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2010-03-27T10:41:00.007-04:00

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Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings: I'm Not Gonna Cry

2009-11-18T16:40:00.002-05:00

Woodstock!

2009-08-16T12:15:00.003-04:00

Santana: Soul Sacrifice
Carlos tames the beast.

Sly & The Family Stone: I Want to Take You Higher
New heights.

Janis Joplin: Work Me Lord
Epic

...And the Living is Easy

2009-07-04T08:50:00.004-04:00

Here's my latest mix guaranteed to keep your 4th of July cookout cookin'.

The Babymaker Revisited

2009-06-29T09:45:00.000-04:00

The Babymaker, The Quiet Storm, Slow Jamz Vol. 1.....call it what you will but if you can't seal the deal with this mix then you have problems. It's a story of love lost and then found in just over 67 minutes. Enjoy it with that special someone and if you have any ideas for what to call this beast please let me know in the comments and you just may receive a limited edition CD. Close the door, dim the lights...hit play...be gentle.

Setlist:

The Dramatics: In The Rain
Teddy Pendergrass: Love TKO
Cymande:Changes
Marvin Gaye: I Want You
Barry White: Dreamin'
Isaac Hayes: Something
The Isley Brothers: Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight
Willie Hutch: Gimme Some of That Good Old Love
Minnie Riperton: Inside My Love
Staple Singers: After Sex
Marvin Gaye: Since I Had You
Curtis Mayfield: P.S. I Love You
Al Green: Livin' For You
Earth, Wind & Fire: It's All About Love

Rest in Peace Michael Jackson

2009-06-26T09:52:00.006-04:00

Like everybody else the news about Michael Jackson shocked me. What really surprised me was just how sad I became. Michael's music really hasn't spoken to me in nearly 20 years and personality wise, well let's just say I felt he got a bit odd. As a child Thriller and to a lesser extent, Off the Wall were my life. As an budding artist Michael Jackson became one of my favorite subjects to draw second only to ET. I had the Beat It jacket (the black plastic knock off) and of course the glove and would moonwalk all over the kitchen. I vividly remember watching MTV from 10 AM until 10PM just to catch the Thriller video. So am I sad for losing Michael Jackson or am I mourning the loss of my childhood? I suppose a bit of both. One thing that cannot be denied is that Michael Jackson was an amazing one of a kind entertainer. Check out any of his performances on You Tube and you'll see how uniquely unreal he was. His singing style was unlike any other and he seemed to move like the laws of gravity simply did not apply. Hopefully folks will remember the music and not all the crap that seemed to drag him down. He was an icon but also a son, a brother, and a father. I never cared for the "King of Pop" moniker but he is definitely someone who changed the game forever. Go back and re listen to his music and you'll hear the genius who will hopefully find the peace he couldn't seem to find here.

Michael Jackson: I Can't Help It

For Michael

2009-06-25T18:06:00.002-04:00

Just heard the shocking news about Michael Jackson....more to follow.

Purplish Rain

2009-06-23T09:55:00.002-04:00

Here are the only two reasons to get the Prince tribute from this month's Spin magazine.

Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings: Take Me With U

Mariachi El Bronx: I Would Die 4U

Why Can't We Live Together

2009-06-19T10:13:00.002-04:00

Timmy Thomas: Why Can't We Live Together

This song is proof that less is more. Recorded as a demo in 1972 Timmy Thomas' rather simple song became a surprisingly huge hit. Thomas accompanies himself on organ backed by a cheesy rhythm box. It's the title track on his LP from 1974.

Tinga Stewart: Why Can't We Live Together

Tinga Stewart's 1977 performance is riven with emotion and in many ways far more powerful than Thomas's original. In Stewart's capable hands, the lyrics become an accusation, a demand, and finally an affirmation that indeed "we can live better." A stunning cover that leaves the original in the dust. This track can be found on Blood & Fire's exceptional compilation from 2001 Darker Than Blue: Soul From Jamdown 1973-1977.

Steve Winwood: Why Can't We Live Together

Taken from Winwood's 2003 "comeback" album About Time this version has a considerably more Latin vibe featuring Winwood on a Hammond organ, drummer Walfredo Reyes Jr., and guitarist José Piresde Almeida Neto. Congas and timbales flesh out the rhythm.

Koko Taylor 1928 - 2009

2009-06-08T09:37:00.000-04:00

Koko Taylor is the great female blues singer of her generation. Raw vocal power and blustery swagger.”
– Rolling Stone

Koko Taylor is a national treasure…she packs firepower a lot of youngsters only wish they had.
– Chicago Tribune

Koko Taylor is the blues…a growling goddess of down-and-dirty. Sheer, unstoppable shouting power, full steam ahead and damn the torpedoes. There are many kings of the blues but only one queen. Koko’s voice is capable of pinning a listener to the back wall.
– Boston Globe

Raucous, gritty, good-time blues…Taylor belts out blues in a gravel voice with ferocious intensity. Foot-stomping music that’ rough, raw and wonderfully upbeat.
-- People

Chicago’s best blues singer…she has fire in her lungs.
--Chicago Sun-Times

Koko Taylor: I Don't Care Who Knows

Koko Taylor: Fire

Koko Taylor: Fish In Dirty Water

Koko Taylor: Get It While You Can

Check out Koko's legacy

Remembering Koko Taylor

2009-06-07T20:27:00.001-04:00

Full post to come...Koko's classic Wang Dang Doodle.

The Fabulous Baby Huey & The Babysitters

2009-05-30T10:35:00.001-04:00

400 pound Chicago soul man Baby Huey never quite expanded his popularity beyond his hometown but that does not diminish his power and undeniable soulfulness. Baby Huey's debut on Curtis Mayfield's Curtom label featured many Mayfield compositions. Unfortunately Huey didn't live to see its release after suffering a drug related heart attack in 1970. The Babysitters would carry on with a teen aged Chaka Kahn as the lone Baby Huey LP became the stuff of legend. Here are just a couple tracks from that classic album.

Baby Huey & The Babysitters: Mighty Mighty Children

Here's a first hand account of how great Baby Huey was as a live act.

Baby Huey & The Babysitters: Mama Get Yourself Together

I dare you to sit still with this one.

Soul Power Trailer....Hell Yeah!

2009-05-27T11:20:00.007-04:00

Thank a Vet

2009-05-25T11:36:00.000-04:00

Tiny Watkins: Soldier's Sad Story

get it on the compilation Excello Story : Vol. 4-1961-75.

Funkadelic: Foot Soldiers (Star-Spangled Funky)

get it on 1979's Uncle Jam Wants You.

Steel Pulse: Soldiers (live)

get it on1992's Rastafari Centennial Live In Paris.

Check Out Mayer Hawthorne

2009-05-18T08:32:00.004-04:00

Sounds pretty cool...or is this guy a poser? What do you think?

Let's Strut

2009-05-14T08:46:00.002-04:00

The Nite-Liters: Afro Strut

It's hard not to strut to this 1971 jam by Harvey Fuqua & Tony Churchill's Nite-Liters. Dig the solid wah wah. Get it on Flying Funk.

Mandrill: Fat City Strut

Straight forward strut takes a sudden turn towards Brooklyn salsa. Fine Latin soul and back to funk again. Get it on 1973's Just Outside of Town.

Kashmere Stage Band: Super Strut Pt.1 (Kenny Dope Remix)

Powerful horns launch this strut. A bit Vegas but funky nonetheless. Get this remix on 2007's Now-Again Re:Sounds Vol. 1.

The Meters: Cissy Strut

It's a classic. You all know it but I had to include the greatest strut of them all. Get it on The Meters' 1969 debut.

Mama's Got a Brand New Bag

2009-05-10T10:19:00.005-04:00

The Sweet Vandals: Mama's Got A Brand New Bag

JB cover from Spanish retro funk band The Sweet Vandals. Get it on their self titled 2007 debut.

Queen Esther Marrow: Mama

Heart wrenching soul from the late '60's. Get it on Flying Funk.

Etta James: Tell Mama

We all know it but it never gets old. The 1968 Chess classic. Get Tell Mama.

Big Ups to Big Youth

2009-05-08T09:38:00.009-04:00

It's getting warmer here at Buffalo West so my tastes take their yearly turn towards reggae. And who better than legendary 70's dance hall DJ Big Youth to get you ready for the weekend. Three gems today folks. Respect.

Big Youth: S.90 Skank

Easy does it on this dub. Just smile and nod. Get it on The History of Jamaican Music.

Big Youth: Ride On

A little Al Green at the top. Relentless. Get it on Soul Jazz records' Jamaica Funk.

Big Youth: Dread In Babylon

A killer live track. Get it on the Trojan Roots Box.

Back In the Saddle Again...

2009-05-06T11:04:00.005-04:00

Sorry for that hiatus folks. I hope you're still out there. I just needed a bit of a break. After a trip to New Orleans for Jazzfest and a dynamite Sharon Jones show at the House of Blues I'm re-energized. I have but one song today but it's a killer.
"Tenor saxophonist Cedric "Im" Brooks is one of Jamaica's most adventuresome musicians. Born in 1943 in Kingston, Brooks has the heart of a bop jazzman beating to a reggae rhythm, and his experiments with ancient rasta nyahbinghi drum patterns has led him to fuse elements of calypso, rhumba, jazz, Afro-beat, funk, Latin, and soul into a totally unique Sun Ra-like synthesis." This unique blend is exemplified on the track Blackness Of Darkness. It starts straight ahead jazz but it transforms midway and suddenly goes full force reggae. Very cool stuff and the perfect song for the changing season. You can find this late '70's track on the Strut Records 2008 compilation Calypsoul 70. Enjoy!

Cedric Im Brooks: Blackness Of Darkness

We'll be back!!!!

2009-03-27T10:01:00.000-04:00

Stay Tuned...

Lick This!

2009-01-30T09:03:00.000-05:00

Bob Marley & The Wailers: Lick Samba

A sound system favorite from 1971, Bob captures the sound of the Caribbean with this good time classic. The punchy organ drives the rhythm home. This particular mix can be found on the amazing Songs of Freedom compilation.

James Brown: Licking Stick-Licking Stick

JB Funk times 100 from 1969. I love those clicking drums and the guitar is absolutely hypnotizing. Get it this cut on Star Time.

Beastie Boys: Finger Lickin' Good

The Beasties at the height of their powers. Get it on 1992's Check Your Head.

Orchestre Poly-Rythmo de Cotonou Dahomey

2009-01-15T11:32:00.002-05:00

Dig This!

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T08:21:00.004-05:00

Here's a heartfelt happy new year to all of you from Buffalo West. All the best for 2009 and thank you for your support throughout the past year. Take it Lightnin'!

Lightnin' Hopkins: Happy New Year

Soulful Christmas

2008-12-23T10:25:00.005-05:00

The standards are great but just because it's the holidays doesn't mean we don't need soul. Here are handful with soul to sprinkle on your egg nog. Good God!

James Brown: Soulful Christmas

The Godfather's holiday thank you to his fans.

Donny Hathaway: This Christmas

I guess you could call this a classic by now. It's certainly one of my favorites and you won't find a voice much smoother than the great Mr. Hathaway. From the 1971 self titled release.

Ike & Tina Turner: Merry Christmas Baby

We lost Ike Turner this year and as tribute I give you one of the toughest, in-your-face versions of this Baxter-Moore classic (see previous post). That beat is relentless and Tina really belts it out.

John Legend & Stephen Colbert: Nutmeg

I don't know how many of you saw the Stephen Colbert Christmas Special, but I'm still laughing! A definite highlight was John Legend's Al Greenesque jam to his favorite spice.

A Charlie Brown Christmas

2008-12-16T09:40:00.001-05:00

How many blues artists remained at the absolute top of their game after more than a half-century of performing? One immediately leaps to mind: Charles Brown. His incredible piano skills and laid-back vocal delivery remained every bit as mesmerizing at the end of his life as they were way back in 1945, when his groundbreaking waxing of "Drifting Blues" invented an entirely new blues genre for sophisticated postwar revelers: an ultra-mellow, jazz-inflected sound perfect for sipping a late-night libation in some hip after-hours joint. Two of Brown's biggest hits happened to be Christmas songs and they are the first in our series holiday posts. Pour some egg nog, kick back and enjoy!

Charles Brown: Merry Christmas Baby

Composed by Lou Baxter and Johnny Moore, this tune has grown to be a standard at Christmas time and nobody delivers it better than Charles Brown.

Charles Brown: Please Come Home for Christmas

This Brown penned 1960 classic will always be one of my favorites. You can find both of these tracks here.

Recession Blues

2008-12-11T10:09:00.000-05:00

B.B. King: Recession Blues

B.B. King: Inflation Blues

Get 'em both on the definitive B.B. collection The King of the Blues.

Lennon Lives

2008-12-08T10:38:00.008-05:00

It's hard to comprehend that 28 years have passed since the tragic killing of John Lennon. His music and the music of The Beatles are still very much alive and with next year's eventual release of the remastered albums and digital release there are no signs of slowing. Here are a few soulful covers as tribute to my favorite songwriter.

Joe Bataan: This Boy

Arguably one of Lennon-McCartney's first "great" songs cooly delivered by the amazing Joe Bataan. That bridge gets me every time. Get it on Bataan's 1972 release Sweet Soul

Jackie Robinson: In My Life

This is a tune I often turn to to remind me of John Lennon's genius. It never fails to move me and Jackie Robinson's sweet vocals captures the nostalgia of the lyrics. You can find this track on Trojan's uneven Beatles Tribute Box Set.

Donny Hathaway: Jealous Guy

A touching rendition of one of John Lennon's greatest solo tunes. Get it on Donny Hathaway's 1972 Live release or also on fellow blogger Oliver Wang's Soul Sides, Vol 1 compilation.

BWM Presents: The Babymaker

2008-12-04T08:36:00.004-05:00

Peace for the Holidays

2008-12-03T09:14:00.003-05:00

Curtis Mayfield: We Got to Have Peace

Idealistic anthems were the norm in 1971, but leave it to Curtis to make it something special. Get it on Roots.

Lonnie Liston Smith & The Cosmic Echoes: A Chance For Peace

Smooth, funky soul-jazz with a message. Get it on 1975's Visions of a New World.

Be Thankful

2008-11-27T11:04:00.003-05:00

The Wailers: Thank You Lord

A classic bit of soul ska from Bob & the boys' early days. Find it on many compilations...I recommend the great Bob Marley box set Songs of Freedom.

Sly & The Family Stone: Thankful N' Thoughtful

Subtle funkiness from the legendary Sly Stone. Get it on 1973's Fresh.

Love: Be Thankful For What You Got

One of my all time favorites. Most well known by it's composer William DeVaughan, this version moves forward at a brisk pace but still manages to keep the laid back groove. Get it on 1974's Reel to Real.

BONUS
One Blood: Be Thankful For What You Got

Get it on Hustle! Reggae Disco

Ain't No Sunshine

2008-11-24T10:27:00.002-05:00

Bill Withers: Ain't No Sunshine

The original and arguably the most powerful, Bill Withers' 1971 classic still has the ability to send shivers. Stark and solitary the strings absolutely drip off the record. Here is proof that sometimes the simplest songs can be the most moving. Get it on Just As I Am.

Freddie King: Ain't No Sunshine

Freddie King is too often overlooked in my opinion. Super funky, a killer guitarist and a monster vocalist Mr. King makes you weep with his cover. The guitar break at 1:55 is as bad ass as anything you'll ever hear. Get it on 1972's Texas Cannonball.

Ken Boothe: Ain't No Sunshine

The bright reggae beat doesn't make this tune any less heartbreaking thanks to Ken Boothe pain fueled vocals. There's even a tinge of anger in his voice creating an altogether new interpretation of our hurt hero. Find this track on the stellar 2001 compilation Darker Than Blue: Soul from Jamdown (1973-198o)

Buddy Guy: Ain't No Sunshine

Say what you will about Buddy Guy's output in recent years but you cannot fault his choice of covers especially on 2005's Bring 'Em In. Buddy's vocals are soulful as always and his punctuating guitar stabs are gold. Even Tracy Chapman manages some real emotion on her 'I know, I know, I knows'.

Stryke: Ain't No Sunshine

The jury's still out on this ambient cover. Dub rhythms make it a perfect late night track, but have we gone too far from the soul of the man? I'm not feeling his pain...I'm actually quite relaxed! Oh well, it sounds nice! Get it on the Frequent Flyer: Kingston Jamaica compilation.

Kashmere Stage Band: Ain't No Sunshine (J. Rocc Remix)

Even further removed this funky remix definitely has the groove. Get it on Now Again Re:Sounds Vol. 1

Soothe Me

2008-11-20T09:19:00.000-05:00

Here's a quick one....my favorite by the amazing Sam & Dave.

Cadillac Records

2008-11-14T08:42:00.001-05:00

Let's hope this is decent....

Dig The Counts

2008-11-10T10:00:00.001-05:00

Detroit band The Counts (also known as The Fabulous Counts) are one of too many overlooked R&B acts that were lost in the sea of 70's soul music. Their output was spotty at best but they did create some real fine funky moments. Here are a few tracks from there stellar 1971 debut What's Up Front That Counts. Thanks to Peter McG for turning me on to this LP.

The Counts: What's Up Front That Counts

A great intro. What a way to introduce this band to the world. Once that organ hits it's all over.

The Counts: Rhythm Changes

Deep funk here. A little Bar-Kays a little Ohio Players. I love the horn break at 1:24. Solid.

The Counts: Why Not Start All Over Again

A bit smoother on this track with a jazzy vibe and some of the best vocals on the entire album.

Changes

2008-11-05T10:17:00.002-05:00

Cymande: Changes

Taken from 1974's Promised Heights this track at once puts the listener at ease. Let the flutes wash over you.

Buddy Miles: Them Changes

On a much different track we have this Buddy Miles classic. Featuring the punctuating Memphis Horns Buddy's vocals rock with a raw energy. Get it on 1970's Them Changes.

Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble: Change It

I can't believe I've never posted any SRV. Taken from 1985's Soul to Soul, Change It features Stevie's usual brilliance on guitar along with some of his most soulful vocals. Recorded at a time when he had to make some serious changes in his lifestyle or else die, Stevie was at a low point physically but he still delivers big time on this track.

Farewell Dee Dee

2008-10-20T11:41:00.004-04:00

SOUTH ORANGE, N.J. – Dee Dee Warwick, a soul singer who won recognition for both her solo work and her performances with her older sister Dionne Warwick, has died. She was 63.

Warwick died Saturday at a nursing home in Essex County, said Kevin Sasaki, a family spokesman. She had been in failing health in recent months, he said, and her sister was with her when she died.

Warwick had several hits on the soul and R&B charts in the 1960s and 70s, including "Foolish Fool," "She Didn't Know (She Kept on Talking)" and a version of "I'm Gonna Make You Love Me" that was later covered by Diana Ross and The Supremes.

Warwick also was a two-time Grammy Award nominee and sang backup for Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett and others before starting her solo career.

Warwick was the niece of gospel singer Cissy Houston and a cousin of Whitney Houston.

Born in Newark, Warwick was a teenager when she began singing with her older sister in the late 1950s. The two performed as The Gospelaires and also collaborated and sang with the Drinkard Singers, a long-running gospel group that also featured some of the Warwicks' aunts and uncles and was managed by their mother.

Most recently, Warwick provided background vocals for her sister's recent one-woman autobiographical show, "My Music & Me," which played to sold-out crowds in Europe this year. She also performed on the title song from Dionne Warwick's gospel album, "Why We Sing," released January 2008.

Dee Dee Warwick: She Didn't Know (She Kept on Talking)

Houston Town

2008-09-14T11:20:00.003-04:00

Thoughts and prayers to our friends and family in Houston.

Ted Taylor: Houston Town

From 1971's Taylor Made

Riding High

2008-09-11T10:24:00.004-04:00

Faze-O: Riding High

Groovy, funky, jazzy. Here's the best jam and only hit from Chicago quintet Faze-O. It's a great late night groove. Get it on 1977's Riding High.

Run Run Run

2008-08-22T13:30:00.001-04:00

I know I'm a little late with this post but I have to admit I still have Olympic fever. Maybe it's from lack of sleep. The underwhelming performance of the US track team is kind of upsetting but hey at least the Jamaicans are on fire. As a reggae fan I take solace in that and you gotta love Usain Bolt! And now I present some track inspired tracks just for you. Take your mark...RUN!!!!

Isaac Hayes: Run Fay Run

I guess I'm still in Issac Hayes remembrance mode, but here's another brilliant piece by the master. You can find this along with a ton of funky stuff on the 1974 Tough Guys soundtrack repackaged with Truck Turner.

Delroy Wilson: Run Run

Gotta throw in some reggae for Usain. These lyrics are rather ominous but someone chasing you sure makes you run faster! Recorded for Studio One in the early 70's you can find it here.

Roy Ayers: Running Away (12" Version)

You all know by now that I'm very into Roy Ayers. Here's one of his most well known dance tracks from 1977. Doobie Doo, Run Run Run! I dare you to sit still for this one. Get it here.

Never Can Say Goodbye

2008-08-10T18:19:00.003-04:00

Isaac Hayes: Never Can Say Goodbye

The World's Most Important 6-sec Drum Loop

2008-07-18T10:50:00.001-04:00

This fascinating, brilliant 20-minute video narrates the history of the "Amen Break," a six-second drum sample from the b-side of a chart-topping single from 1969. This sample was used extensively in early hip hop and sample-based music, and became the basis for drum-and-bass and jungle music -- a six-second clip that spawned several entire subcultures. Nate Harrison's 2004 video is a meditation on the ownership of culture, the nature of art and creativity, and the history of a remarkable music clip.

Get Freaky!

2008-07-01T02:42:00.005-04:00

Every once in a while you got to get a little freaky....LET'S FREAK OUT!!!!!

Roy Ayers Ubiquity: Freaky Deaky

Here's a piece of disco funk freak from jazzer Roy Ayers. This song is made to boogie and it does just that. Find it on 1978's Let's Do It or the more readily available Evolution: The Polydor Anthology.

Betty Davis: He Was a Big Freak

If you want to know what 'gettin' freaky' is all about check out the cover to Betty Davis' 1974 album They Say I'm Different. Just listen to these lyrics and let your mind wander.

Funkadelic: Freak of the Week

I've really been listening to a lot of Funkadelic lately and I'll have to give Mr. Clinton and crew a dedicated post very soon. Funkadelic is dirty, scary, funny, heavy and always freaky. I think some of their heavier tunes are what Jimi Hendrix might have been up to had he lived through the 70's. Here's some groovy lowriding disco from 1979's Uncle Jam Wants You.

You Are The Star

2008-06-17T09:26:00.000-04:00

Yam Who?: Star of the Story

Just lean back and enjoy this one. Get it here.

Prince Turns 50

2008-06-07T10:09:00.007-04:00

I know he won't be happy for this post and I'm risking lawsuits and years of litigation, but out of love and respect I have to honor Prince on his 50th birthday. I've been a prince fan for more than 2/3 of my life and in all those years he has never failed to deliver. Even at his worst he is still the funkiest S.O.B. in the room. If you've never seen him live... please do and sit as close as possible (you won't be sitting). Summing up over 30 years of making music is no easy task especially with the sheer output of Prince so here are just a few of my personal favorites from different periods of the man's music. Enjoy...and please don't sue!

Prince: Crazy You

Here's a lazy almost Jobim style jam from Prince's first album 1978's For You. The 20 year old is still finding his voice on this album, but this track really shows signs of something special.

Prince: The Ballad of Dorothy Parker

I just had to post this. My favorite song on my favorite Prince album, 1987's double LP Sign 'O' The Times. Great story telling and killer vocals. I will never grow tired of this track.

Prince: Chelsea Rodgers

I've posted this song before, but I have to post it again. It's the hottest tune on his last album by a mile. Last year's Planet Earth shows Prince can still throw down better than the rest. He is a music making machine and here's hoping for many more years of monsters.

Bo Knows Diddley

2008-06-04T10:10:00.000-04:00

Bo Diddley: Roadrunner

Bo Diddley: Crackin' Up

Bo Diddley: Bring It To Jerome

Go get some Bo!

Rock 'n roll legend Bo Diddley dies in Florida

2008-06-03T10:54:00.001-04:00

MIAMI (Reuters) - Rock 'n' roll pioneer Bo Diddley, who banged out hit songs powered by the relentless "Bo Diddley beat" that influenced rockers from Buddy Holly to U2, died on Monday at the age of 79.
Diddley died of heart failure at his home in Archer, Florida, his management agency, Talent Consultants International, said in a statement.
"One of the founding fathers of rock 'n' roll has left the building he helped construct," the statement said.
Diddley suffered a stroke during a concert in Iowa in May 2007 and was hospitalized in Omaha, Nebraska. In August 2007 he had a heart attack in Florida.
Garry Mitchell, a grandson of Diddley and one of more than 35 family members at the musician's home when he died at about 1:45 a.m. EDT (0545 GMT), said his death was not unexpected.
"There was a gospel song that was sang and he said 'wow' with a thumbs up," Mitchell told Reuters, when asked to describe the scene at Diddley's deathbed.
"The song was 'Walk Around Heaven' and in his last words he stated that he was going to heaven."
In a career spanning more than five decades, Diddley composed a substantial body of rock classics, including "Who Do You Love," "Bo Diddley," "Bo Diddley's a Gunslinger," "Before You Accuse Me," "Mona," "I'm a Man" and "Pretty Thing."
He cranked them out on a signature rectangular guitar, setting many of them to rumba-like rhythm of his "Bo Diddley beat" that gave rock 'n' roll a powerful rhythmic foundation.
Along with such contemporaries as Chuck Berry and Little Richard, he was among a pioneering group of black recording artists who crossed the American racial divide with music that appealed to white audiences and was emulated by white performers.
Although Diddley recorded relatively few chart-topping hits, his seminal role in the formative years of rock music was recognized by his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 and with a Grammy lifetime achievement award in 1998.
Born Ellas Bates in 1928 in McComb, Mississippi, he took the last name McDaniel from his adoptive mother, and played classical violin as a boy.
'FIRST DUDE OUT THERE'
He was given the nickname Bo Diddley as a teenager after moving to Chicago, where he started playing music on street corners in the 1940s.
Inspired by blues musician John Lee Hooker's classic "Boogie Chillen," Diddley used his violin skills to craft a guitar sound that laid the basis for the funk music of the 1960s.
He found fame in the mid-1950s with his signature song "Bo Diddley." Even among the first wave of rock music, the song stood out with its tremolo guitar, maracas and trademark beat.
Diddley's unique guitar playing and rhythm influenced generations of rockers from Elvis Presley to Bon Jovi. Keith Richards and Ron Wood of the Rolling Stones and Richie Sambora of Bon Jovi made guest appearances on his records and Diddley played with the likes of The Clash and The Grateful Dead.
Arguably the greatest mainstream success of a song with the Bo Diddley beat was Buddy Holly's "Not Fade Away," recorded in the 1950s and which saw renewed success when it was covered by the Rolling Stones in the 1960s.
In an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald in March 2007, Diddley insisted he was the real father of rock, saying: "Little Richard came two or three years later, along with Elvis Presley. In other words, I was the first dude out there."
Diddley frequently complained about not being paid royalties during his peak years, telling The New York Times, "Have I been ripped off? ... You bet I've been ripped off."
In 1955 Diddley appeared on "The Ed Sullivan Show" and was promptly banned from further appearances because he defied Sullivan's instructions to sing a cover song and instead performed his own hit "Bo Diddley."
Diddley had harsh words for the direction black music had taken in recent years, telling Reuters that "gangsta" rap made his blood boil.
"I hate it. I call it rap-crap," Diddley said in a 1996 interview. "I can't seem to get my records played but they'll play all this garbage."
Diddley liked to help out in his local community in Florida. A father of five, he said he was deeply concerned about the direction of children in American society.
He worked with his local police department to warn teenagers about the dangers of drugs and gang violence.
Diddley was still touring and making records in recent years, not least because he said he needed the money.
His agency said public and private services are planned for this weekend.

The Wailing Souls

2008-06-02T11:19:00.001-04:00

The consummate roots band, the Wailing Souls may never have gained the international reputation of their compatriots, at least not at the height of the genre's popularity, but they did outlive most of them. Their very survival has been their greatest strength, that and their ability to diversify over time. Today they are one of the most popular live acts around and they continue to release provocative and popular albums. After several lineup changes The Wailing Souls consist today of Lloyd "Bread" McDonald and Winston "Pipe" Mathews and have recorded for every major producer in the reggae world. Here are a couple of their biggest hits for you to chew on.

The Wailing Souls: Bredda Gravalicious

Self produced on their Massive label this tune was a smash in 1977. This track is easy to find on all of the Souls' 'best of' compilations. Check out this one.

The Wailing Souls: Old Broom

Produced by Sly & Robbie this track has a lazy gate that is irresistible. Perfect for any summer afternoon. Check out Sly & Robbie Present Taxi.

Irie Summer Mix

2008-05-24T23:50:00.055-04:00

I feel really bad about the serious lack of posts this past month but work has been pretty overwhelming. To make it up to you and to celebrate the start of summer I present a yet unnamed reggae mix for your listening pleasure. It's the perfect soundtrack for any outdoor activity. If you have any ideas for a setlist name please submit as a comment and maybe I'll award the winning entry with a special prize! Enjoy!

Irie 2008
Download

1. The Congos: Fisherman
2. Smith And Mighty: B Line Fi Blow
3. Thievery Corporation: Richest Man In Babylon (G-Corp. Remix)
4. Delroy Wilson: Better Must Come
5. Two Culture Clash: Save Me
6. Badmarsh & Shri: Signs (Dubplate mix)
7. Barrington Levy: Here I come (Dubplate version)
8. Foxy Brown: Oh yeah
9. Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley: Catch A Fire
10. Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley: Harder (Interlude)
11. Mutabaruka & The Observers: Dis Peom Burns Babylon
12. Thievery Corporation: The Outernationalist
13. Cutty Ranks: The Stopper (Richard Dorfmeister's Full Moon 6 Live dub)
14. Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings: How Long Do I Have To Wait For You? (Ticklah Remix)
15. Bob Marley & The Wailers: Soul Rebel Remix
16. DJ Spooky & Rob Swift: Creation Rebel

Hot Buttered Soul

2008-04-30T10:10:00.009-04:00

James Brown: Mother Popcorn

Here's the mother of all popcorn songs. Recorded in 1969 the popping drum beat makes the title which came from the popular dance all too clear. Bandleader and frequent songwriting partner, Alfred "Pee Wee" Ellis, came up with the rhythm for Mother Popcorn while waiting in line at a Cincinnati music store. This is a true soul classic. Go get Star Time.

Preston Love: Cissy Popcorn

Also recorded in 1969, Cissy Popcorn perfectly blends the JB groove with a Cissy Strut lope. Get this track on SuperFunk3.

The RDM Band: Butter That Popcorn

The pace gets wild on this rare jam. I have to be honest I don't know much about this band so I would appreciate some enlightenment. I found the track on the Josh Davis & Keb Darge compilation Funk Spectrum: Real Funk for Real People.

Remembering Al Wilson

2008-04-23T11:36:00.000-04:00

FONTANA, Calif. - Al Wilson, the soul singer and songwriter who had a number of 1970s hits including "Show and Tell," has died. He was 68.
Wilson died Monday of kidney failure at Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Fontana, according to his son, Tony Wilson of Yucaipa.
"He was always singing," his son said. "He would call me in the middle of the night with a new song that he had written."
Wilson was born on June 19, 1939, in Meridian, Miss. He sang in the church choir as a boy and had his own spiritual singing quartet. His family moved to San Bernardino in 1958 and he found work as a mail carrier, office clerk and janitor.
He toured for four years with the group Johnny "Legs" Harris and the Statesmen before joining the Navy. Following a two-year stint, he moved to Los Angeles and played with the Jewels and their successor group, the Rollers. A drummer, he also worked with the instrumental group the Souls.
In 1966, he was spotted by manager Marc Gordon, who introduced him to singer Johnny Rivers, who signed him to his Soul City label. Wilson's first single, "The Snake" in 1968, was a hit and was followed by "Do What You Gotta Do."
"Show and Tell" was released in 1973 and the next year was No. 1 on the Billboard Top 100 chart.
Wilson charted with several other 1970s singles, including "La La Peace Song," "I've Got a Feeling (We'll Be Seeing Each Other Again)" and "Count the Days."
In later years he continued to tour clubs in Los Angeles and elsewhere

Al Wilson: Show & Tell

Here's the big hit we all know, but that doesn't make it any less great. First recorded by Johnny Mathis, Wilson's is the definitive version. Find it on all his greatest hit compilations.

Al Wilson: Somebody To Love

I absolutely love Wilson's rocking voice on this track taken from 1973's Weighing In. The backing vocals really send it home.

Just The Tax Ma'am

2008-04-15T11:11:00.006-04:00

Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings: What If We All Stop Paying Taxes?

A real cooker from the great Sharon Jones. Find it on Peter Young's Soul Cellar, a solid compilation on the Metro label.

New Spring Playlist Launched

2008-04-06T12:15:00.001-04:00

Spring has sprung and a new FineTune playlist has been launched just to the right of this post. I hope it helps you while cleaning up the yard and taking down those storm windows. We've made it through another winter and it's time to celebrate! Enjoy!=======>========>========>

Coffy Is Still The Color

2008-04-04T12:30:00.006-04:00

I watched Coffy on IFC last night and I felt the urge to repost this with some new tracks....

A blaxploitation masterpiece on par with Curtis Mayfield's Superfly and Isaac Hayes' Shaft, Roy Ayers' soundtrack for the 1973 Pam Grier vehicle Coffy remains one of the most intriguing and evocative film scores of its era or any other. Ayers' signature vibes create atmospheres and textures quite distinct from your average blaxploitation effort, embracing both heavy, tripped-out funk and vividly nuanced soul-jazz . The vocal numbers are no less impressive, in particular the rapturous opening cut, Coffy Is the Color. Richly cinematic grooves, as inventive and cohesive as any of Ayers' vintage Ubiquity LPs. Check It Out!

Roy Ayers: King's Last Ride

Roy Ayers: Escape

Roy Ayers: Exotic Dance

A Honey of a Video

2008-02-19T09:36:00.002-05:00

Check out Badu's latest. There are a ton of tributes here. See if you can identify them all....

Freedom Is Just Around The Corner

2008-02-17T11:49:00.006-05:00

Linda Tillery: Freedom Time

The spiritual opening does not prepare you for the funk that is about to come. Uplifting lyrics look to a positive future attainable only with hard work and sacrifice. This track opens the killer 2002 compilation from Luv N' Haight California Soul.

James Carr: Freedom Train

Classic soul horns along with a gospel organ lay down the foundation on this 1969 single from the troubled James Carr. Pick up The Complete Goldwax Singles for this track along with 27 other gems.

The Isley Brothers: Freedom

This infectious ode to independence is hammered home by a piercing horn section. Find it on The Isley's 1970 release Get Into Something, an album that's worth checking out for the cover art alone.

Cameroon Soul

2008-02-07T09:59:00.002-05:00

Manu Dibango: Ceddo End Title

Here's a track that came on my radio last night while driving through a vicious ice storm and I just had to share it. Originally taken from Musique Du Film Ceddo the soundtrack from the 1976 Senegalese film Ceddo it is performed by Cameroon's most famous jazz artist Manu Dibango. The other worldly marimba along with the funky guitar create a groove that cannot be denied. If your lucky enough to find the original soundtrack please share, otherwise you can find this track on the tremendous Luaka Bop compilation Love's a Real Thing.

The Soul of Good Fellas Pt. 2

2008-01-30T12:30:00.001-05:00

The Crystals: Then He Kissed Me

Here's the monster hit from 1963 from one of the best known and most loved of all the girl groups. Produced by Phil Spector, it reached number 2 on the UK charts becoming one of the most popular American tunes in England.

The Marvelettes: Playboy

This early 60's track was a moderate hit for this Motown act who were still riding the crest of their smash Please Mr. Postman.

The Chantels: Look In My Eyes

One of the very first girl groups, the Chantels are best-known for their 1957 hit Maybe on End Records. In 1961, the Chantels signed with Carlton Records, where they had a minor hit with Look in My Eyes. Carlton dropped the group the following year.

The Soul of Good Fellas Pt. 1

2008-01-28T15:01:00.001-05:00

First of all let me apologize for the rather long break since my last post. A couple of illnesses and a ton of work forced me to put the blog on the back burner, but as we approach our one year anniversary at Buffalo West Music I hope to get back into the swing of things. So here we go.

Along with a passion for music, I also have a passion for movies and when music and movies come together to successfully set moods, define characters and further storytelling it can truly be a magical thing. Now I'm not talking about Moulin Rouge or (ugh) Dreamgirls, I'm talking Superfly, Reservoir Dogs, Pulp Fiction, The Big Lebowski, Rushmore and the like. But to me the master of utilizing popular music in a film is Martin Scorsese starting with Mean Streets but perfected with Good Fellas. The available soundtrack covers a mere fraction of the nearly fifty tracks featured in the film ranging from doo wop to opera to blues to rock. But this is a soul blog so here are a few of the more soulful tracks that will take you right back to each specific scene in the life of Henry Hill...and if you haven't seen Good Fellas than you're not alright, Spider!

The Cleftones: Can't We Be Sweethearts

Five high school buddies from Queens formed the Cleftones i n1955. This single which was released in 1956 on the Gee label never attracted much national attention. The Cleftones reached their peak in 1961 with their version of the standard Heart & Soul but they broke up just three years later.

Otis Williams & The Charms: Hearts Of Stone

This 1954 track released on the Rockin' label was on the top of the R&B charts for nearly 10 weeks.

The Moonglows: Sincerely

This Harvey Fuqua led group were among the most important R&B groups of the 50's. This is displayed all too well on this great 1954 Chess side.

Happy New Year

2008-01-04T08:49:00.001-05:00

Here's a heartfelt although belated happy new year to all of you from Buffalo West. All the best for 2008 and thank you for your support throughout the past year. Take it Lightnin'!

Lightnin' Hopkins: Happy New Year

Christmas in Motown

2007-12-22T16:17:00.001-05:00

Here are a few classics from the heyday at Motown that are a must at your next holiday party.

The Temptations: Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer

Jackson 5: Santa Claus Is Coming to Town

Smokey Robinson & The Miracles: Christmas Everyday

Have a Blue Christmas

2007-12-16T22:16:00.000-05:00

Here are a few more tracks for those who can't make it home for the holidays

John Lee Hooker: Blues for Christmas

A very raw recording by the boogie king from 1960.

Roy Milton: Christmas Time Blues

A 1950 single on the Specialty label

Charles Brown: Please Come Home For Christmas

Everybody knows this track, but it's always been one of my favorites. No Eagles comments please!

Ike Turner Dead at 76

2007-12-13T14:46:00.001-05:00

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Rock 'n' roll pioneer Ike Turner, whose achievements as one of the founding fathers of the genre were overshadowed by ex-wife Tina Turner's claims that he regularly beat her for almost two decades, died on Wednesday at his home near San Diego. He was 76.
His cause of death was not immediately known, said his manager, Scott Hanover.
After years of obscurity, Turner was on a comeback trail of sorts. He won his first Grammy in 35 years this past February for an acclaimed blues album and had been collaborating on musical ideas with producer Danger Mouse, one-half of the pop-soul duo Gnarls Barkley.
The one-time disc jockey arguably invented rock 'n' roll with his 1951 song "Rocket 88," and he enjoyed huge fame in the 1960s and 1970s as the Svengali behind Ike and Tina Turner, a R&B revue that dazzled audiences with high-energy performances of such tunes as "Proud Mary" and "River Deep Mountain High."
But Ike Turner was also a violent man, according to his ex-wife and others including Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards, who said he saw him pistol-whip a fellow musician.
"Ike acted like a goddamned pimp," Richards told Vanity Fair in 1993.
Tina Turner's memoir, "I, Tina," and a 1993 biopic "What's Love Got to Do With It" turned Ike Turner into one of the most notorious villains in the music industry.
The singer said her ex-husband regularly abused and humiliated her for 16 years, and drove her to attempt suicide in 1968. He cracked her ribs, threw hot coffee in her face, burnt her with a cigarette and punched her in the nose so often she had to have surgery, she said.
Ike told a New York news conference in 1993, "I only punched her with my fist once. I have slapped her, and the times where I slapped her were when she was looking sad."
A spokeswoman for Tina Turner, who lives in semi-retirement in Europe, said, "Tina is aware that Ike passed away earlier today. She has not had any contact with him in over 30 years."

Ike & Tina Turner: Nutbush City Limits and Sweet Rhode Island Red both from 1973's Nutbush City Limits and countless Best of compilations.

Tis The Season

2007-12-12T10:47:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year to post some of my favorite Christmas tracks so here are a few to hang on your tree! Fa La La La La!

Clarence Carter: Backdoor Santa

This is one of my favorites from Muscle Shoals great Clarence Carter. This funky twist on the idea of the backdoor man was popularly sampled on the Run-DMC track Christmas In Hollis.

The Staples Singers: Who Took The Merry Out of Christmas?

The Staples aren't too happy with the state of Christmas on this track from 1970's We'll Get Over.

James Brown: It's Christmas Time

They say that the suicide rate goes up during the holidays. James Brown tells us why on this 1969 single.

New Classic Video

2007-12-01T12:21:00.000-05:00

I've been fairly busy with (paying) work so here's a great new video from Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings to curb your appetite.

More Potatoes, Please

2007-11-21T10:54:00.001-05:00

I've been stretching my belly all year in preparation for the marathon of gluttony that is Thanksgiving. Starting early with Bloody Marys and copious amounts of tryptophan will ensure I'll be asleep on my brother's couch by 6 pm. Because I'll be too busy chewing, I present my Thanksgiving post today with a spotlight on my favorite side dish. Have a great holiday!

Big Bill Broonzy & Washboard Sam: Diggin' My Potatoes

Ok, I know in the blues world "potatoes" are rarely potatoes but this is just slightly more subtle than "squeeze my lemon 'til the juice runs down my leg". Performed with a classic skiffle style this version can be tracked down on the 1953 Chess release Big Bill Broonzy & Washboard Sam.

James Brown: (Do The) Mashed Potatoes, Pt. 1

Here's and early jam from James Brown in tribute to his favorite dance at the time. Recorded at an outside record label (Dade) in 1959, the track was credited to Nat Kendrick & The Swans to avoid contract issues with Mr. Brown's King label. Local DJ Carlton "King" Coleman is screaming the specials of the day which was overdubbed to hide JB's original vocals although his "Yeah"s are still audible. If you don't have Star Time by now I feel for you.

Maurice Simon And The Pie Men: Sweet Potato Gravy

Another instrumental to help with digestion. Find this on BGP's 2002 compilation SuperFunk3.

Coffy Is The Color

2007-11-16T15:20:00.000-05:00

A blaxploitation masterpiece on par with Curtis Mayfield's Superfly and Isaac Hayes' Shaft, Roy Ayers' soundtrack for the 1973 Pam Grier vehicle Coffy remains one of the most intriguing and evocative film scores of its era or any other. Ayers' signature vibes create atmospheres and textures quite distinct from your average blaxploitation effort, embracing both heavy, tripped-out funk (Brawling Broads) and vividly nuanced soul-jazz (Aragon). The vocal numbers are no less impressive, in particular the rapturous opening cut, Coffy Is the Color. Richly cinematic grooves, as inventive and cohesive as any of Ayers' vintage Ubiquity LPs. Check It Out!

Roy Ayers: Coffy Is The Color

Roy Ayers: Aragon

Roy Ayers: Brawling Broads

Hang On In There

2007-11-07T10:44:00.000-05:00

Mike James Kirkland: Hang On In There

Released in 1972, Kirkland's epic track strongly echoes Marvin Gaye's What's Going On released just a year earlier in both subject and sound. This too often overlooked singer soars on this his second of a masterful pair of releases for MCA. You can find the re release by Luv N' Haight here.

Spooky Time

2007-10-30T13:42:00.000-04:00

Sorry it's been so long since I've posted anything here. I've been having some storage/download issues. The blog's getting more popular than I expected which couldn't make me happier.
Halloween is my favorite times of year and I've got a few tunes to spice up your Halloween parties. Dig these!

Dusty Springfield: Spooky

You gotta love Dusty's cool delivery on this track from 1968. Originally recorded by Classics IV, I think Dusty's version is the definitive one. You can find it on the re-release of Dusty....Definitely.

Nina Simone: I Put A Spell On You

Something about Nina Simone's voice makes this cover completely eerie. While the Screamin' Jay Hawkins original is comical, this version is dead serious. Supposedly The Beatles got the bridge for Michelle after hearing this tune. You can find this track on Nina's great 1965 release I Put A Spell On You.

Frank De Jo Jo: Turn Off The Lights

This cover of the Larry Young's 1975 sexual classic takes on a whole new scary vibe at Halloween. This track is taken from Ubiquity's first Rewind! compilation.

Pledging My Love

2007-10-18T10:17:00.000-04:00

Here's a special happy birthday post for my wife Alisen.

Aretha Franklin: Pledging My Love/The Clock

Here's one Alisen hasn't heard yet. It's a beautiful cover from the brand new Rhino collection entitled....(take a deep breath)...Aretha Franklin Rare & Unreleased Recordings from the Golden Reign of The Queen of Soul. This collection a real treasure and a must own for any fan of soul music.

James Brown: For Once In My Life

One of my wife and my's many favorites taken from JB's 1970 big band explosion Soul On Top. It's tough to beat Stevie's original but Mr. Brown sure comes close.

The Soul of John Lennon

2007-10-09T10:10:00.000-04:00

There is no greater tragedy in music than the loss of John Lennon in 1980. His music and message of peace and love will go on forever as will his remarkable musical legacy. Today would be his 67th birthday and I've selected just a few soulful covers to show the wide influence his music has had. John Lennon is truly missed and the world was a better place with him in it.

Junior Parker: Tomorrow Never Knows

One of John's first "trippy" songs from 1966's Revolver LP is soulfully covered by Memphis bluesman Junior Parker. You can find this haunting rendition on 1971's Love Ain't Nothin But a Business Goin' On.

The Brothers Johnson: Come Together

Here's a somewhat slick, but definitely funky cover of John's Abbey Road composition. You can find this track on The Brothers' 1976 LP Look Out For #1.

Jackie Robinson: In My Life

This is a tune I often turn to to remind me of John Lennon's genius. It never fails to move me and Jackie Robinson sweet vocals captures the nostalgia of the lyrics. You can find this track on Trojan's uneven Beatles Tribute Box Set.

A Rainy Day with Ms. James

2007-10-02T13:28:00.000-04:00

Leela James: When You Love Somebody

Leela James' 2005 debut LP A Change Is Gonna Come is stellar. Singing well beyond her years Leela lets it all out on this heart ripper.

Etta James: Take It To The Limit

This track from 1994's Live From San Francisco proves what a great singer can do. I'll honestly tell anyone who asks "I HATE THE F_in' EAGLES!" but what Etta does here is simply astonishing. She actually makes me rethink my entire anti-Eagle lifestyle....Then I hear Hotel California and I realize I was right!

Everything Is Possible...In Brazil

2007-09-28T18:31:00.000-04:00

Here's a few fairly popular laid back grooves from Brazil to get everyone set for the weekend.

Wilson Simonal: Nem Vem que Não Tem

Though a seminal force in the development of Brazilian popular music, singer Wilson Simonal remains largely unknown outside of South America — the architect of the sound that dominated Brazilian charts during the late '60s, he was the nation's first black pop superstar, but his career never recovered from accusations that he was a police informant. Here's one of the highlights of his career from his 1967 LP Alegria, Alegria!!! but you'll have an easier time finding Gilles Peterson In Brazil from 2004.

Os Mutantes: Baby (1971)

Os Mutantes were one of the most dynamic, talented, radical bands of the psychedelic era — quite an accomplishment during a period when most every rock band spent quality time exploring the outer limits of pop music. Os Mutantes recorded Baby twice, once with some serious psychedelic fuzz guitar and organ in 1968 and this more mellow acoustic version from 1971 featuring Rita Lee on vocals. Find it originally on the LP Jardim Eletrico or more likely on the Luaka Bop release Everything Is Possible: The Best of Os Mutantes.

Raul Seixas: Metamorfose Ambulante

Raul Seixas was a fundamental rocker in Brazil. I have to admit I don't know too much about this recording but you can find it on many Brazilian compilations. I strongly recommend the City of God soundtrack from 2003. By the way the movie is great as well!

Brother Ray

2007-09-23T12:37:00.000-04:00

It was never my intention just to celebrate birthdays on this blog, but they've been coming fast and furious these past few weeks and I cannot ignore the fact that the great Ray Charles was born on this day in 1930. I don't think I need to go into the importance of Brother Ray. Anyone who frequents this blog knows why he's great through his nearly 50 years of recording and we've all seen the movie. His demand for perfection in the studio resulted in some of the greatest recordings of the last century. On a personal note I don't think there is another male voice in all of music that can stir emotion in me quite like Ray. I also tend to agree with his philosophy on labeling music just two ways : good and bad. Hell, I even named my dog Ray Charles! So enough of my yakkin', here's a few funkier selections from Ray that you may or may not have heard. Here's to The Genius.

Ray Charles: Living For The City

This groove is arguably deeper than Stevie's original. Released as a single in 1975, you can find this track on The 1997 Ray Charles box set Genius & Soul: The 50th Anniversary Collection.

Ray Charles: The Jealous Kind

You may be familiar with Joe Cocker's rendition of this Robert Guidry tune, but I think Ray really nails it. Released on his out of print 1977 LP True to Life. The album that includes an array covers from Johnny Nash to Lennon/McCartney to Gershwin.

Aretha Franklin & Ray Charles: Spirit In The Dark (reprise)

This one's a real treat also found on Genius & Soul. An outtake from Aretha Franklin's legendary show at the Fillmore in 1971. Even though he's not too concerned with the lyrics at the start their chemistry is undeniable as Ray takes over offering the hippie crowd a lesson in soul their sure not to forget. "I CAN FEEL IT!!!"

The Soul of a Man

2007-09-16T11:14:00.000-04:00

While known the world over as the undisputed King of the Blues, B.B. King at his best bears his soul with his underrated vocals and deep lyrics. At the same time his guitar Lucille can rip out your heart with a single note. Always a gentleman with an incredible life story (I strongly recommend Blues All around Me: The Autobiography of B. B. King ), B.B. is a national treasure not to be overlooked. Born on this day in 1925, I give you a few soulful classics from the ever humble King.

B.B. King: Hummingbird

Here's Bee's soulful rendition of a Leon Russell staple. Heartfelt vocals and searing fret work lead up to a triumphant gospel choir. Find this track on one of B.B.'s best, 1970's Indianola Mississippi Seeds.

B.B. King: Ghetto Woman

Eager to repeat the success of his crossover hit The Thrill Is Gone, B.B. seemed to try the same formula for several years to no avail. One result was this moving, though string heavy track co written with Dave Clark from the 1971 In London LP.

B.B. King: I Like To Live The Love

One of my favorite B.B. soul tunes from 1973's To Know You Is To Love You. Backed by the same Philly rhythm section that powered The O'Jays, The Stylistics, & The Spinners B.B. lays a smooth infectious groove.

Happy B-Day Otis!

2007-09-11T10:56:00.000-04:00

Give Me Fever

2007-08-30T11:47:00.000-04:00

·Sharon Cash: Fever
A very groovy and desperate cover of the Eddie Cooley standard from the early 70's. Find it on the Ace compilation Living in the Streets, Vol. 2.

·Horace Andy: Fever
Classic 1970 Studio One track. Find it on many best of's. Why not try 1997's Skylarking

·Jingo: Fever
Relentless Afro Beat from the Last King of Scotland soundtrack.

·Toots & The Maytals: Fever
Toots at his soulful best on the 1976 gem In The Dark.

Keep a Thought for Bo

2007-08-28T18:02:00.000-04:00

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Ailing rock 'n' roll pioneer Bo Diddley suffered a heart attack while undergoing a medical check-up, and is in stable condition in a Florida hospital, his spokeswoman said on Tuesday. The 78-year-old musician, whose distinctive rhythms and guitar style influenced rockers from Buddy Holly to the Rolling Stones and U2, felt unwell during a check-up last Friday at North Florida Regional Medical Center in Gainesville, Fla. He was transferred to the emergency room where he suffered the heart attack, spokeswoman Susan Clary said in a statement.
He underwent surgery so that a stent could be fitted to help blood flow to his heart. He was moved from intensive care to cardiac care on Tuesday morning, Clary said.
Diddley, whose real name is Ellas Bates [actually Ellas Otha Bates McDaniel:BWM], suffered a stroke in May. It left no physical disability, but it impaired his speech and speech recognition, his manager said at the time. In recent years he also lost some toes to diabetes.
Diddley helped lay the foundation for rock 'n' roll in the mid-1950s when he developed a syncopated "hambone" beat -- known as the "Bo Diddley" beat -- that was aped by Holly on "Not Fade Away," the Who on "Magic Bus," George Michael on "Faith" and U2 on "Desire."
He topped the charts in 1955 with the song "Bo Diddley" and went on to enjoy such hits as "Mona" (covered by the Rolling Stones), "Who Do You Love," and "I'm A Man."
He also cut an imposing figure on stage, sporting a pair of thick spectacles and playing a rectangular guitar. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, alongside bluesman Muddy Waters, and soul icons Aretha Franklin and Marvin Gaye. But he never received the same sort of mainstream recognition as his peers, and frequently complained that he never received a royalty check.

·Bo Diddley: Gun Slinger

Black Moses' 65th

2007-08-20T11:14:00.001-04:00

The most difficult part in celebrating Isaac Hayes' 65th birthday is having to pick just 2 or 3 tunes from his vast catalog to share. Isaac's influence on music in the 60's and 70's is unparalleled. The self taught musician started his career at Stax Records as a saxophone player for The Mar-Kays and a piano player for the Stax house band, but Isaac would truly shine as a songwriter. Along with his writing partner David Porter, Isaac Hayes penned over 200 songs for Stax including When Something's Wrong With My Baby, B-A-B-Y, Hold On I'm Coming, and Soul Man. With his 1967 release Presenting Isaac Hayes, he stepped out from the shadows launching his solo career that truly ignited with 1969's Hot Buttered Soul. With his clean shaven head (an oddity in 1967), omnipresent shades and gold chains Isaac became one of the most unique figures in all music. 1971 found Isaac Hayes at his peak winning the Oscar for his theme from Shaft which was a number one hit that year. Hayes never stopped making music and although he's probably more well known to many as Chef on South Park, the music he created is what makes him a legend.

·Isaac Hayes: Do Your Thing (edited version)

This is undeniably one of Isaac's baddest grooves from 1971's Shaft soundtrack. I'm presenting the radio edit but I advise you all to check the album version that clocks in at over 19 minutes long. Right on!

·Isaac Hayes: The Look of Love

I had to try to cram at least one epic love track in here so here's Isaac's rendition of Burt Bacharach's classic from 1970's ...To Be Continued. Sorry about the low bit rate, but at over 11 minutes and limited server space I had few options. I love the jam from 4:30 on.

·Isaac Hayes: Never Can Say Goodbye

It's a cliche to say "when someone sings a song they truly make it their own", but I think that expression was made just for Isaac Hayes. There's never a doubt who's performing this cover of my favorite Jackson 5 hit. Find it on 1971's Black Moses.

Mmmmm...Fresh Tracks

2007-08-14T10:59:00.000-04:00

There's hope for the future after all. Here's a few newly acquired nuggets I've recently been diggin'.

·Lyle Workman: Flashback Party Weekend

I know what you're saying..."who the heck is Lyle Workman?!" Well check out the soundtrack for the eagerly awaited film Superbad. Scoring a movie about two white suburban kids in the style of a Blaxpoltation film is comedy alone. But with the likes of Bootsy Collins, Clyde Stubblefield, Catfish Collins, and Bernie Worrell this is no laughing matter. Add classics from Curtis Mayfield, Rick James, Jean Knight & The Bar-Kays and you've got a rather solid soundtrack that's definitely worth a listen.

·Nicole Willis & The Soul Investigators: If This Ain't Love (I Don't Know What Is)

Here's my new favorite retro soul queen. Do yourself a favor and buy Keep Reachin' Up. Amy Who-house.

·Prince: Chelsea Rodgers

The latest from an old favorite. Planet Earth is certainly not Prince's greatest album, but you can always count on at least one solid funky number. I dare you to sit still on this one.

At The Dark End

2007-08-04T07:47:00.000-04:00

Although James Carr never really became a household name, he is often condsidered to be in the same class as Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin & Sam & Dave when it comes to raw emotion and power in his vocals. His chronic depression became the main obstacle in his career derailing recording sessions as well as numerous comeback attempts. Carr hit his stride in 1966 with his now classic recording of Dark End of the Street. Despite his new found success, Carr couldn't handle the stress of touring where he would frequently wander off on his own. By 1968, his mental state had deteriorated greatly, making even recording sessions a challenge. He was able to complete a second LP, 1968's A Man Needs a Woman, but in Muscle Shoals for his last session for Goldwax Records in 1969, he simply sat at the microphone and stared into space, singing only one song (the Bee Gees' To Love Somebody). Not long afterward, Goldwax went bankrupt. Wary of the singer's instability, Capitol rescinded an offer to buy out his contract, and although Carr signed with Atlantic, he released only one single in 1971. James Carr released just a few more albums over the next 25 years including his 1994 effort Soul Survivor. He was soon after diagnosed with lung cancer to which he succumbed in 2001.

James Carr: Life Turned Her That Way

Released in 1968 on his A Man Needs a Woman LP, this track truly displays James Carr's vocal prowess. The song slowly builds to a masterful crescendo that echoes the Otis Redding classic Try a Little Tenderness.

Ms. Shaw's Soul

2007-07-31T08:27:00.000-04:00

Sorry it's been a while since I've had a chance to post anything, but work's got me fairly busy, so here's another quickie. I've got a couple smooth Marlena Shaw tracks for you to check out. I hope you dig 'em.

Marlena Shaw: Go Away, Little Boy

I've always loved this track. It's got a very laid back, easy way about it. Marlena tries to lay down the law, but caves at the end. Find it on her 1969 Cadet release Spice of Life.

Marlena Shaw: Feel Like Makin' Love

Here's an oozy sultry bit of soul jazz from Marlena's sassy 1974 release Who Is this Bitch, Anyway?

Buffalo West Essentials Pt. I

2007-07-19T11:10:00.000-04:00

I can't believe how time flies. Were almost at August and summer is rapidly coming to an end. Our warm sunny days are numbered in New York and I haven't posted nearly enough Reggae for my taste so here I go. I present 3 tracks in no particular order that I quite simply could not live without. Enjoy.

Althea & Donna: Uptown Top Ranking

This track was the biggest hit for Althea Forest and Donna Reid reaching the top of the U.K. charts in 1978. Although most of their albums remain out of print and extremely hard to find, 2001 saw the reissue of the Uptown Top Ranking full-length on the Caroline label.

Lloyd Charmers: Darker Than Blue

I know I've just recently posted a pair Lloyd Charmers tracks, but I can't help it. I'm hooked on this heartbreaking cover of one of Curtis Mayfield's most powerful compositions. Backed by Third World, Charmers also sings the haunting backing vocals. This is the title track on the Blood & Fire compilation Darker Than Blue: Soul from Jamdown (1973-1980), a must for any music collector.

Steel Pulse: Roller Skates

This tale of a stolen boombox is a standout on Steel Pulse's 1984 release Earth Crisis.

I Ain't Superstitious

2007-07-13T12:02:00.001-04:00

Today's Friday the 13th so here are a couple superstitious track for you superstitious sorts...

Let's be careful out there today!

Howlin' Wolf: I Ain't Superstitious

Taken from the 1971 London Howlin Wolf Sessions featuring Eric Clapton, Ringo Starr, Bill Wyman and Charlie Watts from the Rolling Stones and Steve Winwood. While generally panned by blues purists, this album was one of my first introductions to The Wolf and still one of my favorites.

Sergio Mendes & Brasil '77: Superstition

For most of the second half of the '60s, Sergio Mendes was the top-selling Brazilian artist in the United States, charting huge hit singles and LPs that regularly made the Top Five. Here he is with his 1977 Brasil incarnation performing one of three Stevie Wonder covers found on Vintage '74.

Mother Earth

2007-07-07T11:25:00.001-04:00

Erykah Badu: Today(Earth Song)
Find it on 2001's Red Star Sounds

Memphis Slim: Mother Earth
Find it on the 1961 Chess reissue Memphis Slim

The Soul Children: I Don't Know What This World Is Coming To

Find it on the 1972 Wattstax soundtrack

America The Beautiful

2007-07-04T10:12:00.001-04:00

Ray Charles: America The Beautiful

This bicentennial track makes me forget all the problems we have in this country...at least for a few minutes. I miss Ray.

Pledge Allegiance

2007-07-03T14:52:00.000-04:00

I was trying to come up with some great patriotic tunes to share on our country's birthday, but I couldn't get this funky gem out of my head. Maybe I'll get a couple USA tunes for you tomorrow! All rise.

Funkadelic: Grooveallegiance

This is as funky as it gets from Mr. Clinton and the gang's 1978 release One Nation Under A Groove. Funk Patriotism at it's finest! Mmmmm...that's tasty bass!

The Charmer

2007-06-26T08:30:00.001-04:00

'Lloyd Charmers' career (born Lloyd Tyrell) spans some of the most fertile periods of Jamaica's musical history. From the late-'50s era of Jamaican shuffle R&B and the subsequent ska boom, to the rocksteady and roots reggae of the late '60s and early '70s, Charmers made valuable contributions not only as a vocalist, but as a session musician and producer, as well. Unfortunately, not much is known about Charmers' whereabouts after his successful stint as a producer in the first half of the '70s. Whether he is still working or even still alive is a good question.' Here are a couple of his more soulful tracks.

Lloyd Charmers: Just My Imagination

Here's a very easy going cover of The Temps' classic. Charmers' voice is smooth and as sweet as guava jelly.

This track can be found on Trojan's Soulful Reggae box set.

Lloyd Charmers: For The Good Times

This Kris Kristofferson cover offers a desperate plea, 'Make believe you love me...'. Charmers voice aches on this one taken from the somewhat ridiculous Elvis Reggae compilation from 2006 All Shook Up: A Reggae Tribute to the King.

Listen Here

2007-06-20T11:29:00.000-04:00

I've returned from my trip to NoLa with loads of goodies to share with you all. God bless The Music Factory on Decatur! Here is the first batch in no particular order.

Valorie Keys: Listen Here

I've absolutely fallen in love with this tune. It may be the easy going swing or the fluttering flute or maybe it harkens back to my childhood watching The Electric Company. This 1967 cover of an Eddie Harris track can be found on the BGP UK import FunkSoulSisters.

Bo Diddley: Ooh Baby

This 1966 Checker release is a house party favorite. The creativity Bo so often displayed is inspiring. He truly did his own thing with glorious results. Check out Bo's collection The Chess Box.

T.K.O.s: Fat Man

I guess I'm in an easy going mood this morning because here's another swinger. I don't have too much info on this piano driven track. If anyone has some insight please share. The liner notes list its release 1967, but the track list says 1965. Lets call it 1966 and just dig it!

Going Back To New Orleans

2007-06-14T12:21:00.000-04:00

Well folks, I'm off to New Orleans for a few days and I hope to return with a slew of new music for you all. Until then, here are a couple gems from an Excello compilation that I picked up on my last visit to New Orleans. Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!

Kip Anderson: You'll Lose A Good Thing

Actually recorded in South Carolina in 1967, this single broke the Billboard R&B Top 40 charts. Unfortunately his heroin addiction forced Excello to drop Anderson a couple years later. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison in 1977 where he formed a gospel group. He later hosted a a daily gospel show on an AM radio station.

Jerry Washington: Right Here Is Where You Belong

I love the scene acted out at the start of this track recorded in 1972. This was a minor hit for Excello but the biggest hit for Washington.

Both of these tracks can be found on The Excello Story, Vol. 4: 1961-1975

New Summer Playlist Launched

2007-06-12T12:01:00.000-04:00

Are you ready for the summer? You are now! The Buffalo West Music Summer 2007 playlist has been submitted for your approval. Just click the big green play button to the right ===>, crank your speakers, go outside, light the grill, crack open a cool beverage of your choice and enjoy these sweet and soulful summer classics courtesy of your friends at Buffalo West and FineTune. ==========>

Prince Rocks!

2007-06-08T08:36:00.000-04:00

Never pigeonhole Prince. Just when you think you've got him figured out, he throws you a curve ball. It seems that lately he's been having more fun being Prince than ever before. As a student of music's history, he embraces the past all the while pushing his sound forward creating music that is pure Prince. Constant creation of music has left a back log of recordings that will last for years after he has left this world. Here are a few rarities from various bootlegs and DVD's of Prince putting his own twist on some rocking classics.

Prince: Honky Tonk Woman

Opening with a super crunchy guitar, Prince still manages to keep it funky on this Stones cover.

Prince with Lenny Kravitz: Fly Away

This track is taken from Prince's 2000 New Years Eve show and features Larry Graham's thumping bass. "Don't hurt nobody, Larry!"

Prince: A Whole Lotta Love

I was shocked when I first saw this Led Zeppelin track listed on Prince's Live at The Aladdin DVD. I'll call this one interesting and leave it at that. The concert is great, but the DVD features horrible video quality and worse audio. You may have to turn up your speakers for this one.

Curtis!

2007-06-05T11:24:00.000-04:00

Happy belated 65th birthday to the great Curtis Mayfield!

It's Alright with The Impressions in 1965...

Freddie's Dead around 1973

People Get Ready with Taylor Dayne & David Sanborn in 1989

It was 40 years ago today...

2007-06-01T07:44:00.000-04:00

...Sgt. Pepper taught the band to play

They've been going in and out of style

But they're guaranteed to raise a smile.

So may I introduce to you

The act you've known for all these years,

Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.

Jimi Hendrix: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band

One of Jimi's favorites to play live. He premiered his cover of this song at a show attended by Paul McCartney the very week that Sgt. Pepper was released.

Natalie Cole: Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds

Originally appearing on her 1978 LP Natalie Live! this edited version can be found on her 2000 greatest hits collection

Wes Montgomery: A Day In The Life

This track was recorded the same month as Sgt. Pepper's release. It is the title track of the guitarist's 1967 release.

Seaching for Summer

2007-05-27T11:22:00.000-04:00

The weather is heating up, Memorial Day is upon us and the summer vibe is in the air. As a result I give you Summer Madness and some music that it inspired. Kool & the Gang's Summer Madness has haunted me for years. It's the tune that Rocky Balboa puts on the first time we see his apartment in 1976, but it does not receive a listing in the credits. I'd been trying to figure out what this song was for years with no luck. It was my friend Andy aka DrewLove (and I believe his brother) who finally tracked it down for me some 10 years later. Since then I give this track a spin about once a week and can't believe I went so long without knowing it. I have since discovered a number of tracks that borrow elements from this soul classic. Dig it.

Kool & the Gang: Summer Madness

Here's the 1974 original found on the LP Light of Worlds. A late night groove that's as funky as it can be. That piercing synthesiser gets me every time.

Bill Conti: Reflections

My search initially led me to this track that is featured on the Rocky soundtrack. While it borrows many elements from the Kool track, it was not what I was searching for. Still, a great groove.

Dimitri from Paris: Encore Un Terlude

A short interlude from Dimitri's 1996 album Sacrebleu. We hear that familiar synth. I wish this track was about three minutes longer.

DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince: Summertime (Extended Club Mix)

Everyone knows this 1991 summer classic. Here it is in its extended form from the Summertime singles collection. All the clues were here for me even a mention of Summer Madness. Hindsight is 20/20!

Quick Treats

2007-05-23T10:16:00.000-04:00

Time to get back to posting some soul, but I don't have too much time today so here's a couple nice ones in no particular order. Enjoy!

Bettye LaVette: Your Turn To Cry

This track is possibly Betty LaVette's greatest side recorded at Muscle Shoals in 1973.

Marlena Shaw: California Soul

Found on her classic 1969 LP Spice of Life, Marlena shines on one of my favorite tunes written by Ashford & Simpson.

Thank You Sabres

2007-05-20T11:39:00.001-04:00

It was a hell of a run, but it had to end. It's been one of the more exciting years in Western New York thanks to our Buffalo Sabres, but unfortunately they were eliminated by the evil Ottawa Senators yesterday. Let's hope next season comes quickly and who knows maybe the Bills will surprise us!

From all of the fans...Thank you Sabres!

The Wonder of Stevie

2007-05-15T12:17:00.000-04:00

This post is coming to you a little late, but you all know how busy things can get. Sunday was Stevie Wonder's 57th birthday and I definitely wanted to pay a little tribute to one of the masters. A true American icon, Stevie helped change not just R&B but all music in general by exemplifying the notion that songwriting can be a force to bring about social change in our world. Always exploring new avenues, Stevie's music, particularly throughout the Seventies, shaped the ideas of what modern day songwriting can accomplish all the while remaining true to his roots and creating some of the funkiest and most fun tracks ever recorded. He is a legend who's songs are sure live on forever.

Jose Feliciano: Golden Lady

A great version of Stevie's Innervisions song. Fellow blind musician Jose Feliciano adds his signature style and energy making this song his own. You can find this track on 1974's And the Feeling's Good.

Lionel Hampton: Where Were You When I Needed You

Here's a real smooth cover by the great jazz vibraphonist Lionel Hampton. Released on 1974's Stop! I Don't Need No Sympathy Hamp's often overlooked collection of soul arrangements.

Hugo Montenegro: You Got It Bad Girl

More well known for his movie and TV scores Mr. Montenegro does some mad Moog explorations on this track. Taken from his Stevie Wonder cover album from 1974 Hugo in Wonder-Land we're sent off into space...well, at least 1974's vision of space!

BONUS:

Stevie making Sesame Street the funkiest place on earth in 1972!

Nobody Loves Me But My Mother...

2007-05-11T09:55:00.000-04:00

...And she could be jivin' too. Mother's Day is here again and I'm obliged to create a post for all those mama's out there, specifically MY mother and grandmother. Another fine job this year ladies. You're approval rating has gained another 12 points and nagging is on the decline. Here's a few fer me ma.

B.B. King: Nobody Loves Me But My Mother

One of my mother's personal favorites. B.B. shows the humor so prevalent in the blues. This is a demo version with a rare appearance of Bee on piano. You can find this track on his stellar 1992 box set King of the Blues. (Mine is autographed!)

Prince: Make Your Mama Happy

Here is Prince's outright impersonation of Sly & The Family Stone. Great stuff from 1998's collection of previously unreleased material Crystal Ball.

Sizzla: Thank You Mama

A self explanatory tune from Sizzla's 2006 release The Overstanding.

It's Gil Scott's World

2007-05-07T09:44:00.000-04:00

More poet than singer, Gil Scott-Heron found success with his political and social observations and quickly became one of the strongest and most eloquent American voices in the 70's. As a forefather to rap, Gil Scott was angry, passionate and always brutally honest with his lyrics. Along with songwriting partner and keyboardist Brian Jackson, Gil Scott-Heron released some of the most powerful recordings of the decade. Here's just a couple.

Gil Scott-Heron: Winter In America

The title track from his 1973 album summarizes the events which ultimately lead to the dangerous situations in 1973 Watergate America. Powerful lyrics and soulful music with a killer flute makes this a Gil Scott classic

Gil Scott-Heron: It's Your World

This is definitely one of his funkier tunes from his 1976 double album It's Your World. There is an undeniable Santana-like energy from the start with an uplifting message. You are truly free.

Let The Brother Rap!

2007-05-03T10:37:00.001-04:00

Soul Brother Number One, the Godfather of Soul, the Hardest Working Man in Show Business, Mr. Dynamite...There's nothing I can say about James Brown that hasn't been said a thousand times before. Any regular visitor of this blog is well aware of his importance to popular music. So in celebration of his 74th birthday I give you James Brown at his funky peak in 1971. Recorded at the Olympia in Paris, France, this is the only live recording with the original JB's. You can hear it all on the 1992 release Love Power Peace. 'Ain't it funky now'.

James Brown: Intro/Brother Rapp/Ain't It Funky Now

BONUS:
Mr. Brown tears up one of my favorites, Sunny