There’s something magical about 45 RPM records - compact, gritty, and bursting with raw emotion. These little discs once ruled jukeboxes and radios, capturing the urgency of a moment, a heartbreak, or a plea for love. Today, we’re digging into three rare and powerful 45s that deserve a spot in any soul or R&B lover’s collection. From deep soul to girl group charm, these sides deliver emotion, groove, and a glimpse into the golden era of independent music.
The Profonix: Ain’t No Sun / Open Up Your Heart
Label: Davey-Paul 4023. Released 1969.
Label Address: Detroit, MI. Only record released on this label.
A Side: Ain’t No Sun
B Side: Open Up Your Heart
Ain’t No Sun is a brooding deep soul burner, soaked in melancholy and anchored by gritty vocals and sparse instrumentation. On the flip, Open Up Your Heart offers a more hopeful, gospel-tinged groove, showing the group’s dynamic range. Though little is known about The Profonix, this 45 speaks volumes.
Sound Clips and Order Information
Little Esther Phillips: While It Lasted / Why Should We Try Anymore
Little Esther Phillips: While It Lasted / Why Should We Try Anymore
Label: Lenox 5570. Released 1963.
Label Address: 157 West 57t St., New York, N.Y. (1962-1963)
A Side: While It Lasted
B Side: Why Should We Try Anymore
Esther Phillips was never one to hold back, and this 45 is a showcase of her mature, pain-etched voice. While It Lasted is a slow-burner drenched in regret, capturing the complex emotions of a love that couldn't last. The B-side, Why Should We Try Anymore, leans into country-soul territory - a perfect fit for Esther’s unique delivery.
Sound Clips and Order Information
Pearlettes: Can I Get Him / Never Be Another Boy Like You
Label: Vee-Jay 422 (Promo). Released 1961.
Label Owner: Vivian & James C. Bracken
Label Address: 1640 Broadway, Gary, IN, 1155 E. 47th St., Chicago,
IL, 412 E. 47th St., Chicago, IL. 4747 Cottage Grove Ave., Chicago, IL, 2129 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, 1449 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL. 1953-1966
A Side: CanI Get Him
B Side: Neve Be Another Boy Like You
This sugary-sweet girl group 45 is pure mid-'60s charm. Can I Get Him is upbeat, flirtatious, and full of yearning — the kind of track that made dance floors come alive. The flip side, Never Be Another Boy Like You, slows things down with a more reflective, heart-on-sleeve delivery.
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 oursecure form.