A Look Back To 5 Songs From Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes
Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes live -MrSpiritman123 / Youtube
While the 1970’s were mostly dominated by rock artists and bands thanks to its coming-of-age rites by these same creatives, other genres and forms didn’t wilt away so easily. The vocal group format, known for its proliferation from the 1930’s up to the 50’s, still thrived in the grit-filled era of the 70’s. One of these groups were Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, hailing from the Philadelphia soul community and have over four decades of experience in the industry. Here are some of their most notable songs.
“If You Don’t Know Me By Now” – I Miss You (1972)
While the track was slated for another group, Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes brought it to life with the original release of the track. Featuring a slow and simmering arrangement with poignant accents at certain points, the lead vocals pierce through with sincerity and is backed up by the hanging harmonies of the rest of the members.
“The Love I Lost” – Black and Blue (1973)
The funk-soul influence of the track is highlighted by a contrasting hook that drops off into a sudden harmony climax, while the lead vocals offer stable support to the whole ensemble.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40dvcIDGIfo
“Wake Up Everybody” – Wake Up Everybody (1975)
Starting off mellow, “Wake Up Everybody” develops a cadenced progression as it springs through, and tackles social issues with a message that is still prevalent until today. The seemingly relaxed implementation contrasts the weight of the message, which is represented by the vocal burst throughout the track.
“Bad Luck” – To Be True (1975)
Disco reigns in “Bad Luck”, with a hefty bassline and colorful brass parts ornamenting the track throughout its course. Majority of the vocal parts are either scat-sung or improvised, adding to the overall dance vibe of the song.
“I Miss You” – I Miss You (1972)
The lead vocals on “I Miss You” do most of the modulation, while the backing vocal harmonies drape vacant sections with their slow and infectious melodies. Laidback and outspoken at the same time, the track is concluded with a spoken portion while it fades to silence.
