Monday, April 30, 2012

"The Second Time Around" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shalamar

"The Second Time Around" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shalamar

Shalamar began as a studio session and quickly became a successful group on Solar Records (Soul Train label) - with members Jody Watley, Howard Hewitt and Jeffrey Daniel.

"The Second Time Around" is from their third album titled "Big Fun" - the song became an instant club anthem following it's release - and even today is one of the most loved "old-school" or classic disco tracks alive!

I have taken the 12" single and ReStructured the song to give it a new energy and meaning. Recently, after seeing Ms. Jody Watley live and sing the complete song solo - I fell in love with it all over again!

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Ms. Watley and her marvelous talent and the voice which has only gotten better!

Saturday, April 28, 2012

"Back In Love Again" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer

"Back In Love Again" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer

Donna Summer and her "I Remember Yesterday" album two of the greatest moments in 1977. Not only has the classic and innovative track, "I Feel Love" come from the album but some of the best Giorgio Moroder studio recordings also.

The Motown and retro sided A gives a medley of great dance pieces including "Back In Love Again" - which I have taken from the blend and ReStructured into it's own play. The feel of the Motown sound echoes throughout the mix even more with a special appearance from Diana Ross herself.

Dedicated to Donna Summer "die-hards" everywhere - I know I am one!

Friday, April 27, 2012

"Disco 9000" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Johnnie Taylor

"Disco 9000" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Johnnie Taylor

Johnnie Taylor is one of R&B/soul musics treasures. His 1976 soul hit "Disco Lady" became the movement into a whole new icon for soul to merge into a new sound in the late 70s. In 1977 he released "Disco 9000" - a soundtrack to a black exploitation film by the same name - the film was later titled "Fass Black".

The title track is one of the soulful pieces merging the band sound into the growing club scene - but maintained Taylor's flavor of horns, bass guitars and his landmark vocal sound.

I have taken the album version and created a ReStructure Mix to bring back the funky sound of early soul/disco. It has plenty of new elements to update segments - but also Johnnie's great sound to make us realize what a loss it was when he passed in 2000.

Johnnie, this ReStructure honors your talent and the gifts you have left behind!

Thursday, April 26, 2012

“Touch Me” by New Baccara – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Touch Me” by New Baccara – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

New Baccara is Marie Mendiola and Maryse Peres – a disco group from Euro-disco producer Luis Rodriguez – also assisted by songwriter Reinhardt Frantz who produced Sweet Connection, Casablanca and Pepper Girls.

Their 1989 single “Touch Me” is a high-energy erotic feel dance number which always worked well for me during peak hour on the dance floor. I have taken the 12” “Erotic Dance Mix” and created a Disco Video Mix using scenes from the 1995 erotic-thriller from director William Friedkin, “Jade”.

The film stars David Caruso and Linda Fiorentino – the time-line to this film is “some fantasies go too far.” I have used some of the sexy scenes and also the drama and crime segments to move the disco song along in a new pace and feeling.

Featuring scenes from “Jade” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

"Deetour" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Karen Young

"Deetour" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Karen Young

Karen Young is one of the "ferocious" voices of disco music. Her hits, "Hot Shot", "Bring On The Boys", "Baby You Ain't Nothing Without Me" are the notes that disco power is made of. Her first album in 1978 produced by Andy Kahn and Kurt Borusiewicz remains one of my favorites when it come to sassy and powerful tracks.

"Deetour" is Karen Young's 1982 single produced by Walter Kahn (Cindy & Roy, Jean Wells, Mizz) and an early 80s departure from the disco arrangements to an electronic funk sound. Karen is a bit tame on vocals and nothing like "Hot Shot" but there are some funky guitars and piano pieces that I have accentuated to bring the original 12" version to life again.

Karen also recorded a few more singles in the 80s before passing in1991 - including "Dynamite", "Expressway To Your Heart", "You Don't Know What You Got" and "Change In Me".

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

"Give Me Your Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sisley Ferre

"Give Me Your Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sisley Ferre

Sisley Ferré is actually Jody Pijper - a Dutch vocalist who worked with bands Stars On 45. "Give Me Your Love" is her 1986 high-NRG track from producers Erik van Vliet and Michael van der Kuy.

The track has the simple electronic elements which made the strip-down production period of disco music. It also has the hooks which ring throughout a dance floor which is how it became a hit in 1987.

i have taken the US-Magatone Ultimix by Bradley D. Hinkle and Les Massengale and reworked some of the hooks and rolling piano pieces into a new ReStructure Mix.

Monday, April 23, 2012

"Feels Like Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Louise Thomas

"Feels Like Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Louise Thomas

Louise Thomas is a UK high-NRG diva from the 80s who brought us several dance singles from 1985 - 1990. Her first single "Feels Like Love" from 1985 is one of my favorite early morning/high energy tracks. The song has a wonderful arpeggio introduction which gives the song a nice ring.

This production is from John Davies and Nigel Stock who also gave us Astaire, Kelly Marie (Passion releases), Mirage, and Tracy Ackerman.

I have taken the original 12" single version and ReStructured the electronic arrangement with a new beat intro and break.

Louise Thomas covered the high-energy song, "I Can Fly" later in 1988 - also noted singles are "Reflex Action" and "Head Over Heels".

Sunday, April 22, 2012

"À La Vie, À L'Amour" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jakie Quartz

"À La Vie, À L'Amour" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jakie Quartz

Jakie Quartz is a French singer from the 80s who was quite popular with chanson-style (poem) and a mixture of pop-music. Her 1987 track "À La Vie, À L'Amour" is one of the club songs which contained the 80s underground dance sound which is also one of my favorites. It was produced by Gérard Anfosso.

I have taken the original 12" version and ReStructured it for a new feel and statement. Although the French lyrics reflect a strange overtone of life - more moody and sad - the song still has elements which contain the 80s hardcore club feel.

Friday, April 20, 2012

"So Close To Heaven" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Trix

"So Close To Heaven" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Trix

Trix is a group consisting of triplet sisters from Buenos Aires, Argentina - Maria Laura, Maria Emilia and Maria Eugenia Fernández - the groups actual name is Las Trillizas De Oro - which translates into "The Triplets of Gold".

"So Close To Heaven" is from their second album from 1981 produced by Jimmy Lim. The track was a single released in The Netherlands backed with "Just Wanna Dance Tonight"another big high-NRG hit. "So Close To Heaven" was also featured on the disc jockey subscription service Hot Tracks in a medley called "Heavenly Medley".

I have taken the 4:38 minute 12" version and extended and ReStructured into a whole new arrangement and extended some of the "heavenly" parts of the song. It is a song that once I hear I cannot stop singing in my head. It has such an uplifting and sweet sound.

Thursday, April 19, 2012

"Sound Of My Heart" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sleeping Lions

"Sound Of My Heart" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sleeping Lions

Sleeping Lions are Gaynor Sadler, N. Sadler and Tony Sadler - a trio which began as a nu-wave act and then recorded one of the 80s most memorable high-NRG love songs - "Sound Of Heart" in 1983. You may be taken back to the 60s with the feel of this classic. It has a bubbly and uplifting energy with the touch of 60s British pop.

I have taken the 12" - both the "Slightly Baroque" and "Heart Version" and created a new ReStructure Mix - a new intro and a few more lengthy breaks and a mix out.

Another favorite of mine and any other dancer or disc jockey who admires beautiful dance music.

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

"Angel Man (G.A.)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rhetta Hughes

"Angel Man (G.A.)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rhetta Hughes

Rhetta Hughes recorded her first blues/jazz album in 1965 - following this in 1969 she recorded "Re-Light My Fire" (not the Dan Hartman song). In 1980 her LP "Starpiece" was her first project with disco producer, Kenny Lehman (Lemon, Chic, Hi Tension, Roundtree, Robin Beck)

"Angel Man (G.A.)" a single from 1983 which was a big club hit and favorite of mine -it had the hardcore electronic sound of the period and a roaring diva-vocal! The song gives the description of the volunteer organization from New York formed in 1979 to help combat the widespread violence and crime occurring there.

Rhetta works this song as if she were respoding to being rescued herself.

I have taken the 12" "Uptown Version" and created a new ReStructure Mix to once again not only salute the great cause but also give your feet another chance to feel this songs power!

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

"Kasso" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kasso

"Kasso" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kasso

Kasso is Claudio Simonetti and Giancarlo Meo - they are known for their disco bands Easy Going and Capricorn - also productions for Vivian Vee, Walter Martino and The Mask.

"Kasso" is an Italo-disco piece from 1981 with a touch of jazz infused to bring it to life. It is one of the successful instrumentals of the early 80s along with another track from the album titled "Walkman".

I have taken the original 12" version and created a ReStructure Mix as an alternative mix - using more of the percussion and looping those wonderful piano segues.

Monday, April 16, 2012

"Need Your Passion" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -Sweet Connection

"Need Your Passion" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix -Sweet Connection

Sweet Connection are June La Vonne Polichio & Inge Schaubschläger - a German high-energy duo with several singles which set dance floors in motion during the lat-80s. Lead by producer Reinhard Frantz with a full electronic feel which is reminiscent of songs by Two Girls ("Another Boy In Town").

"Need Your Passion" is one of their biggest singles with the roaring chorus that feels like a choir celebrating ecstasy. This number always worked well on my dance floor and was at times mistaken as a Stock, Aitken and Waterman session.

I have taken the original 12" version and created a ReStructure Mix adding a few samples from "passion" tracks which express the same longing for affection and steamy moments. It is a downbeat synth-beat edge which creates a sexy aura.

Sunday, April 15, 2012

"Walk Away Satisfied" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Zino featuring Jayne Edwards

"Walk Away Satisfied" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Zino featuring Jayne Edwards

Zino is Steve Algozino - who was also the founder of the disc jockey subscription service Hot Tracks at the start of the 80s. He also started Pacific Records which featured the release "Walk Away Satisfied" featuring disco artist, Jayne Edwards on lead vocal. This was a powerhouse disco/high energy track and was a frequent play in most clubs during it's release.

The song is also one of my all-time favorite diva-numbers made possible through Jayne's fantastic vocal.

I have take the 12" version - both vocal and instrumental and recreated a whole new scenario for Jayne to give a healing word. It was a fun track to ReStructure and also brought back memories of a packed dance floor and many drives home from the club at 4 am with the song still blasting on my own car stereo.

This mix is dedicated to Steve Algozino who left us in 1986 - also to Nick and Lindsay for asking for a new ReStructure Mix.

Friday, April 13, 2012

"It's Party Time" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pattie Brooks

"It's Party Time" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pattie Brooks

Pattie Brooks had a fabulous career in the late 70s. She is best known for her big disco classic, "After Dark" from the motion picture, "Thank God It's Friday". This notch is not the only success "Our Miss Brooks" has celebrated - she also had five albums, provided backing vocals for Donna Summer and made a guest appearance on the popular television show, "Battlestar Galactica".

"It's Party Time" is a track from her final album on Casablanca Records. It was produced by Michael L. Smith. Although the album was released during a bad period for most disco artist (during the disco back lash) the cut did have some potential.

I have ReStructured the album version adding a few new elements to spice up the underground-party energy of this number. It does have that classic disco feel and arrangement with strings and horns. Pattie also does her best to remind us that "party-time" has arrived!

Dedicated to the lady of "The Fans" - Miss Pattie Brooks!

Thursday, April 12, 2012

"Love Massage" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Musique

"Love Massage" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Musique

Musique is Patrick Adams sensual disco extravaganza - the group includes Christine Wiltshire, Denise Edwards, Gina Taylor, Jocelyn Brown, Mary Seymour and Rainy Davis

"Love Massage" is the title track from their second album - follow up on "In The Bush" and "Keep On Jumpin'" from1978. This track is one of the most erotic and teasing disco tracks recorded - in Patrick's sophisticated "disco" manner.

This ReStructure Mix takes the song deeper and deeper using many of the phrases and "moans" to a next climax of dance fantasy.

Dedicated to Mr. Patrick Adams - work it, Patrick!

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

"Keep Those Lovers Dancing" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Saturday Night Band

"Keep Those Lovers Dancing" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Saturday Night Band

Saturday Night Band is Jesse Boyce, Moses Dillard, Donna McElroy and guest vocals from Lorraine Johnson. Their first LP "Come On Dance, Dance" was one of the first signs of the arrival of disco music to the masses. Combining the elements of a live band and the sweet strings of a disco arrangement were the trademarks of Dillard and Boyce productions - as heard here.

"Keep Those Lovers Dancing" is the second project from the band released in 1979. The title track gets a ReStructure Mix - where I have tamed the song down and made a smoother intro and placed parts where I felt appropriate. It is like ear-candy - the way disco music was intended to sound.

Dedicated to Jesse Boyce - thank you for the emails, Jesse and again thank you for the wonderful music that makes my life and so many others a special place!

"Su-Ku-Leu" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tantra

"Su-Ku-Leu" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tantra

Tantra is a project from Celso Valli - produced by La Drogueria Di Drugolo and Quelli Del Castello - a group that has influenced and maintained the disco edge in the early 80s. "Hills Of Kat Mandu" is from the 1980 album titled "The Double Album" - and held as one of the greatest pieces of underground disco music from the late 70s.

"Su-Ku-Lei" is a piece from this album and also released on an earlier trimmed down version of "The Double Album" titled "Mother Africa". I was a fan of this movement and played the short album version extending it via 2 pieces during the release. This ReStructure Mix extends and also adds some nee elements to create a stomping dance number.

Dedicated to Celso Valli and his creation, Tantra

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

"Party Line" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Andrea True Connection

"Party Line" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Andrea True Connection

Andrea True (Andrea Truden) is a Nashville artists who not only sang the disco hit, "More, More. More" but also performed it as an adult film star. After disco producer, extraordinaire put together a production for Andrea's first single - and after it became a hit the album was recorded and history was made.

"Party Line" was my favorite below "More, More, More" and was one of the first songs I can remember hearing blaring through speakers ina discotheque as a teenager. It really left an impact on me.

I have taken the album version of Gregg Diamond's classic production and Tom Moulton's magic and created a new ReStructure Mix adding a down beat and a guest appearance from Kraftwerk. It is one of the true disco hits I vouch for and still a big favorite!

Monday, April 9, 2012

“I Cry For You” by Bobby “O” – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“I Cry For You” by Bobby “O” – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Bobby “O” (Robert Phillip Orlando) was a powerhouse artist and producer in the 80s. His dance music was a cut-to-chase disco sound with heavy synthesizers, percussion and mad-riffs. Many of his recordings were featured under various names – Waterfront Home, The Flirts, Oh Romeo, One-Two-Three and Hotline are a few.

“I Cry For You” comes from his 1983 album “Freedom In An Unfree World” which contained several successful 12” single releases. This was a time where if your blinked – you may have missed one of his many productions.

I have taken the 1984 action-drama film, “Streets Of Fire” starring Michael Pare, Diane Lane and Rick Moranis into this Disco Video Mix – it is the story of a mercenary whom goes after a gang who has kidnapped his ex-friend/rock star. The light elements of the film that focus on the remembrance of a relationship work well with the music.

The film was directed by Walter Hill

Featuring scenes from “Streets Of Fire” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

"I Will Fight" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gladys Knight and The Pips

"I Will Fight" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gladys Knight and The Pips

Gladys Knight and The Pips have been recording since 1965 - their music has brought soul and R&B and pattern which is now a part of music history. Throughout the period of 60s, 70s and 80s Gladys and the men have maintained a level of superior sound with the changing of music and times.

"Touch" is the groups album from 1981 - produced by Nickolas and Valerie Simpson. The magic is captured again with "I Will Fight" (album version mixes by John Luongo) which is powered by a strong disco-production.

I have taken the album versions from 4:10 to a little over 9:30 - taking pieces of the song which strike hard like a beat pounding from floor bass speakers and spreading a message to dancing feet. This track was always a favorite and I resorted to extending and remixing the album version curing the time to keep my dance floor jumping. Now, this extended version with new into, breaks and an echo out make it easier.

Sunday, April 8, 2012

"Tinsel Town In The Rain" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Blue Nile

"Tinsel Town In The Rain" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Blue Nile

The Blue Nile is a Scottish band from Glasgow. The band released it's first album in 1983 titled "A Walk Across The Rooftops". The single "Tinsel Town In The Rain" was an underground synth-pop hit in clubs which offered an alternative dance selection and many after-hours clubs. It is the perfect lilting melody for this style of club music.

The track was introduced to me at the time through a good friend, Marty Parriot (who passed in 1994) and was a favorite during Sunday tea-dances for my dancers. I have always had an affection for the strings and moodiness of the song - so this ReStructure Mix is an homage to my friend, Marty and also the fantastic track.

The song was produced by Paul Buchanan and Robert Bell

Thank you again Marty - you are still with me in my music room and we are sharing hours and hours of music together!

Saturday, April 7, 2012

"Ask Me" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ecstasy Passion and Pain

"Ask Me" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ecstasy Passion and Pain

Ecstasy Passion and Pain is Barbara Roy, Althea Smith, Carl Jordan, Jimmy Clark, Joseph Williams, Jr., Ronald Foster - one of the well known soul/funk/disco bands of the mid-70s. A full force of grooves that have helped to shape the sound and era of disco music - their hit "Touch & Go" is a landmark dance classic.

"Ask Me" is from the 1974 self-titled album and is one of the funkiest pieces of soul/disco in history. The roaring horns and righteous vocals of Ms. Barbara Roy are quite an experience.

I have taken the album version of "Ask Me" and created a whole new ReStructure Mix for a groove that is deeper and more amplified. Taking more riffs from the track and making them echo even more.

Special thanks to Claude for requesting this one - and it is all for you! Keep moving those feet! Or like DJ Bobby Speed says, "...or somebody may steal your shoes!"

Thursday, April 5, 2012

“I Don’t Wanna Talk (About The Weather)” by Joan Faulkner – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“I Don’t Wanna Talk (About The Weather)” by Joan Faulkner – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Joan Faulkner is a vocalist who recorded along with German composer, Dieter Reith on the single, “I Don’t Wanna Talk (About The Weather)” in 1986. The track was released in the US on high energy label, Megatone Records and re-edited by Joseph Watt,

I have blended the track in this Disco Video Mix along with the comedy film, “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy” starring Will Ferrell and Christina Applegate. The project was thought of by my partner, Ken Emmons and after hearing the song the idea rang quickly in his head.

The lure and eventual love plays a great outline for the disco track and with a little manipulating it has become this Disco Video Mix.

The film was directed by Adam McKay

Featuring scenes from “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

"Don't Stop The Music" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Yarbrough and Peoples

"Don't Stop The Music" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Yarbrough and Peoples

Yarbrough and Peoples are Alisa Peoples and Cavin Yarbrough - their group was formed along with The Gap Band. Their debut LP "The Two Of Us" contained a big funk/dance hit titled, "Don't Stop The Music" which was one of the biggest dance tracks of 1980.

The album was produced by Lonnie Simmons

I have taken the 12" version of "Don't Stop The Music" and created a new ReStructure Mix and added some new beats and rhythm loops to accentuate the already hot-sucker. It happens to be one of my mother's favorite songs and this ReStructure Mix is for her - since at every family event she would come up to me and say, "Don't Stop The Music" - as a request and advice.

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

“Can’t Steal My Love” by Azure – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Can’t Steal My Love” by Azure – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Azure is Steve Schani and vocalist Jennifer Matthews – a high energy team and one of the last groups on the classic Megatone Records label.

“Can’t Steal My Love” is the first of Azure’s five singles and has all of the energy of a sweat soaked aerobics workout. It is the transition during the late 80s for dance music to keep ahold of an ever changing style.

I have taken the Alfred Hitchcock masterpiece, “To Catch A Thief” from 1955 – starring Cary Grant and Grace Kelly. Following the tale of a reformed jewel that must prove his innocence to his romantic beauty, Grace Kelly. Many of the phrases in the song express the clever tie-in.

The film was directed by Alfred Hitchcock

Featuring scenes from “To Catch A Thief” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

"Gonna Get Along Without You Now" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Viola Wills

"Gonna Get Along Without You Now" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Viola Wills

Viola Wills' cover of Teresa Brewer's 1952 recording of "Gonna Get Along Without You Now" is a disco classic. Viola recorded her dance version in 1979 and was produced by Francis Day and Jerry McCabe (who produced most of Viola's early material).

"Gonna Get Along Without You Now" is a swirling and melodic experience with the torch-like vocal of the late Miss Wills guiding it. One of of the big singles from 1979 and a lead for Viola who later took discotheques by storm with her big disco hits, "If You Could Read My Mind" and "Stormy Weather".

This ReStructure Mix takes the 12" from Sugarhill Records and gives an alternative experience using those lovely strings and the bass arrangement a step further!

Monday, April 2, 2012

"Snapshot" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Delores Hall

"Snapshot" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Delores Hall

Long before Rupaul's "Supermodel" there was Delores Hall's "Snapshot" - from her 1979 self titled LP. Delores was also a stage and television actress from the Dick Van Dyke show, "Diagnosis Murder" from 1993-1995.

"Snapshot" is a trip down to the campy-disco days of Studio 54 and the "me" "me" "me" period of social-life. This track explains why this dancer is the hottest thing on both the dance floor and in a frame. It is quite a fun trip.

I have taken the album version and ReStructured it per the request of two of greatest disco-lovers, Nick and Lindsay who make it all a ball again. The song is a blast from Delores and gives her an opportunity to play out her soulful sound in a disco arena. The album was produced by Robert Thiele Jr. and Mark Kamins (Madonna's early 80's producer and founder and president of Sire Records).

I have added a few clips and a cameo from Divine from both "Hairspray" and "Female Trouble" to add more fun to the camp!

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