‘Crosstown Traffic’ – Jimi Hendrix
Jimi is one of those superstars who just had it all without even trying. The best guitarist in the world, he invented feedback and influenced a generation of people including the likes of Prince… A true pioneer.
‘To Be In Love’ – Masters at Work feat India
Quality soul record this, it’s like dance music for grown ups. I love the Fender Rhodes chords played by a good friend, Albert ’Sterlin’ Menedez, who I take Guinness to when I’m in NYC. India has one of those unique voices, and the breakdown is amazing.
‘Edith And The Kingpin’ – Joni Mitchel
Joni is just Joni, check out the lyrics, the voice, the musicianship. It’s so smooth, she had all the top session jazz players, from Jaco Pastorius on bass to Joe Sample on Rhodes. The crème de la crème.
‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ – Inner Life
When it comes to uplifting people, it really starts with strong, solid songs. Here we have just that, written by the soulful writing machine of the time, Ashford and Simpson, Jocelyn Brown on vocals, mixed by Larry Levan. Say no more.
‘Holidays in the Sun’ – The Sex Pistols
These were some of the records I was buying when I was 8 years old, it was an exciting time, Punk just exploded.
‘Naima’ – John Coltrane
Coltrane is the ultimate soloist. He communicates and penetrates your mind, heart body and soul. Listening to him is like having some sort of religious experience.
‘Zimbabwe’ – Bob Marley & The Wailers
Robert Nesta Marley was a true poet and he had a band behind him that could really groove. No other reggae band or any band for that matter sounded like The Wailers.
‘Alone Again Or’ – Love
Arthur Lee was introduced to me by Robert Plant. I had no idea music like this existed, it’s like nothing I had heard before.
‘What’s Goin On’ – Marvin Gaye
More heavy-weight gear here, and done again with such soul and groove. Check out bass player James Jamerson, the unsung hero from Motown. Detroit in the house again.
‘It Is What It Is’ – Derrick May
And more Detroit. Derrick has made some phenomenal records. What was going on in this guy’s head, only he knows. It’s a great record though.
Timmy Vegas featuring Barbara Tucker ‘Dutty Funk’ is due to be released on MN2S later this year