Parkers Records and Comics is back for another month, bringing you some of our favorite 45s available. February and Valentine’s Day always seems like a good time of the year for some new music. It is still the beginning of the new year, it’s cold outside, and you might be searching for the perfect track to set the mood right for you and your lover. Check out our suggestions for February 2020 below.

Varetta Dillard: You Better Come Home / I Don’t Know What It Is but I Like It

Label: Cub 9091. Released in 1961.

Label Owner: Arnold Maxin. Lowe’s, Inc., 1650 Broadway, Ney Work, N.Y. (1958-1968)

A Side: You Better Come Home

B Side: I Don’t Know What It Is but I Like It

You might be familiar with Varetta Dillard if you’ve heard her biggest hit, “Mercy, Mr. Percy”. Dillard has an interesting and impressive background considering she grew up in Harlem and was born with a bone condition requiring her to walk with crutches. Dillard’s fun and enthusiastic music exposes her strong will and determination to make it in the music industry despite her disabilities. “You Better Come Home” will keep you engaged with its playful rhythm and Dillard’s unique vocal sounds.

Sound Clips and Order Information

Debs: Danger Ahead / Just Another Fool

Label: Double-L 727. Released in 1964.

Label Owner: Lloyd Price & Harold Logan. Ney York, N.Y. (1963-1966)

A Side: Danger Ahead

B Side: Just Another Fool

We’ve been on a kick with female vocalists and we wanted to keep that trend going with this 45 from Debs. During this Valentine’s season you might want to keep your head on a swivel and hold your ground! Debs sings about loyalty and the temptations present in our world, which is especially relevant during the month of love.

Sound Clips and Order Information

Tyrone Davis: I Wanna Be Good Company / I’m Confessin

Label: Hit Sound 888. Released in 1969.

Label Owner: Jack Daniels & Johnny Moore. 3234 W. Roosevelt Rd., Chicago, Il. (1968-1970)

A Side: I Wanna Be Good Company

B Side: I’m Confessin

Tyrone Davis had an impressive career as a singer, achieving a number of hit records over his 20-year career. “I Wanna Be Good Company” is the epitome of what great soul and funk music means to me. Powerful and soulful vocals, a solid rhythm section, and a stellar brass section. What more could you need?

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.

Winter is upon us and there is a chill in the air, but that’s not stopping Parkers Records and Comics from providing you with our picks for November. Cozy up with one of these 45s this winter and let us know what you think! This month we bring you a 45 from Barbara and the Delights, Timmy Willis, and Billy Sha-Rae.

Barbara and the Delights: She’s a Smooth One / Shirley Got There Early

Label: U.A. 675. Released in 1963.

Label Owner: Max Youngstein. 729 Seventh Ave., New York, NY. (1957-1973)

A Side: She’s a Smooth One

B Side: Shirley Got There Early

This 45 from Barbara and the Delights has a classic sound to it. There is a common theme on this 45. Both tracks discuss playfulness, jealousy, and self-control – or a lack there of. The A-side, “She’s a Smooth One”, discusses a man being hypnotized by a woman who will likely send him down the wrong path, while the b-side “Shirley Got There Early” talks about a woman going after another woman’s man and the jealousy involved with a situation like that. A theme we can all probably relate to, whether we like to admit it or not. Another take on this 45 is that the A and B side are talking about the same situation but from two different perspectives. Check it out using the link below and decide for yourself!

Sound Clips and Order Information

Timmy Willis:  Mr. Soul Satisfaction / I’m Wondering

Label: Sidra 9013. Released in 1967.

A Side: Mr. Soul Satisfaction

B Side: I’m Wondering

To me, Mr. Soul Satisfaction is the epitome of a groovy soul track. The track has an intriguing intro, groovy drum and bass, repetitive vocal melody, vocal harmonies, slapping guitar rhythm, and a brass section to top it all off. Take a listen to this feel good track by using the link below and purchase it for yourself! You’ll have to buy the 45 to preview side b – “I’m Wondering”.

Sound Clips and Order Information

Billy Sha-Rae: Do It / I Found the One

Label: Hour Glass 007. Released in 1969.

Label Owner: 1700 Broadway, New York, NY. (1969-1970)

A Side: Do It

B Side: I Found the One

Billy Sha-Rae was born in Uniontown, Pennsylvania and eventually moved to Detroit, Michigan – the city of Motown. Billy was involved with a group called Soul Congress while in Detroit and even received a minor hit with “Do It.” After listening to “Do It” you might be surprised it qualified for a hit considering its unique sound and structure. It almost feels like a jam session between Billy and his band. The tune has a driving feel to it and there is a guitar pattern that sounds very similar to Led Zeppelins “Immigrant Song”. Check it out by using the link below!

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.

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.    

Sound Clips and Order Information

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!

Sound Clips and Order Information

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.

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.

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.”

Sound Clips and Order Information

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.

Sound Clips and Order Information

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.

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.

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.

Sound Clips and Order Information

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!

Sound Clips and Order Information

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.

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.

Okay, so we’re sort of cheating with this title since two of the three 45s today are songs about doing a specific dance, but bear with us! We’ve put together a few songs that will be impossible—and we mean impossible—not to tap along to. Enjoy!

Breakdown/(I Never Know When To Leave) The Party by The Millionaires — Big Bunny 508 (Released 1966)

Label: Los Angeles, CA. 3 Rcords released on the label, 2 by the Millionaires & other by The Dealers (1966)

A Side: Breakdown

B Side: (I Never Know When to Leave) The Party

“The Millionaires” or just “Millionaires” (another name this band goes by) might just be the most common band name ever. Because of that, good luck ever finding out any information about them. We did manage to scrounge up a little, though—enough to know that The Millionaires is made up of Milton Grier, Floyd Gibson, James Sturkey (who had a few solo releases—the only member of the group that did), and James Warren. Besides Sturkey, none of the rest went on to do much with music, which is a shame.

“Breakdown” is a bit of a departure from the sorts of songs we usually write about. The lead singer has a higher, tamer voice than many of the other artists we cover. The whole tune has a sort of jazzy, big-band sound, which is only amplified by the brass solo in the middle of the song, as well as what sounds like a tuba in the background. We would still call it soul, but it definitely shows its jazz roots.

“(I Never Know When to Leave) The Party” picks up right where “Breakdown” leaves off, and it begins with some meltingly sweet saxophone notes. The sax and lead singer’s voice are about equal in volume, which gives the impression that they’re both equally important elements of the song. Another fun bit about this song is that, instead of ending where you’d expect, it rises a key and plays on just a little longer.

The Pearl/Baby Baby Baby by Gwindon Murphy — Crazy Horse 1306 (Released 1968)

Label: 1750 N. Vine, Los Angeles, Ca. (1968-1972)

A Side: The Pearl

B Side: Baby Baby Baby

At first glance, you might be inclined to think that Gwindon is a woman. He is not. In fact, he has an incredibly deep, funky voice that suits his name perfectly. But like so many other artists we feature, this was his only release. Still, better to enjoy what we have than wonder what could have been!

This is one of those songs that’s all about a dance. In this case, the title, “The Pearl,” refers to a dance of the same name. The whole song enthusiastically suggests that you should do the pearl, but it never actually tells you how to do it! It’s a shame, because the songs energy makes the pearl, whatever it is, sound like quite a bit of fun.

It would appear that the dance is lost to the world, because searching for “The Pearl Dance” only gives you videos about people dancing to the Pirates of the Carribean theme. Seriously.

“Baby Baby Baby,” on the other hand, isn’t available for listening anywhere. If you want to hear it, you’re just going to have to buy it!

Do the Philly/"same" (Instr.) by Music City All Stars — Music City 857 (Released 1965)

Label Owner: Ray Dobart. 1815 Alcatraz Ave, Berkeley. (1954-1975)

A Side: Do the Philly

B Side: Do the Philly (Instrumental)

Nashville has always been “music city,” but it shares that name with Berkeley’s Music City, which is both a retail shop and music label. The shop was something of a local legend, and many of the tunes it put out are now sought after, particularly by northern soul aficionados.

What’s most interesting about this 45 is that there’s no information about the band themselves. The name would suggest that it’s a mishmash of other artists who have performed on the label before, but the identities of those people seem to be lost to history.

Despite being released in the ‘60s, “Do the Philly” has a very ‘90s R&B sound to it. Considering the roots that R&B had in jazz, funk, and soul, this isn’t altogether very surprising. Like “The Pearl,” “Do the Philly” is all about a song that nobody knows how to do anymore. Still, it’s fun to listen and imagine what that dance might be.

Add Some Dance to Your Collection

Pricing, details (grade, side A/B, quantity) and sound clips for each of the above records can be found via the following links:

Breakdown — The Millionaires

The Pearl — Gwindon Murphy

Do The Philly — Music City All Stars

We provide a simple online ordering form for all of our records. Enter your billing and shipping information, provide details about the record you’re requesting, hit submit, and sit back.

If you see this post it means that BlogEngine.NET is running and the hard part of creating your own blog is done. There is only a few things left to do.

Write Permissions

To be able to log in, write posts and customize blog, you need to enable write permissions on the App_Data and Custom folders. If your blog is hosted at a hosting provider, you can either log into your account’s admin page or call the support.

If you wish to use a database to store your blog data, we still encourage you to enable this write access for an images you may wish to store for your blog posts.  If you are interested in using Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, SQL CE, or other databases, please see the BlogEngine docs to get started.

Security

When you`ve got write permissions set, you need to change the username and password. Find the sign-in link located either at the bottom or top of the page depending on your current theme and click it. Now enter "admin" in both the username and password fields and click the button. You will now see an admin menu appear. It has a link to the "Users" admin page. From there you can change password, create new users and set roles and permissions. Passwords are hashed by default so you better configure email in settings for password recovery to work or learn how to do it manually.

Configuration and Profile

Now that you have your blog secured, take a look through the settings and give your new blog a title.  BlogEngine.NET is set up to take full advantage of many semantic formats and technologies such as FOAF, SIOC and APML. It means that the content stored in your BlogEngine.NET installation will be fully portable and auto-discoverable.  Be sure to fill in your author profile to take better advantage of this.

Themes and Plugins

One last thing to consider is customizing the look and behavior of your blog. We have themes and plugins available right out of the box. You can install more right from admin panel under Custom. Also you can check out our high quality themes.

On the web

You can find news, tutorials, documentation, tips and tricks about BlogEngine.NET on the official website. The ongoing development of BlogEngine.NET can be followed at Github.

Good luck and happy writing.

The BlogEngine.NET team

When we think of “essential” soul and R&B records, we tend to think of classic 60’s songs that every fan should have in their collection. But at Parker’s Records and Comics we know that essential means much more than just must have—we’re talking about records that are quintessentially soul and R&B. Once you listen to one of these records, you’ll understand. All it takes is a strong, rhythmic sound and smooth, harmonizing vocals and you’ll find yourself saying, “Now that’s soul music.”

I Paid For The Party by the Enchanters – Loma 2012 (Released 1965)

Label owner: Mike Maitland & Bob Krasner, 4000 Warner Blvd., Burbaznk, CA (1964-1968)

Side A: I Paid For The Party

Side B: I Want To Be Loved

Originally led by influential soul and R&B singer Garnet Mimms, The Enchanters set out to make a name for themselves after Mimms left the group in 1964. Sam Bell led the group which also included Zola Pearnell, Charles Boyers, and William Gilmore.

“I Want To Be Loved”, a classic mid-60’s love song, was the first single that the group recorded with Loma, a California-based R&B label. Prior to Loma 2012, the group had recorded “I Wanna Thank You” with Loma’s parent label, Warner Bros. Records, in 1964 and eventually went on to record two more singles—“We Got Love” and “You Were Meant To Be My Baby”—for Loma 2054 and Loma 2035, respectively. Of the four singles that the Enchanters recorded, however, Loma 2012 stands apart as the group’s definitive example of northern soul.

I Need Your Love by the Egyptian Kings – Nanc 1120 (Released 1963)

Label owner: Howard Ransom & James L. Turner 124 East, 101^st St., Los Angeles, CA & 138 1/2 S. Florence, CA (1957-1963)

Side A: I Need Your Love

Side B: Give Me Your Love

The Egyptian Kings, along with the Egyptians & King Pharaoh, were a splintering of the Four Pharaohs, a top R&B vocal group in Columbus. While both incarnations of the group were led by Morris Wade, the Egyptian Kings featured Paul Moore, Pete Oden, and Leo Blakely.

While “I Need Your Love” is the song that lends its name to this 7” vinyl record, it’s “Give Me Your Love” that truly defines Nanc 1120. “Give Me Your Love” is a smooth, soulful love song that features tenor Morris Wade at his best. Nanc 1120 marks the third recording of the song. Previously, the group released versions of the song for both Ransom and Paradise in 1958. With Wade’s natural talent and a harmony that has been absolutely perfected, it’s difficult not to give Nanc 1120 your love.

Write Your Ticket by Element Experience – Green Eagle 314 (Released 1970)

Side A: Write Your Ticket

Side B: Make Yourself At Home Honey

“Write Your Ticket” would be both the only single released by Element Experience as well as the only single released by the Green Eagle label. But neither the artist nor the label needs a backstory—GE 314 can speak for itself! All it needs is your undivided attention.

“Write Your Ticket” features all of the elements you would expect from the turn of the 60’s funk and soul: the intense groove of strong guitar riffs and bass lines and a driving rhythmic feel. We’ll never know what could have been of Element Experience or the Green Eagle label, but we do know one thing—GE 314 is a truly elemental experience.

Add Essential Soul and R&B to Your Music Collection     

Pricing, details (grade, side A/B, quantity) and sound clips for each of the above records can be found via the following links:

I Paid For The Party– Enchanters

I Need Your Love – Egyptian Kings

Write Your Ticket – Element Experience

We provide a simple online ordering form for any of our records. Enter your billing and shipping information, provide details about the record you’re requesting, hit submit, and relax knowing that good times are on their way.

Funk and soul are among the most distinct genres of music. But even among these already highly unique styles, there’s a broad range of variations and traditions that every kind of music listener can appreciate.

At Parker’s Records and Comics, we’ve had the pleasure to experience some of the most unique forms of funk and soul music that emerged during the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. From the cultural phenomenon of northern soul to the California-influenced style of Los Angeles R&B, we’ve experienced every variation that you can imagine. That’s why we’re delighted to share with you now our list of some of the most unique funk/soul records of the 60’s.

Let Me Be A Part Of You by Exotics – Excello 2292 (Released 1968)

Label owner: Ernest L. Young, Nashville, TN (1952-1970)

Side A: Let Me Be A Part Of You

Side B: Let’s Try To Build A Love Affair

The Exotics originated from Orangeburg, South Caroline, but like many great funk/soul groups of the time, they were destined to make their way to Music City. It was there in Nashville, Tennessee, that the group recorded two records with Excello, an independent blues record label that was building a music empire on hits such as “Got Love If You Want It” and “I’m A Lover Not A Fighter”. With their Excello 2284 (“Boogaloo Investigator”) recording in 1967 and their Excello 2292 (“Let Me Be A Part Of You”) recording in 1968, the Exotics joined an elite group of blues singers, songwriters, and musicians that included greats such as blues Slim Harpo and Lazy Lester.

From start to finish, “Let Me Be A Part of You” is everything you would expect from a popular 60’s funk/soul song. The song features an uptempo beat, high-energy vocals, and lyrics that you’ll find yourself singing along to. That’s why, when it comes time to listen to the other side of the 45, most listeners are pleasantly surprised by what they hear! “Let’s Try To Build A Love Affair”, the second song on Excello 2292, slows down the tempo and puts the astonishing vocals of lead singer John Riley at the forefront. Even after just a short listen, you’ll understand why “Let’s Try To Build A Love Affair” is a classic example of northern soul.

Huff And Puff by The Electras – Lola 001 (Released 1962)

Label owner: John Marascvalo, Los Angeles, CA (1962-1964) & New Orleans, LA (1966)

Side A: Huff and Puff

Side B: Mary Mary

By the time the Electras recorded Lola 001, the group already had several successful releases under their belt—albeit under a few different names. The group’s history begins in Los Angeles, California in 1959 when The Valiants, a 50’s rhythm and blues group, added several new members. In doing so, the group made the transition towards doo-wop and R&B and renamed themselves the Untouchables. They recorded “Poor Boy Needs a Preacher” and three other records for Madison Records, a New York-based label, in addition to two records for Liberty. Eventually, the group changed its name to the Electras in 1961. With such a rich history and a diversity of talents, it’s no surprise that Lola 001 features a unique blend of doo-wop, funk and soul that can only be called Los Angeles R&B.

S.O.S. by The Extremes – RCA 9009 Promotional Copy (Released 1966)

Side A: S.O.S.

Side B: Hide The Moon

By the 1960’s, Nashville was already a hive of activity for both up-and-coming and renowned blues and R&B artists. Needless to say, while countless hopefuls flocked to Music City in order to achieve their dream of music stardom, not every artist became the household name they would have liked. And while the Extremes may remain a band that is known to only the most diehard 60’s funk/soul enthusiasts, RCA 9009 itself is a piece of music history. “S.O.S.” is perhaps one of the earliest examples of blue-eyed soul, a genre that was being pioneered by groups like The Extremes. In fact, the term “blue-eyed soul” wasn’t coined until about the mid-1960s, around the time that RCA 9009 was released. Of course, aside from its historical value, the record itself is a rare and highly sought-after item among funk/soul record collectors and those who enjoy collecting promotional copies.

Expand Your Music Collection                          

Pricing, details (grade, side A/B, quantity) and sound clips for each of the above records can be found via the following links:

Let Me Be A Part of You– The Exotics

Huff and Puff– The Electras

S.O.S.– The Extremes

We provide a simple online ordering form for any of our records. Enter your billing and shipping information, provide details about the record you’re requesting, hit submit, and relax knowing that good times are on their way.

What makes a song a major hit?

While the 60’s and 70’s saw the debut of many unique and undeniably talented singers, only a few songs reached the level of enduring, mainstream success that made them a “major hit.” This, of course, does not make the contributions of the countless other songs that were released during the period any less valuable—and certainly not any less enjoyable! On the contrary, the funk/soul genre, in particular, was full of less prominent but extraordinary songs that would excite and inspire audiences just as well as any recognizable title of their day.

The truth of the matter is that a major hit is whatever you decide it to be. And that’s great because you’re your record collection should be a reflection you and your personal favorites—no one else’s. If you’ve never ventured beyond the classics, we invite you to explore something new. At Parker’s Records, we have over 100,000 records so we know firsthand the joy that comes in discovering a new favorite artist or song. Here are just a few of the less known but exceptional songs that have become major “hits” with us.

Nothing I’d Rather Be (Than Your Weakness) by M-W-T Express feat. Marva W. Taylor – Forte 6045 (Released 1975)

Label owner: Eric Taylor, Kansas City, MO (1967-1980)

Side A: Nothing I’d Rather Be (Than Your Weakness)
Side B: (Hey, You And You And You And You) I’ve Lived The Life

Love songs are, of course, all about couples. It isn’t until you listen to the eponymous track, “Nothing I’d Rather Be (Than Your Weakness)”, that you realize this 70’s classic offers something unique–and surprisingly absent–from other songs of this style: harmonious vocals between a lover and their beloved. In short, “Nothing I’d Rather Be” isn’t just a song about couples. It’s one meant to be sung by couples, too. Without a doubt, you’ll want to sing along with the person closest to you.

The second song on the 45, “(Hey, You And You And You And You) I’ve Lived The Life”, switches the tone from smooth and easy going to strong and confident. Just one listen and you’ll agree that “I’ve Lived The Life” is quintessentially Marva Whitney and all of the vocal power and style that she represented. And as much as the song is centered on her own life and her struggle to become a better woman, you’ll be convinced that she wrote this song solely for you.

I’ve Got Another Mule by Paul Martin – Ascot 2190 (Released 1965)

Label owner: Max Youngstein, New York, NY (1962-1967)

Side A: I’ve Got Another Mule
Side B: Don’t Hustle Me

United Artists Records was founded under its parent company, United Artists, in 1957 and this relationship continued until the label was acquired by EMI in 1978, and ultimately absorbed into Liberty Records in 1980. From the late 50’s to early 80’s, many subsidiary labels emerged from United Artists Records, including Unart, Musicor, Ultra Audio, Veep, and—most notably—Ascot. The multitude of labels housed beneath United Artist Records not only made it one of the most eclectic music companies of the time but also allowed it to give a wide variety of artists the opportunity to prove themselves.

Paul Martin is one such artist to emerge from the Ascot label. And despite being one of the more obscure funk/soul singers of his day, his music is immediately familiar. With every word he sings, Martin exudes confidence—and it’s contagious! In many ways, Martin’s easygoing but self-assured tone is very reminiscent of Marva Taylor. So much, in fact, that you may just wonder why Martin didn’t receive as much recognition in his day as he often does with today’s listeners. The truth of the matter is that Paul Martin’s “I’ve Got Another Mule” is a record that is owned by few but desired by many. Once you listen to it, you’ll understand why it needs to be in your music collection.

As Long As Your Mine by Bette McLaurin –Pulse 1004 (Released 1965)

Side A: As Long As You're Mine
Side B: Never

From the start, it was clear that Bette McLaurin was extraordinarily talented. Shortly after her R&B debut with “Crying My Heart Out Over You” in 1950, she was signed to the Derby label. Derby 790, which featured “I May Hate Myself In The Morning” and “I Hear A Rhapsody”, not only succeeding in winning over the public, but was covered by other major labels of the time.
As anyone who has ever had the pleasure to listen to “As Long As You’re Mine” would agree, McLaurin deserves all of the acclaim she receives. Her voice is gentle at times but strong at others, perfectly moving between the two to create a balance. And while her vocal talents are certainly impressive in and of itself, it’s McLaurin’s style that truly makes her worth talking about. McLaurin grew to prominence at a time during the 50’s when R&B and pop music were so influential on one another that it was difficult to see them as distinct. “As Long As You’re Mine”, which was released near the end of McLaurin’s career, is a prime example of just how harmoniously these two genres could blend together—especially when brought to life by an exceptional singer.

Grow Your Music Collection

Pricing, details (grade, side A/B, quantity) and sound clips for each of the above records can be found via the following links:

Nothing I’d Rather Be (Than Your Weakness) – M-W-T Express

I’ve Got Another Mule – Paul Martin

As Long As Your Mine – Bette McLaurin

We provide a simple online ordering form for any of our records. Enter your billing and shipping information, provide details about the record you’re requesting, hit submit, and relax knowing that good times are on their way.