Influential Voices: Examining the Legacy of Pinnacle Singers and the Emerging Stars of 1970's R&B
Soul music revolution in 1970 with Jazz, Rock, and many more influences. #BlackMusicMonth
Beginning the year with a bang, several soul singles reached the top of Billboard's charts in January. Though there weren't as many hits throughout the rest of 1970 as there were in January, July proved to be an eventful month for Stevie Wonder fans - his very first self-produced song and single, "Signed, Sealed, Delivered I'm Yours," was released along with other significant pieces that were memorable at the time. Among those magnificent releases were songs like Donny Hathaway's "The Ghetto," written by Leroy Hutson, another luminary individual whose work heavily R&B fans from various generations.
However, Curtis Mayfield also took center stage, who was THAT guy in 1970, including solo efforts and songs produced during his association with The Impressions. But what kept people connected decades later wasn't just groundbreaking newness or catchy tunes alone; somewhat, it was curbing a mixture of genres encompassing love stories made joyful or elegantly sorrowful ballads while still maintaining socially conscious undertones that appealed to listeners worldwide who can relate regardless of background; drawing influence from both lyricist greats cementing transformative music milestones which will continue indefinitely.
Certified Classics in 1970
Curtis — Curtis Mayfield
Curtis, the first solo album by the former Impressions leader, encompassed both Curtis Mayfield's knowledge of music production and societal perspectives, providing us with an influential sound, reflecting all he had learned through his long years of life. Mayfield imbued elegant R&B melodies using orchestral sounds such as harps which helped achieve some striking musical timbres on tracks like "Wild and Free," which are spellbinding from start to finish. Every track forms part of a singular steady, wholesome message this body of work brings and can only be consumed to grasp your attention entirely.
Sex Machine — James Brown
This live performance showcases James Brown's legendary 1970 lineup, boasting noted musicians such as Bootsy Collins and Maceo Parker. Though it may not entirely match the brilliance of Love Power Peace in capturing this particular group live on stage, Brown and his band certainly don't disappoint as they burst into thrilling extended renditions of funk anthems. Additionally, fans are treated to several soulful throwbacks mixed in between the funky grooves — what more could one ask for?
Them Changes — Buddy Miles
Amid the cadence of this transformative period, Buddy Miles brought forth Them Changes. Miles, a figure of considerable influence, rendered his rhythms with grit, imbuing each track with a palpable rawness. His drums, indeed, were the heartbeat of the album. Bursting with an energy reminiscent of a vibrant jam session, this record still stands tall within the pantheon of its contemporaries.
Come to My Garden — Minnie Riperton
Minnie Riperton's first venture into soul music is considered to be her most impressive effort for several reasons. Compared with some of her later output, the album Come to My Garden avoids an excess amount of sweet production and instead showcases her incredible voice through dynamic musical arrangements provided by none other than Charles Stepney. He expertly manages to strike a delicate balance between romantic drama and sensual fluidity, giving rise to something special: chamber soul.
ABC — Jackson 5
Less than six months after their debut album, the Jackson 5 returned with their most accomplished work thus far with the release of ABC in 1970. This album showcased the immense talent of each member together as a vocal quintet group. Meticulously penned pieces combined with support from Motown’s finest made commanding contributions that led to exceptional success for this fresh-faced group, whose oldest member was barely a teenager at the time.
Spirit in the Dark — Aretha Franklin
Released in August of 1970, Spirt in the Dark saw a departure from Aretha Franklin's previous soulful ballads and instead focused on funkier rhythms and gospel-inspired lyrics. The title track serves as an anthem to perseverance, with its lyrics urging listeners to "move with the spirit" despite difficult times. While some may find certain tracks less polished than others, they contribute to the overall diversity established by each piece of this thought-provoking album. It shows her versatility and captures a particular musical moment where different genres merge together.
The Delfonics — The Delfonics
Although its title suggests otherwise, the self-titled, The Delfonics album actually marked the soul vocal group's fourth venture. The project saw impressive success with its 1970 release. Still, unfortunately, this triumph came at a cost as the original trio composed of William Hart and Wilbert Hart, alongside Randy Cain, produced their last collaborative project with Thom Bell before being replaced by Major Harris in an evolutionary move. Simultaneously, Bell separated from the Delfonics to commence his work with renowned artists, including Spinners and Stylistics, and receive international acclaim for his unmatched talent.
Look-Ka Py Py — The Meters
A ripple of innovation ran through 1970, punctuated by albums like Look-Ka Py Py by The Meters. Each song swelled with rhythm and depth, showcasing the band's nuanced understanding of the genre. This album effortlessly wove a rhythmic syntax that commanded the attention of both critics and fans.
Funkadelic — Funkadelic
Funkaelic's self-titled debut boasts some fantastic songs, but what makes it truly noteworthy is that it retains an overtone of classic '60s soul and R&B that sets it apart from any other George Clinton-associated releases in the future. No group like Funkadelic could combine wailing rock guitars with heartrending soul sounds to this extent. Essentially conventional soul tracks which embody the ethos of Motown or Stax with steady rhythms, complex arrangements, and great vocal choruses appear courtesy of Clinton's compositions.
S.O.B. — Shades of Brown
A new vocal group of young men in their early twenties who hailed from the Altgeld Gardens area of the city, a place that had already given birth to several prosperous Chicago soul acts in the past. The Shades of Brown caught the attention of Billy Davis, an A&R executive at Chess, Cadet's parent company after their initial deal with ABC Records fell through. Davis enlisted the help of producer Bobby Miller who, in turn, brought along his group of house arrangers, including Charles Stepney, Richard Evans, and a host of other instrumentalists.
Together, they helped The Shades of Brown create their signature sound: a mix of classic Chicago soul, psychedelic funk and Philly Soul's highly conceptual vocal group sound. Their collaboration resulted in the album S.O.B., one of Cadet's neglected masterpieces. The album features ten tracks perfectly capturing the essence of Chicago soul, complete with crooning harmonies, smoking instrumental backings, and social commentary lyrics. This album is a stone classic that deserves to be recognized as a masterpiece of Chicago Soul and a landmark of the genre.
Essential Projects in 1970
Third Album — Jackson 5
The Third Album by Jackson 5 captures the attention and hearts immediately. Enigmatic harmonies, vibrant rhythms, and genuine emotions permeated the album, making it a strong entry in the Jackson 5 discography. Songs like "I'll Be There" remain fan favorites, symbolic of the group's sincerity and charm. This release underscored the quintet's standing as a potent force within their genre, solidifying their path toward success.
Diana Ross — Diana Ross
Diana Ross, the self-titled album by the eponymous artist, exhibited her tremendous range and style. Fresh from her stint with The Supremes, Ross embraced this solo venture with confidence that could only come from a seasoned performer. Her tracks were thought-provoking, dealing with love, loss, and the human condition. She didn't merely perform songs - she lived them, breathed them, turning them into rich experiences that transcend the auditory. Through this album, Diana Ross affirmed her position as a compelling voice in R&B.
Signed, Sealed & Delivered — Stevie Wonder
Signed, Sealed & Delivered, a significant release by Stevie Wonder, embodied the artist's signature style. It displayed a maturity beyond his years, each song intricately crafted and nuanced in its delivery. With this release, Wonder didn't just play music; he painted auditory landscapes teeming with life, each track a journey through the facets of his soul. From the bright joy of the title track to the soulful introspection of "Never Had a Dream Come True," the album reflected a spectrum of human experiences, leaving an imprint on R&B culture.
Everything Is Everything — Donny Hathaway
Donny Hathaway was already an accomplished arranger and pianist with multiple records before releasing his debut LP, revealing another impressive aspect of his talent – his smoky and soulful voice. The album Everything Is Everything introduced a fresh sound that stood out from what had been heard before, rooted in smooth uptown soul yet featuring unique arrangements due to Hathaway’s extensive background in classical and gospel music.
Is It Because I’m Black — Syl Johnson
In Syl Johnson's Is It Because I'm Black album, many tunes depict socially conscious songwriting. This elongated number is a profound statement regarding black pride, accompanied by an underlying sad funk-blue groove. Despite being categorized as an innovator within his genre, it would not be fitting to call Johnson a bandwagon jumper during this time--a time before Sly Stone's There's a Riot Goin' On and Marvin Gaye's What's Going On had brought realistic ghetto songs into style.
The Isaac Hayes Movement — Isaac Hayes
The Isaac Hayes Movement, by Isaac Hayes, projected a depth of talent that was simply intoxicating. Hayes was no stranger to making waves, but this album, full of orchestral arrangements intertwined with his powerful voice, was a unique exploration of soul music. Whether it was "I Just Don't Know What to Do with Myself" or "Something," each song was an experiment that worked wonders, creating a compelling ambiance for fans of soul music.
War & Peace — Edwin Starr
Edwin Starr, stepping away from his comfort zone, dove into uncharted territories with War & Peace. His voice, usually soft and crooning, embraced a harsher tone. It became a beacon of protest, vividly underlining the tumultuous zeitgeist of that era. Each note, every word Starr belted out, contained simmering unrest, making this album an essential part of the 1970's musical fabric.
Psychedelic Shack — The Temptations
Turning towards Psychedelic Shack, The Temptations took the rhythm of the age and wove it into their music. Their harmonious balance of vocals and music and unique ability to ebb and flow with the tide of the times sets this album apart. Subtle undertones of psychedelic music crept into their well-established R&B style, culminating in a record that truly reflects its title.
…To Be Continued — Isaac Hayes
...To Be Continued by Isaac Hayes continued the musician's dive into complex, soulful expression. This album offered listeners an auditory feast, with Hayes demonstrating his keen understanding of harmony, rhythm, and emotion. It held an allure that was hard to resist, an offering that spoke of Hayes's depth as an artist/composer.
Express Yourself — Charles Wright & The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band
Charles Wright & the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band made a full entry with Express Yourself. The music, pulsating with a distinct and unique rhythm, exhibited the unyielding energy of the era. It was almost as though the band had carefully captured the era’s vibe and concentrated it into a mesmerizing sound potion, culminating in an album that set itself significantly distinct from other releases.
Free Your Mind... and Your Ass Will Follow — Funkadelic
A different flavor emerged with Funkadelic's Free Your Mind... and Your Ass Will Follow. Every track had an unapologetic freedom, a willingness to explore, and an audacious rejection of stylistic confinement. The resulting sound was an intriguing mosaic of audacity and brilliance.
Osmium — Parliament
The vastly mixed first Parliament album seems anything but consistent, although that might have been expected. Rather than the later Parliament tracks commonly heard, the overall sound is much closer to that of Funkadelic with a slightly more accessible tone. Osmium's sonic landscape cascades as funk ferocity meets studio liberty through Bernie Worrell's intriguing keyboard skills on superb hotel lounge jazz and full-blown psychedelic pieces meant for free-roaming parties; simultaneously, Eddie Hazel manages to sufficiently tap into a motivational zone elevated by his woefully insightful solo grooves composed upon intense excursions through controlled substances during those glorious days gone by.
Gritty, Groovy, & Gettin' It — David Porter
David Porter's Gritty, Groovy, & Gettin' It possessed a bold spirit. Porter's distinctive style, interwoven with the rhythm of the era, created an album that encapsulates the period's essence and displays his unique style. The album spotlighted Porter's interpretive versatility, ultimately becoming indispensable to the year's musical landscape.
Pinnacle Singers/Groups of 1970
Curtis Mayfield
Curtis Mayfield's music was a synthesis of sharp societal commentary woven delicately through his transcendent melodies. He skillfully harnessed his unique vocal style, exuding an expressiveness and subtlety that few could rival. His skill lay in imbuing his songs meaningfully without detracting from their appealing rhythm. It was as if the world around him folded into the notes he sang, reflecting his perception of reality. His songs, steeped in the struggles and triumphs of every day, stood as unparalleled reflections of the human condition.
Jackson 5
Jackson 5's success is evidenced by the iconic songs they created, like "ABC" and "I Want You Back," featuring young Michael Jackson's explosive voice and spirited personality. Beyond breaking musical records, this group also paved the way for aspiring Black musicians to gain visibility and recognition on esteemed stages, despite existing social norms. With their enviable family dynamic paired with exceptional musicianship abilities that continue to inspire new R&B groups today, it's no wonder that Jackson 5 remains one of the most pivotal groups in all genres of music history.
Diana Ross
Having already proven her ability as part of The Supremes, Diana Ross launched a solo career that would profoundly influence the musical landscape. Unleashing the full range of her vocal capacities, Ross embarked on an extraordinary trajectory, capturing the hearts of millions. She moved with grace and purpose, her voice echoing with the poise and charm distinctly hers. Each note she belted out was imbued with an undeniable touch of her personality. It wasn't just about the song but about how Diana Ross sang it.
Breakout Stars in 1970
Minnie Riperton
Minnie Riperton burst onto the music scene as a solo artist and immediately became a sensation. Her vocal technique set her apart from her peers at that time. Notably, her five-octave vocal range in tunes like "Lovin' You" enraptured audiences all over the globe. Beyond just having powerful pipes, Minnie also co-wrote most of the songs on display, which singularly demonstrated her singing capability and established her creativity as an artist. Through undeniable talent during performances and within songwriting booths, Minnie Riperton quickly morphed into a breakout star.
Donny Hathaway
Donny Hathaway's 1970 ascent to stardom was due to his exceptional flair and unyielding meticulousness in musical excellence. Refusing to conform to defined genre barrages, this pioneering artist from Chicago fused gospel, jazz, and blues into his unique brand of soul music. At the height of America's civil rights revolution, Hathaway released his debut album, enthralling black listeners with its profound message. What distinguished him was his expressive melodies and the lyrical depth that captured complex realities with unflinching bravery in taking truth to power head-on.
Parliament-Funkadelic
Only some artists, like Parliament-Funkadelic, have left a lasting impact on the music genre. Their distinctive and unparalleled sound was crafted from a fusion of various styles and influences, ranging from funk to psychedelic rock. This unique flair helped them stand out amidst the crowded competition. However, what truly set them apart in 1970 was their ability to use their music as a platform for critical social commentary relating to institutionalized racism and police brutality. Their seamless combination of thought-provoking lyrics with catchy hooks has established them as untouchable legends within the realm of R&B throughout time.