The Blush Organisation

BlushRadio 14: Think About The Good Times

2009-07-31T16:53:00.025+01:00

Baby Washington – Think About The Good Times

Barbara Lynn – I’m A Good Woman

Buddy Bailey and the Clovers – It’s All In The Game

Ella Fitzgerald – Get Ready

Ellie West – I Want It All

Ike & Tina Turner – Can’t Chance A Break Up

Lou Rawls – I Fell In Love

Mary "B" – Something For You, Baby

O.V. Wright – Love The Way You Love

The Hill Sisters – Just In Case

The O’Jays – Lipstick Traces (On A Cigarette)

Right, now where were we? Sorry for the gap between BlushRadio 13 and 14, Ed and I have been suffering from podcaster’s block. Any road, we’re back with another selection and there are some top sounds to be found here and I hope that you like it. I’m going to spare you my thoughts on every track but would love to hear what you think.

I should also tell you that we have been playing at a new night up in London. It’s called Towerfull o’ Soul and is held in the basement of the River Bar on Tower Bridge Road. I am playing with longtime friend of the Blush Organisation, the Major and Ginger Dave and we will be joined by a stellar guest or two each and every time. We had the second one earlier this month and it was a really good night with a fantastic turnout. The next one is on Friday 18^th September, more details as we get closer to the night.

Cheers,

Roger

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Towerfull o' Soul

2009-05-15T08:31:00.002+01:00

Sorry for it being so quiet around here, Ed and I have been busy, busy, busy. I'm raising my head to tell you that I will be DJing in old London town on Friday 22nd May and that Ed and I are going to get back to casting our pods very soon. Anyway the details of next Friday's shindig are as follows:

Towerfull o' Soul
Fri 22nd May 2009
The Cellar @ The River Bar
206 Tower Bridge Road, SE1 2UP
(at the Southern end of Tower Bridge)
Admission £3 OTD
7PM to Midnite

DJs:
The Major

+Guests

Ginger Dave (Capones) &
Roger (Blush Organisation)

A nite of rare, Northern, Motown & 60’s soul, boo-ga-loo and early funk. Come to listen, stay to dance…It’s vinyl heaven

Big Mama Thornton - Hound Dog

2008-04-26T10:33:00.003+01:00

Big Mama Thornton with Buddy Guy, what's not to like?

Record Store Day

2008-04-18T14:40:00.001+01:00

Tomorrow (Saturday April 19th) is Record Store Day. My town has lost two independent record shops in the last year or so and we have nowhere to buy new releases on lovely, shiny, black, vinyl anymore. Why not treat yourself and the record dealer of your choice by patronising their establishment tomorrow and enriching both of your lives.

http://www.recordstoreday.com/

BlushRadio 13 - Girls Girls Girls

2008-04-04T23:27:00.018+01:00

Sorry there's been a bit of a gap between the podcasts - both of us have been really busy over the last couple of months.

We're back now with an all girl edition - hope you enjoy it, let us know what you think!

The Apollas - Mr Creator
I'm starting us off with one of my very favourite Girl Group records. Billie Barnum, Leola Jiles, and Ella Jamerson had recorded quite a number of really nice tunes on the Warner subsidiary label Loma before recording this one on the Warner label which I think is the best of the lot. I don't know of any collections of their Loma/Warner singles, but you can at least find this on on this CD.

Mary Wells - My World Is Empty Without You
The first of this time's LP tracks, this is taken from Mary Wells' post-Motown LP "Two Sides of Mary Wells" and struck me as a very interesting version of one of my favourite Supremes songs. The entire first side of this LP is made up of covers of soul tunes, several of them also worth a listen - the version of Satisfaction drawing mostly on Otis Redding for inspiration is also very enjoyable. That same first side of the LP is present on this collection of her sessions for Atco.

Dynettes - New Guy
Not for the last time, I have to admit that I know next to nothing about this record other than that it's great girl group R&B. It's on the Constellation label from Chicago and judging by the credits on the label does come with some pedigree, being produced by Bill 'Bunky' Sheppard and written and arranged by Maurice Williams (who I think is the same Maurice Williams of Zodiacs and 'Stay' fame). There is a compilation of releases on Constellation available here that should be worth a listen.

Dixie Cups - People Say
Our next tune is from one of the biggest names of the girl group scene. The Dixie Cups (Barbara & Rosa Lee Hawkins and their cousin Joan Johnson) started out as Little Miss & the Muffets, although they changed their name before releasing any records. Their first release, "Chapel of Love" turned out to be their biggest hit but they released many other great tunes and both "People Say" and "Iko Iko" are great favourites around these parts. There are quite a few compilations of their work around, but this one is a good place to start.

Ila Van - Can't Help Loving That Man Of Mine
Another record I don't know a huge amount about, although it does come in a very nice picture sleeve! It's a very enjoyable upbeat and poppy version of "Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man" from Showboat. You can find a copy of it on volume 5 of th e excellent Talcum Soul series of compilations.

Miss D.D. Phillips - Hey Little Girl
Another great, uplifting pop song that show very clearly the bittersweet qualities that are a vital part of all the best girl-group songs. The contrast between lyrics and music is a real treat for me. I'm afraid I can't tell you much about her, though!

Mary Love - Satisfied Feeling
The great Mary Love recorded more fantastic soul sides than I can shake a stick at. This one is a little overlooked as it lives on the other side of her beautiful ballad "Baby I'll Come". Both her date of birth and even her birth name are the subjects of some confusion but what is known is that she was born in Sacremento, California and was discovered by Sam Cook's manager, J.W. Alexander. Her many great sides on the Modern label have appeared on a number of CDs on the Kent label, which I'd highly recommend.

Jeanette Williams - Stuff
This one stands out as quite a bit funkier than the rest of this time's podcast. That should come as no great surprise since it was both written and produced by Andre Williams, so good sleazy fun is guaranteed!

Velvelettes - Since You've Been Loving Me
Never the most successful of the girl groups on the Motown roster, the Velvelettes are still one of my favourites - they must have been very highly regarded locally in their day too, since they once famously beat the Supremes in a Battles of the Bands. They're probably best known for their early recordings with Norman Whitfield, "Needle In A Haystack" and "He Was Really Saying Something" in particular. This one is taken from a bit later in their career, being the flip side of "These Things Will Keep Me Loving You". It's still produced by Whitfield, and written by Eddie Holland and Marv Johnson - quite a pedigree! There is a great 2-CD collection of their work available which really shows what a wealth of great recordings they made, and even gives you a chance to hear that Battle of the Bands performance!

Cindy Gibson - I'll Always Love You
Another I know almost nothing about I'm afraid. This one is on the General label from Philadelphia, but if anyone can let me know any more about it I'd be very interested!

Peaches - Music To My Ears
A nice upbeat, uplifting tune once again on the Constellation label. This one is co-produced by Gene Chandler, the Duke of Earl himself, so hardly surprising it has a bit of a swagger about it!

Flirtations - Stay
I'll finish us off with another LP track, this beautiful tune comes from the Flirtations' "Sounds Like the Flirtations" LP on Deram. The album is stuffed full of gems - not least the ever popular "Nothing But a Heartache", but this relatively overlooked gem is well worth a listen too.

I hope you've enjoyed this as much is I did putting it together - hopefully not such a long wait until the next one!
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PP Arnold - The First Cut Is The Deepest

2008-03-21T14:06:00.002Z

Both Ed and I are working on podcasts at the moment and we hope to have the fruit of our labours on here in the next couple of weeks. To tied you over until then we have a clip of the gorgeous PP Arnold. There's a great reggae version of this track by Norma Frazer on the Soul Jazz album Studio One Soul which I highly recommend.

I've added a load of new links, check them out because there's some corkers there.

Evie Sands - I Can't Let Go

2008-03-16T19:09:00.003Z

Continuing our love in with the unluckiest woman in the history of music, check out this fantastic clip of Evie performing I Can't Let Go.

Motor City's Burning: Detroit from Motown to the Stooges

2008-03-08T12:56:00.003Z

There was a fantastic documentary about 60's Detroit on BBC4 last night, if you are quick you can catch it on the BBC iPlayer. Sadly, the Marvin Gaye documentary that preceded it hasn't been put up but they are showing Standing In The Shadows Of Motown and the an episode of the fantastic Soul Deep tonight.

Barefootin' Update

2008-02-14T22:08:00.002Z

Just to let you know that we will be giving away a free CD to the first 50 people through the door on the 23rd. The track listing is as follows and should give you a pretty good idea of the kind of thing we'll be playing on the night:

Blossoms - That's When The Tears Start
Robert Parker – Barefootin'
Smokey Robinson & the Miracles – If You Can Want
The Shirelles – Too Much Of A Good Thing
Charts - Desiree
Hank Jacobs - Elijah Rockin With Soul
Ray Agee – Your Precious Love
Major Lance - Investigate
Bobby James & Vicki Adams - Love Is Such A Sweet Thing
Eddie Holman - Stay Mine For Heaven's Sake
The Crampton Sisters – Baby, Baby
The Ambers - I Love You Baby
Wilbert Harrison – Let's Stick Together
Jackie Edwards - Come Back Girl
Barbra Mercer – Nobody Loves You Like Me
Volumes - Gotta Give Her Love
Otis Rush - Homework
Mamie Galore – It Ain't Necessary
Kittens - I Got To Know Him
Little Milton - Sometimey
Edwin Starr - My Weakness Is You
Moses Smith - The Girl Across The Street
Jean Knight - Anyone Can Love Him
Duettes - Every Beat Of My Heart
Barbara Randolph – Can I Get A Witness
Homer Banks - 60 Minutes Of Your Love
Little Eva - Stand By Me

BlushRadio 12: Too Much Of A Good Thing

2008-02-08T22:57:00.002Z

We interrupt this podcast to bring you a shameless plug from the Blush Organisation. On 23rd February Ed and I will be playing a new night in Canterbury called Barefootin’. Here are the details:

Barefootin’
Saturday 23rd February
Scribes, King Street, Canterbury
7pm – 1am
Admission free

A map of where to find us can be found here.

Now back to the podcast.

Wilbert Harrison – Let’s Stick Together

Everybody should know this song from Bryan Ferry’s cover but the original is not heard anywhere near enough. The song was reworked as Let’s Work Together and was a big hit a couple of years after this but this is the version that counts.

Jimmy James and the Vagabonds – Ain’t Love Good, Ain’t Love Proud

The original of this track was by Tony Clarke but this is the one for me. Jimmy James was originally from Jamaica but moved to the UK, along with the Vagabonds, in the mid-sixties. Like Geno Washington, who also relocated here, Jimmy James played US R&B and soul to adoring British audiences hungry to hear the music live. Jimmy James and the Vagabonds played with and borrowed equipment from the Who early in their career and what a great night out that must have been.

Linda Jones – I Can’t Stop Loving My Baby

Linda Jones was born in 1944 in Newark, New Jersey. She released her early records under the name Linda Lane and recorded for Cub, Atco and Blue Cat before moving to Loma in 1967. This track is the flip of her biggest hit Hypnotized which narrowly missed out on the US top 20. Linda sadly died backstage at the Apollo in New York in 1972 after a diabetic attack.

Honey and the Bees – Help Me

Honey and the Bees came from Philadelphia comprised of Nadine Felder, Jean Davis, Gwendolyn Oliver and Cassandra "Ann" Wooten and were originally known as the Yum Yums. They joined Josie in 1970 and found themselves touring with James Brown in the early seventies. This is great girl group soul and to these ears sounds a lot earlier than when it was recorded. They went on to record a number of great tracks on Artic, the most sought after of which is probably Love Addict which is featured on the fantastic Sister Funk 2.

The Shirelles – Too Much Of A Good Thing

I featured the Shirelles in BlushRadio Volume 3. This is a track I have been playing out ever since I first got into soul and the slightly out of tune backing vocals really make this track for me. Everyone should make some room in their collection for the Shirelles and this would be a great place to start.

Jessie Hill – Whip It On Me

Jessie Hill was born in New Orleans in 1932 and is probably best known for Ooh Poo Pah Doo. He was a drummer for Professor Longhair and Huey “Piano” Smith in the 50’s before forming the House Rockers in 1958. This track is a great r&b dancer and look out for the cracking saucy backing vocals.

Cecil Garrett & the Fascinations – Bearcat Pt 1

I know little about the track or the Cecil Garrett but I was turned onto it by Martin Lawrie’s excellent Soul Generation, be sure to check out Martin’s new Titty Shakers website for the utmost in sleazy sounds.

Dean Parrish – Tell Her

Dean Parrish’s I’m On May Way was famously the last record played at the Wigan Casino. One of the most successful blue eyed soul singers, he had hits with ‘I’m On My Way’, ‘Tell Her’, ‘Determination’, ‘Skate’ and the fantastic ‘Bricks, Broken Bottles and Sticks’. Dean is still going strong today and his website is well worth checking out.

Barbara Randolph – Can I Get A Witness

I love this cover of the Marvin Gaye classic, probably not quite as much as the original but the percussion and funky soul vibe fit the song well. She was in line to replace Florence Ballard in The Supremes in 1967 but Diana Ross rejected the idea and instead she signed as with Motown as a solo artist. She is probably best known for her 1968 version of the classic Holland-Dozier-Holland track I Got A Feeling which went on to be a huge track on the northern scene. She sadly died in South Africa in 2002.

The Raeletts – Leave My Man (Woman) Alone

Ray Charles’ backing singers need no introduction and featured in the first BlushRadio podcast . This is a heavy, hard soul number and if I was the woman in question I would heed the warning.

Anyway, I hope that you have enjoyed Volume 12 of BlushRadio and that we see some of you along at Barefootin' on 23rd February. Keep the faith.

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BlushRadio 11 - Too Poor To Die

2007-12-16T19:07:00.002Z

A bit of a mixed bag this time out, once again including a couple of LP tracks - hope you enjoy them! Without further ado, the tunes:

Evie Sands - I Can't Let Go
In terms of scoring hit records, Evie Sands must have been one of the unluckiest singers in history. Her first side for Blue Cat (the wonderful "Take Me For A Little While") was on the verge of being a major hit when its thunder was thoroughly stolen by the release of a cover by Jackie Ross (also a good record, to be fair). This great track was released later in 1965 and managed to sink pretty much without trace - until a cover by the Hollies became a huge hit. That, once again, is a really good record - but for me Evie's original knocks spots off it. She even had a similar experience with the (once again excellent) "Angel of the Morning" on Cameo before finally scoring a hit in her own right with "Any Way That You Want Me" in 1969. "I Can't Let Go" isn't on her own CD albums, but it is on this nice Red Bird/Blue Cat compilation. Evie Sands is happily still an active performer with an online presence of her own - check her out here!

Jackie Wilson - Somebody Up There Likes You
The first of this time's LP tracks, from the classic "Higher and Higher" LP. Of course, you don't need me to tell you that Jackie Wilson was one of the all-time greats - or that the title track of this LP is one of the greatest singles ever made. But that can tend to mean that some of the other tremendous tracks it has to offer get a bit overlooked, like this little beauty! Jackie's voice swoops and soars at its best on a fantastically uplifting song. The CD release of this album is no longer on general release, but you can usually find on here.

Marvelettes - Your Cheating Ways
The Marvelettes, like Jackie Wilson Before them, need no introduction. This track's a great example of the importance of always playing the B-side, though - a return to the Principle One of earlier podcasts! This great little song is hidden away on the flip side of "Danger Heartbreak Dead Ahead" and goes to show just how many great tunes Hitsville USA was turning out at this point in time. Although the Marvelettes have been well compiled on CD, their B-sides aren't so easy to get. You'll find it on this compilation if you can track a copy down, but it will probably be easier and cheaper to buy the 45!

Malibus - Ten Times A Day
I have to start by saying I just love the Sure-Shot label design! It's a subsidiary of Don Robey's legendary Duke records from Houston, Texas and very much the soul representative of that family of labels. This particular record is a very nice piece of sweet soul, although I have to admit I don't know all that much about the Malibus themselves.

Charts - Desiree
I've already written something about both the Charts and this re-recording of their original 50's hit way back in podcast number 2. Back then I also promised to put this wonderful A-side of the single in a future podcast, and here it is! You'll find it on this great compilation if you'd like to get hold of a copy.

5th Dimension - Too Poor To Die
This will come as a bit of a surprise to you if, like me, your only knowledge of the 5th Dimension was their hit about the Age of Aquarius... In fact they were already well on their way to being a pop group when this was released - this lovely soulful side is on the flip of their cover of the Mamas and Papas "Go Where You Wanna Go". It's a fine track, though, even if they didn't hang around to repeat it!

David Ruffin - I Don't Know Why I Love You
The second of this podcasts LP tracks, this one is from David Ruffin's often overlooked and underrated second solo Motown LP, Feelin' Good. His gritty, soulful voice is as good as ever on this one - well worth a listen if you've admired his singing with the Temptations but not explored his solo work too much. This collection of his solo work is probably the easiest way to get this track at the moment - Volume 2 is well worth a listen, too.

Billy Prophet - What Can I Do
A bit of a Northern Soul classic, this one, but not an artist I can give you an awful lot of information about, I'm afraid. I did just want to mention, though, that I absolutely love the backing vocals on here - they make the whole song for me. You can find it (and a whole bunch of other really great Northern Soul tunes) on this compilation.

Chiffons - Easy To Love (So Hard To Get)
One of the great girl groups of the early 60's, the Chiffons are probably most famous for their massive international hit "Sweet Talking Guy", and then for their later return to prominence in the 70's due to their legal dispute with George Harrison. This great tune is from the period between those two dates when the Chiffons were still recording but thanks to their sound having fallen out of fashion were receiving very little success. There's a very nice compilation of their recordings available if you'd like to hear more.

Homer Banks - 60 Minutes Of Your Love
Probably better known to most people for his classic "A Lot Of Love", this is another stormer in the same sort of vein from 1966. A really powerful vocal belted out throughout, and a funny and witty lyric. Great stuff! There's a nice collection of his work available - well worth checking out.

Bobby Marchan - Shake Your Tambourine
There's a rather familiar bassline snaking through this one! At least, that's the first thing I noticed about it. In fact, Bobby Marchan had a long and storied career as an R&B band leader and performer. There are several compilations of his work available, but none containing this track as far as I know.

Maxine Brown - Yesterday's Kisses
And, as usual, on to one to let you know it's the end of the set! Maxine Brown is truly one of the legends of soul music. She's recorded so many classy tunes it's hard to know where to begin - "One In A Million" and "One Step At A Time" are also among my favourites. This little gem from 1963 is a fine example of her great recordings on the Wand label. There are several collections of here work, but this is a really good one.

Well, that's all for this time - hope you enjoyed it!

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BlushRadio 10 - Now You Call Me D-O-G

2007-11-14T22:56:00.002Z

A bit more of an R&B feel than several of my previous offerings. I thought I'd have a little change this time and stir in a few tracks taken from LPs rather than sticking strictly to singles - love to know if any of these did actually make it out on 45, but either way I hope you'll agree they're great tunes.

Hank Jacobs - Elijah Rockin With Soul
Cracking instrumental - just the sort of tune I like to start a set with! Some very fine piano work on a track I've loved ever since I found it lurking on a compilation album with no other redeeming features. This tune was a classic on the Northern scene long before I even knew there was one, and stands up really well in my book. In keeping with my earlier promise of suggesting places to buy this fine music, there's an extended version of this track on this fine Kent compilation.

Bobby Bland - Sweet Lips Of Joy
This one's from the 'Touch Of The Blues' LP. An absolutely stunning track, and surely one of the world's great voices. Look as I might I can't find a currently available CD with this beauty on, but just listen to it twist and turn! The lyrics are fantastic throughout and the one I pinched for the title of this podcast is one of my all-time favourites.

Tommy Raye - You Don't Love Me
This one was a bit of a bolt from the blue when it turned up as part of a job lot of records I bought recently. I'd known and loved Dawn Penn's 'No No No' for quite some years, but this entirely different version of the same tune was a complete revelation to me! Nice label too, must try to find one without stickers all over it...

Kittens - I Got To Know Him
So, why isn't this one more famous? Produced by the great Johnny Pate(much better known for his work with the Impressions) this is a fine song with a particularly outstanding lead vocal from Bernice Willis.

Williams and Watson - Love Is Such A Funny Thing
From the great "Two For the Price Of One" LP, which surely has one of the coolest sleeves ever seen. I thought this one would make a nice change from the 100mph fun of Too Late, and it's a great and somewhat unusual sounding song in its own right. To the best of my knowledge, this great album isn't out on CD but you can find several of the tracks - including this one - on this retrospective of their Okeh recordings.

Cornell Blakely - Don't Do It
This one's written by William 'Mickey' Stevenson, is a Berry Gordy production and published on Jobete - very much an early Motown-sounding production even if this copy was distributed on via Chicago. I believe its original release was on the Shenita label, but might be wrong about that one. I do know it's a great tune, though!

Eddie Holman - Stay Mine For Heaven's Sake
A really astonishing singer, Eddie Holman is most famous for by far his biggest hit "Hey There Lonely Girl" - a performance that inspired Smokey Robinson to describe him as a man with the voice of an angel, to give some idea of the scale of his accomplishment. He has quite an active presence on the web, so I'll point you towards his own site for more information. This particular mid-tempo beauty has always been a great favourite of mine, and you can find it and much more on this very nice compilation of his work if you'd like to hear more.

Charmettes - Please Don't Kiss Me Again
Well, there may be fewer girl-group sounds than usual on this podcast, but at least the ones that are here are brilliant! It's written and produced by Kenny Young, a bit of a legend in girl-group circles. I really don't know anything about the girls themselves, unfortunately, but you can find this track (and a bunch of other fine girly tunes too) on this rather nice CD.

Albert Washington - Loosen These Pains and Let Me Go
Singing in a wonderful intersection where soul, blues and gospel meet I've thoroughly enjoyed everything I've heard from Albert Washington. He suffered with the complications of diabetes for many years before finally passing away in 1998, but I think the uplifting nature of this and many of his other records show how much optimism of spirit he maintained in the face of a hard life. There's a nice CD collection of his work from this time if you'd like to hear more.

Tyrone Davis - Call On Me
The great Tyrone Davis, best know to me for the stunning "Can I Change My Mind" this is another track taken from the LP of the same name. Discovered working in Chicago nightclubs by the pianist Harold Burrage, he went on to record a string of great soul tunes on the Dakar label. He passed away in 1995 following a stroke, but the music live on and you can hear more of it on this nice Dakar retrospective.

Betty Harris - I'm Evil Tonight
Betty Harris recorded an astonishing number of great records in a relatively short recording career, despite remaining relatively little known. This classic on New Orleans' Sansu label is a lovely slinky, moody song that really draws you into its story. There's a fine article on her career over at Funky 16 Corners, so I'll point you towards it rather than copying their work here - and also point you to this CD if you'd like to hear a bit more.

Well, that's all for this time - more to come in a few weeks!

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BlushRadio 9 - Back Again

2007-10-25T13:51:00.003+01:00

Sorry for the long delay between podcasts, it is purely idleness on my part. Ed’s got a couple lined up, so hopefully normal service should be resumed and we’ll have a few treats for your aural pleasure coming up over the coming months.

Ellie Greenwich – I Want You To Be My Baby

Ellie Greenwich is best know as a songwriter and with her husband, Jeff Barry, wrote some of the best known songs of the sixties, including Be My Baby, Da Do Ron Ron, Baby, I Love You, Leader of the Pack and River Deep, Mountain High.

Ellie was born in New York in Brooklyn, New York in 1940 and released her first record at the age of seventeen, the self penned Silly Isn’t It. Ellie also sang backing vocals for many artists including Aretha Franklin, Dusty Springfield, The Shirelles, The Ronettes and Ella Fitzgerald.

I Want You To Be My Baby is a fantastic slice of upbeat soul and has started many a set for me over the years. It was first recorded by Louis Jordan & His Tympany 5 in 1953.

Wille & the Handjives – Gotta Find A New Love

I know little about Willie & the Handjives and a quick Google drew a blank. If anyone knows anything about them and whether they released anything else, I will be eternally grateful.

The Crampton Sisters – Baby, Baby

I love this record more than life itself and spent years searching for a copy. I first heard it on the fantastic Kent compilation Soul Class of 66 (there’s another track from that compilation coming along in a minute) and was immediately taken with the unusual oboe.

Dottie Cambridge – He’s About A Mover

I’ve got Larry Grogan to thank for turning me on to this song. It is produced by Huey P. Meaux and I buy his records whenever I find them. Rumours abound that Dottie Cambridge is an alias of Dorothy Moore, anyone care to clear this up?

The Orlons – Once Upon A Time

This is the second track in this podcast to feature on Soul Class Of 66 and is a genuine northern monster. The Orlons formed in Philadelphia in 1960 and comprised of Rosetta Hightower, Shirley Brickley, Marlena Davis, and Stephen Caldwell. They signed to Cameo in 1961 and had their first hit with The Wah-Watusi in 1962. I think the personnel on this record was Sandy Person, Rosetta Hightower, Audrey Brickley and Shirley Brickley (if anyone can clear this up I’d be a happy man). They toured the UK extensively in the mid to late sixties and the group disbanded in 1968 after Rosetta Hightower decided to stay here.

Tran-Sisters – Your Love

Another track that I’ve drawn a bit of a blank on, it seems that Lou Reed was involved in some of their releases but probably not this one. Other than that, all I can tell you is that they were from New Jersey and that there were three of them. Over to you…

Fats Domino – Work My Way Up Steady

Antoine Dominique "Fats" Domino was born in New Orleans in 1928 and is one of the foremost R&B artists of the 50’s and 60’s. This track was released in 1967 and is a nice, understated slice of R&B, with Fats’ trademark rolling piano and strong backing vocals.

Big Maybelle – 96 Tears

Mabel Louise Smith was born in 1924 in Jackson, Tennessee and was one of the biggest female R&B stars of the 50’s. This cover of the classic ? & the Mysterians track is a super strong belter and although it’s a tough call, I would say I prefer this version. There’s some great Hammond underpinning this song and it is sung with real meaning.

Smokey Robinson & the Miracles – If You Can Want

I’ll save the background on Smokey because if you’ve taken the time to visit this site then you probably know it by heart already. The percussion on this track is a real winner and I find it impossible to listen to without having a smile from ear to ear.

Helene Smith – A Woman Will Do Wrong

Helene Smith may play second fiddle to Betty Wright to many when you think of Miami soul but I’m a real sucker for her records and her venerable (some might say thin) voice. A Woman Will Do Wrong is probably her most celebrated track but You Gotta Be A Man is also well worth checking out and both feature on the fantastic Soul Jazz compilation Miami Sound.

Some of Helene's tracks released on the Deep City label are included in this fantastic comp.

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BlushRadio 8 - Fooling Around

2007-08-18T22:17:00.002+01:00

Well, here we are again with another batch of fine old soulful sounds. Thanks as ever for all the feedback on the last couple of podcasts - it's always very much appreciated. This time out I've added links wherever possible to point you at where these tracks can currently be bought on CD - it's pretty much the only way we can support these artists who were often very under-appreciated when their work was originally recorded. Anyway, without further ado, on with the show.

Freddie Scott - I'll Be Gone (Shout)
Freddie Scott had a lengthy career recording for a number of mostly New York based labels, including a spell on Shout from 66-68 that also yielded the classic "Are You Lonely For Me?" LP, but unfortunately the only CD collection from this period of his career is no longer available. There's a really comprehensive biography and career retrospective on his own website, so I'll just mention that this is a belting up-tempo tune to kick us off - it's quite uncharacteristic of most of his work, which tends more towards smooth and emotional deep soul, but even on a stomper like this his nuanced delivery manages to come through.

Johnny Moore - What More Can I Do (Larry-O)
Off to Chicago now for this fine track. Like an awful lot of soul singers he recorded for quite a number of labels, including Chi-City and Brunswick, although this appears to be his only release on Larry-O - and a great two-sider it is too. There's a quite comprehensive compilation of his work available which spans his recordings on a host of labels throughout the 60s. Quite a prolific songwriter, Moore's songs were recorded by Tyrone Davis and Syl Johnson, among others.

Jamo Thomas - I'll Be Your Fool (Chess)
Well, we're still in Chicago for this one - sort of... Although Jamo Thomas recorded his soul sides in the windy city, he is in fact the same Bahamian Jamo Thomas who recorded "Bahama Mama" on Sound Stage 7. He later came to the States and recorded with Jerry Butler before recording possibly his most famous track, "I Spy For The FBI" . This cut on Chess is very different, being far more moody and blues tinged. I don't know of anywhere this track is compiled, although the flip side of this single "Must I Holler" can be found on the excellent "Chess Club Rhythm & Soul".

Soul Sisters - I Won't Be Your Fool Anymore (Sue)
The style and sound of this track will come as no surprise to anyone who's already familiar with the Soul Sisters from their hits like I Can't Stand It or Good Time Tonight, with really powerful vocals and some great call and response accompaniment. A great tune with a really gutsy sound.

Marvin & Johnny - Baby You're The One (Kent)
Marvin Phillips and Johnny Dean had quite a lengthy recording career, starting out on Specialty in the early 50's, so it's no surprise that the feel of this track harks back to the vocal group style of the 50's. You can find a copy of this on Kent's fantastic New Breed R&B CD - and surely I can't be the only one reminded of "Love Is Strange" when hearing this?

Entertainers IV - People Don't Look No More (Temptation Walk) (Dore)
I think this is a fine example of just how incredibly influential the Temptations were. Not only was their sound the inspiration for the reinvention of vocal group singing at least twice, but even their dancing spawned its own mini-genre between Jackie Lee's "Do The Temptation Walk" and this wonderfully classy number on the Dore label from Los Angeles. There is a very extensiv e Dore compilation available if you'd like to hear more.

Tammi Terrell - Just Too Much To Hope For (Motown)
I'll say straight away that Tammi Terrell is pretty much my favourite Motown singer, and this is pretty much my favourite of her songs. It's a lovely Harvey Fuqua production, and like many of her tunes features the Spinners on backing vocals which only serves to add even more class to a wonderfully touching song. There's been quite a bit of controversy about some aspects of her life, so I'll point you to this bio rather than try to abbreviate here. There is a nice collection of her Motown recordings available - try it, it's all good.

Sam Waymon - You Can Count On Me (Ninandy)
Quite apart from being an enjoyable piece of up-tempo soul, I find this record to be a fascinating piece of history. It's one of only five singles released on Ninandy, the label owned by Nina Simone and her husband Andy Stroud. Making the family connection even closer, this is the same Sam Waymon who is also Nina Simone's younger brother (Nina was born Eunice Waymon) and who wrote "It Be's That Way Sometimes".

Nina Simone - Save Me (RCA)
...and so I had to include something from the High Priestess of Song herself. Probably one of the most important musicians of the 20th century, it's always very hard to pick out one of her recordings to put alongside other peoples' as she tends to rather stand out on her own. This is a most enjoyable outing, though, and it can be found as one of the bonus tracks on the CD release of her "Silk & Soul" album.

Vontastics - Why Must We Part (Chess)
Back to Chicago for this one. A great uptempo dancer written by band member Bobby Newsome. This was their only release on Chess, although they put out several singles on other Chicago labels - you can read more about them over at Funky 16 Corners.

Little Eva - Stand By Me (Amy)
Yes, the same Little Eva who sang the Loco-motion. I've used this to finish sets off many times over the years, and thought it was about time to include it in a podcast. Roger already wrote about it a few months ago, so I'll send you there for more info.

Well, that brings us to the end for this time - hope you enjoyed it!

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BlushRadio 7 - A New Batch

2007-07-26T01:05:00.003+01:00

After a month away, it's time to the seventh edition of Blush Radio. This selection of songs all came in a bundle of records I received earlier this month. They had all been sitting on my wants list for a while and comprise of tracks that I had heard, read about or were intrigued by and, I think, all of them are absolutely fantastic. In a break from our normal “strictly sixties” rule, I have included a handful of seventies sides, I hope that you like them.

Roy Lee Johnson – Boogaloo #3 (Josie)

We’re starting off the seventh volume of BlushRadio with a real rip roarer, if this doesn’t wake you up and get you moving, then we might as well stop now. Lead by a fantastic sax line, with nice choppy guitars and funky drumming, this is powerful stuff.

Lula Reed – Baby, Baby (Your Love) (Tangerine)

Lula Reed came to prominence with I’ll Drown In My Own Tears released on King in 1951, the track was a big hit for Ray Charles three years later. She went on to record for Argo, Laurel and Federal before joining Ray Charles’ Tangerine label in 1962. Baby, Baby (Your Love) was released in 1964 and is a great mid-paced slice of R&B.

Jackie Day – Long As I’ve Got My Baby (Modern)

Jackie Day makes the cut for the second time running in my podcasts, like last time this is a beautiful up beat soul dancer. Jackie delivers a sultry lead vocal with great girl group backing vocals in support, which builds to a call and response crescendo.

Jimmy Bee – Wanting You (Kent)

Another northern stomper, the organ in the background of this one really makes the track for me. I know little about Jimmy Bee, I believe that this track was also released on Kimberly but that’s the extent of my knowledge. Anyone care to clear things up?

Du-Ettes – Please Forgive Me (One-derful)

I’ll lay my cards on the table, I’m in love with this song. The Du-Ettes are probably best known for Every Beat Of My Heart (which featured on the second BlushRadio podcast). Like Every Beat Of My Heart, this is girl group perfection.

Betty Everett – Trouble Over The Weekend (VeeJay)

Betty Everett is best remembered for the Shoop Shoop Song (It's In His Kiss), which has sadly overshadowed a number of other great tracks which she recorded. Betty was born in Greenwood, Mississippi in 1939 and like a great many soul singers came through the church singing and playing gospel. In 1957 she moved to Chicago and stated recording for a number of local labels through the late fifties and early sixties. In 1963 she was spotted by A&R man Calvin Carter and signed up to VeeJay Records, where this side was released in 1966.

Ray Agee – Your Precious Love (Celeste)

Ray Agee is another artist I know little about, so I’ll cut the history lesson and head straight to the track. Your Precious Love is an upbeat R&B monster, with a stomping beat, great organ and some saucy horns.

Bobbettes – Tighten Up Your Own Home (Mayhew)

The Bobbettes formed in New York in 1955 under the name the Harlem Queens. They signed to Atlantic in 1957 and changed their name to the Bobbettes, where they immediately had a big hit with Mr Lee. They left Atlantic in 1962 and moved around a number of labels for the rest of the decade without securing further hits. In 1971 the group now comprising of Reather Dixon, Emma Pought, Laura Webb, and Jannie Pought signed for Mayhew and released Tighten Up Your Own Home in 1972.

The Fantaisions – That’s Where The Action Is (Satellite)

This is the flip to Unnecessary Tears and is produced and co-written by the great Monk Higgins. I think that the track is reminiscent of Dancing In The Street, let me know what you think.

Alice Clark – You Got A Deal (Rainy Day)

We’re finishing off the podcast with a couple of funky numbers. First up, we have Alice Clark, who shamefully (yet again) I know little about. This track has some great rolling guitars, chunky funky drums and some nice girly back vocals.

Jo Armstead – I’ve Been Turned On (Giant)

Josephine Armstead was born in Yazoo City, Mississippi in October 1944. In 1961 she joined the Ike and Tina Review as one of the Ikettes along with Eloise Hester and Delores Johnson. In 1965 she moved to New York and teamed up with Ashford and Simson, with whom she co-wrote Ray Charles’ hit Let’s Get Stoned. She also had a hand in penning 'Casanova (Your Playing Days Are Over) for Ruby Andrews, Garland Green’s Jealous Kinda Fella and The Real Thing for Betty Everett (more by accident than design, it’s all links up today).

In 1965 she moved to Chicago and formed Giant Production Company with her husband Mel Collins. They went on to form the Globe, Giant and Gamma labels and signed Ruby Andrews, Garland Green, Fenton Robinson, Little Jimmy Scott, Shirley Wahls, Smokey Smothers and Jo, herself.

I’ve Been Turned On was released on Giant in 1970 and has swooping strings, a driving beat and soaring vocals.

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BlushRadio 6 - It's a Sweet Thing

2007-06-25T23:59:00.002+01:00

Well, it's my turn again to serve up another batch of soul for your enjoyment. Thanks a lot for your comments on my last effort - much appreciated!

TSU Toronados - The Toronado
I could almost let these guys introduce themselves, but they get a fine introduction at the start of the track. Most famously heard as the band backing Archie Bell & the Drells on"Tighten Up", this is the Toronados at their best and under their own name for a fine slice of instrumental soul.

The Ambers - I Love You Baby
A great favourite of mine that I still manage not to know a great deal about. It was released on Verve in 1966 and is their only single for the label as far as I know. This song must have one of the best intros ever - an amazing swirl of horns launching into some really classy vocal harmonies with great energy right the way through.

Major Lance - Investigate
...and onto one of the giants of Chicago soul! This is my favourite of the Major's many, many great tracks - and I suspect I'm not alone in that. A tremendous vocal performance - of course - and that great Okeh brass sound underpinning it.

Sugar Pie DeSanto - Jump In My Chest
Sugar Pie DeSanto was a childhood friend of the great Etta James (and recorded a couple of great duets with her) and was one of the many R&B artists who got a start in recording through the famed bandleader Johnny Otis. This track comes from quite a few years later in 1965 when she was recording for Checker - it's the flip to "Mama Didn't Raise No Fools" and yet another reason to always listen to both sides of a 45! This one has fantastic atmosphere, and is led throughout by a great horn riff - and of course, being a Sugar Pie DeSanto track there's more than a little attitude, too!

JJ Barnes - Sweet Sherry
Another really well known tune, this one from the Detroit master JJ Barnes. Those are the Originals singing harmonies behind him, by the way. Lovely.

Norma Jenkins - Me, Myself & I
A very nice piece of soulful, melodic pop on Joe Evans' Carnival label. The lyric is sweet and clever, and the song is just so catchy it hooks you right from the word go.

Bluesbusters - I've Gotta Get There
This single is a tremendous double-sider on Capitol. The Bluesbusters are an odd combination, a successful vocal duo from Jamaica comprising Lloyd Campbell and Philip James who although mostly famous for their Rocksteady recordings also put out a number of soul sides. This is quite a nice example of one, I think.

Chuck Jackson - Beg Me
And once again onto someone who needs no introduction! This is Chuck Jackson at his gravelly best for me, really pouring his all into it.

Bobby James & Vicki Adams - Love Is Such A Sweet Thing
A really storming tune on the Stop label from Nashville. Vicki Adams also has a nice solo release on Stop ("I'm Drowning"), but beyond that I really don't know all that much about them. Not that it matters - sit back and enjoy!

Fontella Bass & Bobby McClure - You'll Miss Me (When I'm Gone)
Fontella Bass, of course, you already know - "Rescue Me" must be one of the most famous songs in all of soul music - her first single for Chess. Before that, though she recorded a couple of duets with Bobby McClure - one of which, "Don't Mess Up A Good Thing" was a hit. This is the flip side to the other one "Don't Jump" and is further proof - as if we needed it - that you can't judge a record by its sales!

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The Right Track - Friday

2007-06-20T08:52:00.000+01:00

This Friday (22nd June) sees the return of the Right Track to the Kelsey Arms on St John's Road, Tunbridge Wells. I will be playing a scintillating selection of sixties soul, along with Pete Kelross (Bisley), The Major (IOW Scooter Rally) and Professor Mark (Hip Shaker, IOW Scooter Rally). Proceedings start at 8.30 and admission is free.

BlushRadio Volume 5

2007-06-10T13:16:00.004+01:00

Jackie Day - Before It's Too Late
Robert Parker - Barefootin'
Irma Thomas - Don't Mess With My Man
Barbra Mercer - Nobody Loves You Like Me
Chris Clark - Whisper You Love Me Boy
Ronnie Love - Chills and Fever
Brother Jack McDuff - Can't Get Satisfied Pt 1
Carl Carlton - I Can Feel It
Jessica James and the Outlaws - We'll Be Makin' Out
Little Mary Staten - Steppin' Stone

I hope that you are in fine fettle and ready for another soul packed volume of the Blush Organisation’s finest platters. Ed’s served up another wonderful podcast a couple of weeks ago and now it’s my turn to step up to the plate and share with you some of my favourite records. It’s another mixed bag of sixties soul and r&b, some well known and a few obscurities.

Ed and I hope to keep the podcasts coming thick and fast, with a new one posted every couple of weeks or so. We thank you for your kind comments, so far, knowing that people are digging what we do is a real buzz.

Jackie Day – Before It’s Too Late

First up we have a song that I’ve loved this song since I first heard it on the Kent compilation For Dancer Only. It’s the kind of driving northern soul that I love to dance to and play. This has been a regular in my sets for a number of years now and will continue to be for years to come.

Robert Parker – Barefootin’

This is our first trip to New Orleans in this podcast. Ed and I used to promote a night named after the Robert Parker track Hip Huggin’, which I am bound to feature in a future podcast but this time I’ve opted for probably his best known track. There's a great piece on Robert Parker over at Funky 16 Corners.

Irma Thomas – Don’t Mess With My Man

We stay in the Crescent City for the debut single from a true soul legend, Irma released one more record on Ron before moving on to Bandy, Imperial and Chess, to name but a few. There was a fantastic piece on Irma’s career over on the B Side recently, which is well worth checking out.

Barbra Mercer – Nobody Loves You Like Me

I’ve written about this beautiful song before on this blog. This is a nice easy record to pick up and won’t set you back much but what a song.

Chris Clark – Whisper You Love Me Boy

I was originally going to include the wonderful Loves Gone Bad on this podcast but I got beaten to it by the fantastic Office Naps, so I thought I’d opt for another cut from this blue eyed soul sensation. This track’s intro is lifted from Stevie Wonder’s I Was Made To Love her but puts it to good use. A light vocal delivery over Motown’s trade marked backing, ticks all the right boxes.

Ronnie Love – Chills and Fever

I love the sleazy horn line a the start of this record and it continues to move along in a greasy manner throughout. This is clearly a Fever cash in record but has real charm and just sounds dirty.

Brother Jack McDuff – Can’t Get Satisfied Pt 1

Brother Jack McDuff is one of my favourite organists and I pick up his records whenever I come across them. This track is from the album Tabacco Road which is well worth picking up.

Carl Carlton – I Can Feel It

This is the second track that I’ve written about before on here, so I will direct you to my original posts to read a little more about the track.

Jessica James and the Outlaws – We’ll Be Makin' Out

Next up we have some girl group perfection, in the form of Jessica James and the Outlaws’ wonderful We’ll Be Making Out. This is another easy track to pick up that won’t set you back a fortune. What you get for your money is fantastic sing-a-long soul, with wonderful backing vocals, that would be a hit on any dance floor.

Little Mary Staten – Steppin’ Stone

As with my last podcast, I’m finishing with a moody number from a wronged woman. Steppin’ Stone is the B side to Helpless Girl and is not a cover of the Monkees track. This is a mid-paced number with a really great jazzy breakdown near the end. I know nothing about Mary Staten and as far as I know, this is the only record she released, can anyone shed any light on this?

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BlushRadio 4 - this time it's personal!

2007-05-28T22:59:00.003+01:00

This time it really is a collection of personal favourites with few surprises - particularly for those of you who've heard me DJ over the last few years!

Houston Person - Hey Driver
A bit of a change of style from most of the tunes on the BlushRadio so far, but this jazzy boogaloo groove from 1969's 'Goodness!' LP is a real winner. Earlier in his career Houston Person was probably best known as the tenor sax man playing with Johnny 'Hammond' Smith, and he later formed a lasting musical relationship with the great Etta Jones. Finally, a classic Houston quote from around the time this track was recorded. On being asked about the constant presence of his sax at his side he replied, "Man, I always have my horn with me... then no matter what happens I know my horn is with me."
Words to live by, I think!

James Bounty - Auction On Love
Not a tune I know an awful lot about, although I believe Red Dog was a Detroit label. This was another of the first few tunes that got me into the whole Northern soul sound and has stuck with me ever since.

Otis Rush - Homework
Pure R&B gold! Otis Rush is best know as a Blues singer and guitarist, with a unique guitar style arising through his use of a typical right-handed guitar played upside-down and left-handed without restringing it. Homework was his only release on the Duke label in 1962 (his earlier successes being on the Cobra label in the mid to late 50's) and is an absolute classic.

Debonaires - Headache In My Heart
Wow, what a great tune! A brilliant, moody atmosphere, some great girl group vocals and a really clever lyric make for a winning combination. The very fine Soulful Detroit website has an excellent article on the history of the Debonaires, so I'll point you in their direction rather than pinching their research here!

Moses & Joshua Dillard - My Elusive Dreams
Moses Dillard had a long career in music as both the leader of his own bands (including the Dynamic Showmen and the Tex-Town display) and as a guitarist working out of Muscle Shoals. His duo as Moses and Joshua (with James Moore) was short-lived, but did manage to produce this cracking dance tune on the Mala label.

Dynamics - Misery
Another early 60's classic melding the earlier vocal group style with the more soulful trends of the 60s. Once again, there's atmosphere to spare. Tight drumming holds this one together as the melody is driven by a glorious guitar riff and the vocals duck and soar all over the place. Oh, and you can dance to it, as well!

Jackie Edwards - Come Back Girl
A bit of a departure from the so far entirely American cast of these podcasts is the great (and greatly underrated) Jamaican soul singer and songwriter Jackie Edwards. Perhaps best known as the songwriter of some of the Spencer Davis Group's biggest hits. This is a storming uptempo number, but he really ran the whole gamut wonderfully well - check out 'Put Your Tears Away' for a much more emotional offering, very likely coming to a podcast near you soon.

Irma & the Fascinations - Lost Love
A towering piece of soul from Philadelphia's Dynodynamic production team. Irma was Irma McDougal, also of the Four Larks. Despite the tremendous music surrounding it, this tune really is all about the vocal - sit back and enjoy.

Volumes - Gotta Give Her Love
Lovely tune, and another that harks back to the vocal groups of the 50s with its close, intricate harmonies. It also has an irrepressible joi de vivre which to me is the essence of soul music and always keeps me coming back to it.

Incredibles - Another Dirty Deal
Almost Principle One in reverse... the flip side of this record is 'There's Nothing Else To Say', a much played song which in all honesty isn't among my favourites as it always seems to be trying a bit too hard... This smashing tune couldn't be more different, though. A sweet, gentle melody and a clever, inventive lyric combine to produce a truly memorable song which, to my mind, deserves far more attention than it gets.

Toussaint McCall - Nothing Compares Yo You
And once again, one to really let you know it's the end of the night. A truly wonderful ballad sung in McCall's rich baritone, this one never leaves you...

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BlushRadio Volume 3

2007-05-14T22:12:00.003+01:00

Roscoe Robinson - What Makes A Man Do Wrong
Miller Sisters - I'm Telling It Like It Is
Pearl Woods - Sippin Sorrow
Jackie Ross - Jerk & Twine
The Shirelles - Baby It's You
Jackie Wilson & Linda Hopkins - Say I Do
Martha Jean Love - How To Succeed In Love (Without Really Trying)
Mamie Galore - It Ain't Necessary
"Little Esther" Phillips - Wile It Lasted

Ed’s posted a couple of fantastic podcasts over the last month or so and I thought that it was about time that pitched in with my own. As it is my first attempt, I plead with you to be gentle with me, whilst I find my feet. Having said that, I hope that you enjoy what I consider to be some fantastic tunes. I have tried to select a broad spectrum of sixties soul, taking in a bit of r&b along the way. I have also picked a couple of tracks that I have written up on here before, because it'll all make so much more sense when you hear them.

Roscoe Robinson – What Makes A Man Do Wrong

This is the first of the tracks that I have previously written about on this blog and the full entry can be found here. I love this track, it has energy in abundance and the raw backing really gets me.

The Miller Sisters – I’m Telling It Like It Is

I don’t know a great deal about this track, there was a country act also going by the name of the Miller Sisters around the same time, were they the same band (answers on a postcard please)? Anyway, this is top quality up beat dance floor soul with to die for backing vocals. Great stuff.

Pearl Woods – Sippin Sorrow

The second of my old post retreads for this podcast. A real r&b scorcher, with Little Richard’s band, the Upsetters, providing the backing. The original post can be found here.

Jackie Ross – Jerk and Twine

I’ve had a bit of thing for Jackie Ross for a long time. She was featured on some of the first northern compilations I got my hands on and I just love her voice, the further I’ve delved into her catalogue the more smitten I’ve become. I’ve Got The Skill is also well worth checking out, as to is her version of Take Me For A Little While.

The Shirelles – Baby It’s You

Does music get any more perfect than this? I know that this song is well known but you’d have to be a fool or a liar not to love it. This is girl group perfection of the highest order and the organ solo gets me every time. Baby It’s You was written by Burt Bacharach, Barney Williams and Mack David. It has been covered by Elvis Costello, Cilla Black, Loleatta Holloway, Foxy Brown, Cliff Richard, Nick Lowe and most famously by the Beatles but sod them, it’s this version that you need in your life.

Jackie Wilson and Linda Hopkins – Say I Do

My copy of this is the UK issue (the US issue was on Brunswick). Say I Do is the b side to Shake A Hand and as Ed has pointed out several times over his podcasts, shows the value of flipping the disc.

Martha Jean Love – How To Succeed In Love (Without Really Trying)

This is a wonderful slice of northern; a great up beat track, with hand claps galore and a sing along chorus. This should get anyone with a heart beat up and heading for the dance floor.

Mamie Galore – It Ain’t Necessary

Mamie Galore was born Mamie Davis in Mississippi in 1940. She joined the Ike and Tina Review before hooking up with Little Milton, which brought her to Chicago and in tern St Lawrence. She recorded a number of sides for St Lawrence, notably the Bond cash in Special Agent 34-24-38. This fantastic northern dancer was produced by Monk Higgins.

“Little Esther” Phillips – While It Lasted

Little Esther was born Esther Mae Washington in 1935 in Galveston, Texas. She was originally noticed by Johnny Otis and joined his review in 1949. Before signing to Lennox in 1960 she recorded for Savoy, Federal and Decca. While It Lasted is a wonderful mid paced moody number and has always gone down really well when I’ve played it out.

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The second podcast - getting into the groove of it now...

2007-04-28T19:30:00.003+01:00

Thanks a lot for all the great feedback on the first podcast - I hope this one goes down as well! Well, here's the rundown:

Bob Brady & the Con Chords - Everybody's Goin' To The Love-In
Almost as smokey as Smokey himself, this blue-eyed soul take on Goin' to a Go-Go is a winner right from the start. The fantastic build-up of energy in the intro grabs hold of you and never lets go, truly a great dance tune. The fine folks over at Funky 16 corners have an interview with one of the members of the band, so I'll direct you there for more info on the band and the tune.

Little Milton - Sometimey
Little Milton it among the small number of performers who can quite genuinely be considered a legendary Blues man, and is also much loved by soul fans both for this tune and his outstanding 'Grits Ain't Groceries'. Born in Inverness, Mississippi in 1934, Milton's earliest recordings were on Sun records as a contemporary of Elvis Presley. His first hits, though, came on moving to Bobbin Records where he was also the A&R chief - responsible for signing Fontella Bass and Albert King to the label. Success on Bobbin drew the attention of Chess records, and Milton was signed to Checker which became the scene of possibly his greatest success. He recorded a string of hits there from 1962 through 1971, before moving on to Stax as the Chess family of labels dissolved and recording yet more massive hits until Stax filed for bankruptcy in 1975. Little Milton went on to record at numerous other labels including MCA and Malaco up until his death from a stroke on August 4th, 2005.

Premieres - I'm Better Off Now Than I Was Before
This is a lovely tune, and despite its almost doo-wop sound was in fact recorded in 1966 - much later than it sounds. It's on King, the other side of the record is also very nice - and beyond that I don't know an awful lot about it. As ever, any more information gratefully received!

3 Degrees - Gotta Draw The Line

Tremendous - are you getting the idea yet that I like the girl-group sound? This is a great example of Philly girl sound, and probably the 3 Degrees most famous song of the 60's

Flamingos - The Boogaloo Party
Strange to think that one of the greatest vocal groups of their time had their biggest UK hit with this very uncharacteristic (but brilliant) slice of danceable pop. They did have almost two decades worth of US R&B hits from 1953 to 1970, though. Always characterised by both incredibly precise harmonies and an exciting and well-choreographed performing style which went on to influence both the Four Tops and the Temptations, they were in a league of their own. It doesn't really have the right feel for a podcast like this, but do look out for their version of 'September Song' for a slice of pure class.

Moses Smith - The Girl Across The Street
A song I know very little about, but one that has a special place in my affections as it's among the very first Northern Soul songs I ever heard and was largely responsible for drawing me into the scene in the first place. Realising there were records out there that I'd never heard of but which sounded this good drew me into looking for them and I've never looked back...

Frank Butler - How I Feel About You
A nice mid-tempo R&B sound with a cracking groove and a really sweet organ sound. Beyond that I don't know anything about it I'm afraid - once again feel free to fill me in!

Big Mama Thornton - Wade In The Water
Born Willie Mae Thornton in 1926, Big Mama Thornton is probably still best known for her No. 1 R&B hit with "Hound Dog", later taken to even greater prominence by Elvis Presley. In fact, she was an amazingly prolific multi-instrumentalist with a lengthy career. A very imposing stage presence, at six feet tall and around 350lb she remained a popular live performer, even when sales of her records suffered to the fashion for newer R&B styles in the early 60's. This belting version of 'Wade In the Water', with backing from the Hound Dogs, dates from around this time - and I think gives a pretty good idea why people were still paying to see her in their droves.

Duettes - Every Beat Of My Heart
Featuring Barbara Livsey (later of Barbara and the Uniques), this excellent girl-group tune is one of those records which feels familiar and much loved right from the very first time you hear it - it has such a strong hit you really can't quite believe it's not a hit you grew up with. Not that that takes anything away from the pleasure of listening to it right now, of course!

Charts - Fell In Love With You Baby
It may show my age - for all I know this tune was a monster on the original Northern scene - but for me this is another prime example of Principle One. This lives on the flip side of 'Desiree', one of my all-time favourite Northern sides, and this one was unknown to me until I flipped the 45. In fact, as with the Flamingos above, this is a late attempt by a wonderful 50's vocal group at updating their sound to match the fashions of the 60's - in this case by updating their original and most famous hit, 'Deserie', released on Everlast in 1957. 'Fell In Love With You Baby' really shows of their vocal group roots, with a wonderfully complex arrangement that the group are more than capable of living up to, and tenors soaring and swooping all over the case. Tremendous stuff, and don't be surprised if 'Desiree' shows up in a future podcast. And yes, for reasons unknown to me the 1957 and 1966 versions of the song are indeed spelled differently.

Dori Grayson - Try Love
A brilliant, mid-tempo song with a winning combination a a lolloping, rolling groove, tremendous backing vocals and a storming, preaching lead - this track is what soul is all about for me. Beyond that, though, I know precious little about it. Murco was a tiny label, but with seemingly amazing quality control as I've never heard a bad Murco track. Incidentally, this record is another Principle One contender - make sure you listen to 'Got Nobody To Love' as well.

Hope you enjoy it, let me know what you think!

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Around the blogs

2007-04-25T10:45:00.000+01:00

I have stumbled upon a number of brilliant music blogs recently. I find them an excellent way of finding out about music and artists that I would otherwise be ignorant of and I never need much of an excuse to expand my wants list.

First up we have the wonderful Fufu Stew. Vincent has been kind enough to give us a couple of shouts over there and has said the kindest things about the first Blush Radio podcast (version two should hit the cyber-airwaves later this week). Vincent has an engagingly idiosyncratic style but more importantly has superb taste in music and his prolificacy puts us to shame. Fufu Stew sounds have rarely been off my MP3 player in the last month.

Next up we have Shindiggit, things are running a little slow over there at the moment but it is still worth checking out. Shindiggit covers a wide base of styles and is all the better for it.

Feel It is an excellent soul blog from over here in Blighty. Darcy posts some great stuff covering a wide variety of soulful sounds and is always well worth reading.

Finally, we come to Office Naps, which I am smitten with. Every Monday is a new post with downloads covering soul, garage, mod, psychedelic, gospel, jazz… I have only discovered this site recently but spent a good afternoon downloading and it’s all good stuff.

I’ve been picking up a load of new stuff over the last couple of weeks and will be writing about a few of them over the next few weeks.

Cheers,
Roger

Almost a set list.

2007-04-09T12:09:00.000+01:00

Thanks to everyone who turned up on Good Friday, I hope that you enjoyed yourself, I certainly did. With all of the excitement, I didn’t get a chance to keep a proper note of the order I played tracks in so here is a list of them in no particular order:

Mitty Collier – I Can’t Lose
Jackie Ross – I’ve Got The Skill
The Mirettes – Take Me For A Little While
Ella Fitzgerald – Get Ready
The Reflections – (Just Like) Romeo and Juliet
Barbara Lynn – You Left The Water Running
Thelma Jones – Stronger
The Shirelles – Too Much Of A Good Thing
Betty LaVette – What Condition My Condition Is In
Jessica James and the Outlaws – We’ll Be Making Out
Crampton Sisters – Baby Baby
Baby Washington – Think About The Good Times
Martha Jean Love – How To Succeed In Love (Without Really Trying)
Little Anthony and the Imperials – Gonna Fix You Good (Everytime You’re Bad)
Barbra Mercer – Nobody Loves You Like Me
Lela Martin and the Soul Providers – You Can’t Have Your Cake (And Eat It Too)
Carl Carlton – I Can Feel It
Little Eva – Stand By Me

Pearl Woods – Sippin Sorrow (Charge)

2007-04-09T11:43:00.001+01:00

I mentioned this track in my recent purchases write up a while ago but I like it so much that I think it warrants a posting in its own right.

Pearl Woods was born Lily Pearl Woodard on 24th September 1933 in St Matthews, South Carolina and she moved to New York City in 1951. She released her first record in 1956 on Dot and recorded another side for that label before moving on Wall where she released a couple of records.

Sippin Sorrow was released in 1961 and was Pearl’s only single on Charge, it was also had a release on Dawn (anyone care to clear up which release was first?). On it she is backed by Little Richard’s band, the Upsetters. This is a great up beat r&b track with a nice skippy beat and fantastic horns. Pearl clearly feels wronged by her man and warning him that he’ll get his. The vocal performance on this track is very strong, with a nice, slightly slurred delivery, the b side is also excellent.

You'll notice, that I have finally got around to adding label scans to the old posts, sorry for my tardiness.

The very first BlushRadio podcast

2007-04-03T14:01:00.004+01:00

Hi and welcome to the first installment of our soul music podcast. I've put together a short selection of back to back tracks from my collection - if you've been to any of our nights over the past few years some of these songs might already be a little familiar, so without further ado here is the tracklist for the first edition:

Bobby Moore's Rhythm Aces - Go Ahead And Burn
For years I started all of my DJing sets with an instrumental. This isn't one, but it feels like it to me with the sax taking up the main melody and the vocals acting more like percussion. The Rhythm Aces were formed by tenor sax player Bobby Moore and many of their singles featured a sax driven dance track like this on on one side and a song featuring the soulful lead vocals of Chico Jenkins. Probably their best known track is 'Searching For My Love', which is a fine example of the latter - in fact following the success of 'Searching' they were credited as 'Bobby Moore's Rhythm Aces featuring Chico' for several records, including this one. 'Go Ahead and Burn' was paired with 'Try My Love Again', a fine vocal track and a good dancer in its own right that really shows of their versatility.

Billy Young - You Left The Water Running
I think this is probably my favourite version of this great standard, which is quite something considering some of the great singers who've recorded it, including James & Bobby Purify, Maurice and Mac, Wilson Pickett and Otis Redding. In fact, Billy Young was something of a protege of Otis Redding and had previously been recorded on his Jotis label. It's hard for me to pick out exactly what makes this particular take on this tale of broken-hearted yearning stand out for me, there's just something about his phrasing that really makes it hit home.

Blossoms - That's When The Tears Start
Now this is a real stormer. A classic of the girl group sound, with a vocal by the great Darlene Love taking time out from being Phil Spector's secret weapon and of course many years before going on to co-star in the Lethal Weapon films. One of the enduring wonders pop music in general and soul music in particular is how it can turn a story of misery and loneliness into a record as joyful and uplifting as this. A little slice of magic, and part of the reason we all keep listening I think.

Nella Dodds - You Don't Love Me Anymore
A great lesson in Principle One of record collecting - always listen to the B-side! Pretty much all of the Philly singer's records are much loved and this little gem lives on the flip of her tremendous version of 'Come See About Me'. As atmospheric a song as you could hope to hear, and a very pleasant surprise to me the first time I turned the record over.

Jean Knight - Anyone Can Love Him
Roger gave this cracking little tune a nice write-up recently, so I'll direct a bit further down the blog for more information about it. For me it's the bouncy, melodic bass line that drives this song rather than the funky guitar - but arguing about which is better would be like arguing about whether it's the salt or the vinegar that make salt & vinegar crisps great. It's the potatoes, obviously.

Gwen Stewart - You Took Me For A Fool
A really lovely record, but one I know very little about. Released on Call Me Records from Los Angeles, Gwen Stewart was apparently only 19 when she recorded this beauty. A gorgeous mid-tempo beat ballad, I'd be delighted to hear more about it if anyone can help me out.

Mitty Collier - Pain
Well, what can I say? An amazingly sparse arrangement built around Mitty Collier's towering voice this is yet another song that just oozes atmosphere. With a beat powerful enough to make it a great dancer despite the pretty relaxed tempo, this is an absolute gem.

King Coleman - Down In The Basement
In his own words, Carlton 'King' Coleman is a bald-headed wonder full of lightning and thunder! Well, this storming party tune certainly crackles with energy - and if his voice is more like distant rolling thunder than crashes and booms I'm certainly not complaining. This one just slinks its way along at a lounge-lizard pace with a suitably dirty sounding organ and sax interjecting themselves as and when needed to keep the groove ticking over. And those toys he gets to play with in the basement? I want some.

Raelets - One Room Paradise
A glorious chunk of R&B, only to be expected from the Raelets backed by the Ray Charles Orchestra, really. Attitude to spare.

Johnny Sayles - Can't Get Enough (Of Your Love)
A true classic, and its enduring appeal is easy to understand starting out with a brilliant slow burn of an intro rapidly exploding into a full-on inferno of high-intensity soul. Like many singers who later found recognition through the Northern soul scene, Johnny Sayles released tracks on a whole raft of different labels including Chi-Town, Minit, Mar-V-Lus and this one on St. Lawrence.

Spooners Crowd - Two In The Morning
Well, if this one doesn't let you know it's the end of the show nothing will... As I write this it really is late at night, but but the record captures the feel of the small hours well enough that any time you hear it feels like the middle of the night.

So, I hope you've enjoyed it - let me know what you think.

Ed.

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Playing Soul Records For You To Dance To

2007-03-30T12:26:00.000+01:00

I will be joining a stellar crew of DJs playing soul records for you to dance to at the Major’s Right Track night at the Kelsey Arms on Good Friday. At the time of writing the sets haven’t been divvied out, so if you want to ensure that you don’t miss some great tunes then you’ll have to get there early.

In addition to my humble self, there will be the Major who will no doubt be wearing a suit so sharp you could cut yourself on it, Professor Mark who has previously played at Portsmouth’s world famous Hip Shaker club, Something for the Weekend and the Isle of Wight International Scooter Rally but the real treat for you lucky people is that Pete Kelross from the wonderful Bisley Nightshift Club will be joining us to play a 7t’s soul set with a gritty R&B finish. Kick off is at 8.30pm, final whistle at 11pm, extra time will be played in the event of a draw.

A map of how to find the Kelsey Arms can be found here

Carl Carlton – I Can Feel It (Back Beat)

2007-03-29T14:31:00.002+01:00

Carl Carlton was born in Detroit in 1953. Carl’s early releases on the Lando and Golden World, under the name “Little Carl” Carlton, one presumes to cash in on fellow Detroit sensation, Stevie Wonder. In 68 Carl moved to Houston label Back Beat and released the classic Competition Ain’t Nothing Babe.

I Can Feel It was released in 1970 and is a great upbeat dancer. It starts off with a horn line, before being joined by the vocals and the rest of the instrumentation. There’s a great breakdown midway through, before building to the finale.

Lela Martin and the Soul Providers – You Can't Have Your Cake (And Eat It Too) (Melatone)

2007-03-24T23:38:00.001Z

This one is pretty rare and it has taken to a couple of years to track down a copy. I have also drawn a blank when trying to find out more about the Lela Martin or this record. All I can tell you is that, this was recorded in LA, Carol King co-produced it and written by William Powell. Lela recorded at least one other single for Melatone and one for Stigers.

The song itself is one minute and forty-eight seconds of stomping soul brilliance. It starts off with a pounding bass line before the up tempo drums, guitar and vibes join in. Lela’s vocals are sweet and the male backing vocalists offer a nice counterbalance.

As I’ve said, this track can be pretty difficult to pick up but it is featured on the excellent Soul Function cd/dvd which is well worth picking up for this track alone.

Unfortunately, I’ve been having a problem with my scanner so I haven’t been able to do the label scans I intended to do. Hopefully, I’ll be able to fix this over the weekend and get the lovely label scans up here for you beautiful people.

Jean Knight – Anyone Can Love Him (Staff)

2007-03-20T13:00:00.001Z

Jean Knight is, of course, best known for the Stax classic Mr Big Stuff. She was born Jean Caliste in 1943 in Crescent City, New Orleans but changed her name because she thought that people would have trouble pronouncing her last name.

Jean had been performing around New Orleans since her early twenties before being discovered by Huey Meaux and signed to his Tribe and Jet Stream labels. She released a number of singles on these labels throughout the mid-sixties and although these releases were well received within New Orleans none broke through to gain national attention.

Anyone Can Love Him was released in 1966 on Staff, which I believe is a Detroit label that mainly released jazz and gospel (can anyone confirm). It was also released on Tribe, which I would assume that this was the original (local) release but again if anyone can confirm I’d be delighted to hear from you.

The song starts with a rolling guitar line which carries the song and provides most of the rhythm. The sound is very sparse and Jean’s vocals are quite thin and high pitched. Describing it in such a way does the song a great disservice as it has real charm, is very distinctive and after a few listens it really begins to grab you. You can clearly hear the early funk influence of New Orleans in the song without it being an out and out funk track and this song would, therefore, cross over nicely between the soul and funk scenes.

I’ve been playing this record in warm up sets for a couple of years now and it always gets a good reception. This is yet another cheapy and you should have no problems securing a copy for under £10.

Roscoe Robinson – What Makes A Man Do Wrong (Tuff)

2007-03-13T08:55:00.001Z

Roscoe Robinson was in various gospel outfits, notably The Southern Sons Quartet and the Fairfield Four before going secular. What A Man Do Wrong was his first secular release and just goes to show what a short step it is from the church to the stage.

Released in 1963 on the Tuff label, this is a gritty, gospel tinged affair. It kicks off with a nice guitar lick before being quickly followed by the drums, at this point Roscoe belts out the title of the song before being joined by some great female backing. The rest of the track is pretty basic call and response stuff but done with such vigour that you cannot fail but be moved, both emotionally and physically. I picked this record up blind and it is one of my best blind purchases.

I am going to do some label scans to add to some of the posts over the next week or so, to brighten the place up a bit and because I love looking at them on other people’s sites. I’ll also continue to write about more of my favourite disks, a couple of times a week. I’ve been keeping my postman busy over the last couple of months, so I’ll write about some new purchases but mix that up with some old favourites.

Little Eva – Stand By Me (Amy)

2007-03-06T08:53:00.001Z

Everyone will be familiar with the Ben E King original of this track but this version is a little less known. Little Eva is of course most famous for recording the The Loco-Motion. She was born Eva Narcissus Boyd in 1943 in Bellhaven, North Carolina and moved to New York to finish her education. Whilst in New York, Eva worked as a maid and babysitter for Carole King and Gerry Goffin. It was through this connection that she came to record the Loco-Motion, although the song was originally intended for Dee Dee Sharpe.

Little Eva’s version of Stand By Me was released in 1965 and was her only release on Amy, as far as I can tell. It is more up beat than the Ben E King version and works well as a mid-paced dancer. Eva puts in a great vocal performance and it builds to a nice finale. There seem to be quite a few copies of this floating around and I do not think that it is particularly collectable, hence you can get a great song at a really reasonable price.

Barbra Mercer – Nobody Loves You Like Me (Golden World)

2007-03-05T13:16:00.001Z

This is one of my current favourites and a nice cheap one to pick up. I can see why Berry Gordy bought out Golden World because there is a definite Motown vibe to this Detroit stormer. Barbra Mercer offers breathy vocals over a driving beat and some nice piano. I haven’t had the chance to play this one out yet but I am certain to do so on Good Friday.

I’ve found Golden World to be a pretty reliable label and it’s nice and easy to pick up stuff on it. Both the Reflections (Just Like) Romeo and Juliet and Pat Lewis’ Can’t Shake It Loose, will be familiar to many but that doesn’t detract from how great they are.

New Arrivals

2007-02-07T09:40:00.000Z

Here are a few of the aural delights that have popped through my letter box over the last few weeks.

The Crampton Sisters – Baby Baby

I’ve been after this single for ages and was always getting outbid for it but perseverance won the day and I’ve finally got my grubby hands on it. I first heard this on the Kent compilation Class of 66 and was immediately taken by the oboe, not an instrument you normally associate with soul music. This is a mid-paced dancer of the highest order and I am smitten with the slightly out of tune backing vocals.

O.V. Wright – Love The Way You Love

I first heard about this on Larry Grogan’s excellent Funky 16 Corners blog and had to pick up a copy. I suggest you do likewise, as this is top quality soul with a driving beat and pleading vocals.

Mirettes – Take Me For A Little While

I’ve loved this track for ages but again Larry Grogan prompted me to open my wallet after he wrote about it on his blog. This version knocks seven shades out of the Evie Sands original and is for my money far superior.

Pearl Woods – Sippin Sorrow

This is a top draw rhythm and blues dancer.

Soul Britannia

2007-02-05T11:05:00.000Z

Soul Britannia started on BBC4 last Friday. The first episode was excellent and with any luck it will be repeated a few times this week. The series looks at the impact of American and Caribbean sounds on British music and the development of soul and reggae in the UK.

The first episode featured footage of Jimmy James and the Vagabonds (who’s version of Ain’t Love Good, Ain’t Love Proud is a big favourite of mine),
Geno Washington and Dusty. But I expect the quality to drop heavily as the series goes on as we are almost guaranteed footage of Simply Red, M People and Jamiroquai but we should enjoy the good stuff whilst it lasts.

A link to the BBC's Soul Britannia site can be found here

Major Movers

2007-01-29T10:55:00.000Z

Here’s a few tracks that the Major plans to play, for your listening pleasure, at the Kelsey on Good Friday.

The Velvelettes - Really Sayin Something
Smokie Robinson - Shop Around
Billy Butler - The Right Track
R Dean Taylor - There's A Ghost In My House
Four Tops -I Cant Help Myself
Alice Clarke - You Hit Me
Wynder K Frog - Green Door
Brenton Wood - Gimme Little Sign
The Temptations - I'm Losing You
The Tams - Hey Girl Don't Bother Me
Marvin Gaye - How Sweet It Is
The Supremes - Stoned Love
The Checkmates - Kissing Her And Crying For You
Marvin Gaye - I Heard It Through The Grapevine
Tommy Hunt - Loving On The Losing Side
Isley Bros - Behind A Painted Smile
Otis Redding - Hard To Handle
The Temptations - I Can't Get Next To You
Edwin Starr - Time
Martha & The Vandellas - You've Been In Love Too Long
Rufus Tomas - Do The Funky Penguin Pt 1
Martha Reeves - Love Bug Leave My Heart Alone
Otis Redding - I Cant Turn You Loose
Tammi Terrell - Come On And See Me
Supremes - The Stranger
Jackie Wilson - Soul Galore

Roger's Current Favourites

2007-01-15T22:08:00.000Z

Here's a few tracks that are getting spins at home at the moment.

Baby Washington - Think About The Good Times (Veep)

A great, great song. Storming chorus, funky beats and enough soul energy to fill any floor. This is a real favourite at the moment and sure to feature strong in all of my sets throughout 2007.

The Miller Sisters - I'm Telling It Like It Is (GMC)

Soul perfection. Massive sing-a-long chorus, great backing vocals and everything I look for in dancefloor soul, really.

Mitty Collier - I Can't Lose (Peachtree)

Huge. Huge vocals, huge song, you know it makes sense.

"Little Esther" Phillips - While It Lasted (Lennox)

Did I say the last one was big? This is bigger. There's nothing little about Ms Phillips vocals. A great mid-paced backing and a voice to make the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end. I always get loads of positive feedback when I spin this. A great song.

Ella Fitzgerald - Get Ready (Reprise)

A great version of the Temptations classic.

Ike & Tina Turner - Can't Chance A Break Up (Sue)

I was searching for a decent copy at a decent price for a while and it was worth the wait. A beautiful song, with a beautiful vocal from Tina. One of my favourites.

Jackie Day - Before It's Too Late (Modern)

Another track that I had been on the lookout for at the right price for a while. This was one of the first northern songs I got into. The beat is irresistible.

Chris Clark - Love Gone Bad (VIP)

Another huge track. I've only ever played this out once but hearing it at high volume made the night for me. This has quite an unusual production, it's almost garagey in places but all the better for it.

We've finally got off our arses

2007-01-08T22:20:00.000Z

I will be DJing with the Major (Andy) at the Kelsey in Tunbridge Wells on Good Friday (6th April 2007). I will post more details as I have them. I've been busy hoovering up some fine soul sevens over the last year and a bit and am really looking forward to getting a chance to play them out, I might even write about some of them on here but then I've promised that before and not done it.

Ed and I have also been talking about getting a regular night up and running again but the problem, as ever in Tunbridge Wells, is finding a decent venue, if anyone has any ideas I'd be delighted to hear from you.

We have also been talking about doing a one off in London. No firm details as yet, Ed and I are planning a days reconnaissance to see if we can find a venue, again all tip offs gratefully received.

Finally, to celebrate our return to action, I will be giving this site a spring clean and adding some new features.

Have a soulful New Year and keep the faith.

Billy Preston

2006-06-09T09:05:00.000+01:00

Billy Preston sadly died aged 59 earlier this week. He was of course famous for his work with the Beatles and Stones but it is solo material and session work with Sly Stone and Aretha that is closest to my heart.

If you don't have a copy of Billy's Bag do yourself a favour and get one double quick, Hammond craziness at it's best and dancefloor dynamite too boot. Most Exciting Organ Ever released in 65 and Wildest Organ in Town! from 66 are both cracking albums and well worth checking out. There's an excellent compilation of Billy's sixties material also called Billy's Bag that I can thoroughly recommend.

The BBC has an obituary on their site

Just a quick update on all things Blush Organisation

2006-02-06T10:29:00.000Z

We have taken a few months off from spinning soulful sounds to regroup, refresh and relax. We have no confirmed date for the next Hip Huggin’ but hope that it will be sometime in early Spring. I’ve been busy buying up rarities on eBay and I plan to write a few pieces for here on some of the more interesting ones in the next few weeks.

Cheers,
Roger

25% Extra Hip Huggin' Free

2005-11-29T08:30:00.000Z

Thanks to our new licensing laws we will be open until midnight on Saturday. That’s 25% extra soul and still free entry.

Hip Huggin' - Sat 3rd December

2005-11-14T14:01:00.000Z

We're back at the basment bar of the Sussex Arms on Satyrday 3rd December to fire up the dancefloor with our rare 6Ts soul.

Expect to hear The Fascinations, The Volumes, Tina Britt, Barbara Randolph, Chuck Wood, Major Lance, Little Milton, The Shirelles, Jackie Ross, Jackie Wilson, Little Esther Phillips, Betty La Vette, Linda Jones, Dean Parrish, Nella Dodds, Ike & Tina, Ella Fitzgerald, Al King, Little Carl Carlton and many more.

Full details are as follows:

Hip Huggin’

@ The Basement Bar, The Sussex Arms, Sussex Mews, The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent (01892 549579)

Saturday 3rd December

DJs: The Blush Organisation
Adm. Free
7pm 'till 11pm

A map of how to find us can be found here

Hip Huggin' Launch Night Photos

2005-10-04T21:35:00.000+01:00

Some photos from the Hip Huggin’ launch night on Saturday 1st October. Thanks to all of you who came along. Our next night is on 3rd December.

Hip Huggin’ Launch Party - Saturday 1st October

2005-09-07T12:24:00.000+01:00

We now have the full details of our new night at the Basement Bar of the Sussex Arms. The first night will be on Saturday 1st October and our guest DJ will be The Major, who will be better known to some of you as Andy (owner of the coolest scooter in Tunbridge Wells).

The new night is called Hip Huggin’ and will be more northern based than Uptight was. Expect to hear The Fascinations, The Volumes, Tina Britt, Barbara Randolph, Chuck Wood, Major Lance, Little Milton, The Shirelles, Jackie Ross, Jackie Wilson, “Little Esther” Phillips, Betty La Vette, Linda Jones, Dean Parrish, Nella Dodds, Ike & Tina, Ella Fitzgerald, Al King, Little Carl Carlton and many more.

Full details are as follows:

Hip Huggin’

@ The Basement Bar, The Sussex Arms, Sussex Mews, The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent (01892 549579)

Saturday 1st October

DJs: The Blush Organisation & special guest The Major
Adm. Free
7pm 'till 11pm

A map of how to find us can be found here

New Night, New Home

2005-08-29T13:23:00.000+01:00

Our search for a venue is at an end. We will be launching a new night in the Basement Bar at the Sussex Arms on Saturday 1st October.

The Sussex Arms in on Sussex Mews on the Pantiles. The Basement Bar is a vastly superior venue to the Office and we have sole use of it for the evening. It’s got a great sound system and plenty of room for dancing. The Sussex Arms has recently had a refurb and looks great. Their website can be found here

The new night will have a new name and slightly different music policy. We will be looking to bring in guest DJs in the future, if you are interested in playing then drop us a line.

Sign up to our mailing list to be the first to know the details of our launch night.

Full details to follow…

Ben's Set List 13th August

2005-08-22T12:07:00.000+01:00

use it before you lose it - bobby valentin
shake 'n' fingerpop - the soul lovers
time - edwin starr
seven days too long - chuck wood
forget it - the sandpebbles
what - judy street
all turned on - bob wilson and the san remo quartet
bernadette - the four tops
breakin' down the walls of heartache - johnny johnson and the bandwagon
nothing but heartaches - the supremes
do i love you - frank wilson
ain't too proud to beg - the temptations
we'll be makin' out - jesse james and the outlaws
hide nor hair - earl jackson
soul finger - the bar-keys
you keep me hangin' on - the supremes
you're a wonderful one - marvin gaye
this old heart of mine - the isley brothers
do it one more time (the twine) alvin cash and the crawlers
tainted love - gloria jones
s o s - edwin starr
ain't nothin' but a house party - the show stoppers

Moving On

2005-08-15T13:43:00.000+01:00

Saturday was sadly our last night at the Office. We are looking for a new venue and hope to have something sorted out very soon. I will post something up here as soon as we know anything. The easiest way to guarantee being the first to know when we sort out our new venue is to join our mailing list by emailing me at roger@blushorganisation.co.uk

Thanks to everyone who has supported the night over the last year and a half, we’ve really enjoyed doing it and are looking forward to starting afresh somewhere else.

Uptight - 13th August

2005-08-08T10:59:00.000+01:00

Uptight returns to the Office on Saturday 13th August with the Blush Organisation spinning northern favourites, rare soul stormers, tamla treats, 6Ts R&B movers and some funk for your feet.

Uptight
@ The Office, Goods Station Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent (Tel 01892 534822)

Saturday 13th August
& the second Saturday of every month

The Blush Organisation DJs playing Tamla Motown, Northern Soul, Boogaloo and Deep Funk.

Adm. Free 7pm 'till 11pm
A map of how to find us can be found here

Leon's Set List - 9th July

2005-07-24T11:11:00.000+01:00

Leon played Uptight for the first time in July and did the 7 'til 8 slot. In a break from our normal 60's soul and r&B sound, Leon plays mainly 70's soul. His set was a blinder and we're pleased to say that he's back again in August.

1.Bill Withers-Make Love To Your Mind-Cbs-1975.
2.City Limits-People(We Need A Change )-T.S.O.P./Cbs-1976.
3.Rudy Love And The Love Family-Take Nothing For Granted-Calla/Cbs-1978.
4.Linda Clifford-Runaway Love-Curtom-1978.
5.Billy Butler-Alone At Last(Part 2)-Curtom-1977.
6.Ty Karim & George Griffin-Keep On Doin' Watcha' Doin'-(Longversion)-Sheridan House-1980.
7.Smokey Robinson-Virgin Man-Tamla Motown-1974.
8.Creative Source-You Can't Hide Love-Sussex-1973.
9.Gladys Knight & The Pips-Love Is Always On Your Mind-Buddah-1977.
10.Sir Joe Quarterman And Free Soul-Get Down Baby-Mercury-1974.
11.Brother To Brother-Chance With You-Turbo-1976.
12.Luther(Vandross)-Funky Music(Is A Part Of Me)-Cotillion-1976.(Who sadly died earlier that week).

Roger's Set Lists - 14th May

2005-05-29T12:11:00.000+01:00

Here’s my set lists from Uptight on the 14th May, hopefully they’ll give you a flavour of what we play. I going to try and get Ben to note down his sets next month, he plays a lot more Northern and Motown than I do and a lot less funk and r&b.

First Set - 8 'til 9 pm

Majestic Choir And The Soul Stirrers – Why Am I Treated So Bad
Sugar Pie DeSanto – Can’t Let You Go
Lee Dorsey – Get Our Of My Life Woman
The Shirelles – Too Much Of A Good Thing
Jimmy James And The Vagabonds – Ain’t Love Good, Ain’t Love Proud
The Lamp Sisters – No Cure For The Blues
Mable John – Running Out
Warren Lee – Climb The Ladder
Robert Parker – Everbody’s Hip Huggin
Alvin Cash And The Crawlers – Twine Time
Jackie Wilson And Linda Hopkins – Say I Do
Little Carl Carlton – Competition Ain’t Nothing
The Miracles – Gotta Dance To Keep From Crying
Jackie Ross – I’ve Got The Skill
The Ambassadors – A.W.O.L.
Edwin Starr – Headline News
The Contours – Just A Little Misunderstanding
Dusty Springfield – Can I Get A Witness
“Little Esther” Phillips – While It Lasted
Barbara Lynn – You Left The Water Running
Jean Knight – Anyone Can Love Him
Herb Johnson – I Know
Jean Wells – With My Love And What You’ve Got (We Could Turn The World Around)

Second Set - 10 pm 'til close

The Raeletts – Leave My Man (Woman) Alone
Robert Parker – Barefootin’
Etta James – Seven Day Fool
Barbara Lynn – I’m Good Woman
Big Maybelle – 96 Tears
Irma Thomas – Don’t Mess With My Man
Patti Drew – Hard To Handle
Carl Carlton – I Can Feel It
Dean Parrish – Tell Her
Ellie Greenwich – I Want You To Be My Baby
Marlena Shaw – California Soul
Betty La Vette – What Condition My Condition Is In
The Village Callers – Hector
Pucho And His Latin Soul Brothers – Got Myself A Good Man
Barbara West – You’re No Good
Little Mary Staten – Steppin Stone
James Brown – Night Train
Wilbert Harrison – Let’s Stick Together
Betty Adams – Make It Real (Ride On)
Betty Harris – Mean Man
Thelma Jones – Stronger
Linda Jones – I Can’t Stand It
The Reflections – Just Like Romeo And Juliet
Monk Higgins – Watermelon Man
Isley Brothers – Shout Pt 1
The Bamboos – Tighten Up
Cecil Garrett And The Fascinations – Bearcat Pt 1
Mary Jane Hooper – I’ve Got Reasons
Roscoe Robinson – What Makes A Man Do Wrong
Little Eva – Stand By Me

Roger’s Top Ten – May ‘05

2005-05-01T10:56:00.000+01:00

Some of my current favourites.

Jean Knight – Anyone Can Love Him (Staff)
The Raelettes – Leave My Man (Woman) Alone (Tangerine)
Thelma Jones – Stronger (Barry)
Little Mary Staten – Steppin’ Stone (GME)
“Little Esther” Phillips – While It Lasted (Lennox)
Smokey Robinson and the Miracles – If You Can Want (Tamla)
Linda Jones – I Can’t Stand It (Loma)
Roscoe Robinson – What Makes A Man Do Wrong (Tuff)
Pat Lewis – Can’t Shake It Loose(Golden World)
Jean Wells – With My Love And What You’ve Got (We Can Turn The World Around) (Calla)

Mailing List

2005-04-15T12:34:00.000+01:00

Mailing List

I've set up a mailing list, so that I can keep you updated on what we're up to. Just enter your email address below and you need never forget when the Blush Organisation are behind the wheels of steel again. Your email address will not be shared with anyone else and you can remove yourself from the list anytime you want.

Mailer4u

Photos

2005-02-13T15:03:00.000Z

Here are some photos from last nights Uptight. It was a top night and it was really nice to see the South Coast Soul Club in attendance, we shall be popping down to one of their nights very soon.

Jimmy Smith - RIP

2005-02-11T13:32:00.000Z

Sad news, Jimmy Smith died yesterday (10th February) at the age of 79. I have been a big fan of Jimmy Smith since nicking a compilation of his stuff from my Dad when I was a kid. I went to see him at the Jazz Cafe a few years ago and he blew me away. Whilst looking for material to include here, I chanced upon this exert from Bill Milkowski's Rockers, Jazzbos & Visionaries on the Funk 45 Forum. The man was a legend.

I know you got into some kind of karate.

Yeah, for 25 years now.

I've seen your album Respect , where you got your kung fu robe on the cover.

Not kung fu, motherfucker. That's shotokan. And that means sho-kill-yo'-ass. I studied that particular method. Shotokan is when you go to the diaphragm and pull out the fucking food, show him what he ate for dinner, you understand? And I mean that shit. Go in there, pull them fuckin' greens out, put 'em right in his face and watch him faint. You know what I mean?

Yeah, that would come in handy on the subway.

Hey man, shit, you don't need no damn gun. Pull them fucking intestines out...and they be movin', you know, like worms. That shit be running all over my damn hand.

On Elvin Jones

Elvin's too ugly to look old. That's an ugly man. You know what happened, when we first met it was Haight-Ashbury in Frisco, and man...I was off on Monday...I was playing at the Jazz Workshop and he was playing at the Blackhawk. So anyway, I wasn't working on this Monday and he was on. So I walk in the door to catch Elvin's gig and the guy says, "Jimmy Smith, come on in! Elvin Jones is here, man. I hope you guys can hook up tonight, man." And here comes Elvin, "Hey, man, we're gonna get into something tonight, OK?" I said, "What? I ain't never played witch you, man." So he just grabbed me, and he's strong anyway...I had to put all my little karate shit on his ass. I grabbed his dick. He say, "Turn my dick loose, motherfucker." I say, "Man, don't fool with me, boy." Everybody say, "Jimmy Smith is crazy, don't fool with him." 'Specially when I'm not playing...and I'm 'off,' I'm really off. It's what the black people call you. It's not o-f-f...it's o-f...they say, "The nigger's o-f." That's from the South. Say that. It sounds good. It's got a ring to it. So anyway, we play. Elvin broke the sock cymbal right off, man. He done broke that sucker, 'cause he's so strong, man. And when we got done, I was soaked, he was soaked, our socks were wet. I'm serious, Bill. Our socks were soaking wet. I messed that suit up...you know, all that salt you get from sweating. You ever see a musician with those white armpits? These motherfuckers with all that salt beadin' their ass up? Just like race horses? Exactly.

For a more sober look at the life and times of a legend try these:

BBC

The Guardian

Soulful 7s

2005-02-07T22:32:00.000Z

Here is my first instalment of soulful 7s, a list of some of my favourite 7 inch slabs of plastic, some of these tracks are old favourites and some are ones that I’ve picked up over the last few months. I hope that this will become a regular feature and I will do another one when I have bought enough new stuff or dug out some more stuff from the back of my collection. All of this batch has been played at Uptight over the last year and they all rock. I’ve included sound clips, courtesy of Soul Club or Funk 45, wherever I can.

B.W. Souls – Marvin’s Groove (Round)

Marvin's Groove

Man, what a record and not difficult to pick up either. Starts with a great piece of percussion and builds on a groovy little horn line. The break is class and guaranteed dance floor dynamite. A must.

Ike and Tina Turner – Bold Soul Sister (Blue Thumb)

Bold Soul Sister

This is hard, it starts hard and gets harder. I’ve started sets with this record and it pummels the crowd into submission, once you’ve played this, they’re yours for the night. I love Tina’s opening line of “Stuff and things and things and stuff”. She’s a bold soul sister indeed.

Betty Adams – Make It Real (Ride On) (Notes Of Gold)

Make It Real (Ride On)

I’d been after this Aretha-a-like ever since hearing it on a David Holmes comp a couple of years ago but had no luck tracking it down until those nice people at Budget Beats did the business. This is a storming track and the call and response chorus gets me every time. Nice breakdown to boot.

Jean Knight – Carry On (Stax)

The dance floor doesn’t lie, this is one funky single. Top sister funk. A nice cheap record to pick up, mine only cost me a couple of dollars.

Jackie Wilson and Linda Hopkins – Say I Do (Coral)

I don’t know whether this is the A or B side of this single but I love it. It’s from ’63 and it’s got an early soul / R&B type sound with a skippy rhythm. Jackie is on top form here and the point where his vocal comes in for the first time sends shivers up my spine. In the right club this would go down storm.

Prince La La – She Put The Hurt On Me (A.F.O. Records)

She Put The Hurt On Me

New Orleans R&B at it’s best. If you’re familiar with the Spencer Davis Group version of this tune, you’ve got to track this one down because it’s loads better. With a name like Prince La La, it was always going to be good and it doesn’t disappoint. It’s a swampy, sweaty track with the vocals reminding me of Dr John in places.

Lamp Sisters – Sweet Daddy Soul (Duke)

I picked this up after reading about it on Soul Generation and it just goes to show that Martin is a man whose recommendations should be taken seriously. This has an Aretha type feel to it and is a real grower. Great chorus, strong vocals throughout. I’ve got a couple of their other singles and they are all good.

Etta James – Tighten Up Your Own Thing (Checker)

I love Etta James and buy just about everything by her that I come across. I bought this one blind and wasn’t disappointed, it may not quite be up there with Seven Day Fool, or In The Basement but it isn’t far behind. It’s got a really strong funky backing and a great vocal, what more do you need?

Mitty Collier – I Can’t Lose (Peachtree)

I Can't Lose

I’ve got Ed to thank for introducing me to Mitty Collier, like with Etta James, I tend to buy a lot of her stuff blind and to date I haven’t picked up a duff track. I Can’t Lose is the pick of the pack. Funky, funky, soul that is highly recommended.

Mary Jane Hooper – I’ve Got Reasons (Power-Pac)

I've Got Reaons

This has become an in demand record since Soul Jazz comped it and getting hold of a copy at the right price has caused me nightmares. There were plenty of early morning alarm calls in order to be at my computer to bid for it on eBay, only for it to pass my cut off price at the last minute. Well I’ve managed to get hold of a copy now and it was worth every sleepless night and early morning.

The track was written by and produced by Eddie Bo, a guarantee of quality if ever there was one, and is one of my favourite tracks that he has been involved in. It starts with a quick run up and down the keyboard before Mary kicks in and does her thing. This is a seriously funky record and if it doesn’t make you want to dance, you must be dead from the neck down.

Ellie Greenwich – I Want You To Be My Baby (UA)

I first came across this song on the Kent compilation On The Soul Side about twelve years ago and I’ve loved it ever since but it is only the last month that I’ve picked up a copy.

This is a high-octane track with a brilliant call and response intro and is really immediate. It’s a real call to the floor and I’m looking forward to playing it for the first time at Uptight this month. This is going to be a cornerstone of my set for months to come.

Roger’s Top Ten - Nov 2004

2004-11-24T21:33:00.000Z

I’ve bought loads of stuff since I last put up a top ten and the night has grown beyond all recognition, so it’s clearly time to post another. So here it is, a top ten of my current favourites.

Etta James – Tighten Up Your Own Thing
Marlena Shaw – Wade In The Water
Marvin Gaye – You’re A Wonderful One
Mable John – Running Out
Cecil Garrett & The Fascinations - Bearcat
Shirley Ellis – The Nitty Gritty
Archie Bell & The Drells – Tighten Up
Professor Longhair – Big Chief Part 1
Herb Johnson – I Know
The Tams – Be Young, Be Foolish, Be Happy

Poster Gallery

2004-11-13T10:11:00.000Z

Here’s a list of posters past and present. Click on each poster to enlarge it.

December 2004

November 2004

October 2004

September 2004

August 2004

Ben's Top Ten - July 2004

2004-06-07T13:06:00.000+01:00

Weakspot - Evelyn Thomas
Working On A Building Of Love - Chairmen Of The Board
Sweet Understanding Love - The Four Tops
We'll Be Makin' Out - Jessica James & The Outlaws
Time - Edwin Starr
Memphis Soul Stew - King Curtis
Here Comes The Judge - Shorty Long
I Heard It Through The Grapevine - Gladys Knight & The Pips
Looking For A Fox - Clarence Carter
Shotgun - Pete Terrace

Where To Start - Recommeded Compilations For Those Who Are New To Rare Soul and Funk

2004-06-05T12:45:00.001+01:00

The Blush Organisation have always been keen to bring new comers into the scene and find that their enthusiasm for the music makes our nights what they are. I thought that it might be helpful to publish a list of recommended compilations if you are new to soul music. So here it is, a list of great compilations with links to them on Amazon so that if you feel inspired you can go off and buy them.

The first two volumes of This Is Northern Soul are great stuff and cover a very wide range of northern Motown from obscurity to really well known.

This Is Northern Soul Volume 1

This Is Northern Soul Volume 2

The Talcum Soul series are fantastic and I certainly rate the first three volumes of it.

Talcum Soul Vol.1

Talcum Soul Vol.2

Talcum Soul Vol.3

For Chicago soul, obviously an Okeh compilation is a good idea (the two volumes of Okeh - A Northern Soul Obsession would be the way to go)

Okeh - A Northern Soul Obsession Vol.1

Okeh - A Northern Soul Obsession Vol.2

A good Chess one around at the moment is Chess Club Rhythm & Soul

Chess Club Rhythm & Soul

Soul Jazz can do no wrong in my eyes and their most recent soul compilation Chicago Soul - Electric Blues, Funk and Soul: The New Sound of Chicago is on my deck as I write this.

Chicago Soul - Electric Blues, Funk and Soul: The New Sound of Chicago

Another Soul Jazz album that I would recommend is Saturday Night Fish Fry - New Orleans Funk Vol 2. This album is a perennial favourite of mine and any resemblance between the cover art and our posters is purely coincidental.

Saturday Night Fish Fry - New Orleans Funk Vol 2

If you like to hear the ladies get funky then the I’m A Good Woman series is worth checking out. For my money volume two is the one to get but they are all very good.

I’m A Good Woman Vol.1

I’m A Good Woman Vol.2

I’m A Good Woman Vol.3

For Latin boogaloo I would recommend Brown Sugar: Latin Breakbeats Basslines and Boogaloo Vol.3 and Bigbadboogaloo. Both albums are an excellent introduction to Latino soul and funk and are crammed with great tracks.

Brown Sugar: Latin Breakbeats Basslines and Boogaloo Vol.3

Bigbadboogaloo

Back to northern soul there's a mid-price compilation called Cooler Shakers - horrible name but very good comp.

Cooler Shakers - 30 Northern Soul Floorstompers

Let us know what you think of them.

Roger’s Top Ten - June 2004

2004-06-03T13:31:00.000+01:00

In no particular order, these are my favourite tracks from my current set.

I’m A Good Woman – Barbara Lynn
Seven Day Fool – Etta James
Bold Soul Sister – Ike and Tina Turner
Think – Aretha Franklin
Cold Heat – Lil’ Lavair and the Fabulous Jades
Don't Mess With My Man - Irma Thomas
Gonna Fix You Good – Little Anthony and the Imperials
Ain’t Love Good, Ain’t Love Proud – Jimmy James and the Vagabonds
I Can Feel It – Carl Carlton
Can’t Satisfy – The Impressions

Ed's Top Ten - June 2004

2004-06-02T15:01:00.000+01:00

Stand By Me - Little Eva
Auction On Love - James Bounty
Save Me - Nina Simone
Helpless - Kim Weston
Gotta Give Her Love - Volumes
Can I Get A Witness - Barbara Randolph
That's When The Tears Start - Blossoms
Sometimey - Little Milton
I Love You Baby - Ambers
Come See About Me - Nella Dodds

Websites that we like and people that we buy records from.

2004-06-02T14:18:00.000+01:00

The Funky Sixteen Corners

This site is the daddy and currently has some great features on Eddie Bo and Warren Lee. Check out the label scans, I want this mans record collection.

http://funky16corners.tripod.com/

Soul Generation

My favourite recent find. Great features (thanks to this site I am spending far too much money on Ebay tracking down Tittyshakers), label scans, playlists and a fantastic set of soul food recipes, you know you love that Gumbo Ya Ya.

http://www.soulgeneration.co.uk/home.htm

Time Square Records

Great value, good quality and a huge range – what more do you want? A pleasure to deal with.

http://www.timessquarerecords.com/

Crazy Beat Records

The site has just had a refurb and is better than ever. It’s worth making the trip to Upminster to get the full Crazy Beat experience and to empty your bank account. I am in awe of Gary’s knowledge.

http://www.crazybeat.co.uk/

Turntable Lab

New York hip hop store with a great line in reissues. The clothes, books and posters aren’t bad either.

http://www.turntablelab.com/

Piccadilly Records

Manchester’s finest. If you want new stuff then you could do a lot worse than look here. Next day delivery if you order before 12.30!

http://www.piccadillyrecords.co.uk/

Tunes

Good stock of compilations and reissues.

http://www.tunes.co.uk/

The Soul Source

Good club and gig listings. Soul forum, flyer scans, photos and all the news and views from the northern soul scene.

http://www.soul-source.net/

Funk 45 Forum

Does exactly what it says on the tin.

http://www.fryersrecords.co.uk/beta/

Funk 45

FUNK45.com contains over 2000 audio clips of rare funk and soul 45 rpm singles recorded in the late 60s and early 70s.

http://www.funk45.com/

About the Blush Organisation

2004-06-01T11:30:00.000+01:00

The Blush Organisation are a group of DJs who promote a soul night in Tunbridge Wells called Uptight. In the past we have run nights in Canterbury and London and have DJd at other people’s nights in Oxford, Glasgow, London and numerous other places. We have been playing together for over ten years.

We have been talking about setting up a website for ages but have been too lazy to get around to it. In the near future we will abandon this blog and move to a proper website with sound and things but until then this serves a purpose.

We aim to keep the content moving on this site and shall be adding new material a few times a week. We shall add photos and reviews of each night and what tunes kept the feet on the beat. If you have any comments about this site, ideas of how it could be improved or you'd like to contribute then please feel free to email us.

If you would like to get in touch with us you can email me at roger@blushorganisation.co.uk alternative you could come along to one of our nights and we can chat over a beer.