Curtis Mayfield [Import]

Track Listings

1. (Dont Worry) If Theres A Hell Below Were All Going To Go

2. Move On Up

3. Freddies Dead

4. Superfly

5. Future Shock

6. Kung Fu

7. Sweet Exorcist

8. Soul Music

9. Party Night

10. Do It All Night

11. This Year

12. Tripping Out

13. Something To Believe In

14. Loves Sweet Sensation

Editorial Reviews
Product Description
14 tracks for a low price. Includes '(Don't Worry) If There's A Hell Below We're All Going To Go', 'Move On Up', 'Freddie's Dead' and 'Superfly'.

Curtis Mayfield,Curtis Mayfield,Soul/R & B

Tracks:

Little Child Runnin' Wild
Pusherman
Freddie's Dead
Junkie Chase (Instrumental)
Give Me Your Love (Love Song)
Eddie You Should Know Better
No Thing On Me (Cocaine Song)
Think (Instrumental)
Superfly
Superfly Theme: Freddie's Dead (Single Mix)
Superfly (Single Mix)

Amazon.com

The term "classic" is tossed about a lot these days, and when it's being used to describe everything from Coke to a Janet Jackson CD, the term is shady. But take my word that the 1972 soundtrack to the blaxploitation film Superfly is a true classic. Why? Because 25 years after its release, the songs still ring true and sound fresh. A morality tale set to funky grooves and plaintive vocals, Superfly is the zenith of Mayfield's socially aware songwriting, recounting the highs and lows of the thug life and the no-win ghetto game of hustling. It's hard to believe, but a doom-filled ode to screwing up ("Freddie's Dead") was actually a big hit during the Nixon years. Truth be told, the record sounds as good, if not better, today and should be in everyone's collection. --Amy Linden

Customer Reviews:

Classic funk / Urban street guide.......2007-04-03

Its amazing that this 35 year old sound track still resonates to todays modern living, the lyrics have as much impact as it did then. Eventhough Mr. Mayfield sings and preaches of a terrible condition this record leaves you feeling good to know that you havebeen exposed to such a great piece of work. What I also found to be interesting is that this form of music is not lost you can find this present day street knowledge in the sounds of some the Neo soul artist music. They have been able to transend this into a down to the bone funky back beat that borrows from hip hop, jazz and r&b so seek and ye shall find the message still being preached.

A classic soundtrack album.......2007-02-09

A must have album to an unforgettable film. Curtis Mayfield's Superfly soundtrack embodies to me what was going on in the 1970s. I was born in 1982, so when I listen to this album, I am amazed at how much it also seemed to intertwine with what was happening in the 1980s. The songs that make that point would be "Little Child, Running Wild, Pusherman, Freddie's Dead, Eddie,(You should've known better), and Superfly". The soundtrack is timeless.

Superfly.......2007-01-05

What a great sounding cd. The movie was a long time ago but the distinct voice of Curtis Mayfield is profound and unmatched to this day.

Curtis Mayfield's Triumph.......2006-04-29

God Bless you, Curtis Mayfield.

Okay, so I'm a 41 year old white male, big deal...you think I know nothing about soul...about funk...about groove? Think again. I grew up on this kind of stuff and I still find myself going back to it again and again not out of pure nostalgia, but because to me, it's "real music".

Curtis Mayfield was a genius. It seems like everytime you turn around now somebody who hasn't even paid his/her dues is being called a genius or a diva which is kind of a sad commentary, because those people that they are calling geniuses cannot even hold a candle to Curtis Mayfield. You think Snoop Dog is going to hold up to the test of time? You really think in 30 years you're gonna pull out your Eminem Cds and tell your grandkids, "Oh, yeah...now that was music..." I don't think so...

Mr. Mayfield struck a true chord with this recording. Without being obscene or vulgar he captured the sorrows, the joys, the ups, and the downs of not just people who lived on the city streets, but the everyday ups and downs of just being human and to me, that's a triumph in itself.

I love this CD. You really have to sit and be with it and just allow it to seep into your psyche and know that what affects one affects the whole and what affects the whole affects the one. That's empathy. That's pathos. That's soul. That's life.

God Bless you, Curtis Mayfield...thank you for all you left behind.

Curtis,please come back...........2006-03-10

Going by today's definition of "music"-anything goes,particularly
if it's loaded with 'mf'type language.Obviously,this was evidenced at the 2006 Oscars,which demonstrated how badly Curtis Mayfield's 'Superfly' is missed;at least the lyrics are clean.And particularly, if the Oscars are going to be awarded to outright [junk],Mayfield should be awarded a posthumous Oscar for 'Superfly.'

Average customer rating:

The Best Single Disk Compilation of Curtis Mayfield Work....!!!!
THE MAKINGS OF YOU !
Brothas & Sistas
Best Available Anthology of Mayfield's Solo Work
New Love

The Very Best of (Curtis Mayfield)
Curtis Mayfield
Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music

Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

Rhino Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

$7.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Classic Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

R&B | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

$7.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Warrior Poets | Warner Brothers Records | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Greatest Hit Singles
Superfly (1972 Film)
The Very Best of the Impressions
Al Green - Greatest Hits
20th Century Masters - The Millennium Collection: The Best of the Ohio Players

ASIN: B0000033X2
Release Date: 1997-03-04

Tracks:

(Don't Worry) If There's A Hell Below We're All Going To Go
The Makings Of You
Move On Up
Get Down
We Got To Have Peace
Freddie's Dead (Theme From Superfly)
Superfly
Pusherman
Future Shock
Can't Say Nothin'
Kung Fu
So In Love
Only You Babe
Do Do Wap Is Strong In Here
Between You Baby And Me
Do Be Down

Customer Reviews:

The Best Single Disk Compilation of Curtis Mayfield Work....!!!!.......2006-08-03

From the moment, he sang with `The Impressions', it was clear that singer "Curtis Mayfield", wasn't your average soul/R&B Singer. His vocals were seemingly effortlessly able to move from a Soft warm tone, to a gritty and ominous mood to the next. And along with being an accomplished guitarist (Something not usually associated with Soul/R&B singers), an accomplished singer / songwriter and a producer of some note. He remained a hugely talented individual, and one that although most people will undoubtedly know him for his exceptional "Superfly" soundtrack (and possibly his debut "Curtis" studio album), an artist that truly deserves something of a current re-evaluation of his musical output.

Firstly, it's important to note that this `Rhino' label release focuses squarely on his solo output, so those looking for something that includes his work with the Impressions, will need to look elsewhere. But as is the way with `Rhino's' releases, you get a very concise and excellently compiled album, that skilfully manages to includes the hits, but also include any possibly overlooked gems, that only a true interest in the artists work can bring. So have `Rhino' somehow managed to squeeze an impressive song catalogue into the 16 tracks that make up this collection???. Well...yes they have!!!, and remarkably they've pulled it off in such a truly impressive manner....so what you get are the well known classics, such as the gritty and urban grooves of "Freddie's Dead", "Superfly", & "Pusherman".. from his definitive Blaxploitation soundtrack "Superfly"...all moody funk, stinging brass and horn sections, dark psychedelic soul & cautionary R&B. And the mood changes with the inclusion of material from his "Curtis" album, with tracks such as: "(Don't Worry) If There's A Hell Below We're All Going To Go", "The Makings of You" & "Move on Up", that take the more subtle intimacy and lush arrangements, and progressive Soul of that album, and make for a varied listening experience. And here's why `Rhino' always generally impress me, by including tracks that maybe the causal listener (such as myself), probably won't be overly familiar with, and include them in their compilations so we can appreciate the inclusion of tracks such like : "Do Do Wap is Strong in Here", "Between you Baby and Me" & "Do be Down", which may well be required listening for those that are real fans of Mayfield's work. But for anyone fairly new to Curtis' work, or hasn't been following his career, these are like undiscovered musical nuggets of gold. And it yet again (in my eyes) establishes the `Rhino' label as one of the most consistently superb compilers of Soul or R&B artists.

Personally speaking...I wished that this could have been stretched out into a double-CD editon, as several of his essential cuts from "Superfly", and his "Curtis" studio album, didn't quite make the cut, and even some of his instrumentals literally begged to be included, and whilst I'm on the subject, why no material from his seminal "Curtis Live" album??....but again this is merely nitpicking at what has been created, to be a reasonably priced, one CD compilation of Mayfield's work, and even the die-hard fans that will probably head for the Double-disk Anthology (which includes his work with `The Impressions') will probably sneer. Even they would agree, that is probably the most perfectly complied single disk compilation of one of Soul/R&B finest singer/songwriters.

THE MAKINGS OF YOU !.......2006-06-17

Best collection of the late, great Curtis Mayfield, of his solo work. God rest your soul !!

Brothas & Sistas.......2006-01-18

Good compilation of grooves, but its missing what was in my mind mayfield's best joint " diamond in the back". Anyway, its worth pickin up if u feel the funk. Curtis was the original gangsta in the music industry. When i was growin up in Watts in the late 70's he was big on the block like crack rock. He sung about real issues for ghetto youth and we all overstood what he was about. Curtis, along with Marvin Gaye and Willie Hutch, Made me feel proud to be black in the 70's.

Best Available Anthology of Mayfield's Solo Work.......2005-01-22

Song per song, the "Very Best of Curtis Mayfield" issued by the venerable collector's label, Rhino Records in 1997 remains the definitive single CD collection of Curtis Mayfield's post-Impressions career. Mayfield's early songs like "People Get Ready" and "Amen" have become revered classics that are as deeply woven into fabric of American folkways as Leadbelly's "Midnight Special" or Woody Guthrie's "This Land Is Your Land." To fully appreciate the scope of Mayfield's career one would have to hear his early Sixties hits with the Impressions plus a quartet of Seventies solo albums, "Curtis", "Roots", the long out of issue "Let's Do Again" and his ubiquitous soundtrack to the movie "Superfly."

Curtis Mayfield, as a producer for the black oriented music label Okeh, gained creative control over his music well before many of his peers at the squeaky clean, image conscious Motown label. Mayfield and the Impressions posed for the album cover for 1968's "This Is My Country" amid the ruins of a vacant building in a Chicago neighborhood plundered by urban renewal. Well before Marvin Gaye fought Motown's Barry Gordy to produce the landmark "What's Going On" in 1971, Mayfield had achieved cross-over success largely on his accomplishments as a socially conscious performer and composer.

He sang in a falsetto that was every bit as winsome as Smokey Robinson's but the purity of the Mayfield falsetto counter pointed his raw unflinching lyrics and lent sense of urgency to his cry for justice. While Smokey sang about joy of a "Special Occasion", Curtis sang about "The Hell Down Below We're All Going To." Mayfield's power was the deeply personal first-person perspective of his lyrics. He directly addressed African American community as both a participant and observer in his musical narratives.

Songs like "Move On Up", "Future Shock" will surprise the casually acquainted, who thought Mayfield's career began and ended with the blockbuster soundtrack of "Superfly" in 1972. The predatory world of junkies, hustlers and drug dealers against the bleak urban squalor of "Superfly" still delivers a knockout blow to the heart. In contrast to today's predatory hip-hop ethic, Mayfield saw the thug-life through the eyes of its victims.

New Love.......2004-06-10

I hadn't even heard of Curtis Mayfield before this year. At a college party where me and my friend were literally the only people there, they were playing "Freddie's Dead." My 1st thought was what was this? Where's the "real" music? No wonder no one's here. My friend was like u have to feel the lyrics. He's talking about a junkie, about the consequences of being marginalized in society. This appealed to the activist in me and the funky arrangement peaked my musical curiosity. After reading a book that discussed his music, I knew I had to give him a try. I'm so glad I did. This is pure genius! I love "Pusherman" which is also briefly featured in one of my favorite movies Money Talks. Every song is genius. It's one of those rare CDs where I have to here the entire thing from start to finish. All his songs are versatile yet have his own signature style. I especially love that they all have a message. I will be rockin it in my car for a while, turning all my young friends on to some true music. Thanks everybody for the reviews! I'm so glad I checked this out! Peace and love.

Sparkle: Music From The Warner Bros. Motion Picture

Average customer rating:

I wish the soundtrack was from the original cast in the movie
Sparkle Soundtrack by Aretha Franklin
Stone Cold Classic!
Lady Soul
There is no comparison in the movie version and album version...

Sparkle: Music From The Warner Bros. Motion Picture
Aretha Franklin , and Curtis Mayfield
Manufacturer: Atlantic / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

1970s | By Decade | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

$7.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

R&B | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Soundtracks | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

$7.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 R&B | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 Soundtracks | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Sparkle
The Five Heartbeats: Music From The Motion Picture
Let's Do It Again
Claudine (1974)
Lady Sings the Blues

ASIN: B0000032Y0
Release Date: 1992-10-13

Tracks:

Sparkle
Something He Can Feel
Hooked On Your Love
Look Into Your Heart
I Get High
Jump
Loving You Baby
Rock With Me

Amazon.com

Though she'd already been hailed as the Queen of Soul for her run of sultry '60s hits for Atlantic, Aretha Franklin split her time in the '70s between explorations of her gospel roots and flirtations with the pop mainstream, often with diminishing results. But, just as the music she had so long epitomized was evolving into rhythmic funk and nascent disco, Franklin teamed with fellow soul vet Curtis Mayfield to produce the soundtrack for this otherwise unremarkable film project, a collaboration that retrenched her successfully in the dramatic, gospel-rooted musical framework of a decade earlier. Thanks in no small part to Mayfield's focused, stripped-to-the-essentials production, Franklin frees herself to turn in remarkably consistent performances throughout, from the effervescent title track and romantic anthem "Something He Can Feel" to the soaring vocal showcase "I Get High" and infectious R&B groove of "Loving You Baby." --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

I wish the soundtrack was from the original cast in the movie.......2007-07-31

I love Areatha but I like the original singers from the movie. No they are not Areatha but they brought the songs to life. I just do not like the Areatha Franklin Version's of the songs.

Sparkle Soundtrack by Aretha Franklin.......2007-05-30

I like the Cd o.k. Aretha Franklin is an excellent singer. However, it is disappointing if you are looking for the songs to sound the same as they did in the movie. I felt that should have put the movie version as well as Aretha's version. That way it is a little something for everyone. The music is the exact same, but it is sung completely different.

Stone Cold Classic!.......2007-04-13

You can let this one rip from beginning to end. I remember being first exposed to this one while raiding my parents wax collection when I was a teen. First of all, I couldn't stop looking at the cover! Aretha was looking so slim, fine and "foxy" as they would have said it back in the day! Anyway, what made me put this one on was reading the liner notes and seeing it was produced by my man Curtis, who is, in my opinion, one of the greatest producers and arrangers of all time! I was also shocked to see the title "Something He Can Feel" and then discovering that En Vogue did not record it first! And of course, after hearing other classics like "Young, Gifted & Black", and "Spirit In the Dark", Aretha was definitely Soul Sister # 1 and "Sparkle" did not dissapoint! Like one Rolling Stone reviewer put it, "she is singing her heart out" and I couldn't agree more. The music is beautifully arranged and vocally Aretha is in MY opinion at her best! The way her voice dips, dives, soars, with so much control, she holds nothing back on this one, never compromising and she never once does she overdo it! The background vocals are also doin' it big on this album, especially on the last 30 seconds of the song "Sparkle". My fave though is "Look Into Your Heart", "mercy baby" indeed! Every one of the tracks on this album could have been released as a single. I saw the movie on tv after hearing this album so I guess my opinion of the actresses versions of these songs are jaded. Not to say they did a bad job but I guess it's kinda like going from steak to chicken dinner. I do not prefer the movie versions over Aretha's! However, I do work in a Record/CD store and alot of the old heads, while they have no ought against Aretha's versions, they're always asking to either special order or asking if the original motion picture sountrack will ever be released! I don't know, maybe it's someting there I'm missing but I can't say that I'm willing to give the movie another look which was just "okay" in my opinion. In any case, SPARKLE is definitely required listening from two soul giants giving you their best, pure soul, smack dab in the middle of a disco invasion!

Lady Soul.......2007-02-22

Prior to Aretha Franklin collaborating with Curtis Mayfield, she had recorded some uneven albums with long-time producer Jerry Wexler. It was time for Franklin to get a fresh start in the studio and Sparkle became that project.

Recorded in five days in January 1976 in Mayfield's Curtom Sudios, the eight songs - clocking in at 33 minutes - find Franklin singing with passion and renewed energy. The production is pristine, with Franklin's vocals dominating the mix, but aptly backed by the Haywood Singers.

The Mayfield lyrics aren't more real than on I Get High. The emotional roller coaster of love is explored in Something He Can Feel, Loving You Baby & Rock With Me. Franklin found chart success with Jump/Hooked On Your Love (that smooth Mayfield groove) & Look Into Your Heart. And the title track really sparkles, as the strings and horns compliment Franklin's soaring vocals.

Due to variety of reasons - disinterest, egos, etc. - the sessions are oftentimes disappointing when music legends get together, but this dream team delivered a vastly underrated soundtrack.

There is no comparison in the movie version and album version..........2007-02-13

There is no way you can compare the two; the movie versions of these songs were horrible; Aretha gives these songs a whole new life. The movie renditions are amature at best; nothing like casting in old Diana Ross movies (where the person casted could actually sing and the emulation was more realistic).

I love this CD!

Average customer rating:

Gone, but not forgotten.
Five stars and beyond for me...this man knows his stuff indeed.
He's A Winner!
STOP MESSING WITH ART!!
FANTASTIC LYRICS, GENEEROUS CONTENTS...

Curtis
Curtis Mayfield
Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music

Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

Rhino Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Warrior Poets | Warner Brothers Records | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Roots
Curtis/Live!
Superfly (1972 Film)
Superfly
Back to the World

ASIN: B00004UDE9
Release Date: 2000-08-15

Tracks:

(Don't Worry) If There's A Hell Below We're All Going To Go
The Other Side Of Town
The Makings Of You
We The People Who Are Darker Than Blue
Move On Up
Miss Black America
Wild And Free
Give It Up
Power To The People (Demo)
Underground (Demo)
Ghetto Child (Demo)
Readings In Astrology (Demo)
Suffer (Demo)
Miss Black America (Demo)
The Makings Of You (Backing Tracks, Take 32)
(Don't Worry) If There's A Hell Below We're All Going To Go (Backing Tracks, Takes 1 & 2)
(Don't Worry) If There's A Hell Below We're All Going To Go (Edited Single Version)

Customer Reviews:

Gone, but not forgotten........2006-07-22

Only nine reviews for such an important album! Curtis was a giant. For me this was his greatest accomplishment. Yet, apparently, this masterpiece flies under the radar. I won't presume to explain.

In the late 60's Curtis Mayfield was the musical conscience of black America. He pulled no punches and at the same time he took no cheap shots. He never came across as preachy yet he always passed along a message that absolutely needed to be said. Moreover, even if you weren't cognizant of the message the sheer majesty of the music shone through.

I wish that I'd had the opportunity to meet Curtis. For this 57 year old "whitey" he was a hero of immense proportions.

Curtis has no weak songs. Horns, strings and that fabulous voice! I never tire of listening to the record, and now this CD. Unlike most recordings, once this one hits the player it stays on until the end. And then I play Move on up, again.

Curtis may be gone but he'll never be forgotten.

Five stars and beyond for me...this man knows his stuff indeed. .......2005-12-29

This man stays on my mind all the time. I have to admit, "We the People Who Are Darker Than Blue" is the jam on this album with its breathtaking strings and rhythm section that sends chills up my spine. It is the jam right along with "Wild and Free". This particular album went platinum cause it was consistent from one song to the next, had a common theme that is shared (being black in today's society and love among mankind)and last, the album had actual musicians playing on this record and not the computerized music we hear today. Just listen to this record all the way through and you won't be disappointed at all. You get your money's worth with this guy. Curtis puts out quality material and he is never sounds rushed.

He's A Winner!.......2005-01-23

Of all my favorite songwriters, a group including the teams of Tosh/Marley Lennom/McCartney, Page/Plant, Jagger/Richards and Patton/Benjamin (Outkast), Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Jimi Hendrix and Ben Harper to name a few I would have to put the late, great Curtis Mayfield, Soul Brother #1 right at the top. His songs had the social conscioussness and political militance of Martin Luther King and he was a major influence two of the greatest Soul Brothas of all time, the "Bush Doctor" Peter Tosh and Brother Bob Marley who imitated his work with the Impressions as they first performed as the wailers . His music over three plus decades was just off the meat rack funky as hell, and so ahead of his time that his songs have been sampled on some of the best hip hop beats OF ALL TIME like Camp Lo's "Black Nostaljak a.k.a. Come On!", 2Pac's "r u still down", or the "BathTub" skit from Snoop's first album. You might not recognize these songs on paper but you most definitely would if you heard them. The man was a certified musical genius.
That said, this, his first solo album might just be his best which is really quite a feat considering teh two or three he released subsequently like Superfly and Roots. Not a weak track among the original or added tracks but the very best are "Move on Up", "(Don't Worry) If there's Hell Below", We People who are Darker than Blue" and "Miss Black America" among the original tracks. Of the demos "underground","suffer" and "Ghetto Child" are the best, the latter track being nearly identical to the killer opening cut "Little Child Runnin' Wild" from Superfly only without horns or strings and other production overdubs).
This album is a must have for a fan of top notch songwriting and musicianship as is his follow up solo effort Roots-1999 Live album entitled 'Curtis/Live!' both from 1971. I assume anyone with remote interest in Curtis knows Superfly is a masterwork in no need of explanation. I would also recommend buying ONE of Curtis' greatest hits packages because they have some great songs from scattered soundtracks and latter staged albums he did that were not quite as consistent as his early work but just as potent. I found one with almost 50 songs for 20 bucks!!
A substantial Curtis Mayfield library would fit well into any music listener's home because, as many of his songs emphasize, people, whether black white yellow or brown are far more alike than they are different. I don't consider myself a fan of certain genres as much as a fan of good music and anything by Curtis is definitely that. I urge you to explore and enjoy him.

STOP MESSING WITH ART!!.......2004-08-20

The orginal version of this record is the BEST soul ablum of ALL Time. So why did they have to go and mess it all up??

Find the orginal, and write a letter to the money hungry record people telling them to stop srewing up art!

FANTASTIC LYRICS, GENEEROUS CONTENTS..........2004-01-23

...but you also have to admit that the front and back covers are probably the most erotic ever. Yes, I'd give it up!

Average customer rating:

His Best Solo Album?
Oh yes, this is good
Curtis solo album #2
ROOTS
Curtis Mayfield's best album!

Roots
Curtis Mayfield
Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music

Rhino Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 R&B | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Curtis
Curtis/Live!
Superfly (1972 Film)
New World Order
Superfly

ASIN: B00000GC11
Release Date: 1999-01-19

Tracks:

Get Down
Keep On Keeping On
Underground
We Got To Have Peace
Beautiful Brother Of Mine
Now You're Gone
Love To Keep You In My Mind
Underground (Demo Version)
Get Down (Single Version)
We Got To Have Peace (Single Version)
Beautiful Brother Of Mine (Single Version)

Customer Reviews:

His Best Solo Album?.......2005-01-25

I'm not sure which of Curtis' first two albums was his best but they were both incredible. 1971's ROOTS picks up right where CURTIS left off the year before. I dare say that only the Rolling Stones made music anywhere near as good as Curtis during this late sixties early seventies period. Don't believe me? Name four better consecutive albums than CURTIS, ROOTS, CURTIS/LIVE, and SUPERFLY which were all released between 70' and 73'. We are talking about MAYBE two or three average songs among all these albums combined, with the rest being absolutely top notch if not downright historic. Every song seems to bring a different emotion, and though there are only 8 they are all extremely potent. It is almost impossible to fast forward a track on this CD- I for one can't do it. Ever. It's good.

Oh yes, this is good.......2004-07-11

I love the way these classic albums are coming out remastered with deeper clarity now. I just got this and I'm not going to talk much about what a sweet, fantastic, funky, awesome, inspiring album this is from a rare genius in the prime of his career. I just wanted to say that this remaster brings the energy up even more, the high hats and snare has a beautiful crispness that was just not there at all in the previous muddy cd issue of this album. I am really happy with this reissue and recommend buying it even if you have the previous older version without the few extra tracks on the end. Curtis Mayfield was a one of a kind and this reissue gives even more arguement that this is perhaps his greatest album.

Curtis solo album #2.......2004-01-18

Having stepped into the solo spotlight in 1970 with his awesome album `Curtis', it was obvious that with a talent as substantial as Curtis Mayfield there would be no risk of the sophomore jinx the following year, with 1971s `Roots'.

Curtis brings the darker tones of hard funk on tracks like `Get Down' and the downright eerie sounding `Underground'. Dramatics are in effect too with the swirling orchestral melody of `Now You're Gone' and the almost ominous sounds of `Beautiful Brother Of Mine'. `Keep On Keepin On' is uplifting and the whole thing is capped off by a sweet and well crafted love song in `Love To Keep You In My Mind'.

This was a great period for Curtis in an already strong era but the best was still yet to come. Roots however, is an overpowering second album. My recommendation is you seek out the original album and not one of these re-releases where greedy record label execs clutter the album with songs Curtis left on the cutting room floor.

ROOTS.......2001-12-28

While he may have produced consistently great, intellectual and popular music throughout his entire career, Curtis Mayfield was on a creative roll in the early to mid 70's, and "Roots" is one of his strongest efforts. While not quite as stunning in it's epic sweep as the flawless "Curtis", or as hard-hitting as the best moments on "Superfly", "Roots" is nonetheless a great LP.
From the opener, "Get Down" and the ultra-funky "Underground" to my favorite track, the ghostly sounding "Beautiful Brother of Mine", this second solo outing is a feast for the ears.
Mayfield would completely explode the possibilities of his medium and alter black pop forever the following year with "SUPERFLY", but for the time being he was content to soften his preachiness a tad with this release, and we, the lucky listener, reap all the benefits. A Classic.

Curtis Mayfield's best album!.......2001-03-16

In my opinion, Roots is Curtis Mayfield's best album and one of the best soul/R&B album ever. This album beats out Curtis and just edges out Superfly, mainly becuase the songs are stronger. Get Down is the most wellknown song on the album, but it is not the best. It is a really good song, but it might actually be the worst song on the album. Keep On Keeping On is one of the best songs here and one of my favorites by Curtis. Underground is another really great song, both musically and lyrically. We Got To Have Peace may get slightly monotonous after a while, but it is still a very good song. Beutiful Brother Of Mine might be the best song on the album, but it's hard to say. Now You're Gone and Love To Keep You In My Mind are both really goo, but maybe slightly less impressive. These songs all fit together to make an incredible listening experience, making this Curtis Mayfield's best album.

Average customer rating:

A Silver Anniversary Release Worth Its Weight In Gold
The soundtrack that keeps giving year after year
Rockets and Planes
A Terrific Album
Essential Recording

Superfly
Curtis Mayfield
Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music

Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

Rhino Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Classic Rock | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

R&B | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Soundtracks | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

Heroes | Warner Brothers Records | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Shaft: Music From The Soundtrack (1971 Film)
Roots
Curtis
Superfly
What's Going on

ASIN: B00000342V
Release Date: 1997-11-11

Tracks:

Little Child Runnin' Wild
Pusherman
Freddie's Dead
Junkie Chase (Instrumental)
Give Me Your Love (Love Song)
Eddie You Should Know Better
No Thing On Me (Cocaine Song)
Think (Instrumental)
Superfly
Freddie's Dead (Theme From 'Superfly') (Single Mix)
Superfly (Single Mix)

Tracks:

Ghetto Child (Demo Of 'Little Child Runnin' Wild')
Pusherman (Alternate Mix)
Freddie's Dead (Instrumental Version)
Junkie Chase (Instrumental) (Full-Length Version)
No Thing On Me (Cocaine Song) (Instrumental Version)
Militant March
Eddie You Should Know Better (Instrumental Version)
Radio Spot #1
The Underground (Demo)
Check Out Your Mind (Instrumental Version)
Radio Spot #2
Curtis Mayfield (On Superfly Film & Songwriting)

Amazon.com

The term "classic" is tossed about a lot these days, and when it's being used to describe everything from Coke to a Janet Jackson CD, the term is shady. But take my word that the 1972 soundtrack to the blaxploitation film Superfly is a true classic. Why? Because 25 years after its release, the songs still ring true and sound fresh. A morality tale set to funky grooves and plaintive vocals, Superfly is the zenith of Mayfield's socially aware songwriting, recounting the highs and lows of the thug life and the no-win ghetto game of hustling. It's hard to believe, but a doom-filled ode to screwing up ("Freddie's Dead") was actually a big hit during the Nixon years. Truth be told, the record sounds as good, if not better today and should be in everyone's collection. --Amy Linden

Album Description

The classic original 'Superfly' album coupled with a bonus CD featuring 13 unissued alternate versions & additional tracks, including 'Pusherman', a demo of 'Little Child Runnin' Wild' and an instrumental of 'Freddie's Dead'. NOTE:contains all but one of the tracks from Rhino's 1997 '25th Anniversary Edition' of 'Superfly' (the interview with Mayfield). Double slimline jewel case within a full color slipcase cover. 1998 Charly release. NOTE: slightly different packaging than Rhino's release.

Customer Reviews:

A Silver Anniversary Release Worth Its Weight In Gold.......2007-03-10

Take the boxed sets out of the equation and I don't know of a better deluxe edition that is on the market. From the packaging, booklet and additional tracks, including Curtis Mayfield discussing Superfly and songwriting, this is what a reissue is all about.

The unique jacket opens to a movie still, which neatly houses the two CDs and booklet. The booklet itself is highly informative, with an explanation on how the additional tracks were found, song lyrics and a lengthy essay concerning the music and its (mis)use in the movie.

The first CD has the original nine tracks issued on the album and the single mixes of one of my favorite songs ever, Freddie's Dead & Superfly. The second CD is a treasure chest of demos and instrumental versions of songs, including an alternate mix of Pusherman and the full-length cut of Junkie Chase.

A pair of Curtis Mayfield radio spots and the interview - which ends the disc - are absolute gems.

If there is only one CD set that you are going to purchase this year, you can't go wrong with this silver anniversary edition of Superfly.

The soundtrack that keeps giving year after year.......2007-01-14

This is by far the best movie soundtrack ever made. Curtis Mayfield was a god send. If you do not own it your missing out on a great piece of musical history. This edition has the conversation with Curtis Mayfield and if you listen to it, you may learn something.

Rockets and Planes .......2006-11-27

Just Listen and keep an open mind. The bass lines seem to be the crux of Mr. Mayfields writing. It's true...anybody who heard these songs back in the 70's will be astounded by the timiliness of the songs...We can deal with Rockets and Planes but reality...what does it mean.....
Goes to show that Mr. Mayfield was right on and his words ring true even today.

A Terrific Album.......2005-12-07

This album is a true classic. Curtis Mayfieldis a musical genius. This soundtrack is a great compilation of songs that were included in the movie. If you are a fan of funk music and you do not have this album in your collection, go buy it, even if it is used, buy it. It is so good, you will not be disappointed.

Essential Recording.......2005-11-26

No serious music fan can be without some version of _Superfly_, it's really that simple... I agree with some reviewers here that the second disc in the 25th Annniv. edition isn't all essential material. The one truly essential item on the second disc is "The Underground" (demo). It's insanely great - one of the best, most soulful grooves I've ever heard. A gift from the gods. Finding it is a little like having, say, "Penny Lane" turn up for the first time on one of the Beatles _Anthology_ records.
So... if you are a Curtis M. fan you *have* to have this track.

Average customer rating:

The very best!!
You Must Believe Me
Here There and Everywhere
SAY IT LOUD!
The Anthology 1961-1977

The Anthology 1961-1977
Curtis Mayfield , and The Impressions
Manufacturer: Mca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

Northern | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Psychedelic Rock | Classic Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Anthology-The Best of The Temptations
Portrait of a Legend 1951-1964
Ooo Baby Baby: The Anthology
The Very Best of (Curtis Mayfield)
Superfly (1972 Film)

ASIN: B000002OLX
Release Date: 1992-12-08

Tracks:

Gypsy Woman
Grow Closer Together
Never Let Me Go
Little Young Lover
Minstrel And Queen
I'm The One Who Loves You
Sad Sad Girl And Boy
It's All Right
Talking About My Baby
I'm So Proud
Keep On Pushing
You Must Believe Me
See The Real Me
Amen
I've Been Trying
People Get Ready
It's Hard To Believe
Woman's Got Soul
Meeting Over Yonder
I Need You
You've Been Cheatin'
Man Oh Man
Can't Satisfy
We're A Winner
I Loved And I Lost
We're Rolling On (Part One)

Tracks:

Fool For You
This Is My Country
Choice Of Colors
Check Out Your Mind
Move On Up - Curtis Mayfield
(Don't Worry) If There's A Hell Below, We're All Going To Go - Curtis Mayfield
The Makings Of You - Curtis Mayfield
Beautiful Brother Of Mine - Curtis Mayfield
Freddie's Dead - Curtis Mayfield
Superfly - Curtis Mayfield
Pusherman - Curtis Mayfield
So In Love - Curtis Mayfield
Only You Babe (single edit) - Curtis Mayfield
Do Do Wap Is Strong In Here (single edit) - Curtis Mayfield

Amazon.com

The last few years has seen an increased appreciation and examination of the legacy of Curtis Mayfield. This 1992 collection highlights Mayfield's years with the Impressions, (both on ABC and Mayfield's own Curtom label), the vocal group that also included Jerry Butler. Among the timeless hits included are "Gypsy Woman," "It's All Right," and "We're a Winner" In addition, there are selections from Mayfield's solo career, most notably several cuts from Superfly. While this 2 CD set is not as exhaustive as the 3 CD Rhino collection of 1997, it is worth owning , as is anything associated with Mayfield . --Amy Linden

Customer Reviews:

The very best!!.......2007-05-03

Curtis shows all of his talent in this great compilation. A must have for any collection.

You Must Believe Me.......2007-01-18

This is an excellent compilation of tracks from the Impressions and from Curtis Mayfield's solo career. There isn't a better compilation out there that combines both eras of Mr. Mayfield's career. The first disc is made up entirely of songs from the Impressions. The second disc has four late-era Impressions songs and ten Curtis Mayfield solo recordings. With the exception of "Give Me Your Love (Love Song)" from the Superfly soundtrack, everything I could possibly want in a compilation is here.

When I bought this, I was much more familiar with Mr. Mayfield's early 70's solo career than his work with the Impressions. I only knew three songs by the Impressions ("It's All Right", "You Must Believe Me", and "People Get Ready"). I am happy to say that the rest of the Impressions recordings presented here as good as the three songs I already knew. My personal new favorite (if you can call a 40 year old song 'new') is "Sad Sad Girl And Boy". That's a great song right there.

If you're looking for a good introduction to Curtis Mayfield & the Impressions, then this is the place to start. The Anthology is kind of expensive, but it was definitely worth it for me.

Here There and Everywhere.......2006-03-22

Yes, that's the name of a Beatles tune, but it can just as easily dedscribe the range of Curtis Mayfield. You could hear him in your church (Amen, People Get Ready), or on the street (Superfly, Pusherman, Freddy's Dead), or in a protest march. No anthology is the whole story, but this is certainly a good starting point.

SAY IT LOUD!.......2005-12-31

Curtis Mayfield was quite simply the most talented R&B singer/songwriter of his generation. Though greatly underrated during his lifetime, Mayfield is now acknowledged as one of true musical geniuses of the classic R&B/soul era. This collection, now nearly 14 years old, is still the best and most varied summation of his work (both with the Impressions and solo) available; the remastering is superb and crisp. This set belongs in any music collection that purports to take R&B/soul music seirously.

The Anthology 1961-1977.......2005-04-24

This CD represents the best of Curtis Mayfield.He was undoubtedly a soul genius who could touch my inner soul with the vivacious joy in his singing,the jubilation,and the determination in his voice as he sings "Keep on Pushin",for example.The Impressions were my favorite soul group of the sixties.As a teenager I had an opportunity to meet and talk to them backstage at the Coliseum in Greensboro, North Carolina.I was starstruck of course, but I thought that they were the coolest guys in the world to take the time to speak with me.
While listening to the CD as I write this review,I think what a shame that many so kids of this generation will never have the opportunity to hear this great music.One of the things that mystifies me is why the so-called "old school" radio stations never play much beyond "Superfly" as a tribute to Mayfield when he wrote so much great music for the Impressions,Jerry Butler,The Staple Singers,Billy Stewart,Major Lance,Aretha Franklin, and many others. The music was romantic,touching,relevant, and simply beautiful with excellent lyrics;wonderfully executed harmonies; Johnny Pate's exemplary powerful and soulful arrangements;and of Curtis'inspired guitar licks.The Anthology CD is a testament to Mayfield's glory and certainly worth the time and money.

Average customer rating:

A great album from the late,great Curtis Mayfield
right on for the darkness
Funky - - and political too ! ! !

Back to the World
Curtis Mayfield
Manufacturer: Snapper UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Sweet Exorcist/Got to Find a Way
There's No Place Like America Today
Roots
Curtis
Curtis/Live!

ASIN: B000B9WDIW
Release Date: 2006-08-29

Tracks:

Back to the World
Future Shock
Right on for the Darkness
Future Song (Love a Good Woman, Love a Good Man)
If I Were Only a Child Again
Can't Say Nothin'
Keep on Trippin'

Album Description

Back To The World is a powerful concept album dealing with America's social issues, the aftermath of the Vietnam War, the environment (years before it became fashionable), as well as Curtis' optimism for the future. 7 total tracks. Charly. 2005.

Customer Reviews:

A great album from the late,great Curtis Mayfield.......2007-02-28

This one's my favorite Curtis Mayfield release after Superfly.It was originally released in 1973 and was required listening during my days in the US Army. Oh what great memories! Highly recommended!!

right on for the darkness.......2006-09-16

This record has my alltime favorite curtis tune, and I love a whole lot of curtis tunes to death. When he says "it's the educated people...making up the rules, holding back the schools" I couldn't agree more. But much like his debut, Curtis, the hypnotic and apocolyptic ("hell below" on that one) is balanced by more upbeat stuff. Maybe the best Curtis cover art, too.

Funky - - and political too ! ! ! .......2006-05-17

This has always been one of my favorite Curtis Mayfield albums, even though I don't think its his most popular (and it often goes out of print.) The reason is because its just so darn tight and funky - - yet political (in that distinct Curtis Mayfield) way too. The tracks are so tight, its incredible... and not only is it heavy funk - - but its a distinct type of funk that only Curtis was playing (and that's hard to describe for the uninitiated.) - - I don't know how to describe it... 100% Curtis = 94% JB, 6% Bob Marley ??? Really, you have to listen...

Overall, this is a great album because on one hand the instrumental tracks are kicking -- even if you're not dancing, you can't help but move, however, if you listen to it just for the lyrics, you can follow Mayfield's lyrics from begining to end... in part because he had a unique style of lyric writing too that made him more of a political poet or even a pre-hip hop rapper more than a simple soul wailer or crooner (as was common in that era.) Throughout the album Mayfield's status as a visionary and artist becomes clearer and clearer as he paints pictures and makes you think and wonder. Consider the opening track BACK IN THE WORLD, with its pumping bass and drums, lush violins, wa wa guitars, and funky horns about a Vietname Vet who dreams of coming back to the U.S. but finds life quite a bit different than what he was expecting... Mayfield pleads his case passionately and emotionally by putting you in his mind, yet the tune is also so damn funky you don't know how to respond. The music makes you want to dance... but the message makes you both sad and angry at the same time. And at the same time he also has that unique style of rhythm guitar as well !

Overall this is an intense album. Some people were blown away by other artists who were delivering political messages at that time... like Marvin Gay and Gil Scott Heron - - but after hearing this album you'll realize that Curtis (the guy who laid down the ultimately controversial "Mighty Mighty Space and Whitey" and "SUPERFLY" soundtrack which provided social commentary on the film at the same time you watched it) *WAS* the man ! ! !

Average customer rating:

The Most Inspiring Album Ever !
TOTAL BRILLIANCE
King of Soul
Curtis finale is a good one
A Stunning Coda To A Brilliant Career

New World Order
Curtis Mayfield
Manufacturer: Warner Bros / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | R&B | Styles | Music

General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Roots
Curtis
The Very Best of (Curtis Mayfield)
A Tribute to Curtis Mayfield
Superfly (1972 Film)

ASIN: B000002NAO
Release Date: 1996-10-01

Tracks:

New World Order
Ms. Martha
Back To Living Again
No One Knows About A Good Thing (You Don't Have To Cry)
Just A Little Bit Of Love
We People Who Are Darker Than Blue
I Believe In You
Here But I'm Gone
It Was Love That We Needed
The Got Dang Song
The Girl I Find Stays On My Mind
Let's Not Forget
Oh So Beautiful

Amazon.com

Curtis Mayfield was as much social conscience for the '60s and '70s as Chuck D was for the '80s and '90s. Mayfield was paralyzed from the neck down when a lighting scaffold fell on him at a 1990 Brooklyn concert. Though he can no longer move his arms and hands, he has continued to write songs simply by singing lyrics and melodies to his family and staff. New World Order is both the first full album of all-new Mayfield material since 1990's Take It to the Streets and the best since 1977's Short Eyes soundtrack. Though his signature guitar sound is sorely missed, the Latin-tinged, bubbly tunes and sharp-eyed words are unmistakably his. "Whenever life pulls you down," Mayfield sings, "you just get back up and hold your ground.... Let's get back to living again." --Geoffrey Himes

Customer Reviews:

The Most Inspiring Album Ever !.......2006-12-31

"New World Order" released by a paralyzed Curtis Mayfield is laden with solacing, spiritual and conciliatory songs that resonate with love and soul. Divine intervention was at work when Curtis sung these songs with his gentle, yearning, wondrous and peerless voice. All the songs are dynamic and imperative. This recording exemplifies the triumph of a special human spirit, namely, Curtis Mayfield. It might be impossible to ever hear any recording more inspiring than "New World Order". I think of Curtis Mayfield every time the world's greatest living guitarist, Jeff Beck, plays his instrumental version of "People Get Ready". Curtis Mayfield will always be rememberred as a legend replete with talent, class and compassion. "New World Order" was his last CD and it was rife with vocal and instrumental virtuosity of the utmost quality !

TOTAL BRILLIANCE.......2006-06-19

I am a white male that listens to primarily Hard music. This along with superfly has made me a dedicated fan. It is haunting and musically fantastic. He recorded this album while paralyzed in bed.

King of Soul.......2006-02-04

6 years before the release of this album, during a preperation for a concert on August 14, 1990. a Light rig fall over Curtis making him paralized from the neck down. Curtis was hardly ever able to speak after that accident.
Yet, he releases "New World Order" 6 years after his accident.
The singing was done in very small parts in the studio, until the completion of all the album. Curtis was singing bit by bit while laying on his back.
Now go and listen to this CD. I am sure you will agree: Curtis is the King of Soul

Curtis finale is a good one.......2004-01-18

In the early 70s Curtis released some awesome soul albums. However his career got away from him and tragically, in 1990, during a live show Curtis suffered a horrible injury leaving him paralysed from the neck down.

However paralysis couldn't restrict the genius of Curtis Mayfield. In 1996, pushing 60 and with 6 years out of the game, he got back in the studio with a team of producers to help him out and record this comeback album. The long break must've done Curtis good because he sounds revitalised here. This album is hitting throughout and the Curtis vocals are strong and hold up. The sound is fresh and the jams fonk hard. 'Back To Living Again' is an awesome upbeat & inspriring number, as is the title track, a real substantial number, where Curtis shares words of wisdom over an ominous sounding groove.

This whole album is strong and the mans positivity and always uplifting messages are contagious. Overall a great showcase for Curtis' talents. I would recommend it along with 'Curtis', 'Roots', and the soundtrack 'Superfly'. R.I.P. Curtis.

A Stunning Coda To A Brilliant Career.......2003-03-31

In his forty odd years as musician, Chicago native Curtis Mayfield career took his fans to mountain and back, and we are all better people for the journey. It will be sometime in the future when Mayfield's considerable contributions to popular music will be fully realized. Co-founder of the Impressions with Jerry Butler, Curtis' deep roots in early doo-wop and latin music is reflected in their early chart-topper, "Gypsy Woman". Butler left the Impressions and Mayfield took the reigns and wrote and produced the long streak of gospel influenced hits associated the their classic era. Songs like "Amen", "People Get Ready" and "Keep On Pushing" became touchstones of the civil rights movement and songs of hope for the downtrodden. By the end of the sixties, when Mayfield went solo, his songcraft developed a deep harmonic complexity and along with Marvin Gaye, Curtis became one of great topical composers of the era. He embraced the newly emerging funk music, pioneered by James Brown and his perfoming ensemble struck dance ready groove as Mayfield became one of great guitar innovators of the seventies. He began experimenting with a wah-wah pedal and using sonic atomospheric washes of sound, as a counterpoint to the rock steady bass grooves. Subsequently his guitar playing became widely imitated by both rythym and blues and rock and roll guitarists. In 1972, Mayfield wrote the soundtrack to "Superfly" a small movie aimed at exploiting a black target audience. The album is arguably the best movie soundtrack of the 1970s and Mayfield directed his energies to writting soundtracks throughout most of the Seventies including an underrated collboration with Aretha Franklin for the movie "Sparkle". Curtis was also a mezmerizing live performer and the album "Curtis Live" is a showcase of the silky Mayfield falsetto, his highly stylized guitar playing and his genius as a bandleader. By the beginning of the Eighties, Mayfield's popularity was declining due to the rise of hip-hop but Mayfield continued to tour and record. In 1990, Mayfield was seriously injured when a lighting rig fell on him during a concert in Brooklyn. Mayfield was paralyzed from the neck down as a result.

There are feats of artistic determination that stagger the imagination of us mere mortals. Henri Matisse became so ill he could no longer paint at his easel, so he improvised colorful and brillant cut-outs of scraps of paper while bedridden. Michaelangelo painted the Sistine Chapel on his back, atop a precarious network of scaffolding that rose from the floor nearly three stories to the ceiling. To record "New World Order", Curtis Mayfield had to lie flat on his back with a boom microphone and record a single line at a time. It is a stunning testament to the will of a man who had been all but written off as an artist, because of his injuries. Most of the songs here had to be sung and written down by friends and relatives. Curtis' soprano is as smooth as ever and he is still capable of sliding into his trademark falsetto. The guitars and synthesiers are played by a group of proxy musicians who are obviously familar with the Mayfield syle. The arrangements have the indeliable stamp of a Mayfield production. The songs are in the classic mode of Mayfield's socially conscious era of songcraft. Mayfield deals with the gap between expectations and reality as he appropriates the right-wing catchphrase "New World Order" and transforms it into a song of hope. "The Got Dang Song" is a bubbling reggae number that sounds like it could have been written by Bob Marley, his Jamaican soul brother. "Just A Little Bit Of Love" revisits the Mayfield's lifelong theme of redemption through love. "Back To Living Again" is a song where Curtis comes to terms with his injury and is, as always, a beacon of optimisim. Considered as a whole, "New World Order" is among the finest of Mayfield's recordings and is a stunning coda to a brilliant career.

Curtis/Live!
Average customer rating:

certainly the greatest live soul recording ever...

Saltine Like Me (Whitey's Review)

Lacking

He's A Winner!

Curtis/Live is one of the best albums I've heard

Curtis/Live!
Curtis Mayfield
Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | R&B | Styles | Music
General | Soul | R&B | Styles | Music
General | Funk | R&B | Styles | Music
Soul | Live Albums | R&B | Styles | Music
General | Live Albums | R&B | Styles | Music
Rhino Records | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Warrior Poets | Warner Brothers Records | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Roots

Curtis

Back to the World

Superfly (1972 Film)

Aretha Live at Fillmore West

ASIN: B00004UDEA
Release Date: 2000-08-15

Tracks:

Mighty Mighty (Spade And Whitey)
Rap
I Plan To Stay A Believer
We're A Winner
Rap
We've Only Just Begun
People Get Ready
Rap
Stare And Stare
Check Out Your Mind
Gypsy Woman
The Makings Of You
Rap
We The People Who Are Darker Than Blue
(Don't Worry) If There's A Hell Below We're All Going To Go
Stone Junkie
Superfly
Mighty Mighty (Spade And Whitey)(Single Version)

Customer Reviews:

certainly the greatest live soul recording ever..........2007-05-20

Another reviewer wrote that they think this is one of the best live albums ever, and I would be inclined to agree. This is Curtis at the top of his game- the songs, the band, everything is in place on this recording- the venue is intimate and the crowd is pumped, reponding positively to Curtis' politically-charged lyrics and pushing him deeper into the music. The Impressions songs are updated to a sleek, funky sound and the 70's material is delivered in a righteous,soulful style. This album is the bomb.

Saltine Like Me (Whitey's Review).......2005-12-04

'Curtis Live' is often heralded as one of the finest live performances ever recorded. I think that's a bit of a streatch, even though it is a fine disc, and even allowing for my Cracker roots. I do believe Curtis had the capacity to produce an elite disc, but the track selection would certainly have to include some of his choice compositions which are omitted here, such as 'Keep On Pushin' and 'I'm So Proud'. There is ample room in the setlist for these gems, considering the inclusion of numbers such as 'Stare and Stare' and 'The Makings of You'. Nevertheless, I thank Rhino Records and Curtis and Crew for taking me back on a nostalgic trip to Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan in the early 1970's, where the black student union held beer bashes in the Student Center every other Friday (I was in the first high school class allowed to drink at age 18), and always supplied a Curtis Mayfield or Funkadelic sound-alike band for our impaired enjoyment.

I prefer the stipped down band Curtis brought to The Bitter End in New York's Greenwich Village in January of 1971. Sans strings and horns, it's easy to groove to Curtis' funky wah-pedal rhythm guitar, and Henry Gibson's (NOT the "verrrrrryyyy interesssting..." Henry Gibson from 'Laugh-In') wonderfully understated percussion sounds throughout the concert. Joseph 'Lucky' Scott doesn't turn up the volume on his bass until Curtis kicks into the Constitutional sounding 'We the People..." on track 14, but when he does it cranks the concert into high gear. Aside from 'Check Out Your Mind' and 'Gypsy Woman', the previous tracks really wouldn't benefit from a thundering bass anyway. The excellent trio of 'We're a Winner' (with its sweet aside of, "Lordy, mercy, we're movin' on up"), the unlikely but thoroughly perfect 'We've Only Just Begun' (Curtis can almost make you forget Karen Carpenter's smooth delivery with his own silken strains), and the evangelizing 'People Get Ready' benefit most from subdued support for Mayfield's soulful vocals.

Lacking the black consciousness and experience with the ghetto and serious drug abuse, I have trouble identifying with some of the tracks, and much of it just seems way too dependent upon racial awareness for a white guy. At times, especially on the more laid back tracks such as 'People Get Ready', there is a bit too much crowd noise generated in the intimate confines of this club-like atmosphere. Unlike many white concertgoers, however, at least our black brothers and sisters know when to kick in with a "That's right", or "Tell It" from the front row.

My favorite track on the disc is '(Don't Worry) If There's a Hell Below We're All Gonna Go', with Curtis delivering the chorus in a manner all but screaming RAP MUSIC! Scott's prominent bass lines are now joined by some slick lead guitar by Craig McCullen as the concert hits a peak. Rhino wisely added the bonus track 'Superfly' from a 1973 performance in Chicago, this time with a horn section present. This last track was recorded by radio station WTTW and sounds distant in contrast to the intimate feel one gets from The Bitter End recordings.

The 2000 Rhino remastered reissue of this recording comes nicely packaged with extensive liner notes detailing Mayfield's career, dating back to the 1950's, and culminating with his passing in 1999. Despite listing the tracks three times, however, Rhino fails to offer the running times, something many CD producers have apparently decided is superfluous information. Another curious aspect of the disc is assigning Curtis' between song monologues with the audience 'track status'. This disc really only contains 13 seperate songs (the second bonus track is simply the edited version of track one which was released as a single for AM radio), but it's listed as 18 tracks. The term 'rap' of course meant 'to discuss openly' in the 1970's, but Rhino's treatment of these asides makes one at least expect some Muhammad Ali-like rhythmic rhyming. Not. Nevertheless, a choice disc from a choice artist, even for Saltines like me.

Lacking.......2005-10-13

ONLY(guitars, congas, bass, drums. PERIOD)It would be a fantastic CD if the band would've had some horns..e.g. there are no saxaphones or trumpets..The REAL Curtis Mayfield fan will recognize this because Mayfield is not only NOTED for his LYRICS, but for Particular MUSIC SOUND..I'm still a huge MAYFIELD fan, but was disappointed on this one.

He's A Winner!.......2005-01-25

If there's a better live album out there I'm not familiar with it. While Live at Leeds, How the West was Won, and probably a lot of Phish shows compare, for my money I'll take Curtis. Forget about his stellar songwriting and singing, his rhythym section on this album bests anything I've heard from Bonzo and Jonsey, Fishman and Gordon or Enwistle and Moon, who are all some pretty bad motherfunkers if you didn't already know. From the opening notes of "Mighty Mighty" through the last ones of "Stone Junkie" we are treated to funky baselines, killer congas, Curtis' often imitated but never duplicated guitar style and best of all his inspirational voice- it really does get no better. One of the few cd's I always listen to front to back, there's no need to skip songs. My favorite songs are "gypsy woman", "mighty mighty", "we're a winner", and "don't worry", the live versions here even better than the originals. Even though the album is the second set from a 1971 show in NYC it plays like Curtis' greatist hits live. That's a testament to his extremely consistent library.

Curtis/Live is one of the best albums I've heard.......2004-10-14

Curtis Mayfield is a legend, if you didn't know that you probably wouldn't be interested in this album. His career featured many highlights; this is only one of them.

The music quality on here is pure genius. Mayfield covers a variety of topics, certainly never shying away from the current state of politics during this time. He also dives into some of his hits with the Impressions, giving a new light on these songs with the live performance.

What really makes Curtis/Live! Worth owning for fans and new comers is how well it comes off as a live album. The recording is crystal clear, from every drum and guitar to Mayfield's vocals. In addition, there's just enough audience noise to give you the live feel without becoming overwhelming. The audience itself only adds to the music played, as they chant along the chorus with Mayfield in "Stone Junky" as well as their emphatic responses to Curtis's preaching.

The album is also structured so that the interludes are separated as tracks (noted as Rap) allowing the listener to skip directly to the music while not taking away the concert feel from a full listen.

The Deluxe version also includes two tracks not recorded with the original set "Superfly" (live) which sounds like it was performed in a concert hall as apposed to the rest of the album & the single version for "Mighty Mighty." Although both of these tracks are really unnecessary they certainly do not take away from the original album.

This is defiantly one of the best live recordings I've ever heard and certainly is on the top of all soul live recordings I've herd along with Sam Cooke's "Live at the Harlem Square Club". While Cooke's live performance made you feel like he was in a party amongst the crowd, Curtis/Live will take you to the front row of a small club in New York City, where you hear a legend jam out to some of the most prolific music recorded.

R&B Music:

R&B Music

r&b music

Recommended Music:

Groovejet: Compilation [Import]

Messe du Dimanche à Saint-Wandrille

Lifting the Veil

Woman to Woman, Vol. 2

One Night Jammed: Live [Import]

Les Annees Sombres [Import]

Old Apple Tree

Live at Chelmsford Prison [Live] [Original recording remastered]

Marcella Bella [Import]

Mozart for Baby: Play Time

Prisoners of Love: A Smattering of Scintillating [3 disc]

Moving Out

Little One

Shake 'Em Up

Live in London, Vol. 2