Author: Nadine

The world of soul and funk music is full of enigmatic stories, but few are as intriguing as that of Skull Snaps. This obscure yet beloved soul group has fascinated crate diggers, producers, and music fans for decades. With a single self-titled album released in 1973, the Skull Snaps crafted a legacy far greater than their brief output might suggest. Their music has endured as a testament to the enduring power of groove, rhythm, and mystery.

Skull Snaps was composed of three seasoned musicians: Erv Waters, Sammy Strain, and George Bragg. Before forming Skull Snaps, the trio performed as The Diplomats, a New Jersey-based R&B group with modest success in the 1960s. However, their pivot to a funkier, harder-edged sound under the Skull Snaps moniker marked a dramatic shift in style.

Released on GSF Records, their sole album, Skull Snaps, featured nine tracks blending funk, soul, and rock elements. The record was enigmatic from the start—the eerie cover art depicted a set of human skulls, and the group’s name hinted at a dark, unconventional approach. This image contrasted with their sophisticated musicianship and deeply rhythmic sound.

The Skull Snaps album opens with “My Hang-Up Is You,” a mid-tempo soul anthem showcasing the band’s tight vocal harmonies and sharp instrumentation. Other standout tracks, such as “I’m Your Pimp” and “It’s a New Day,” revealed a grittier, funk-infused sensibility. These songs combined social commentary with infectious grooves, a hallmark of the early ’70s funk movement.

Despite its strengths, the album flew under the radar upon release. The lack of commercial success and minimal promotion led to the group’s disappearance from the music scene. For years, the album was a hidden gem, known only to die-hard fans of funk and soul.

The true revival of Skull Snaps’ legacy began in the 1980s and 1990s, when hip-hop producers stumbled upon the album in record stores. The drum break from “It’s a New Day” became a cornerstone of sampling culture. Its crisp, infectious beat has been featured in countless hip-hop tracks, including classics by Eric B. & Rakim, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, and Digable Planets. The break’s versatility made it one of the most sampled drum patterns in music history.

This newfound relevance introduced Skull Snaps to a new generation of listeners. As sampling technology evolved, their grooves became the DNA of hip-hop, proving that great music can transcend its time.

Part of Skull Snaps’ allure is their air of mystery. With only one album and little public information about the group, their story is shrouded in speculation. Fans and researchers have pieced together details about their history, but the band members have largely remained quiet about their brief yet impactful career.

This enigmatic quality has only amplified their cult status. Unlike other acts who burn out or fade into obscurity, Skull Snaps left behind a perfect storm: an unforgettable album, a distinctive aesthetic, and a breakbeat immortalized in modern music.

Skull Snaps epitomizes the notion that quality trumps quantity. Their music showcases the richness of soul and funk, blending heartfelt lyrics with impeccable rhythms. Their influence, especially within hip-hop, underscores the enduring relevance of 1970s funk in shaping contemporary music.

For collectors, Skull Snaps represents the thrill of discovery—a hidden treasure that, once unearthed, feels like a personal secret. For musicians, their music is a reminder of the timeless power of rhythm. For fans, they are a symbol of how greatness can emerge from the most unlikely corners of music history.

The Skull Snaps story is one of mystery, innovation, and influence. Though their time in the spotlight was brief, their impact has reverberated across decades. Whether you’re a seasoned crate digger or a casual music fan, delving into their work offers a glimpse into the magic of soul and funk. Skull Snaps may not have captured the charts, but they captured something far more enduring: the hearts of those who truly love music.

 

 

Eugene Record was a pivotal figure in the world of soul and R&B music, leaving an indelible mark as the lead singer, songwriter, and producer of the legendary Chicago-based group, The Chi-Lites. Born on December 23, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, Record was a master craftsman of love ballads, social commentary, and feel-good grooves, cementing his place in the pantheon of great soul artists.

Eugene Booker Record grew up in Chicago, a city known for its vibrant music scene. He developed an early interest in music, learning to play multiple instruments and honing his songwriting skills. In the late 1950s, he became part of the vocal group The Chanteurs, which later evolved into The Hi-Lites. By the 1960s, the group transformed into The Chi-Lites, named in homage to their Chicago roots.

The Chi-Lites: A Legacy in Soul Music

Under Eugene Record’s leadership, The Chi-Lites rose to prominence in the late 1960s and 1970s. His distinctive falsetto voice became the group’s signature sound, earning them hits that resonated with audiences across generations. Record’s songwriting was often deeply personal, blending themes of love, heartbreak, and social consciousness.

Some of the group’s most memorable hits include:

• “Have You Seen Her” (1971): A poignant ballad of longing and heartbreak, this track became a timeless classic and showcased Record’s emotive voice and poetic lyricism.
• “Oh Girl” (1972): This soulful track, driven by a harmonica riff and Record’s tender falsetto, topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidified The Chi-Lites’ place in music history.
• “For God’s Sake (Give More Power to the People)” (1971): A socially conscious anthem that reflected the turbulent political and social climate of the early 1970s.

Record’s ability to write songs that were both deeply personal and universally relatable was a key factor in The Chi-Lites’ success. His production work also ensured that the group’s music had a polished, radio-friendly sound while retaining its emotional depth.

In the late 1970s, Eugene Record embarked on a solo career, releasing several albums that displayed his versatility as an artist. His solo work, though not as commercially successful as his Chi-Lites era, showcased his talent for blending soul, funk, and disco influences. Songs like “Laying Beside You” and “Overdose of Joy” remain fan favorites.

Record also contributed to the careers of other artists, writing and producing for acts such as Barbara Acklin and the Dells. His influence extended beyond his own recordings, shaping the sound of soul music for decades.

Eugene Record reunited with The Chi-Lites in the late 1980s, continuing to perform and tour with the group for years. In his later life, he found solace in his faith and became more involved in gospel music. He passed away on July 22, 2005, at the age of 64, leaving behind a rich legacy of music that continues to inspire.

Today, Eugene Record is remembered as one of the most talented and versatile figures in soul music. His songs have been sampled by countless hip-hop and R&B artists, ensuring that his influence lives on. From his heartfelt ballads to his socially conscious anthems, Record’s music captured the complexities of life with grace and authenticity.

Eugene Record was much more than a singer—he was a storyteller, a voice of a generation, and a pioneer of soul music. His contributions to The Chi-Lites and his solo career have left an enduring imprint on the music world. Whether you’re discovering his work for the first time or revisiting his timeless classics, Eugene Record’s music remains as powerful and poignant today as it was during his heyday.

 

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.

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.

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.

 

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.

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.

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.

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.