We’ve got a little bit of everything for you this month. Leading off is a 45 from Jan Bradley. Released during the 60s, I can imagine this 45 was a bit controversial. Continuing down the line is a group of songs from James Becton. This track will make you reflect about your loved ones and might not be for the faint of heart. Finally, we will end with some groovy and uplifting tunes from the amazing Barbara and Joe.

Jan Bradley: We Girls / Curfew Blues

Label: Formal 1014. Released in 1962.

Label Owner: Angelo Giandini (A.K.A. Anthony Garden). 8501 South Harlem Ave., Chicago, IL. (1956-1963).

A Side: We Girls

B Side: Curfew Blues

There are some things in life we can’t always explain but we have to accept. One of these unexplainable phenomenon’s is the power sexuality plays in the way we make decisions.  Jan Bradley goes into detail about the control women have over men when it comes to sexual tension. Her opening line begins, “Girls, we can’t help it, we were born to hypnotize.” The instrumentals of this track fit the theme of the song with its playful and innocent melody. It’s like Bradley is teasing us herself.    

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James Becton: Where has Love Gone Pt. 1 / Pt. 2

Label: C-Bird. Released in 1978.

A Side: Where has Love Gone Pt. 1

B Side: Pt. 2

At one point or another, we will all go through the sadness of losing a loved one. When this time comes, perhaps you’ll consider listening to James Becton’s “Where has Love Gone”. It’s a slow, ballad-like tune that you might find some comfort in. Becton’s unique and raspy voice is one-of-a-kind and worth checking out!

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Barbara and Joe: You’re Astounding / Don’t You Know that It’s All Right

Label: Respect 2507. Released in 1975.

Label Owner: Al Bell, Jim Stewart, and Gulf & Western. 2681 Union Extended, Memphis, TN.

A Side: You’re Astounding

B Side: Don’t You Know that It’s All Right

We aren’t going to leave you this month without lifting your spirits. The third 45 of October comes from the lovely Barbara and Joe. “You’re Astounding” is not only a feel-good tune but it also encompasses a full range of instruments including brass, strings, and your typical Rhythm and Blues instruments. Enjoy the playful call and response between Barbara and Joe while listening to this 45. Flip it over and you’ll find “Don’t You Know That It’s All Right”, another feel good, foot stomper.

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If you are interested in purchasing one of these 45s from Parker’s Records please write down the record number while listening to the sound clips to make for an easy checkout experience. You can make purchases using our secure form.

We have a good mix of tunes for you this month. Fast tempos, slow tempos, instrumental breaks, lots of vocal harmonies, driving drums, brass sections and more. Take a look at our list for September and we think you’ll find something worth holding onto.

Victones: My Baby Changes / I Need You So

Label: Front Page 1001. Released in 1970.

Label Owner: Bobby Robinson. 271 W. 125^th St., New York, NY. (1970-1971)

A Side: My Baby Changes

B Side: I Need You So

The Victones use a rather simple metaphor in “My Baby Changes” to explain the problem at hand with their lyric stating “my baby changes like the weather.” Relationships can be tough and sometimes people change and realize they want something else out of life. For the victim of the story, these changes can be unexpected and hurtful. Much like the weather, people are unpredictable as well and I think that’s the theme of the A side of this 45. You’ll have to purchase the record to hear “I Need You So.”

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Utopians: Do You Feel It? / Holding On

Label: Sunny-Fla. 0791. Released in 1982.

A Side: Do You Feel It?

B Side: Holding On

Man, would I love to travel back in time and go to a Utopians concert. “Do You Feel It?” just sounds like a good time. If you love groove, soulful vocals, and brass this is the 45 for you. After you listen to the A side of the 45 a few times in a row (because it’s that good), flip the record over and get ready to slow things down. This 45 presents an interesting contrast between the A and B sides but it somehow works perfectly.

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Upfronts:  Baby, for Your Love / It Took Time (It Took you)

Label: Lummtone 108. Released in 1962

Label Owner: Lummie Fowler. P.O. Box 11121, Los Angeles, CA. (1959-1965)

A Side: Baby, for Your Love

B Side: It Took Time (It took You)

Although these tracks were released just after the 1950s, you can definitely hear some 50s influences. This 45 is a dancing and swinging compilation of music. The drums and vocal harmonies are the most significant elements to these two songs in my opinion. Their repetitiveness keeps the songs moving along.

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If you are interested in purchasing one of these 45s from Parker’s Records please write down the record number while listening to the sound clips to make for an easy checkout experience. You can make purchases using our secure form.

August is a hot month for us here in the Midwest and we thought it would only be appropriate to write this month’s blog about some of the hottest tracks available at Parker’s Records. Leading off in August is George Tindley, followed by Robert Taylor, and finally we have a 45 from Talk of the Town. Be sure to leave your comments below the blog!

George Tindley: Pity the Poor Man / Wan-Tu-Wah-Zuree

Label: Wand 11215. Released in 1970.

Label Owner: Florence Greenburg. 1674 Broadway, New York, NY; 1850 Broadway New York, NY; 254 West 54^th St., New York, NY. (1959-1976)

A Side: Pity the Poor Man

B Side: Wan-Tu-Wah-Zuree

George Tindley sure knows how to treat his woman. “Pity the Poor Man” emphasizes the importance of sticking together in a relationship and making sacrifices for the one you love. In the words of my late grandfather, “A happy wife is a happy life.”  The B side of this 45 is only available for listening in our store, but you can find more details by clicking the link below.

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Robert Taylor: Packin’ Up Your Love / A Change is Gonna Come

Label: Sonic 8624. Released in 1968.

Label Address: 4736 Stony Island Avenue, Chicago, IL.

A Side: Packin’ Up Your Love

B Side: A Change is Gonna Come

A good shuffle is the key to my heart and the A side of this 45 grooves. “Packin’ Up Your Love” is the perfect mix of drums, bass, horns, and soulful vocals sung by Robert Taylor. Flip the 45 over and you’ll get Taylor’s rendition of the Sam Cooke classic, “A Change Gonna Come.” This track has been covered by so many renown artists over the years, but few have heard Robert Taylor’s version. Get it using the link below!

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Talk of the Town: Don’t Be So Mean / Accept Me for What I Am

Label: North Bay 305. Released in 1972.

Label Owner: Jimmy Bishop, Philadelphia, PA. (1971-9172)

A Side: Don’t Be So Mean

B Side: Accept Me for What I Am

If you love vocal harmonies – and who doesn’t – you are in for a treat. This Talk of the Town 45 featuring “Don’t Be So Mean” and “Accept Me for What I Am” might be the hottest vinyl available at Parker’s Records and it could be yours. Both tracks start off with unique beginnings incorporating bongos and what sounds like a timpani only to drop into soulful grooves guaranteed to make your hairs stick up.

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If you are interested in purchasing one of these 45s from Parker’s Records please write down the record number while listening to the sound clips to make for an easy checkout experience. You can make purchases using our secure form.

We’ve got a nice mix of themes for you this month, but if you are having relationship troubles or have in the past, you should check out July’s list of 45s. We will start you out with a seductive RnB track from Now and end the list with a few breakup songs from Sonny Oceans and the New Bloods.

Now: Girl You Sure Turn Me On (Pt. 1) / Pt. 2

Label: Fee 303. Released in 1974

A Side: Girl You Sure Turn Me On (Part 1)

B Side: Part 2

If you haven’t noticed, we are getting a little steamy this week with Now’s “Girl You Sure Turn Me On”. The mood only seems appropriate considering how hot it has been here in the Midwest. The track even incorporates the world’s sexiest instrument: the saxophone. This song really brings it all together in every way. The backbeat of the drums, smooth vocals, saxophone solos, and a groovy bassline make this song worth listening to.

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Sonny Oceans: Pity Me / I’m Her Lover Man

Label: Columbia 43422. Released in 1974.

A Side: Pity Me

B Side: I’m Her Lover Man

The second 45 for the month of July comes from Sonny Oceans. Both the A and B side will reel you in with their catchy, simplistic guitar intros. With every relationship breakup comes pity. Whether this is self-pity or sympathy from others, it’s typically expected, and most times rightfully so! If you are someone that likes to keep to themselves, perhaps Sonny Oceans can be your companion during a difficult breakup. You can purchase this spinning sympathizer by using the link below!

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New Bloods: Self Service / Found a Love, Where It’s At

Label: 20^th Century Fox 554. Released in 1964.

A Side: Self Service

B Side: Found a Love, Where It’s At

Lyrically, we are ending this week on a somber note, but the A side of this 45 emits an uplifting vibe that makes everything seem okay. Sometimes feeling sad can be a good thing and that is my interpretation of this track. In times when no one else is around to support you, take some time and serve yourself! After all, we can’t make others happy until we are able to find contentment within our own lives.

Sound Clips and Order Information

If you are interested in purchasing one of these 45s from Parker’s Records please write down the record number while listening to the sound clips to make for an easy checkout experience. You can make purchases using our secure form.

Our picks for June have a little something for everyone. This list of tracks compiles everything I think of when I think about good soul music – tight drums, groovy bass lines, vocal melodies, and harmonies form both male and female vocalists. Let us know what your favorite tracks are in the comments below!

Persians: Get A Hold of Yourself / Steady Kind

Label: Pagent 601. Released in 1963

Label Owners: Harry Chipits, Bernie Lower, Kal Mann. 140 Locust St., Philadelphia, PA.

A Side: Get A Hold of Yourself

B Side: Steady Kind

The A side of this 45 is somewhat reminiscent of the classic R&B tune “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” Considering the hit from 1967 is one of my favorite tunes, the 1963 recording, “Get A Hold of Yourself”, immediately caught my attention. The track has a similar repetitive rhythm with a slightly eerie feel to it.  The B side, “Steady Kind”, incorporates a vocal melody and rhythm that isn’t so steady. The syncopated rhythm of the drums will get your feet moving back and forth.

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Prime Ministers: I Don’t Know No More / Make-Up

Label: RCA 9170 Promotional Copy. Released in 1968. 1950-2015.

A Side: I Don’t Know No More

B Side: Make-Up

Wow, the Prime Ministers know how to shuffle. The drums on “I Don’t Know No More” incorporate an unusually quick hi hat pattern that is irresistible. The track also has multiple singers covering a wide range of high and low vocal melodies. Flip the 45 over, and get ready to groove with “Make-Up”. I’ve always loved a groovy bass line and this song is everything I have ever wanted to hear from the bass guitar.  

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Partnership: Not for the Love nor Money / Baby, If I Had You

Label: MGM 13854. Promotional copy. Released in 1967. 1950-1980.

A Side: Not for the Love nor Money

B Side: Baby, If I Had You

The Partnership’s “Not for the Love nor Money” is played at an impressively quick tempo. I am most impressed by the group’s ability to still keep the vocals right in the pocket of the rest of the instruments. “Baby, If I Had You” is the perfect song to play for that special someone you want to call yours.

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If you are interested in purchasing a 45 from Parker’s Records please write down the record number while listening to the sound clips to make for an easy checkout experience. You can make purchases using our secure form.

Perhaps it is because Mother's Day just happened, but there always seems to be love in the air during the month of May. This month's 45s talk about the ups, downs, and difficulties of understanding love. If you are in need of some extra TLC, put on any one of these 45s.

Alex Brown: I'm in Love / What Would You Do without Someone to Love

Label: TRC 1001 (1969)

Label Owner: Ray Charles. 2107 W. Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, CA. 1962-1973.

A Side: I'm in Love

B Side: What Would You Do without Someone to Love

Soul singer, Alex Brown, sings about two different perspectives on love with this 45. The A side, “I’m in Love,” discusses all of the warm and fuzzy feelings love creates. The B side, “What Would You Do without Someone to Love,” explains how it might feel if you didn’t have someone to love. This song really makes me think about all of the important little things love has to offer that often get taken for granted. Both sides of this 45 express positivity and the power of love. The catch phrase “What Would You Do without Love” is executed and delivered perfectly. The way in which the drums, bass, and vocal melody bounce and syncopate makes for a super catchy chorus.

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Johhny Barnes: It Must Be Love / 'same'

Label: Cap City 122 (1967). Washington, D.C. 1967-1968

A Side: It Must Be Love

B Side: 'same'

When we fall in love for the first time it often feels unfamiliar. Johnny Barnes sings about these unfamiliar feelings in “It Must Be Love.” A line in the song that particularly stands out is when he reminisces on how his mother used to tell him what love feels like. Musically speaking, the A side of this 45 incorporates a push and pull effect. It feels like the pre-chorus is going to lead into a chorus, but then the song releases and drops back into another verse. 

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Carolyn Byrd: Give Him Your Everything / Good-Bye the One

Label: Lionel 3221 (1971)

Label Owner: MGM Records. 7165 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA. 1970-1972

A Side: Give Him Your Everything

B Side: Good-Bye the One

The love story continues with Carolyn Byrd’s 45. “Give Him Your Everything” is pretty self-explanatory, but it really drives a good message home. If two people are committed to one another, they should be giving each other their all. If there is an imbalance on one side of a relationship, it will likely fail. “Good-Bye the One” discusses getting out of an unhealthy relationship and chasing happiness instead. For any drummers reading this blog post, both sides of this 45 include excellent drum fills, grooves, and auxiliary percussion.

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While listening to these tracks be sure to write down the record number to make an easy checkout experience. You can use our secure form for all purchases. We will see you in June for next month’s list of records.

April’s compilation of soul and funk 45s includes an eclectic group of records discussing topics on both ends of the love spectrum. Starting out, we have a love ballad sung by Eddie McLoyd, followed by a track from female vocalist Rosalind Madison, and ending the list with Johnny Moore.

Eddie McLoyd: Once You Fall in Love / Same

Label: Dakar 4547. (1975)

Label Owner: Carl Davis and Nat Tarnopol. 1449 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL. 1967-1977

A Side: Once You Fall in Love

B Side: Same

This month we start off with Eddie McLoyd’s biggest hit to date, “Once You Fall in Love.” Eddie is a bit of a renaissance man – having many talents and achievements over the course of his career including music, television, and outdoor hobbies according to his website. This 45 discusses how much influence love has on our life decisions, emotions, and overall happiness.  

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Rosalind Madison: Fancy / Use What You’ve Got

Label: Silver Fox 20. (1970)

Label Owners: Lelan Rogers and Shelby Sumpter Singleton. Nashville, TN. 1969-1970.

A Side: Fancy

B Side: Use What You Got

“Here’s your one chance Fancy.” Rosalind Madison resembles what some might consider a sugar baby on the A side of this 45. A young girl and her mother are hardly getting by and so the daughter is out looking for someone that can help support them. Listen to the track available below to see how the story ends. There’s definitely a bit of materialism and greed throughout the A side of this 45, but Rosalind sure has an impressive flow with her lyrics.

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Johnny Moore: Haven’t I Been Good to You / A Dollar Ninety-Eight

Label: Wand 1165. (1967)

Label Owners: Florence Greenberg. 1674 Broadway, New York, NY. 1650 Broadway, New York, NY. 254 West 54^th St. New York, NY. 1959-1976.

A Side: Haven’t I Been Good to You        

B Side: A Dollar Ninety-Eight

The final 45 for the month of April talks about the complications and challenges many people face during relationships. The narrator is feeling the pressure from his significant other and the driving chorus compliments this rising pressure felt by the narrator. You can expect to hear some classic funk rhythm guitar, impressive vocal harmonies, and groovy drum and bass from the A side of this record.

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While listening to these tracks be sure to write down the record number to make an easy checkout experience. You can use our secure form for all purchases. We will see you in May for next month’s list of records.

March is here and that means spring weather is just around the corner. Open up your windows, feel the cool breeze, and let the blooming spring flowers tickle your nose all while listening to this month’s compilation of records. This month, Parker’s Records introduces you to soul artists Buddy & Stacy, Cody Black, and Bobby Breen.

Buddy & Stacy: Angel / A Thing Called Jealousy

Label: Twirl 2018 (Released 1965).

Label Owner: Harry Balk, 20 W. Alexandrine, Detroit, MI. & 850 Seventh Ave, New York, NY (1959-1966).

A Side: Angel

B Side: A Thing Called Jealousy

Woo! This 45 grooves. Buddy & Stacy and their backing band know how to funk, swing, and get your hips moving. Buddy & Stacy were true entertainers and worth taking some time to watch a video or two. You may be surprised they were allowed on national television during the ‘60s with their provocative dance moves.

Fun Fact: Jimi Hendrix was the backing guitarist for Buddy & Stacy for a short period of time. If you perform a Google search for Buddy & Stacy a video of Jimi playing with them will likely pop up.

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Cody Black: Ain’t No Love Like Your Love / Stop Trying to Do What You See Your Neighbor Do

Label: Capital 2858 (Released 1970)

ASide: Ain’t No Love Like Your Love

B Side: Stop Trying to Do What You See Your Neighbor Do

This 45 is irresistible. Ain’t No Love Like Your Love is a true piece of art. The opening piano rift is one of the catchiest syncopated chord progressions my ears have ever heard and the song stays driving with its tight shuffle groove.  Flip the record over and you’ll find another delightful tune. For any piano enthusiasts reading our blog, this is a must have 45. 

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Bobby Breen: Better Late than Never / How Can We Tell Him

Label: Motown 1053. (Released 1964)

Label Owner: Berry Gordy Jr. West Grand Blvd. Detroit, MI. 2547 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI. 6464 Sunset Blvd. Hollywood, CA

A Side: Better Late than Never 

B Side: How Can We Tell Him

Bobby Breen slows it down for us during this month’s list of our favorite 45’s. Breen began his career in the Canadian entertainment industry at a young age singing and acting in various movies including Hawaii Calls and Rainbow on the River. His voice is one of a kind and worth a listen.

Sound Clips and Information

While listening to these tracks be sure to write down the associated order number to make an easy checkout experience. You can use our secure form for all purchases. We will see you in April for next month’s list of 45’s!

Valentine’s Day: the holiday with a reputation more divided than our current political parties. For those lucky enough to have found love, February can be a great opportunity to go all-out on the sappy dates and romantic gestures. On the other hand, February is also the month many of us are reminded we are still single and should maybe put some effort into finding that perfect person. Whatever your relationship status may be, you are guaranteed to find something enjoyable from this month’s track list!

Daydreams: (Just to Keep up on) The Lovin’ Side / Part of Your Love

Label: Dial 4029 (1966).

Label Owner: Buddy Killen, Nashville, TN (1961-1979).

A Side: (Just to Keep up on) The Lovin’ Side

B Side: Part of Your Love

February creates a sense of urgency in our dating lives. Take a look at the significant increase in consumers using mobile dating apps during the weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day if you don’t believe me. The A side of this record sings about the crazy and irrational things we sometimes do to find love. Sometimes we may even get a bit jealous, like when we see our 5th grade crush on Facebook celebrating Valentine’s Day with someone else. The B Side, “Part of Your Love,” touches on this theme. 

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Daylighters: For My Baby / Sweeter

Label: Tip Top 2010. Released in 1965.

Label Owners: Charles Colbert Sr. & Charles Colbert Jr. 8956 South Wallace, Chicago, IL. (1962-1967)

A Side: For My Baby

B Side: Sweeter

Who doesn’t like a good shuffle? For My Baby is guaranteed to get your hips moving. February is a great time to remind your special someone how much they are appreciated and loved. If you are spending Valentine’s Day alone this year give yourself some extra love and appreciation instead. A little reassurance can go a long way and if you need some help communicating your feelings, the Daylighters’ “Sweeter” might give you a few ideas. 

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Malcolm Dodds: All for the Love of a Woman / Come on Home

Label: MGM 12975. Released in 1960. (1950-1980)

A Side: All for the Love of a Woman

B Side: Come on Home

We go to great lengths for the people we love and Malcolm really hits the nail on the head with the A Side of this vinyl. Dodds’ catchy melody, repetitive chorus, and periodic rhythmic breaks make this song worth listening to. You’ll have to visit our store or purchase the vinyl to hear Side B!

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While listening to these tracks through the links provided be sure to write down the record number as you will need this when checking out with our secure form. We will see you in March for next month’s blog!

This month we decided to take you on a bit of an emotional roller coaster. January tends to be the month people stay inside, spend more time by themselves, and reflect on their current relationship status. Check out this month’s tracks if you can relate or just want to learn some new music!

Tommy Butler: Move on Stay Gone/ Too Young

Label: Chattahoochee 704 (1966). Whittier Blvd, Los Angeles, CA (1961-1966).

A Side: Move on Stay Gone

B Side: Too Young

You will sympathize and likely relate to Tommy while listening to “Move on and Stay Gone.” The vocal melody sustains and drags on during the verses, reflecting the struggle the narrator endures while chasing his great white buffalo. Longing for a particular someone but never being able to call them yours is something many of us have experienced. At some point, we have to move on, stay gone, and find someone worth our time.  Come to our store to listen to Side B or you can order the record online!

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Bobby Day: Spicks and Specks/ So Lonely (Since You’ve been Gone)

Label: Sure-Shot 5036 (1966). Label Owner: Don D. Robey. 2809 Erastus St, Houston, TX (1963-1967.)

A Side: So Lonely (Since You’ve been Gone)

B Side: Spicks and Specks

If you’ve ever wanted to let the world know you are feeling lonely, you should give Bobby Day a listen. Day’s shouting and the song’s driving bass line might be the kind of energy you need to get through this winter season. Spicks and Specks continues this month’s theme with Bobby singing about all of the women and memories he has left behind. 

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Burke Family: Under the Spell/ Look of Love 

Label: Cobblestone 701 (1968). 1650 Broadway, New York, NY & 610 Seventh Ave. New York, NY (1968-1972).

A Side: Under the Spell

B Side: Look of Love (Island)

This record leaves us feeling warm and optimistic- a resolution to our search for love if you will. The A Side, Under the Spell, discusses the narrator’s admiration for a particular someone and on side B the Burke Family helps the narrator groove his way into finding love. 

Sound Clips and Order Information

While listening to these tracks through the links provided be sure to write down the record number as you will need this when checking out with our secure form. Thanks for tuning in this month!