(Formerly Known As "Record Of The Week")

#937 (5/6/22)

SPECIALTY RECORDS - PART SIX (1948-1957)

Includes Audio For Fifty-Three Songs
(Audio Restored By Dave Saviet - Images Restored By Tony Fournier)


VERNON GREEN AND THE PHANTOMS:

Vernon Green was a singer and composer. Prior to his move to Specialty, he was the lead singer of The Medallions on the DooTone label. He wrote the song "The Letter", which was a hit for them. On Specialty, Green was lead singer backed by The Phantoms, consisting of Edward Earl Daniels, Jr., Madalyn Marselle, Johnnie Moss, and Sidney Runnels, Jr. This grouping had just one record, that issued on the Specialty label.

Above: Photo of Vernon Green. [Photo is courtesy of Jean-Christophe Piazza]
Above: Label images for both sides of Specialty SP/XSP-581, recorded in May 1956 and released in 1956. This is their only record on the Specialty label. As depicted on the labels, "Williams-Green" are credited as composers for both sides. "Williams" is Dootsie Williams, owner and president of DooTone Records.

In the Specialty numbering system, the "XSP" designation was intended to be the "A" side. For this record, either side could be the "A" side. In fact, both The Billboard and Cash Box reviews rated both sides equally.

The Billboard Review (7-21-56):

VERNON GREEN — Specialty 581
The Old Willow Tree (73)
Intense, dramatic warbling by Green and the Phantoms on an appealing ballad with slow, steady tempo.
Sweet Breeze (73) Same comment.
(NOTE: Ratings had a range of 0-100 with 70-79 considered as "good".)

Cash Box Review (7-28-56):

VERNON GREEN — Specialty 581
Sweet Breeze (B)
Vernon Green wails a slow, dramatic ballad very much in the fashion of Roberta Sherwood. It is an appealing deck.
The Old Willow Tree (B) Miss Green dishes up a middle beat rhythm piece with a strong delivery. Good style and delivery of a fair hunk of material.
(NOTE: Apparently the reviewer thinks that Vernon Green is a woman.)
(NOTE: A rating of B was considered as "very good".)
LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "The Old Willow Tree" - Vernon Green And The Phantoms - Specialty SP-581 - 1956.
2. "Sweet Breeze" - Vernon Green And The Phantoms - Specialty XSP-581 - 1956.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.

EXTRA RECORD — VERNON GREEN AND THE MEDALLIONS:
Above: Label images for both sides of DooTone 364-B/A, released in May 1955. The members of The Medallions on this record are Vernon Green, Randolph Bryant, Ira Foley, Willie Graham, and Donald Woods.

Click HERE for an article about The Medallions by Marv Goldberg. (Will open in a separate window)

Above: Photo of The Medallions. (TOP L-R) Ira Foley, Willie Graham, Randolph Bryant, (BOTTOM L-R) Vernon Green, Donald Woods. This is the line-up that recorded DooTone 364.
Above Left: THE BILLBOARD, July 16, 1955.

Above Middle: CASH BOX, July 16, 1955. Note that "Speedin' is the "A" side, but "Edna" gets top billing in the above clippings.

Above Right: Photo of Dootsie Williams, owner and president of DooTone Records.

CASH BOX, July 30, 1955:
....Dootsie Williams says that “Edna” by the Medallions on DooTone is taking off and following the same pattern as their smash “Earth Angel”....

Cash Box Review (6-11-55):

THE MEDALLIONS — DooTone 364
Speedin' (B+)
The Medallions go slightly slap-happy on a lively gimmicked up bouncer. Deck is a bubbler and good for the summer season.
Edna (B) A slow ballad softy etched with pretty sound and some individual touches. Good lead.
(NOTE: A rating of B was considered as "very good" and B+ as "excellent".)
LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "Edna" - The Medallions - DooTone 364-B - 1955.
2. "Speedin'" - The Medallions - DooTone 364-A - 1955.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.

Above: Photo of The Medallions promoting their 1959 Dooto record "59 Volvo".

LITTLE RICHARD:

Little Richard Penniman, from Macon, Georgia, was a singer, piano player, composer, and a top-notch entertainer. He was, by far, the most famous artist ever on Specialty Records, producing hit after hit starting with "Tutti Frutti" in late 1955 until leaving the label a few years later. Prior to Specialty, Little Richard had recorded for Houston based Peacock Records as a solo artist and as lead singer of The Tempo Toppers. And prior to Peacock, he had several records released on a major label, RCA Victor.

TAMPA BAY TIMES, Juy 22, 1956:
LITTLE RICHARD SOLD SNAKE OIL, NOW IS A TOP RECORDING ARTIST
Little Richard does not have to beat his hands on doorsteps or sell snake oil any longer! He is headed for stardom! This dynamic young entertainer has definitely established himself as one of the nation's top recording artists, and showman incomparable....

Currently riding the crest of juke box popularity by virtue of "Tutti Frutti", his very first Specialty label recording, and his two current hits, "Rip It Up" and "Reddy Teddy”, the Little Richard man is in great demand....

His first contact with a musical instrument was at the age of 14 when he played the piano at the local Church of God in Christ. He was also lead singer in the choir and did solos as well....

At the age of 15, he ran away from home and joined Dr. Hudson's "Medicine Show", which sold herb tonic and "snake oil". He danced and sang in this show, earning two dollars a night; he also peddled the herb tonic and snake oil to the crowds. The show traveled in Georgia, Alabama and other Southern states. Little Richard remained with the show six months and then returned home.

At the age of 16 he appeared on a talent show at the 81-Theatre in Atlanta, which was conducted by disk jockey Zena Sears. Richard won first prize after some heated competition and was signed by RCA Victor to a recording contract. He cut several sides and the platters made some success.

Following a short hitch with a carnival, Little Richard returned home and became a member of the Tempo Toppers. This group was signed by Peacock Records in Houston, Tex. Because this combo "upset and rocked the house," they became known as the "Upsetters".

After subsequent travels throughout the country where his popularity continued to soar, Little Richard came to Hollywood ... the shrine of music and entertainment. He was inked to a long term contract by Art Rupe, Specialty Records' prexy in 1955. Rupe predicts a big future for le petit Richard. Rupe's faith has been borne out as Little Richard's initial tune, "Tutti Frutti" became an overnight hit in both the "pop" and rhythm and blues field....

The young ambassador of rock 'n' roll music is not only a talented entertainer, but writes many of the songs he sings.

Above: Photo of Little Richard.
Above Left: CASH BOX, June 16, 1956: GOING HOLLYWOOD
HOLLYWOOD—During his recent stay in Hollywood, sound films were taken of Little Richard for nationwide distribution on television. The popular rock and roll artist is pictured as he sights the camera, with Specialty Records president Art Rupe looking on. The two cameramen are Tom Graeff and Chuck Roberts. Little Richard of "Tutti Frutti" and "Long Tall Sally" recording fame is presently on a tour of one-nighters on the Atlantic seaboard.

Above Right: INDIANAPOLIS RECORDER, June 16, 1956: PRESENTATION
Hollywood recording company [Specialty] president Art Rupe presents a gold record to Little Richard for having sold more than a million copies of "Long Tall Sally". A virtual unknown six months ago, Little Richard rose to fame with his "Tutti Frutti"....

Above: Label images for both sides of Specialty XSP/SP-572, recorded on February 10, 1956 and released in 1956. The composer of "Long Tall Sally", Enotris Johnson, was also a co-writer of "Jenny Jenny" and "Miss Ann", both performed by Little Richard on Specialty (and featured here next).

CASH BOX REVIEW — MARCH 24, 1956

CASH BOX, March 31, 1956:
....Specialty Records has a smash follow-up to "Tutti Frutti" in the new Little Richard disc of "Long Tall Sally" b/w "Slippin’ and Slidin’"....

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "Long Tall Sally" - Little Richard - Specialty XSP-572 - 1956.
2. "Slippin' And Slidin'" - Little Richard - Specialty SP-572 - 1956.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.

Above: Photos of Little Richard. The picture above left is from the cover of the Cash Box magazine dated June 22, 1957.

Above: Label images for both sides of Specialty 606, released in 1957. "Jenny Jenny" was recorded on October 15, 1956, "Miss Ann on February 10, 1956. These selections were taken from the first 12" Long Playing (LP) album issued on the Specialty label. This LP was also put out on three Extended Play (EP) albums.

CASH BOX PRE-REVIEW — JUNE 8, 1957


CASH BOX REVIEW — JUNE 8, 1957


THE BILLBOARD — JUNE 3, 1957

1957 LITTLE RICHARD POSTER

THE BILLBOARD, May 27, 1957: REVIEW SPOTLIGHT ON....
LITTLE RICHARD....Specialty 606 JENNY, JENNY/MISS ANN
Two great sides here with the top in the frantic, dedicated tootin' and howlin' mood of "Lucille". Flip, another top contender, is a moderate-paced swinging blues. Both have top money potential.

THE BILLBOARD, June 3, 1957: THIS WEEK'S R&B BEST BUYS
LITTLE RICHARD....Specialty 606 JENNY, JENNY
Frantic cat has another big one going. All areas report strong sales. Like past platters, this will probably catch a lot of coin in pop markets, too. Flip is "Miss Ann".

CASH BOX, July 13, 1957:
....Little Richard currently touring the West Coast on a series of one-nighters, played to a sell-out audience last weekend at the 54 Ballroom. Richard has another hit in his new Specialty recording of “Jenny Jenny”....

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "Jenny Jenny" - Little Richard - Specialty 606 - 1956.
2. "Miss Ann" - Little Richard - Specialty 606 - 1956.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.


1956 LITTLE RICHARD POSTER

1954 LITTLE RICHARD POSTER
EXTRA RECORDS — LITTLE RICHARD:
Above: The Tempo Toppers consisting of Little Richard (lead singer - far right), Billy Brooks, Barry Gilmore, and Jimmy Swan. Millie Calhoun is also in the group for the following record. Billy Brooks later recorded as a single artist for the Duke label, achieving some success with "Song Of The Dreamer" in 1955. (Image is from Cash Box magazine dated 5/30/53)
Above Left: Label image of Peacock 1616, recorded on February 25, 1953 and released in May 1953. It's the first of two The Tempo Toppers had on the Peacock label.

Above Right: The Tempo Toppers with lead singer Little Richard at far right.

THE BILLBOARD, June 20, 1953....Peacock has signed the Tempo Toppers, a new vocal group, to a term pact. Little Richard sings the lead with the group....

LISTEN (Windows Media Player):
1. "Ain't That Good News" - Duces Of Rhythm & Tempo Toppers (Lead By Little Richard) - Peacock 1616 - 1953.
2. "Fool At The Wheel" - Duces Of Rhythm & Tempo Toppers (Lead By Little Richard) - Peacock 1616 - 1953.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.


PEACOCK RECORDS — MARCH 1956


PEACOCK RECORDS — MAY 1957

Label image of Peacock 1673, released in 1957. Little Richard backed by the Johnny Otis Orchestra. These sides were recorded in 1953.

Here, Peacock was clearly trying to take advantage of Little Richard's popularity that had come about on the Specialty label.

The Tempo Toppers (with Little Richard) had two records on Peacock (1953-1954) and Little Richard, as a single artist, had two more records on Peacock (1956-1957).

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "I Love My Baby" - Little Richard - Peacock 1673 - 1957.
2. "Maybe I'm Right" - Little Richard - Peacock 1673 - 1957.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.



WYNONA CARR:

Wynona Carr was a singer and composer. Wynona was from Cleveland, Ohio, where she began her career as a gospel singer. Art rupe, president of Specialty Records signed her to a contract in 1949, expanding her name to "Sister Wynona Carr". Using this name, Specialty released several gospel records by her between 1949 and 1953.

Then, nothing more on Specialty until early 1956 when she turned to rhythm and blues/rock 'n' roll as "Wynona Carr". She continued in this mode recording for Specialty until late 1958.

Above: Photos of Wynona Carr. The photo above left is representative of the "secular" Wynona, while the photo above right is the persona of the "gospel" Wynona.
Above: Label images for both sides of Specialty XSP/SP-580 , recorded in April 1956 and released in 1956. The "Hurt Me" side has vocal group backing. The "Jump Jack, Jump" side seems to be Wynona overdubbing herself.

Cash Box Review (7-21-56):

WYNONA CARR — Specialty 580
Hurt Me (B+)
Wynona Carr sings a melodic middle beat bouncer with a hearty and pleasing reading. Rock and roll idiom, going all the way out popwise. Could stir up some action if it is given heavy airplay.
Jump Jack, Jump (B) Miss Carr rocks wild as she goes all out on this hard hitting side. Excellent coupler.
(NOTE: A rating of B was considered as "very good" and B+ as "excellent".)

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "Hurt Me" - Wynona Carr (With Vocal Group) - Specialty XSP-580 - 1956.
2. "Jump Jack, Jump!" - Wynona Carr - Specialty SP-580 - 1956.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.

Above: Label images for both sides of Specialty 589, recorded in October 1956 and released in 1956. Both sides have vocal group backing.

THE BILLBOARD, June 20, 1953: THIS WEEK'S R&B BEST BUYS
"Should I Ever Love Again?" — Specialty 589
This record has been out for some time, but it has taken a while to establish itself. Now it is moving along at a very fast rate in several important markets. In Los Angeles and Detroit it is already listed among the top 10. This is a sleeper that can break out any time on a national scale. Flip is "Till The Well Runs Dry".

Cash Box Review (11-10-56):

WYNONA CARR — Specialty 589
Should I Ever Love Again? (B)
Wynona Carr sings a slow beat blues with style and feeling. Miss Carr is a talented performer whose performances please the listener.
Till The Well Runs Dry (B) Wynona backs with a rocking quick beat and an infectious sound. Cute bouncer wax.
(NOTE: A rating of B was considered as "very good".)

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "Should I Ever Love Again?" - Wynona Carr (With Vocal Group) Specialty 589 - 1956.
2. "Till The Well Runs Dry" - Wynona Carr (With Vocal Group) Specialty 589 - 1956.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.

Above Left: Label image of Specialty SP-575, recorded in March 1956 and released in 1956. Bumps Blackwell, in addition to leading the band, was an A&R man for Specialty Records.

Above Right: Label image of Specialty 600, released in 1957. This side has a vocal group backing Wynona. Matrix numbers have now started to be shown on the labels.

The Billboard Review (5-5-56):

WYNONA CARR — Specialty 575
Nursery Rhyme Rock (70)
This side is a rollicking novelty. The lyrics of which mention all the well known nursery rhymes.
(NOTE: Ratings had a range of 0-100 with 70-79 considered as "good".)

The Billboard Review (4-6-57):

WYNONA CARR — Specialty 600
Heartbreak Melody (80)
Sock reading by the thrush on a moving ballad. Good programming for r.&b. jocks and hip spinners in the pop field.
(NOTE: Ratings had a range of 0-100 with 80-89 considered as "excellent".)

Cash Box Review (4-13-57):

WYNONA CARR — Specialty 600
Heartbreak Melody (B)
Wynona Carr delivers a slow beat pop blues. Easy approach to an intimate type tune.
(NOTE: A rating of B was considered as "very good".)

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "Nursery Rhyme Rock" - Wynona Carr - Specialty SP-575 - 1956.
2. "Heartbreak Melody" - Wynona Carr (And Vocal Group) - Specialty 600 - 1957.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.


LARRY WILLIAMS:

Larry Williams, from New Orleans, was a singer, pianist, composer, and orchestra leader. Art Rupe brought him to Specialty Records to take the place of Little Richard, who was giving up his singing career for the ministry. Interestingly, Larry was a long-time friend of Little Richard. Larry had ten records released on the Specialty label from 1957 to 1959.

Above Left: Photo of Larry Williams.

Above Middle And Right: Label images for both sides of Specialty 608, recorded on April 26, 1957 and released in 1957. The co-composer of "High School Dance" is Sonny Bono, who was an A&R man for Specialty Records at the time.

Regarding "Short Fat Fannie", how many rock 'n' roll hit song titles can you find in the lyrics?


CASH BOX PRE-REVIEW — JUNE 29, 1957


CASH BOX REVIEW — JUNE 29, 1957

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "Short Fat Fannie" - Larry Williams And His Band - Specialty 608 - 1957.
2. "High School Dance" - Larry Williams And His Band - Specialty 608 - 1957.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.

Above: Label images for both sides of Specialty 615, released in 1957. "Bony Maronie" was recorded on September 11, 1957, while "You Bug Me, Baby" was recorded on June 20, 1957. Again, Sonny Bono gets his two-cents worth in.

THE BILLBOARD, October 7, 1957: REVIEW SPOTLIGHT ON....
LARRY WILLIAMS....Specialty 615 BONY MORONIE/YOU BUG ME, BABY
"Bony Moronie" is the rocking answer to "Short Fat Fannie," and the artist's vigorous treatment could make it a repeater. "You Bug Me, Baby" is an up-tempo adaptation of "Irish Washer Woman" that is also in rocker vein. Two strong sides, both with heavy r.&b. appeal as well.

THE BILLBOARD, October 28, 1957: THIS WEEK'S BEST BUYS
LARRY WILLIAMS....Specialty 615 BONIE MORONIE
The artist's frantic answer to "Short Fat Fannie" has began to click in a big way in all markets. It looks as tho this will be another big one. Flip is "You Bug Me, Baby,"

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "Bony Moronie" - Larry Williams - Specialty 615 - 1957.
2. "You Bug Me, Baby" - Larry Williams - Specialty 615 - 1957.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.

Above: CASH BOX, September 28, 1957: IT'S POURING MAIL
ATLANTA,GA.—Larry Williams (right), Specialty Records' singer-songwriter-pianist, looks over a batch of the thousands of letters that flooded Station WAOK, Atlanta, GA., in response to a contest dreamed up by Jack The Bellboy (Ned Lukens, left) and Daddy Sears of WAOK.

Gimmick of the contest was that listeners had to guess the song titles used by Larry Williams in his Specialty smash, "Short Fat Fannie".

"In only three weeks, more than 5,000 letters cascaded into the station", says Sears, and "Short Fat Fannie" was solidly entrenched as a top selling platter in Atlanta.

Above Left: HERALD AND NEWS (Klamath Falls, OR), December 23, 1957.

Above Right: CALIFORNIAN (Salinas, CA), November 30, 1957.


DON AND DEWEY:

Don And Dewey, from Pasadena, California, also known as Don Bowman and Dewey Terry, were singers and instrumentalists. Don played electric violin and guitar; Dewey played piano and bass guitar. Their stay at the Specialty label was from early 1957 to late 1958. That produced six records by them on Specialty plus three more sides on Specialty's subsidiary label, Fidelity.

Above: Two photos of Don And Dewey. Don is at the left in both photos.

Click HERE for an article that includes Don And Dewey by Marv Goldberg. (Will open in a separate window)

Above: Label images for both sides of Specialty 610, recorded in June 1957 and released in August 1957.

Cash Box Review (8-31-57):

DON AND DEWEY — Specialty 610
Jelly Bean (B)
Don and Dewey team on a quick beat rhythmic love story. In their raucous tones the fellas tell of their "Jelly Bean, sweet sixteen and never been kissed". The lads give a peppery reading to the jump waxing. Ok side.
Leavin' It All Up To You (B) Don and Dewey turn tender on a slow beat romancer ballad. Pretty number effectively chanted by the duo. The stronger deck and one that could start something.
(NOTE: A rating of B was considered as "very good".)

Six weeks later, Cash Box reviewed the same record a second time:

Cash Box Review (10-12-57):

DON AND DEWEY — Specialty 610
Leavin' It All Up To You (B+)
Don and Dewey have a really powerful item here that could turn into a potent seller. The fellas collaborate on a rhythmic slow beat ballad. Tuneful hunk of wax turned out in potent fashion. Stay close to this one. It could happen.
Jelly Bean (B) Don and Dewey rock out a quick beat novelty in infectious fashion. Hard hitting wax the kids will love.
(NOTE: A rating of B was considered as "very good" and B+ as "excellent".)

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "Leavin' It All Up To You" - Don And Dewey - Specialty 610 - 1957.
2. "Jelly Bean" - Don And Dewey - Specialty 610 - 1957.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.


SAM COOKE:

Sam Cooke was from Chicago. As "Sam Cook", he was the lead singer of The Soul Stirrers for their later releases on Specialty Records. He turned to popular singing on the Specialty label in 1956. His first single artist record on Specialty was under the name "Dale Cook". There followed three more releases on Specialty without great success. Sam moved to the Keen label in 1957 resulting in his big hit "You Send Me". The Soul Stirrers are included in the gospel section further down this page.

Above: Two photos of Sam Cooke.

Above Left: Specialty clipping for Sam Cooke from November 1957.

Above Right: Label image of Delta 3016, recorded on August 21, 1956 and released in 1957. This record was issued on Specialty 619 in the USA and Delta 3016 in Canada. It's Sam's second of four he had on the Specialty label, probably to take advantage of Sam's sudden popularity.

Cash Box Review (11-30-57):

SAM COOKE — Specialty 619
I'll Come Running Back To You (B+)
Sam Cooke, the young lad who’s sitting at the very top of the hit parade with his version of “You Send Me”, does a lovely job with another easygoing romancer which he recorded for Specialty prior to his success on the Keen diskery. Dee jays who are seeking more recordings by the lad should go for this one in a big way.
Forever (B) Another smooth, carefully handled love tune with a good R & R sound. Both halves should get heavy play.
(NOTE: A rating of B was considered as "very good" and B+ as "excellent".)

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "I'll Come Running Back To You" - Sam Cooke (With Vocal Group) - Delta 3016 (Specialty 619) - 1957.
2. "Forever" - Sam Cooke (With Vocal Group) - Delta 3016 (Specialty 619) - 1957.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.


SPECIALTY'S GOSPEL GROUPS:
(In order of appearance on the label)
  • SOUTHERN HARMONIZERS
  • PILGRIM TRAVELERS
  • GOLDEN KEYS QUARTET
  • SISTER WYNONA CARR
  • GOLDEN ECHOES
  • BROTHER JOE MAY
  • SOUL STIRRERS
  • REV. W. M. RIMSON
  • PROF. J. EARL HINES
  • SALLIE MARTIN SINGERS
  • DETROITERS
  • ORIGINAL GOSPEL HARMONETTES
  • SISTER CORA MARTIN
  • HAPPYLAND SINGERS
  • MEDITATION SINGERS
  • ORIGINAL GOSPEL HARMONY QUARTET
  • BESSIE GRIFFIN
  • ANNETTE MAY
  • ARGO SINGERS
  • PRINCESS STEWART
  • SACRED HEARTS
  • JAMES CLEVELAND
  • SWAN SILVERTONES
  • CHOSEN GOSPEL SINGERS
  • ORIGINAL FIVE BLIND BOYS
  • PROF. ALEX BRADFORD


GOSPEL RECORDS:

At Right: CASH BOX, July 15, 1950.


THE BILLBOARD, April 24, 1952:
The average sale of a given spiritual release is approximately 10,000, with "standard" songs known to rack up steady sales for several years. Altho sales occasionally run higher and attain a wider degree of popularity, the figure appears to be fairly consistent among the major producers of spiritual records.

The latter group, Specialty, Gotham, King, Peacock, Savoy, Apollo, and Aladdin Records, has long recognized the dollar volume that the spiritual business produces.

As a pioneer in the field, Specialty Records is recognized to have one of the largest and most important catalogs, with spiritual and gospel records accounting for approximately 15 per cent of the firm's total gross volume.

The areas for sales of spiritual records appear to remain unchanged - mainly those large metropolitan cities thruout the nation which are heavily Negro populated. Record company executives point to Baltimore, Detroit, Birmingham, New York, and Chicago as the largest principal buyers of their product.

Almost every major city has one or more disk jockeys who devote a reasonable allotment of air time to the exposure of spiritual wax. In a great many cases, programing is divided between rhythm and blues and the spiritual field.

Groups such as the Pilgrim Travelers, the Soul Stirrers, the Spirits of Memphis, and the Original Blind Boys of Mississippi have long rung up consistent sales. Others, like Mahalia Jackson, Sister Wynona Carr, the Dixie Humming Birds, Rose Thorpe, Jesse Mae Renfew, the Southern Wonders, have a wide following and draw excellent returns from the sale of their records.


CASH BOX, November 8, 1947:
Prexy Art Rupe of Specialty Records has now entered the Spiritual field with the Specialty label. If the waxery’s former top grade of entertainment is any criterion, we can expect some great things in the way of spirituals. Rupe is now scouting various west coast niteries in search of talent...


THE BILLBOARD, February 4, 1956:
In the main, Specialty Records, Peacock and Duke, King, Aladdin, and Apollo Records are acknowledged to be the leaders in the gospel music field. Specialty, with by far the largest catalog of all, continues to produce an extremely sizable volume.

Art Rupe, president of the firm, admits that the market has dropped appreciably. Rupe's roster of talent continues to lead the field by a wide margin and includes such names as Prof. Alex Bradford, the Soul Stirrers, and the Pilgrim Travelers.


THE SOUTHERN HARMONIZERS:
Above: Label images for both sides of Specialty SP 301 A/B, recorded in January 1948 and released in 1948. Specialty's first three gospel records (300, 301, and 302) are by The Southern Harmonizers.
Above: DETROIT TRIBUNE, October 27, 1945: SPIRITUAL SINGERS
The "Southern Harmonizers", fast-rising vocal quartet featured in a new series of broadcasts over the mutual network, are shown with their director-accompaniest, Essie Hayden, at a studio rehearsal.

The "Harmonizers" are (L-R): Herman New, bass; Edward Jones, second tenor; Douglas Tandy, baritone; and William Hayden, first tenor.

Broadcasting from Indianapolis, the rhythm and spiritual singers were re-engaged by MBS after a successful series of programs last Spring.

Above: INDIANAPOLIS RECORDER, August 18, 1945.

INDIANAPOLIS NEWS, April 12, 1945:
The Southern Harmonizers, an organization which has been singing over WIBC for more than a year, will launch a fifteen-minute period over the Mutual network Saturday, 3:15 to 3:30 P.m. The colored quartet includes William H. Hayden, first tenor, who has been a custodian at the Indianapolis News for nearly five years; his wife, Essie M. Hayden, business manager and pianist for the singers; Edward Jones, second tenor; Douglas Tandy, baritone; and Herman New, bass.

The quartet was organized fourteen years ago and for two years was identified as the Angelic Five on the Mutual network. In addition to their new program they also have three local broadcasts heard over WIBC Mondays, Tuesdays, and Sundays.

RUSHVILLE REPUBLICAN (Rushville, Indiana), October 12, 1945: COLORED QUARTET TO GIVE CONCERT
The United Presbyterian church is inviting all churches in the community that do not have evening services to share an unusual program of Negro spirituals and gospel songs, presented by the Southern Harmonizers, a colored quartet from Indianapolis. The quartet is composed of Edward Jones, first tenor; Frank Lanore, second tenor; Britt Burt, baritone; and Herman New, bass.

Mrs. Essie Hayden is the accompaniest. Floyd Jones, the manager of the group, will sing a number of solos.

This famous quartet can be heard over WIBC each Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday nights at 10:05. Each Saturday at 9:00 a.m. they are on the Mutual network....

(NOTE: Not sure why William Hayden and Douglas Tandy, who were with group in April and again with the group in November [per the further above and below articles], are missing from this October line-up.)

MUNCIE EVENING PRESS, November 8, 1945:
The Southern Harmonizers, famous radio and concert quartet, will be presented in a concert at the First Baptist Church Sunday night. The ensemble has been singing together for 17 years with few changes in personnel and has weathered the changes of time and seasons to do the best work of its long and varied career.

The home of the group is Indianapolis, where it appears on a radio show every Sunday evening at 10:45 o'clock over WLBC, and each Saturday at 9:15 over Mutual coast-to-coast network.

As is the case with many colored quartets, it carries a fifth man part of the time, and occasionally, to spice the program a little more, features a soprano soloist for obligato effects, which adds variety to the program.

Members of the present ensemble are : Edward Jones, first tenor; William Hayden, second tenor; Douglas Tandy, baritone; Herman Drew [sic*], basso; Britt Burt, lead singer; and Mrs. Essie Hayden is the pianist-accompaniest with the Southern Harmonizers and also plays a solo during the program.

(*NOTE: Four other articles in various newspapers identfy the basso as "Herman New".)

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "What Are They Doing In Heaven?" - The Southern Harmonizers - Specialty SP 301 A - 1948.
2. "Until I Found The Lord" - The Southern Harmonizers - Specialty SP 301 B - 1948.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.


THE SOUL STIRRERS:
Above Left: The Soul Stirrers in a Specialty Records publicity photo. Sam Cooke is seen at the bottom left.

Above Right: TAMPA BAY TIMES, June 16, 1957: TO HONOR CITY'S FATHERS TODAY
The famed Chicago Soul Stirrers will headline the 14th Annual Father's Day program at 8:30 p.m. in Manhattan Casino. Members of the Specialty Records' artists are, from left, Sam Cook Jr., lead; S. J. Robinson, baritone; Paul Foster, alternate lead; S. R. Crain, first tenor and manager; and Robert Farley, bass....

(NOTE: As Sam Cook(e) had already embarked on a secular artist career, this is an earlier photo. In fact, this same picture was used in another newspaper in 1955.)

Above: Label images for both sides of Specialty SP 821 A/B, released in 1952.

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "I'm Gonna Build On That Shore" - The Soul Stirrers - Specialty SP 821 A - 1952.
2. "Until Jesus Calls Me Home" - The Soul Stirrers - Specialty SP 821 B - 1952.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.

Above Left: Label image of Specialty SP-878, released in 1955.

Above Right: Label image of Specialty XSP-882, released in 1955. "One More River" could easily be mistaken for a "popular" song instead of gospel. It demonstrates the style that Sam Cooke was soon to utilize as a popular singer.
(This record was provided by Dave Saviet.)

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "Be With Me Jesus" - The Soul Stirrers - Specialty SP-878 - 1955.
2. "One More River" - The Soul Stirrers - Specialty XSP-882 - 1955.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.

EXTRA RECORDS — THE SOUL STIRRERS:
Above Left: Label image of Aladdin 2025B, recorded on June 2, 1947 and released in 1947. Willie Eason, also known as Little Willie Eason and Brother Willie Eason, pioneered the steel guitar in gospel music.

Above Right: Label image of Aladdin 2028 A, recorded on December 21, 1948 and released in 1949.

Above: An earlier photo of The Soul Stirrers without Sam Cooke.

GULF INFORMER, September 2, 1950: FIVE SOUL STIRRERS, NOW SEVEN
The Soul Stirrers, Specialty Record's Spiritual singing ensemble, which formerly consisted of five voices now has been augmentd by two more. This group is winning the admiration of an ever-widening circle of hymn lovers by the soulful feeling which throbs through all their songs.

Members are R. H. Harris, James H. Medlock, Paul Foster, S. R. Crain, T. L. Bruster, J. J. Farley, and R. B. Robinson....

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "His Eye Is On The Sparrow" - The Soul Stirrers - Aladdin 2004 A - 1946 [Bonus Selection].
2. "Pearl Harbor Part I" - The Soul-Stirrers With Willie Eason - Aladdin 2025A - 1947.
3. "Pearl Harbor Part II" - The Soul-Stirrers With Willie Eason - Aladdin 2025B - 1947.
4. "My Life Is In His Hands" - The Soul Stirrers - Aladdin 2028 A - 1949.

ALL FOUR SONGS played in sequence.


SISTER WYNONA CARR:

Sister Wynona Carr, from Cleveland, Ohio, was a gospel singer starting on Specialty Records in 1949. While most of the gospel artists on Specialty were vocal groups or backed by a vocal group, Wynona was a single gospel singer. When Wynona dropped the "Sister" from her name and became a rhythm and blues/rock 'n' roll singer for Specialty in 1956, many of her songs were backed by vocal groups. That part of her career is included further up on this page.

Above: Two photos of Sister Wynona Carr.
Above: Label images for both sides of Specialty SP 364 A/B, recorded in June 1950 and released in 1950. Sister Wynona Carr composed most of her gospel songs.

GULF INFORMER, February 25, 1950: SPIRITUAL FIND DUE ON COAST
HOLLYWOOD—Sister Wynona Carr of Cleveland, Ohio, who has been touring the South and Middlewest for the past four months, is due to arrive in Hollywood this month for a recording session with Specialty Records. The young spiritual singer gained national acclaim with her first Specialty record of "Each Day" backed by "Lord Jesus".

Her magnetic vocal delivery is done with poignant ferver and sincerity that has captivated listeners throughout the country.

DETROIT TRIBUNE, September 16, 1950:
Any artist in the entertainment world knows that all you need to attain success is "one good break". Sister Wynona Carr, who records for Specialty Records, got that break when she made one of the most stirring recordings of her career, "I Heard Mother Pray One Day". This gospel song gripped so tightly the emotions of its listeners that Miss Carr was swept into overnight success and now, for the first time in her career, she has more requests for personal appearances than there are dates on the calendar!

Cash Box Review (7-1-50):

SISTER WYNONA CARR — Specialty 364
Don't Miss That Train/I Heard Mother Pray One Day

Sister Wynona Carr's vibrant tones and the instrumentalizing of Prof. Donald E. Thomas set the infectious tempo of the "Train" tune in a hand-clapping foot-stomping spiritual that shows Sister Carr at her very good best. Over discloses another religious ditty full off revival, come-to-meetin' fervor. Ops with these locations will grab this disk by the bushel.

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "I Heard Mother Pray One Day" - Sister Wynona Carr - Specialty SP 364 A - 1950.
2. "Don't Miss That Train" - Sister Wynona Carr - Specialty SP 364 B - 1950.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.

Above: Label images for both sides of Specialty X-SP/SP 834, released in 1952. It's the eighth of nine gospel records that Sister Wynona Carr had on the Specialty label. The "vocal group" that is backing Wynona on the "In A Little While" side is multiple overdubs by herself.

CASH BOX, October 18, 1952:
....Sister Wynona Carr has a fresh approach to the spiritual field in her "Letter To Heaven" on the Specialty label....

The Billboard Review (10-11-52):

WYNONA CARR — Specialty 834
A Letter To Heaven (82)
The songstress looks to have a winner here. It's driving spiritual which has a heavy beat and builds all the way. Thrush's vibrant pipes are in grand shape.
In A Little While (79) This is a clever spiritual waxing. Three tapes were used with Miss Carr backing herself. It is a fine effort which strengthens the sales value of the over-all record.
(NOTE: Ratings had a range of 0-100 with 70-79 considered as "good" and 80-89 as "excellent"..)

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "In A Little While" - Sister Wynona Carr - Specialty X-SP 834 - 1952.
2. "A Letter To Heaven" - Sister Wynona Carr - Specialty SP 834 - 1952.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.


THE MEDITATION SINGERS:

The Meditation Singers, from Detroit, were a gospel group formed by Ernestine Rundless in 1947. The original members are Earnestine Rundless, DeLillian Mitchell, Marie Waters, and Waters sister, Deloreese Early, who was later known as Della Reese.

Reese left the group in 1953 and was replaced by Rundless's daughter, Laura Lee, who, like Reese, later switched to secular singing. The Meditation Singers backed Della Reese on a gospel album on Jubilee in 1958 and on a record on RCA Victor in 1962.

The Meditation Singers recorded for DeLuxe Records in 1953. They also recorded for Savoy Records in 1963 and 1964, with most of their releases on Savoy's Gospel label.

Above: Photo of The Meditation Singers.
Above: Label images for both sides of Specialty XSP/SP-866, released in 1954. This is the first of two records The Meditation Singers had on Specialty. Composer of both sides is James Cleveland, who sang with The Meditation Singers on their second Specialty record in 1959 and also might be singing lead on "Promise To Meet Me There".

Cash Box Review (7-31-54):

MEDITATION SINGERS — Specialty 866
I'm Determined To Run This Race (C+)
The Meditation Singers dish up a shouty spiritual for an effective religious side.
Promise To Meet Me There (C+) A jubilee sound with tamborines and drum thumps for an exciter.
(NOTE: A rating of C+ was considered as "good".)

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "I'm Determined To Run This Race" - The Meditation Singers - Specialty XSP-866 - 1954.
2. "Promise To Meet Me There" - The Meditation Singers - Specialty SP-866 - 1954.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.


THE ORIGINAL GOSPEL HARMONETTES:

HUNTSVILLE MIRROR (Alabama), October 4, 1952: GOSPEL HARMONETTES STAGE HOMECOMING
The Original Gospel Harmonettes, a group of native Birmingham ladies, who are nationally famous for their renditions of gospel lyrics and hymns staged a dramatic and soul stirring program at the St. James Baptist Church, Friday evening, September 26, 1952.

The church was packed to capacity, and still scores mingled in the streets and in the windows to listen to the rich, full, and melodic tones of gospel and religious testimonies in song....

The group is composed of Evelyn Stark Beavers [sic "Starks"], pianist and arranger; Mildred Madison Miller, Vera Conner Cobb [sic "Kolb"], Willie Mae Newberry, Odessa Glasgow Edwards, and Dorothy Love. Each being an indidvidual artist.

The young ladies do not depend entirely upon the sales of their recordings, recitals, and engagements for livelihood, each is gainfully employed in the various professions of our city....

They are always plain and simply dressed, but very impressive. Their touching ballads are recorded on Specialty records and have surpassed the sales of many equally famous singing aggregations....

ORLANDO SENTINEL, January 3, 1955:
The Original Gospel Harmonaires, all schoolmates, were first organized in 1940. However, they did not command national attention until 1951, when they were discovered by Specialty Records of Hollywood, Calif. Under this label, they recorded "I'm Sealed", backed by "Just To Behold His Face", as their first release, and since that time demands for personal appearances have been tremendous.

Made up of Mildred Miller, second soprano and lead; Dorothy Love, contralto and lead; Vera Kolb, first soprano; Willie Mae Newberry, alto; Odessa Edwards, contralto and narrator; and Evelyn Starks, pianist and arranger.

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "I'm Sealed" - The Original Gospel Harmonettes - Specialty SP 811 A - 1951.
2. "Just To Behold His Face" - The Original Gospel Harmonettes - Specialty SP 811 B - 1951.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.

Above: Photo of The Original Gospel Harmonettes from 1955. Dorothy Love Coates is at top in the photo.

At Left: Label image of Specialty XSP-869, released in 1955. Composers are members of the group, Evelyn Starks and Dorothy Love.

Directly Above: Art Rupe with The Original Gospel Harmonettes, who had eleven records released on his Specialty label, starting with "I'm Sealed"/"Just To Behold His Face" in 1951.

Above: Label images for both sides of Specialty XSP/SP-881, released in 1955. Dorothy Love has credit as composer for both sides of this record.

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "Waiting For Me" - The Original Gospel Harmonettes - Specialty XSP-869 - 1955.
2. "I'll Be With Thee" - The Original Gospel Harmonettes - Specialty XSP-881 - 1955.
3. "Jesus Laid His Hands On Me" - The Original Gospel Harmonettes - Specialty SP-881 - 1955.

ALL THREE SONGS played in sequence.


THE PILGRIM TRAVELERS:

LUBBOCK MORNING AVALANCHE, December 11, 1952:
The Pilgrim Travelers, organized in Houston in 1933 and now headquartering in Los Angeles, consist of five voices made up of James W. Alexander, Kylo Turner, Keith Barber, Raphael Taylor, and Jesse Whitaker. They have an exclusive recording contract with Specialty Records.

From the throbbing rhythmc chords of "Satisfied With Jesus" to the mournful grandeur of "A Soldier's Plea" in their vocal delivery, the singers portray with sincerest devotion every aspect of religious experience, Rev. Stanley said.

TAMPA BAY TIMES, April 18, 1954: PILGRIM TRAVELERS COMING
The great singing aggregation, Los Angeles' Pilgrim Travelers, are slated to meet here next Sunday at Manhattan Casino....

The Pilgrim Travelers are said to be one of the most famous gospel groups and spiritual singers in the country today. Even though they were organized in Houston in 1933, it wasn't until 1948 after they began making Specialty records that their popularity rating began to climb.

Members of the Travelers are James W. Alexander, manager; Kyle [sic "Kylo"] Turner, Keith Barber, Raphael Taylor, and Jesse Whitaker. They are said to have deep religious convictions and get along as the closest blood brothers....

(NOTE: This same line-up of group members continued at least into 1956.)

Above: Photo of The Pilgrim Travelers from circa early 1954.

Above: Label images for both sides of Specialty XSP/SP-877, released in 1955.

Cash Box Review (4-30-55):

THE PILGRIM TRAVELERS — Specialty 877
Straight Street (B+)
The Pilgrim Travelers chant a slow staccato rhythm with excellent vocal blending. Several leads take part in a fascinating effort that could sell outside the spiritual field. It is a great beat, tune and treatment.
Did You Stop To Pray This Morning? (B) The Travelers dish up a slow beautiful religious melody with a tender and soulful reading. A really wonderful group with an almost pop reading.
(NOTE: A rating of B was considered as "very good" and B+ as "excellent".)

The Billboard Review (4-30-55):

THE PILGRIM TRAVELERS — Specialty 877
Straight Street (80)
Fine material, a great surging beat, interesting, colorful arrangement, and rich male voices make this a slice of top-grade spiritual wax.
Did You Stop To Pray This Morning? (78) In lilting three quarter time, the soft male voices intone a most attractive, gentle hymn. Should do well.
(NOTE: Ratings had a range of 0-100 with 70-79 considered as "good" and 80-89 as "excellent".)

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "Straight Street" - The Pilgrim Travelers - Specialty XSP-877 - 1955.
2. "Did you Stop To Pray This Morning?" - The Pilgrim Travelers - Specialty SP-877 - 1955.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.

Above: Another photo of The Pilgrim Travelers.

NEW YORK AGE, October 1, 1955: DENY JAZZ TREATMENT OF GOSPEL RECORD
The reknowned Pilgrim Travelers have categorically denied "jazzing up" their newest Gospel record entitled "Trouble In Mind" backed by "Every Prayer". Since the record was released by Specialty Records, it has become a subject of controversy among lovers of religious recordings.

Most Southern California disc jockeys who feature Gospel music have played both sides and spoken in praiseworthy terms of the platter. A scattered few, in turn, have refrained from using the record because they claim their listeners would not approve. One station said it planned to use the record and let their listeners be the judge.

For the most part, public reaction has been excellent, according to Lillian Cumber, manager of Herald Attractions, who handles the Travelers' bookings. Specialty president, Art Rupe, reports favorable reaction and excellent sales throughout the country.

J. W. Alexander, manager of the Pilgrim Travelers, pointed out that the "Bible gives proof that reed instruments similar to the saxophone, as well as the flute, have been used in religious services since time immemorial". "It is not unusual for church choirs or Gospel singers to make use of an instrumental background. Horns, violins, pianos, harps, organs, and other musical instruments are commonly used today".

"This appears to be the main reason for the smattering of anti-comments on our newest record. Certainly we would be the last group in the world to offend or desecrate the dignity of Gospel or Spiritual music. Instead, we feel that we have captured the genuine beat and cadence of Gospel on these two sides".

(NOTE:You can decide for yourself as this is the next featured record just below.)

Above: Label images for both sides of Specialty XSP/SP-883, released in 1955.

Cash Box Review (10-8-55):

THE PILGRIM TRAVELERS — Specialty 883
Troubled In Mind (B+)
The Pilgrim Travelers swing softly to a great beat that will intrigue both the religious and non-religious listener. Exciting side.
Every Prayer (B+) The Pilgrim Travelers offer a slow simple religious tune with a tender solo that switches to a rhythmic beat midway. Good religious offering.
(NOTE: A rating of B+ was considered as "excellent".)

The Billboard Review (9-24-55):

THE PILGRIM TRAVELERS — Specialty 883
Troubled In Mind (70)
The groups excellent bass lead tears into this upbeat material with vigor and paces the Travelers thru some exciting turns on to a powerful finish. The backing is that of a commercial band, including tenor sax, and they lay down a terrific beat. This should be a big bit in this market.
Every Prayer (76) A more reflective piece of material with a restrained beat. The high tenor lead is given opportunity to ornament this pretty melody into florid patterns. A fine contrast to the material on the flip.
(NOTE: Ratings had a range of 0-100 with 70-79 considered as "good".)

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
1. "Troubled In Mind" - The Pilgrim Travelers - Specialty XSP-883 - 1955.
2. "Every Prayer" - The Pilgrim Travelers - Specialty SP-883 - 1955.

BOTH SONGS played in sequence.


ALEX BRADFORD AND THE BRADFORD SPECIALS:

Alex Bradford, also known as Professor Alex Bradford, was a gospel singer, composer, arranger, and piano/organ player. His back-up group was variously called the "Bradford Singers", "Bradford Specials", "Ladies Of Music", and "Men Of Song".

Bradford's first record for Specialty, "Too Close To Heaven", sold more than one million copies. In total, he had thirteen records released on the Specialty label from 1953 to 1959. One of the later records is with Bessie Griffin.

As Bradford started calling his group "The Bradford Specials" when he joined Speciality Records, it's likely derived from the label name. After leaving Specialty, he recorded for Savoy Records' subsidiary labels, Gospel and Regent, that starting in 1959.

Above: Photo of Professor Alex Bradford And The Bradford Specials. Bradford is at right holding the microphone.

Above Left: Label image of Specialty XSP-886 (disc jockey sample), released in 1955.

Above Middle And Left: Two photos of Alex Bradford.

Cash Box Review (11-5-55):

ALEX BRADFORD — Specialty 886
Life's Candlelight (B+)
Alex Bradford lends his excellent voice to a slow, inspiring item given a tender group support. Moving etching.
(NOTE: A rating of B+ was considered as "excellent".)

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
"Life's Candlelight" - Alex Bradford And The Bradford Specials - Specialty XSP-886 - 1955.


THE BRADFORD SINGERS

Above: TAMPA BAY TIMES, June 27, 1954: PROGRAM TO HONOR FATHERS
....Two of the nation's top singing groups will meet in a musical battle. The famed Professor Alex Bradford and his male gospel singers will be opposed by Birmingham's Original Gospel Harmonettes, a group of female public school teachers who are rated as one of the best in the business today....

Bradford is regarded as one of the country's foremost writers of spirituals. He was recently signed to an exclusive contract by Specialty Records of Hollywood, California, and will record his own compositions as well as having them recorded by other famous groups.

In order that the audience gets full benefit of his talents, a Hammond organ is being installed for this concert. Bradford made the request by telephone from Chicago earlier this week....

Above Left: New York Age, June 16, 1956.

Above Right: Label image of Gospel 1028, recorded on September 1, 1959 and released in 1959. On this recording, Bradford plays the piano and Robert Banks plays the organ. Gospel Record Company is a "labelmate" of Savoy Record Company in Newark, New Jersey.

The Billboard Review (10-5-59):

ALEX BRADFORD — Specialty 886
He Makes All My Decisions For Me (****)
The Professor piles much vitality and feeling in this confessional. Following the opening passage, the Ladies of Music answer the Professor in a series of passages. A strong side.
(NOTE: A rating of **** was considered as "very strong sales potential".)

LISTEN (Windows Media Player): [Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]
"He Makes All My Decisions For Me " - Prof. Alex Bradford And The Ladies Of Music - Gospel 1028 - 1959.


SPECIALTY RECORDS - PART ONE FEATURES ATLAS RECORDS, JUKE BOX RECORDS, ROY MILTON RECORDS, MILTONE RECORDS, THE SEPIA TONES, MARION ABERNATHY, BUDDY BANKS, ROY MILTON AND HIS SOLID SENDERS, JIMMIE GRISSOM, EFFIE SMITH, FRANKIE AND HER BOYS, AND MP4 VIDEO OF ROY MILTON/JUNE RICHMOND.

SPECIALTY RECORDS - PART TWO FEATURES STERLING RECORDS, LILLETTE AND HER ESCORTS, DOLORES BROWN, EARLY SPECIALTY RECORDS, THE "SPECIAL" LABEL, ROY MILTON AND HIS SOLID SENDERS, "WHEN I GROW TOO OLD TO DREAM", JUMP JACKSON AND HIS BAND, CAMILLE HOWARD, AND "RED LIGHT".

SPECIALTY RECORDS - PART THREE FEATURES EARLY SPECIALTY RECORDS (CONT'D), ROY MILTON AND HIS SOLID SENDERS, JOE LUTCHER, CAMILLE HOWARD, BUDDY BANKS AND HIS BUDDIES, BABY DAVIS, FLUFFY HUNTER, JOE LIGGINS AND HIS HONEYDRIPPERS, LIONEL HAMPTON AND THE HAMPTONES, "THE HONEYDRIPPER", FIDELITY RECORDS, THE FOUR FLAMES, BUMBLE BEE SLIM, AND THE VICTORIANS.

SPECIALTY RECORDS - PART FOUR FEATURES "THE HUCKLEBUCK" (FIVE VERSIONS), ROY MILTON (1952), "OH BABE!" (FIVE VERSIONS), KING PERRY, LLOYD PRICE, MERCY DEE, AND KENZIE MOORE (JOE DYSON'S BAND).

SPECIALTY RECORDS - PART FIVE FEATURES FLOYD DIXON, JIMMY LIGGINS, EARL KING, PERCY MAYFIELD, THE MAYTONES, WILLIE JOHNSON, GUITAR SLIM, ROY MILTON (1953-1955), CAMILLE HOWARD, TONY ALLEN, THE CHIMES, MARVIN AND JOHNNY, JESSE BELVIN, AND THREE DOTS AND A DASH.


Listen to all of this article's audio selections using Windows Media Player:
[Audio restoration by Dave Saviet.]

          1. "The Old Willow Tree" - Vernon Green And The Phantoms - Specialty SP-581 - 1956.
          2. "Sweet Breeze" - Vernon Green And The Phantoms - Specialty XSP-581 - 1956.
          3. "Edna" - The Medallions - DooTone 364-B - 1955.
          4. "Speedin'" - The Medallions - DooTone 364-A - 1955.
          5. "Long Tall Sally" - Little Richard - Specialty XSP-572 - 1956.
          6. "Slippin' And Slidin'" - Little Richard - Specialty SP-572 - 1956.
          7. "Jenny Jenny" - Little Richard - Specialty 606 - 1956.
          8. "Miss Ann" - Little Richard - Specialty 606 - 1956.
          9. "Ain't That Good News" - Duces Of Rhythm & Tempo Toppers (Lead By Little Richard) - Peacock 1616 - 1953.
        10. "Fool At The Wheel" - Duces Of Rhythm & Tempo Toppers (Lead By Little Richard) - Peacock 1616 - 1953.
        11. "I Love My Baby" - Little Richard - Peacock 1673 - 1957.
        12. "Maybe I'm Right" - Little Richard - Peacock 1673 - 1957.
        13. "Hurt Me" - Wynona Carr (With Vocal Group) - Specialty XSP-580 - 1956.
        14. "Jump Jack, Jump!" - Wynona Carr - Specialty SP-580 - 1956.
        15. "Should I Ever Love Again?" - Wynona Carr (With Vocal Group) Specialty 589 - 1956.
        16. "Till The Well Runs Dry" - Wynona Carr (With Vocal Group) Specialty 589 - 1956.
        17. "Nursery Rhyme Rock" - Wynona Carr - Specialty SP-575 - 1956.
        18. "Heartbreak Melody" - Wynona Carr (And Vocal Group) - Specialty 600 - 1957.
        19. "Short Fat Fannie" - Larry Williams And His Band - Specialty 608 - 1957.
        20. "High School Dance" - Larry Williams And His Band - Specialty 608 - 1957.
        21. "Bony Moronie" - Larry Williams - Specialty 615 - 1957.
        22. "You Bug Me, Baby" - Larry Williams - Specialty 615 - 1957.
        23. "Leavin' It All Up To You" - Don And Dewey - Specialty 610 - 1957.
        24. "Jelly Bean" - Don And Dewey - Specialty 610 - 1957.
        25. "I'll Come Running Back To You" - Sam Cooke (With Vocal Group) - Delta 3016 (Specialty 619) - 1957.
        26. "Forever" - Sam Cooke (With Vocal Group) - Delta 3016 (Specialty 619) - 1957.
        27. "What Are They Doing In Heaven?" - The Southern Harmonizers - Specialty SP 301 A - 1948.
        28. "Until I Found The Lord" - The Southern Harmonizers - Specialty SP 301 B - 1948.
        29. "I'm Gonna Build On That Shore" - The Soul Stirrers - Specialty SP 821 A - 1952.
        30. "Until Jesus Calls Me Home" - The Soul Stirrers - Specialty SP 821 B - 1952.
        31. "Be With Me Jesus" - The Soul Stirrers - Specialty SP-878 - 1955.
        32. "One More River" - The Soul Stirrers - Specialty XSP-882 - 1955.
        33. "His Eye Is On The Sparrow" - The Soul Stirrers - Aladdin 2004 A - 1946 [Bonus Selection].
        34. "Pearl Harbor Part I" - The Soul-Stirrers With Willie Eason - Aladdin 2025A - 1947.
        35. "Pearl Harbor Part II" - The Soul-Stirrers With Willie Eason - Aladdin 2025B - 1947.
        36. "My Life Is In His Hands" - The Soul Stirrers - Aladdin 2028 A - 1949.
        37. "I Heard Mother Pray One Day" - Sister Wynona Carr - Specialty SP 364 A - 1950.
        38. "Don't Miss That Train" - Sister Wynona Carr - Specialty SP 364 B - 1950.
        39. "In A Little While" - Sister Wynona Carr - Specialty X-SP 834 - 1952.
        40. "A Letter To Heaven" - Sister Wynona Carr - Specialty SP 834 - 1952.
        41. "I'm Determined To Run This Race" - The Meditation Singers - Specialty XSP-866 - 1954.
        42. "Promise To Meet Me There" - The Meditation Singers - Specialty SP-866 - 1954.
        43. "I'm Sealed" - The Original Gospel Harmonettes - Specialty SP 811 A - 1951.
        44. "Just To Behold His Face" - The Original Gospel Harmonettes - Specialty SP 811 B - 1951.
        45. "Waiting For Me" - The Original Gospel Harmonettes - Specialty XSP-869 - 1955.
        46. "I'll Be With Thee" - The Original Gospel Harmonettes - Specialty XSP-881 - 1955.
        47. "Jesus Laid His Hands On Me" - The Original Gospel Harmonettes - Specialty SP-881 - 1955.
        48. "Straight Street" - The Pilgrim Travelers - Specialty XSP-877 - 1955.
        49. "Did you Stop To Pray This Morning?" - The Pilgrim Travelers - Specialty SP-877 - 1955.
        50. "Troubled In Mind" - The Pilgrim Travelers - Specialty XSP-883 - 1955.
        51. "Every Prayer" - The Pilgrim Travelers - Specialty SP-883 - 1955.
        52. "Life's Candlelight" - Alex Bradford And The Bradford Specials - Specialty XSP-886 - 1955.
        53. "He Makes All My Decisions For Me " - Prof. Alex Bradford And The Ladies Of Music - Gospel 1028 - 1959.
 
          ALL FIFTY-THREE ABOVE SONGS played in sequence.

          ALL FORTY-TWO ABOVE SPECIALTY LABEL SONGS played in sequence.

          ALL TWENTY-SEVEN ABOVE GOSPEL SONGS played in sequence.


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