Luther: Don't Wanna Be A Fool/Follow My Love (Cotillion) - New York City Band: Got To Have Your Body (American Intl.)

The reason why Luther Vandross disclaimed his early efforts under the name of Luther is a true mistery. After the debut "Luther" in 1976, the year after "This Close To You" delighted all soul fans. The album is full of great songs, including the dance floor winners "Don't Wanna Be A Fool" and "Follow My Love". It's a shame that until now this material has never been reissued.
"Got To Have Your Body" is a superb example of Luther's later recordings. In this particular occasion he lent his magical voice for the soundtrack of an obscure movie titled "Sunnyside".
don't wanna be a fool
follow my love
got to have your body

Freddie Scott: Don't Let Me Fall/Girl I Love You (Probe)

Freddie Scott had a long recording career behind him when he did this album for Abc's Probe. The title track, a rendition of the Bob Dylan's classic, scored a R&B top 40 entry but my favourites are the fine ballad "Don't Let Me Fall" and "Girl I Love You", that was released also on 45. You can find Freddie Scott's complete story here
don't let me fall
girl I love you

Luther Davis Group: You Can Be A Star/To Be Free (Life Time)

This single was originally issued by Luther Davis' own label and has been very indemand between modern soul and deep funk collectors (do the names of Soul Sam and Keb Darge mean something for you?). A perfect example of indie soul (sometimes low budgets do miracles!).
you can be a star
to be free

Marvelle Hampton: I Truly Believe (In Love)/I Know How It Feel (Piggylo)

Blend funk and crossover soul, add a touch of jazz and country, and as a final result you will obtain this catchy double sider. Originally spun by Ian Wright, it is the kind of dish we go mad for. Both sides are written and produced by J. I. Henderson who in 1975 released an entire album on Piggylo titled "Give A Helping Hand". The label was based in Washington, DC.
I truly believe (in love)
I know how it feel

Roy Smith: Don't Go Away (Cutlass)

This is the 70s version of a song originally issued on Chantain, a subsidiary of Delphi (Roy Smith was the main figure behind the label). He was a very busy man and in the 60s he produced, arranged and played keyboards with the Georgia Prophets, that are known in Northern Soul circles for the classic " I Got The Fever". Even if he was white, his voice was very deep as testified by this intense interpretation.
don't go away