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.