ReStructure Mix Update (6/29/14) “You Gotta Dance” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Pacific Blue

ReStructure Mix Update (6/29/14) “You Gotta Dance” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Pacific Blue

Pacific Blue is a disco project from producers Michaele, Lana Sebastian and Paul Sebastian – the three responsible for albums by Madleen Kane, Theo Vaness, Claire and Leonore O’ Malley. This 1978 disco track is the flip side to the 12” “Argentina Forever” which contains a slight Euro-disco feel as their prior work with flamenco feel. Vocals emulate a Bee Gee’s feel and echo throughout this number. It has always been a favorite of mine and was fun to program during playful sets.

I have taken the 12” version of “You Gotta Dance” to rework an arrangement and loop-set for the killer bass trickle and the Spanish flavor. It is a bit more airy with a few new breaks as well as a cold ending which breaks down right where it started.

“These Boots Are Made For Walking” by Jessica Williams and Man 2 Man – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“These Boots Are Made For Walking” by Jessica Williams and Man 2 Man – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Jessica Williams is a disco/soul/jazz vocalist that helped disco music to become pop-phenomena with her contributions to groups Arpeggio, French Kiss, Romance and The Simon Orchestra. Her productions in the late 70s with Simon Soussan are the classics of hardcore disco connoisseur as her album “Queen Of Fools” is a box of candy for a disco lover. In the mid-80 as high energy music became the new label for disco her work with various independent producers included a cover of Nancy Sinatra’s “These Boots Are Made For Walking” – the arrangement is a stripped down electronic feel and uses Jessica as the defiant camp feel. An underground feel and energy.

I have taken scenes from the 2005 comedy-drama film, “Kinky Boots” starring Joel Edgeton and Chiwetel Ejiofor – using the finale sequence appropriately - blending the glam and glitz with Jessica Williams’ disco part. The film is one of the drag-extravaganza and works with a mighty stage presence and humor.

The film was directed by Julian Jarrold

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

ReStructure Mix Update (6/26/14) “Lovergirl” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Teena Marie

ReStructure Mix Update (6/26/14) “Lovergirl” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Teena Marie

Teena Marie (Mary Christine Brockert) was a breakthrough R&B singer, songwriter and producer arriving at the tail end of the disco era. Her music has always played out with a full arrangement enhancing tracks like “Lovergirl” from 1984. During the early 80s and the repackaging of disco as pop-dance Teena had the ability to create a stage for her soulful delivery and funk-driven energy.

I have taken the 12” single “vocal” and “dub” to create a playful ReStructure Mix which takes Teena on a few detours along the way to deliver her message. I have used some deeper segments with a thumping beat along with pieces of the original arrangement to speak the message of “Lovergirl” in a new way. A bit more drops to let the words fade into mind and feet.

ReStructure Mix Update (6/25/14) “Come Inside” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Fancy

ReStructure Mix Update (6/25/14) “Come Inside” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Fancy

Fancy (Manfred Alois Segith) is a German disco singer and producer who also produced under the name Tess Teiges (Timerider, Slip). His disco project Fancy is one of the memorable arenas of the 80s high energy and electronic disco stage. Many of the tracks share a hypnotic and driving rhythm and sexy mood. An appropriate return to a new sound of disco music with a complete overhaul on production and execution. “Come Inside” is a single released as a B-side to his 1984 release “Slice Me Nice”. It shares a familiar synthesizer riff used by The Professionals on “Law Of The Land” which was borrowed from the original track recorded by The Temptations.

“Come Inside” is presented in this ReStructure Mix in a playful and new way using pieces from two disco classics adding more of an invitation. It is reworked using the “American Remix #1” by Bob Beat Me Black and Terror from the Personal Records release. A few more sleazy moments are added to keep the sensual feel of the song alive and a new energy added.

ReStructure Mix Update (6/24/14) “Enjoy Yourself” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Jacksons

ReStructure Mix Update (6/24/14) “Enjoy Yourself” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Jacksons

The Jacksons continued their dropping the “Five” from their title and finding themselves in 1976 under the production of Philadelphia International – Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff. It was a hardcore venture into the new dance arena. Even with the built up talents of this blockbuster entourage their own style and sound became the overall result. “Enjoy Yourself” is one of the first breakout singles which created that funky-disco essence of what we can all remember the mid-70s exuding.

I have taken the album version of “Enjoy Yourself” and worked a new ReStructure Mix to give the track some new beats and pulsating deep-dub effects. The rhythm guitars are the layer of promise from start to finish and again, the Jackson’s create a layer of chorus satisfaction. A great song which always made me feel the power of music and talent - the wonderful Jacksons.

ReStructure Mix Update (6/23/14) “One Night Queen” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Claudja Barry

ReStructure Mix Update (6/23/14) “One Night Queen” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Claudja Barry

Claudja Barry is one of disco music’s earliest stars whose talent created a wave of excitement on dance floors around the world. Her music has always had a definitive sound and this “Disco Star” has remained true to her fans and craft. Claudja’s voice is recognizable and one which helped to give disco fans an identifiable style. “One Night Queen” is a track from Claudja’s 1979 album “Feel The Fire” and is originally placed with a medley along with two tracks: “Get Your Mind Made Up” and “It’s So Nice”. This medley gives Claudja an opportunity to work her falsetto vocals adorably and appropriately. The album was produced by Claudja’s husband, Jurgen Korduletsch.

I have taken “One Night Queen” from the medley and created a ReStructure Mix using the pumping synth riff (which always reminded me of “Louie, Louie” by The Kingsmen) and worked a new extended play. There are pieces of the nightlife tale here in pieces scattered about and some re-arranging to give Claudja another opportunity to work this simple but fun little disco number.

Dedicated to Ms. Claudja Barry who brings a whole new meaning to preserving great uplifting music in her new ventures to educate ears and hearts about music and treating life kindly. Thank you, Claudja for the heart and love.

ReStructure Mix Update (6/19/14) “Diamonds” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Robin Gibb

ReStructure Mix Update (6/19/14) “Diamonds” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Robin Gibb

Robin Gibb as a member of the family group, Bee Gees helped to make the 70s an outline for many of his compositions and productions. This music helped a generation to come alive with excitement with funky dance pieces and adoring love songs. His solo recording career began in 1970 and followed through his passing in 2012. “Secret Agent” is his 1984 album is a pop-dance excursion featuring producers Chris Barbosa and Mark Liggett – who created the 80s electro-street sound with projects from Shannon, Xena and Steve Rodway.

“Diamonds” is the flip-side to the 12” hit single, “Boys Do Fall In Love” and is one of the tracks I would love to play during evening warm up or after-hours. It has many great hooks as well and a resonating vocal by Robin. It pounds out that street sound that made the mid-80s a bit more innovative. I have taken the 12” version to create this ReStructure Mix that not only extends the adventure here – but also gives a bit of the stage to Dame Shirley Bassey – where she confirms Robin’s obsession.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to the energy of Mr. Robin Gibb who left us in 2012 – thanks for your talent and heartfelt music.

ReStructure Mix Update (6/18/14) “I’ve Got Just What You Need” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Cheryl Lynn

ReStructure Mix Update (6/18/14) “I’ve Got Just What You Need” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Cheryl Lynn

Cheryl Lynn is one of the voices of disco era that was hard to ignore or forget. Her 1978 self-titled album gave dance floors two giant singles – “Got To Be Real” and “Star Love”. The soaring notes of Cheryl’s voice are some of the most intense and soulful experiences in music history. Her talent was immediately given a rousing welcome with the excitement of things to come. “Got To Be Real” is now a disco-old school classic still has one of the most incredible vocal performances to date.

“I’ve Got Just What You Need” comes from Cheryl’s second album titled “In Love” released in 1979. The project was produced by Barry Blue and is one of the most phenomenal studio projects for a new vocalist – as she displays just what she can do. Many tracks from the album, although not commercial are some of the most incredible recording for fans to remember the magic of Ms. Lynn’s arrival. I have taken the short album version and created this ReStructure Mix which I have always wanted to extend the ecstasy of the vocal arrangements. It is playful and a moment to feel Cheryl as the powerful voice of a soulful universe.

ReStructure Mix Update (6/17/14) “I Wanna Take You Home” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Patrick Cowley

ReStructure Mix Update (6/17/14) “I Wanna Take You Home” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Patrick Cowley

Patrick Cowley made a mark in the 80s with his electronic sound introduced earlier on his work with projects by Sylvester, Fever, Brenda Mitchell and Beckie Bell. A rolling synthesizer and psychedelic-60 keyboard riffs were the stamps which gave Cowley a place on hardcore dance floors and a hard sound to forget for those who were accustomed to disco music with orchestral and band arrangements. During a period when disco music moved underground. It was a great time for discovering independent artists and label recording new music rather than recreate and duplicate to monopolize on sales rather than creative movement.

“I Wanna Take You Home” is from Patrick Cowley’s album “Menergy” from 1981 and created a double sided 12” release for his first single. It was a huge hit and gave dancers the disco beat with a new edge. I have taken the original 12” version to blend this ReStructure Mix using some of Cowley’s magic from “Megatron Man” and also rearranging the song for a longer and brighter feel.

ReStructure Mix Update (6/16/14) “We’re Gonna Rock” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Sabu

ReStructure Mix Update (6/16/14) “We’re Gonna Rock” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Sabu

Paul Sabu was the producer and artist to top the late 70s off with arrangements and production which are the icing on the disco-cake. Most of his productions have become classics with the style and sound this talented man created. His work has included artists such as Debbie Jacobs, Ann Margret and Sister Power all of which created a whirlwind on dance floors during their release. His 1979 album titled “Sabu” brought a rock-edged rhythm to dance floors and made each night more exciting. His guitar play and vocal in tracks from this project introduced a new energy to dancers. “We’re Gonna Rock” is the single which received a big reception and hands pounding up to the mirror-ball in an anthem like feel.

I have taken the album version of “We’re Gonna Rock” and created this ReStructure Mix breaking apart the infectious rhythm section with some of the playful looping and machine-gun edits to bring an alternative version to feel the fire balls explode right before the deejay booth. It is one of the Saturday night favorites and peak-hour tracks that I would love to transition to for a new layer of energy.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to the “Rockin’ Rollin’ Disco King” himself, Mr. Paul Sabu in appreciation for his talents in producing, mixing and performing to keep the celebration worth it.

“Ride Like The Wind” by Taka Boom – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera|

“Ride Like The Wind” by Taka Boom – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera|

Taka Boom (Yvonne Stevens) is one of the recognizable voices in soul/funk/disco music immediately with her power and ability to seal lyrics as her sister Chaka Khan. Taka is a star in the disco museum thanks to her vocal on classics like “Mr. D.J. You Know How To Make Me Dance” by The Glass Family, “You + Me” by The Undisputed Truth, and her own hits, “Night Dancing” and “Red Hot”. Her 1983 album “Boomerang” is one of the early 80s projects moving into the electronic dance floor sound – successfully produced by Bob Esty. “To Hell With Him:” was the first single from the album which made me, as a club jock at the time jump with excitement to hear Taka again working that disco rhythm and dancers all over again. “Ride Like The Wind” takes Christopher Cross’ 1979 pop-rock anthem into a new arrangement that gives off a haunting feel and soulful appeasement with Taka’s vocal.

I have taken visuals from the 1994 crime thriller, “The Getaway” – a remake of the 1972 film – this time around starring Alec Baldwin and Kim Basinger. The two are fugitives in love and turning every corner to run, duck and cover and share a romantic kiss. It is more of a visual sweetener for the disco track to give it a play at danger and romance.

The film was directed by Ronald Donaldson

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

ReStructure Mix Update (6/12/14) “K.I.C. Keep It Coming” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Hydro featuring Lorna

ReStructure Mix Update (6/12/14) “K.I.C. Keep It Coming” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Hydro featuring Lorna

Hydro is a Canadian disco project from producers Joe La Greca and Joe Marandola – who also gave dance floors music from MTL Express, Kat Mandu, Montreal and  Melody Stewart. The full-disco attack was accomplished here with the full-bass, funky guitars and the wizardry of the disco-keyboards. A package where every track was a potential dance floor jam. “K.I.C. Keep It Coming” is the second 12” release from the project and features the vocals of Lorna Di Fiore – in the disco tradition of sassy and sexy. A bit more underground and full of the percussion which made dance floor ignite across the globe in the late 70s.

I have taken the album version of “K.I.C. Keep It Coming” and created a ReStructure Mix taking the baseline percussion and looping segments to fill a pair of new pair of disco shoes. Some surprise appearances from K.C. and The Sunshine Band and Bellamy Brothers are added for some excitement.

ReStructure Mix Update (6/10/14) “Lovin’ You Madly” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Narada Michael Walden

ReStructure Mix Update (6/10/14) “Lovin’ You Madly” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Narada Michael Walden

The musical career of producer, songwriter and singer Narada Michael Walden is one which can be heard in many projects throughout three decades. His solo recordings began in 1976 and lasted throughout the mid-90s. His productions were the essential pop-dance-funk of the 80s and include Stacy Lattisaw, Sister Sledge, Amii Stewart, Angela Bofill, and Carl Carlton. His work has always given dance floors the groove to keep the energy and excitement alive.

“Lovin’ You Madly” is a single from his 1979 album “The Dance Of Life” and made disc jockey playlists from a nice project with many dance tracks to work from. It is one of the simple funk-productions which rely on a funky guitar and Narada’s undying love for that special one. At times it is “fierce” but always on the level.

I have created this ReStructure Mix of “Lovin’ You Madly” using the album version recreating a new rhythm part to break the funk into a house-like feel. It has the remapping of verses and choruses intended to bring a new slickness to an already hard-edge funk piece.

ReStructure Mix Update (6/2/14) “Arabella/Home” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Rinder & Lewis

ReStructure Mix Update (6/2/14) “Arabella/Home” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Rinder & Lewis

Rinder & Lewis are the duo who made disco music come alive with a sound that was formulated directly from dance floors. Their catalogue of music includes studio groups El Coco, Tuxedo Junction, In Search Of Orchestra, Le Pamplemousse and Saint Tropez. “Warriors” is their album from 1979 which is one of the projects from that year which staged the classic live disco with some of the electronic sounds of where the music was heading. “Arabella/Home” is one of the playable tracks from the project which has the sound and theme of a rock ‘n roll tune – and a bit of their musical influence of the 50s.

I have taken the album version of “Arabella/Home” which was divided into two parts when our ensemble informs our heroine that it’s a done deal and a bit of short riffs describe a warmer and accepting option out of the relationship. I reworked the already fabulous arrangement in a new way to give the intro more build with the sequencer pieces and also worked the two parts into a finale mix. It has always been a toe-tapping winner for me and always is an honor to give these two the accolades they so deserve.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Mr. W. Michael Lewis

ReStructure Mix Update: “Sir Duke” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Stevie Wonder

ReStructure Mix Update: “Sir Duke” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Stevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder (Stevland Hardaway Morris) has touched hearts and minds throughout his career and with music which has always touched the romantic and sensitive side of the soul without appearing maudlin. His work throughout the 60s became one of the voices of soul music to create an excitement and respect. “Songs In The Key Of Life” is Stevie’s eighteenth album and one of the top selling of that year. “Sir Duke” is the second single from the album and salutes musical geniuses throughout time who have given much to the experience – the title focus on Mr. Duke Ellington and his contributions to jazz. Ellington left us in 1974 which gives a nice memory and uplifting tribute.

I have taken the album version of “Sir Duke” and worked on a ReStructure Mix to give the jazzy arrangement a club-like feel. Adding a few drop zones where pieces of percussion and horns create an eerie rhythmic feel. This has been one of the early tracks to bring me the sensation of what disco was achieving on dance floors. Energy and excitement with the use of rhythm and new arrangements. Soul, funk and Afro-Cuban percussion were with a new foundation.