There’s something timeless about a great 45. Two songs, one small slab of vinyl, and enough heart, rhythm, and soul to last decades. Whether pulled from dusty bargain bins or treasured in a longtime collection, obscure singles often tell a richer story than the chart hits ever could. These three records — spanning sweet soul, early R&B, and dancefloor energy — capture the raw emotion and craftsmanship that made independent 45s such an important part of music history.
Maurice William and The Inspirations: The Day Has Come / Never Leave You Again
Label: Candi 1031. Released 1963.
Label Address: 617 W. 4th Street., Wilmington, De. (1961-1963)
A Side: The Day Has Come
B Side: Never Leave You Again
“The Day Has Come” carries an uplifting, almost celebratory warmth, driven by smooth group vocals and simple but effective arrangements. On the flip side, “Never Leave You Again” leans into romantic pleading, showcasing the emotional sincerity that made Williams such a compelling songwriter. The record feels intimate and unpolished in the best way possible — exactly the kind of authenticity collectors chase.
Sound Clips and Order Information
Chuck Wright: It's A Lie / My Young Love
Label: Ember (Promo) 1102. Released 1964.
Label Owner: Jack Angel & Mercer Ellington
Label Address: 1697 Broadway, New York, NY, 236 West 55th St., New York, NY, 150 West 55th St. New York, NY (1953-1964)
A Side: It’s A Lite
B Side: My Young Love
Chuck Wright delivers a pair of songs soaked in heartbreak and longing. “It’s A Lie” hits with classic mid-century R&B drama, balancing restrained vocals against a moody groove that gives the song its emotional pull. Meanwhile, “My Young Love” softens the mood with a slower, more vulnerable performance. There’s an honesty to Wright’s delivery that makes both tracks feel deeply personal, as though they were cut in one take late at night. Records like this remind listeners how much feeling could fit inside two-and-a-half minutes.
Sound Clips and Order Information
Don Wyatt: I've Got Myself to Blame / Everybody Let's Dance
Label: Garpax (Promo) 44174. Released 1963.
Label Owner: Gary Paxton
Label Address: 6385 Selma Ave, Hollywood, CA (1962-1965 & 1977)
A Side: I’ve Got Myself to Blame
B Side: Everybody Let’s Dance
Don Wyatt brings a different energy altogether. “I’ve Got Myself to Blame” mixes regret with swagger, driven by punchy rhythm and a vocal performance full of personality. But it’s “Everybody Let’s Dance” that really jumps from the speakers — a lively, infectious side built for crowded dance floors and jukebox play. Wyatt’s style bridges early rock ’n’ roll and R&B, capturing a period when genres overlapped freely and dance records ruled local scenes.
Sound Clips and Order Information
If you are interested in purchasing one of these 45s from Parker’s Records please write down the Artist and Song Title while listening to the sound clips to make for an easy checkout experience. You can make purchases using our secure form.