The Original Ensemble - "Mothers Day (Should Be Every Day)"

"Mother's Day" is a heartfelt ode echoing the raw soul of 60's Black gospel. It honors a mother's unwavering grace and sacrifice, capturing bittersweet memories of her tears and care. The song's bold, intimate message reminds us that a mother's…

The Hi-Bridge Band - "Mr. Lucky"

Over the past decade, producer Cy Pierpont has collaborated with many of his musical heroes, known mostly to dedicated R&B collectors. A particularly meaningful friendship was with August Moon (aka Mr. Wiggles). For Hi-Bridge Band's debut…

Ace Box Shift - "$100 Eldorado"

Years ago, when the late Sonny Knight’s backing band, The Lakers, opened shows with instrumental funky soul-jazz sets, producer Cy Pierpont was blown away by guitarist Blair Krivanek’s signature sound. Years later, with "$100 Eldorado",…

Tiny Dee & The Dots - "Telegraph"

"Telegraph" is a prototypical nasty mid-60s Midwest garage R&B that sounds like was plucked straight out of the Pulp Fiction soundtrack. Growly sax, relentless drums, jangly guitar, and janky straight Hammond organ combine to paint a picture…

The Extensions - "I Want To Know"

1963's "I Want To Know" captures the raw vulnerability of longing in love. The singer pleads for reassurance, asking if their partner shares the same feelings, creating a poignant sense of insecurity. With repeated calls for affection, the lyrics…

The Casualtones - "The Very End"

1962's "The Very End" is a heartfelt ode to everlasting love. The song captures a commitment so profound that the singer vows to stay until the unimaginable occurs—until rivers stop flowing and the moon ceases to glow. With dreamy harmonies…

The Blendtones - "The Slide"

It's simple: this is a dance number through and through. Like so many hit seekers of the 60s, the Blendtones tried their best to coin a new dance craze. "The Slide" pays homage to other popular dances of the time while letting the listener know…

Roy Hytower - "It Must Be Love"

"It Must Be Love" oozes the electric thrill of newfound love! In it, Hytower is swept up in passion, pacing with anticipation and craving every sweet kiss. With cheeky nods to legends like Don Juan, it playfully explores desire. The relentlessly…

Mighty Joe Young - "Voo Doo Dust"

Mighty Joe Young was the embodiment of Chicago Blues, a titan with a voice that could crack concrete. But it was his guitar work that truly set the stage ablaze. Remember that iconic rendition of "Sweet Home Chicago"? Yep, that’s him shredding…

The Ringleaders - "Grin And Bare It"

The Ringleaders' "Grin and Bear It," delves into the complexities of unrequited love. The narrator's inner turmoil is evident despite their outward resilience. The song's emotional intensity and relatable lyrics make it a standout track in The…

The Martinels - "Baby, Think It Over"

Penned in 1963 by legendary songwriter George Davis, "Baby Think It Over" is an absolutely classic example of early R&B songwriting, both is sound, but also in narrative. It conveys a heartfelt plea from the narrator to their partner who…
Oscar Boyd - "When Things Get a Little Better"

Oscar Boyd - "When Things Get a Little Better"

Broke but never broken, our man here's got the blues – his pockets are flatter than a dime store comb. He can't afford to take his baby out on the town, not yet anyway. This ain't the end of the story, though. The sun's gonna shine on him…