There is a Grapevine compilation of Carol Anderson's songs subtitled " The Legacy of Detroit's Lost Soul Sister" which is probably a true approximation of Anderson's standing within the more mainstream soul fraternity but in rare soul circles she is held in much higher esteem for two singles from either ends off her career. Sad Girl was the first track to come to the attention of purveyors of that northern sound, released on the local Fee label it's sound is very retro for the time, being released in 1979, harking back to the start of the decade, I love the finger clicking intro. It is not a surprise to learn that it was written by a couple of ex Motown staffers, John Glover and James Dean. It's one of those songs that never fails to make me smile.
The popularity of the track up north meant that there was a keen interest in Anderson's back catalogue and especially her first single from 1969, released on the Whip label, Taking My Mind Off Love a more straight up northern track.
The continued demand for these tracks over the the next two decades, satiated in part by a few bootleg pressings, convinced John Anderson of Soul Bowl, who originally licensed Sad Girl to his Grapevine label in 1979 to release the tracks as a double a-side 7" single on the Grapevine 2000 label which is the copy that I own.
Sadly Carol passed away from cancer in 1984, the disease also claimed her mother and brother. cutting short the career of one of the unsung talents of the Motorcity., If you are remotely interested, seek out the Grapevine compilation "Sad Girl", you will not be disappointed.
Not a bad way to start a Monday.
Carol Anderson - Taking My Mind Off Love
9 comments:
Great start to the week Drew. One copy of "Sad Girl" on it's merry way to Hamilton as I type.
Qualtiy track Drew, well done there!
I used to work with Carol Anderson. She came from Wishae. I'm assuming she is not the one featured
CC - She couldn't carry a tune in a bucket tho'. No disrespect Carol, just sayin.
Having seen her "performing" karaoke at Kelly's Bar in Cleland I am inclined to agree Drew!
You drank in Cleland and lived to tell the tale. Did you go to the Cleland Club? Very scary place
Scott - you won't be disappointed.
I have been to the Cleland Club and the Cambusnethan Club - ridiculously cheap drink
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