Akin to the way Willie Mitchell cultivated the Hi Records sound and became an influential figure in the evolution of southern soul, a couple states over, one Willie Clarke was shaping the Miami sound with a slew of gritty soul and funk compositions -- over a decade before the commercial success of KC & The Sunshine Band and Miami Sound Machine. Clarke with then-partner Johnny Pearsall, founded Deep City Records in the mid 60s. It was the first black owned recording studio in the country. Clarke and Pearsall enlisted Clarence Reid and Arnold Albury and together the four wrote, arranged and produced hit-worthy record, after hit-worthy record. Their efforts showcased the depths of talent and the melting pot of musical diversity that was boiling over in Miami during the 60s. The songwriting partnership between Willie Clarke and Clarence Reid (in my opinion is the finest collaboration in all soul music) was cemented by 1967 and laid the foundation for teenage Betty Wright's impressive career. It forged through tribulations between Clarke and Pearsell and flourished under the wing of Henry Stone and T.K. Productions from the late 60s through to the mid 80s. A re-post from the original Groovy Gumbo site, first shared a couple years back.
WLRN TV/PBS Review produced an excellent hour-long documentary focused on Willie Clarke and his Deep City Records.
Check it out HERE
Karen Halliburton at 50Bold followed up with an expansive interview.
Check it out HERE
Love Business unlike most collections I post, is a collection of varied cuts from the Willie Clarke songbook. 86 of my fav tracks recorded between 1964 and 1980, preformed by Various Artists and issued on numerous labels. All files chronicled, cleanly tagged (with credits) and mp3 @ 320kbs. Thanks to original uploaders, enjoy.
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