don’t recall exactly which…”

The Singles she released between 1968 and 1971 were:

You Got A Deal / Say You’ll Never (Never Leave Me) currently on Discogs for around $30

 

You Hit Me (Right Where It Hurt Me) / Heaven’s Will (Must Be Obeyed) currently on Sale on Discogs for $1.300

In 1972, Alice Clark signed with Mainstream Records and released her self-titled debut album, “Alice Clark.” In every aspect, this rare soul album exudes tastefulness.  The arrangements and conductor duties were skillfully handled by Ernie Wilkins, while the production was expertly overseen by Bob Shad.

The album features a compelling selection of songs, including Jimmy Webb’s “I Keep It Hid,” John Bromley and Petula Clark’s “Looking at Life,” Leonard Caston’s “Don’t Wonder Why,” John Kander and Fred Ebb’s “Maybe This Time” (from the motion picture “Cabaret”), Juanita Fleming’s “Never Did I Stop Loving You,” Bobby Hebb’s “Charms of the Arms of Love” and “Don’t You Care,” Leon Carr’s “It Takes Too Long to Learn to Live Alone,” Bobby Hebb’s “Hard Hard Promises,” and Earl DeRouren’s “Hey Girl.” Each song brings its own unique flavor to the album, ensuring a diverse and captivating musical experience.

This remarkable collection of songs showcased her extraordinary vocal range, passionate delivery, and innate ability to connect with listeners on a profound emotional level. Combining elements of soul, jazz, and gospel, the album was a testament to Clark’s versatility and musical depth.

 

“I Keep It Hid” was selected as the lead single, accompanied by “Don’t Wonder Why” on the B-Side. However, despite its release, “I Keep It Hid” failed to make a significant impact and faded into obscurity. Unfortunately, the disappointing outcome extended to the release of Alice Clark’s self-titled album, which struggled to find the receptive audience it truly deserved. Regrettably, only a minimal number of copies of Alice Clark were sold.

Despite Bob Shad’s expertise in producing exceptional albums, the shifting dynamics of the market in the early 1970s posed a challenge. Black FM radio sought album singles that would stand out during “drive time” programming, typically favoring hook-driven songs. Unfortunately, the songs on this particular album possessed a sublime and poetic quality that didn’t align with those requirements.

Instead, commercial triumph eluded Alice Clark, leading her to turn her back on music in 1972. From that point on, very little has been heard about her. A veil of mystery envelops Alice Clark’s life after her departure from the music scene. She seems to have nearly vanished into thin air.

Now you want a copy?

Over the passing years, some copies of the album found their way into dollar bins.

Since then, Alice Clark’s album has transformed into a true rarity. Those seeking an original 1972 copy of Alice Clark on Mainstream Records must embark on an arduous quest. If they manage to find a copy, it will demand a hefty price tag of at least $500.

Reiusses are widely available, for example the 2019 RSD release of this album.

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A Conversation with Otis Williams from The Temptations

SoulDisco had to chance to talk to Otis Williams about the upcoming Tour in germany.

 

 

 

 

 

1. What can fans look forward to on the 2022 tour? Are there any new elements in the show?

The Temptations have been touring throughout the U.S. in the first half of this year and it’s been wonderful. Looking ahead, we are very excited about headlining concerts with The Four Tops this fall in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. It’s been several years since The Temptations have been abroad so we can’t wait to see our fans again.

We have a great show planned that includes fan favorites such as, “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me),” “Ain’t Too Proud To Beg,” “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” “I Wish It Would Rain,” “Treat Her Like A Lady” and more chart hits.

In terms of new elements in the show, we are featuring in our set list, “Is It Gonna Be Yes or No,” a brand-new song written and produced by the legendary Smokey Robinson, from our new album, TEMPTATIONS 60. The new album which I executive produced, is available now via live stream and as a CD edition.

2. You are looking back on 60 years of successful stage presence. At what point were you aware that you essentially shaped the style of soul music?

It’s hard to pinpoint an exact moment, it’s really been a culmination of extraordinary events over the past 60 years.

Early in our career we knew our music was shaping not only the sound of young America but influencing the music landscape globally. In 1965, when “My Girl” became our first #1 charted record and sold multi-millions of copies, we knew we were changing the game and creating a different kind of sound for the next generation. Even when we traveled abroad on Motown’s Motortown Revue tours in the 60s, people embraced our music and began singing our songs. We recognized then that music is a universal language. We were a significant part of the Motown movement that took the country by storm in the 60s. Motown moved the needle in music culture, and we were blessed enough to be a major part of that beloved and iconic sound.

A few years ago, when we were named the #1 R&B Artists of All Time by Billboard magazine, you could have tipped me over with a feather. It is such a great honor. We love what we do, and we love seeing smiles on our fans’ faces when we are on tour. We can’t wait to see our fans on tour.

3. Which special moments of your career do you remember the most?

When we started out in 1961, I had no inclination I would still be on stage performing 60 years later. I look at my career as a blessing from God. After carrying The Temptations’ legacy on all these years, I’m receiving more blessings now than I ever could have imagined. I’m like a little kid in a toy store when I see how much audiences still love to see The Temptations perform, especially when I see that love and appreciation passed on to a second and third generation in the same family. We like bringing happiness and joy into people’s lives while we are performing. I’m happy when fans come to our concerts, leave their busy lives behind for a few hours, and find some kind of solace in our music.

There have been so many extraordinary moments in my career, that remain vivid in my memory, far too many to share at one time. Here are just a few:

One special moment that still stands out was when we learned we had a national hit with our single, “The Way You Do The Things You Do” which was written by Smokey Robinson and Bobby Rogers. That was a big moment. We had just come back to Detroit from one of tour stints in cities around Michigan. When we got to Motown, we were told the song had hit the charts at #76. By the time we had released “The Way You Do The Things You Do,” we had recorded seven or eight records including “I Want a Love I Can See,” which we thought was going to be a hit. When we saw the music trades with our song on the chart, we just sat there in the Motown lobby and cried like little boys about to get their butts whipped. The song took off in Chicago, Philly, New York and around the country and climbed the national Pop chart to # 11. That was 1964 and we’ve been rolling ever since.

Another huge moment came in 1965, when “My Girl,” became a #1 Pop chart hit. That hit was a game changer for The Temptations. We were performing at the Apollo Theater in Harlem when we received telegrams from Berry Gordy, The Supremes, The Beatles and others, congratulating us on our #1 success. It was The Temptations’ first #1 charted record and sold multi-millions of copies. “My Girl” was inducted into The Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998 and in 2018 it was entered into the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress. It has become a standard now. “My Girl” opened the door to global attention for the group and we continued to produce a string of chart hits in the decades to follow.

Another memorable time was (during our Classic Five period) doing five shows in one day at The Apollo Theater in New York City. The line of fans outside the Theater wrapped around several blocks and avenues. We opened the show with the song “Hello Young Lovers,” rather than opening with an R&B tune. That was a bold move to make at the Apollo. The curtain would be closed and when our famous four-headed microphone was placed on the stage in front of the closed curtain, the audience would go wild. The curtain would go up and we’d start with that song and fans would rush to the front of the stage. Also memorable were our appearances at the famous Copacabana supper club in New York, and our 13 appearances on The Ed Sullivan television show, and so many others national TV programs. We knew back then that our music had become iconic in the global entertainment world.

I’ll always remember in 1968, and 1969, Diana Ross and the Supremes and The Temptations starred in primetime network television specials “TCB (Taking Care of Business)” and “G.I.T. (Getting It Together) on Broadway.” Never before had two contemporary African American groups headlined their own #1 nationally rated television specials, both produced by Motown, an African American owned company. The “TCB” special was named the #1 rated variety show in 1968 and received an Emmy® nomination. The original cast soundtrack album, TCB, reached #1 on Billboard’s Top 200 Albums chart.

Other big moments included when The Temptations delivered Motown’s and our first-ever, GRAMMY® at the 11th Annual Grammy® Awards in 1969 for Best Rhythm & Blues Performance by a Duo or Group, Vocal or Instrumental, for our song, “Cloud Nine.” We have also been awarded five Grammy® Awards, including the Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Grammy® Award.

Of course, being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989 was a very big moment for the group as well as receiving so many other prestigious awards and accolades. We have over 50 gold, platinum and multi-platinum awards all combined.

Earlier this year, it was incredible delivering our 60th anniversary album, TEMPTATIONS 60. Being back in the studio this time reminded me of how long and rewarding a journey it has been. I get emotional when I think about it, because we poured every ounce of our heart and soul into making the new album very special, and I can proudly say it showcases brand new songs that reflect the best of what’s vintage, and modern, in our music. This new album represents generations of unique melodies, lyrics and songs, distinctly our own. Some of the new songs echo our original ballads and love songs, while others capture current, topical vibes of the 21st Century. It also includes new songs that reflect the times we are living in now. It brings together again several great producers we have worked with in the past, including Smokey Robinson, Narada Michael Walden, Dennis Nelson and Thomas “TC” Campbell. Now, as divine grace would have it, we got another chance to collaborate again.”

Another landmark moment, that was quite overwhelming, personally and emotionally, was opening night on Broadway, in March 2019, of Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations, a musical based on my autobiography. The experience was surreal, because as young guys starting out, we never imagined performing on stages around the world, let alone that my story about our journey would someday appear under the bright lights on Broadway. I feel blessed that our music lives on in the hearts of fans worldwide and has been celebrated on the prestigious Imperial Theater stage on Broadway. It’s an incredibly moving tribute to our music and honors our place in history. After completing its run on the Broadway stage, the touring production of The Broadway musical is currently touring to 50 cities in the U.S. throughout this year and next.

I am really proud that we are continuing to reach a whole new generation of fans with the touring production of the Musical. We feel blessed and give thanks to God.

For details, see the link here: https://ainttooproudmusical.com/

4. Do you remember the very first concert The Temptations and The Four Tops did together?

The Temptations first performed with The Four Tops on the Motortown Revue Tours in the 60s. We really enjoyed being on the road together. Back in the day, back in Detroit we considered them competition. They had a sophisticated style and some fantastic moves on stage. Duke Fakir, a founding member of The Tops, and I go back as far as those very early days of Motown. I even remember seeing the Tops perform in Detroit back in fifties and I thought they were greatest, and still do.

 

 

We love The Four Tops’ songs and love performing with them still today. Both groups, The Temptations and The Four Tops are headlining concerts together in Europe this fall.

One of most memorable experiences with The Tops was back in 1983 when we did the Motown 25 television special together. That network television special had to be one of the biggest events that year. Motown brought together many of its famous artists for the special, including The Supremes, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Jacksons, Martha Reeves, and many others. Someone came up with the idea to have The Temptations and The Four Tops do a little singing battle during the show.

The Tempts and The Tops both switched off between medleys of our hits. Then we’d sing parts of their songs, and they would sing parts of our songs. At that time, it was Dennis Edwards and Levi Stubbs going at it and the audience loved it. It was such a popular part of that Motown Special that a T’n’T tour was created, which ran for nearly three years and went all over the world.

5. How do you keep yourselves fit for touring life?

The key is you’ve got to get rest and watch your diet. It takes discipline to resist developing bad eating habits on the road. Some of it is just using plain common sense, but common sense isn’t so common if you don’t use it. When I moved to Los Angeles in 74, I thought, man you really have to take better care of yourself, starting right now. So, I started focusing more on what I eat.

We also have to stay nimble for our choreographed dance routines, so I try to exercise whenever possible. Our audiences are still looking for The Tempts to do our well-known choreography during concerts, so we have to stay in shape. In our show now, we still do our choreographed moves, but at a certain point we also bring out stools and sit and talk to the audience. I’m panting a little bit by that time, and I tell them, ”I’ve been doing this for seven decades now and I’m tired you all.” The audience falls out laughing. We turn it into a comedy thing and our fans love it. Sometimes I look at the stuff we used to do in the early decades of my career, and I think to myself, only when you are young! Also, I try to keep a wonderful spirit. I love what I do, bringing happiness to people through our music.

6. What (musical) projects are you working on at the moment?

As I mentioned earlier, The Temptations are still celebrating their 60th Anniversary through 2022. To mark our milestone, we released in January 2022, a brand-new album, TEMPTATIONS 60. which is available now via live stream and as a CD edition. The new album consists of nearly all-original songs. In addition to tracks produced by group members, the album brings us back together again with some of our most beloved producers, including the legendary Smokey Robinson and Narada Michael Walden.

We remain very excited that the Tony® Award-winning Broadway musical, Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations, based on my personal journey is currently touring nationally in the U.S. While on Broadway, the musical received 12 Tony nominations, including Best Musical and won the Tony® Award for Best Choreography at the 73rd Tony® Awards at Radio City Music Hall in New York City on June 10, 2019. The musical is scheduled to open in theaters in more than 50 cities across the U.S. throughout this year and next.

For details, see the link here: https://ainttooproudmusical.com/