“Macumba” by Tantra – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Macumba” by Tantra – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Tantra is a disco project from Italian songwriter, producer and arranger, Celso Valli. Perhaps one of the most progressive and mystifying bands of the disco era. Two releases were all needed to map a huge spot in disco history. “Macumba” comes from the album “Tantra II” and is an electronic arrangement with themes which place dancers again in a fantasy trip. A great production from Antonio Coco and Celso Valli.

I have taken visuals from the 1960 voodoo themed flick, “Macumba Love” – where much of the rituals play out with the songs direction of a woman who mysteriously lures a man into her clutches. It is obviously a play on the theme and some fun watching the superstition give way to time.

The film was directed by Douglas Fowley

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

“Miss Manhattan” by Metropole – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Miss Manhattan” by Metropole – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Metropole is an Italian disco project with Al Festa, Claudio Giusti and Francesco Puccioni. Their single “Miss Manhattan” from 1981 is one of the memorable pieces of that year from the Italian disco market. A cross of jazz and a disco arrangement along with the focus on Manhattan – the New York City borough reveals a beautiful and economic edge of the county.

I have taken the 2002 romantic comedy “Maid In Manhattan” starring Jennifer Lopez and Ralph Fiennes and placed the romantic scenes among this disco piece. It brings a new energy to dance song and also outlines the film with a new excitement to this Cinderella-like theme.

The film was directed by Wayne Wang

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

“Sleazy” by Village People – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Sleazy” by Village People – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Village People gave a whole new energy and excitement to the disco era with a line-up of high camp male figures. Produced and created by the late Jacques Morali who is also responsible for projects by The Ritchie Family, Patrick Juvet, Dennis Parker, Julius Brown and the hi-NRG singles from Eartha Kitt. “Sleazy” is from the album “Live and Sleazy” from 1979 – it is one of the groups bawdy and over-sexed disco tracks.

I have created a Disco Video Mix using scenes from the 2012 comedy “Magic Mike” starring Channing Tatum – the story of a male stripper with big dreams and loads of sexy energy. It plays out properly here with theme close to home.

The film was directed by Steven Soderbergh

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

“Let’s Fly Away” by Voyage – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Let’s Fly Away” by Voyage – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Voyage is a one of disco’s most treasured bands. There is a connection between the uplifting sounds of the dance floor during the mid-70s during the Euro-disco period. A beautiful and lyrical chorus fulfilling our wanderlust around the globe celebrating life and diversity. “Let’s Fly Away” is from the second album titled “Fly Away” from 1978 - it is the second anthem from this adventure where “Souvenirs” begins our dance floor boarding for a trip from east to west.

I have taken “Let’s Fly Away” and blended it with a very special film from my childhood – “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” from 1968. A British musical film based on a novel by Ian Fleming. The film stars Dick Van Dyke and Sally Ann Howes. It plays out the obvious adventure to the sky where our disco chorus lures us into a high place of happiness and serenity.

The film was directed by Ken Hughes

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

“Night Dancer” by Jeanne Shy – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Night Dancer” by Jeanne Shy – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
SPECIAL BIRTHDAY DISCO VIDEO MIX for MS. JEANNE SHY

Jeanne Shy and Bob Esty made 1979 a monumental year for dance floors with their single, “Night Dancer”. A force that helped to bring disco music to the sensational peak of excitement and a stage of fantasy. One of my all-time favorite songs and also one which I feel are one incredible vocal performance by Ms. Shy and also brings Bob Esty’s beautiful blend of electronics and orchestration to perfection.

On September 19, 2014 as Bob informed me Jeanne’s birthday I only felt it appropriate to give back some of the fabulous energy this music has brought me. This is a special Disco Video Mix for both Bob Esty and Ms. Jeanne Shy.

I have taken the dance sequences from the 1951 comedy-musical “Lullaby of Broadway” starring Doris Day and Gene Nelson. The mystique of the disco track works well with the “night” dance sequence and sets our story in a synchronized disco mini-epic.

The film was directed by David Butler

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

“Fairy Tale High” by Donna Summer – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Fairy Tale High” by Donna Summer – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Donna Summer brought on one of the most iconic disco projects in history in 1977 with “Once Upon A Time” – it was a theme based on the folk tale “Cinderella” brought to life with a new edge and disco beat and arrangement. The work from Bob Esty made a stamp for future disco productions and the imagination of disco music collectors. It is the most incredible 2-vinyls adventures in modern music history. “Fairy Tale High” is from Act 1 – Record 1 of this project and is somewhat of an anthem of this project. It has the uplifting and positive sound of disco music and yet gives a glare of “the persecuted heroine” for this Disco Video Mix.

I have taken scenes from the 2002 dark fantasy action film, “Snow White and the Huntsman” recreating a “fairy tale” environment with some of the fantasy and tribulation at the close of our story and track. It brings a new adventure to life along with the Queen of Disco again leading us into a world of audible ecstasy!

The film was directed by Rupert Sanders

Featuring scenes from “Snow White and the Huntsman” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated lovingly to the man who brought disco alive in the mid-70s for a whole new experience for the feet and the imagination – Mr. Bob Esty. I am forever grateful, Mr. Esty!

“He’s A Rebel” by Genie – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“He’s A Rebel” by Genie – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Genie Gennaro Le Fosse) is a high energy artist with a release from 1987, a remake of The Crystals 1962 song, “He’s A Rebel” – written by Gene Pitney and although it is stated The Crystals recorded the t6rack it was actually The Blossoms (Darlene Love, Fanita James and Gracia Nitzsche). This high energy cover was produced by Nicky Price who also produced tracks by Man 2 Man (“Male Stripper” ).

I have created a visual for the disco track using the 1955 drama, “Rebel Without A Cause” starring James Dean, Natalie Wood and Sal Mineo. The theme of course flows right along the same iconic role which made Dean one of cinemas greatest teen heroes as well as Hollywood images. It is a video play of scenes which give the song a build to the rousing chorus.

The film was directed by Nicholas Ray

Featuring scenes from “Rebel Without A Cause” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

“Cherchez la Femme” by Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Cherchez la Femme” by Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band is a break through disco project from 1976 which took the big band sound of Cab Calloway and blended it with a disco beat. The first album was a great success in introducing a new formula to dance floors in a complete package. “Cherchez la Femme” was a radio and club hit and featured Ms. Cory Daye in the vocal spotlight and alluring many new fans to this style and also a solo album released in 1979.

I have taken scenes from the 1973 comedy “Paper Moon” from Peter Bogdanovich and starring Ryan O’Neal, Madeline Kahn and Tatum O’Neal to emphasize a whole new drama for Ryan as he travels through the great depression – finding “la femme”. It plays out in bits and pieces as Cory weaves the well-known disco tale with a new twist. My edit focuses on Madeline’s fabulous campy portrayal of this character.

The film was directed by Peter Bogdanovich

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

“Walk The Night” by The Skatt Brothers – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Walk The Night” by The Skatt Brothers – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

The Skatt Brothers released their first album in 1979 – “Strange Spirits” produced by Ian Guenther and Willi Morrison (of THP Orchestra, Sticky Fingers, Grand Tour and Duncan Sisters). The project had several dance floor hits and explored an alternative to Village People with an all-male line up in a macho-sexy aura. The track “Walk The Night” mimicked a hardcore sadomasochistic scene with a touch on a rock edge in disco format. One of the great underground sleaze tracks of the disco era.

I have created a Disco Video Mix taking scenes from the 1964 William Castle psychological suspense thriller, “The Night Walker” – where “Creeper” from our disco track is the villains and nightmares within this story. It is one of the earliest horror matinees I experienced as a child of 3!!! So it still haunts my memory as well as paint an appropriate gallery for this Disco Video Mix.

The film was directed by William Castle

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

“You Can Always Tell A Lady (By The Company She Keeps)” by D.C. LaRue – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“You Can Always Tell A Lady (By The Company She Keeps)” by D.C. LaRue – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

D.C. LaRue is one of the disco stars which caught my attention with his flair for an appeal of Broadway-like humor and stage camp in themes and delivery. Together with producer Bob Esty they were a force in disco music which added a new layer of excitement. Many of D.C’s recordings became instant classics – “Cathedrals”, “Deep, Dark, Delicious Night” and “Let Them Dance” to grab at a few. This disco is the stage drama which appealed and set a proper energy for clubs and an emerging out-of-the-closet style of music. It is a unique blend which to this day makes me feel good about understanding and grasping D.C.’s genius.

“You Can Always Tell A Lady (By The Company She Keeps)” is a sexy-camp piece that has a disco-ragtime feel with its clever arrangement – seemingly guided by a backup of D.C.’s own female ensemble with explosive energy.

I have taken the track in this Disco Video Mix adventure along with the John Waters cult-classic “Pink Flamingos” from 1972 – using pieces of Divine’s awesome performance as “The Filthiest Person Alive” in a new way. It is a fun and simple way to sum up our heroines parallel with the disco track.

The film was directed by John Waters

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to D.C. LaRue and Bob Esty – what would disco be without them – I shudder to think about it!

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

“Pump Up The Volume” by M.A.R.R.S. – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Pump Up The Volume” by M.A.R.R.S. – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
MARRS is Alex Ayuli, CJ Mackintosh, Dave Dorrell, Martyn Young, Rudy Tambala and Steven Young – a onetime house/break beats production from 1987 which paved the way for many bass-beat tracks of the time. A sample-emporium of pieces from new elements focusing on the planet Mars and its need for women. An old school house classic now in the realm of a trend setter.

I have taken the theme used in the track – the 1967 low-budget sci-fi flick “Mars Needs Women” and created this Disco Video Mix to complete the funky journey of the space travelers and their lust for earth chicks. It flows close to each effect and break leaving little for need to feel nothing but the serious rhythm here.

The film was directed by Larry Buchanan

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

ReStructure Mix Update (9/8/14) “Touch Me Where It’s Hot” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Erotic Drum Band

ReStructure Mix Update (9/8/14) “Touch Me Where It’s Hot” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Erotic Drum Band

Erotic Drum Band is a Canadian disco band produced by Mr. Peter Di Milo and one of the early sounds of percussion working infectiously alongside the disco beat. Hence, Erotic Drum Band with the sexy themes and sexy breaks. One of my favorite sounds of the late 70s and an instant smash for those innovators heading the high energy feel of the 80s. “Touch Me Where It’s Hot” is the second project from the band from 1980 and works the outline again with great results.

I have taken the album version of “Touch Me Where It’s Hot” and worked a new ReStructure Mix for those who cannot get enough of Di Milo’s fierce drum work. This remix extends the intro and adds some new breaks for a new effect.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Mr. Peter Di Milo for his drive, dedication and the magic he has given to disco music. It is not lasting – but loving.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/6/14) “Borderline” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Madonna

ReStructure Mix Update (9/6/14) “Borderline” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Madonna

Madonna (Madonna Louise Veronica Ciccone) began show business as a dancer for Patrick Hernandez during his tour of his disco hit, “Born To Be Alive” from 1979. Following her first single, “Everybody” in 1982 dance floors around the world had found a new dance diva for a new dance era. It seemed as though each release was as mature and exciting as the one prior. “Borderline” is a single from the much awaited self-titled album from 1983 – this track fills the void for 80s pop-synth with a mild electronic arrangement and the yearning confessions of Madonna. A great dance piece with more fans relating to it as her best. It was produced by Reggie Lucas of Stephanie Mills and Phyllis Hyman disco fame.

I have taken the 12” single vocal and instrumental – mixed by John "Jellybean" Benitez – and worked an alternative ReStructure Mix more fitting for a kick back memorandum with the headsets – yet demanding a dance floor, as it is full of emotion. Pulling pieces from the 12” single in parts and formulating a new flow for this beautiful number.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/4/14) “Rhythm Of The Jungle” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Quick

ReStructure Mix Update (9/4/14) “Rhythm Of The Jungle” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Quick

The Quick is Colin Campsie and George McFarlane – a duo from England who created a brand of high energy and synth-pop tracks that framed the end of 1979. “Sharks Are Cool, Jets Are Hot” and “Young Men Drive Fast” gave a new edge vocal wise to the pumping disco beat and the percussion driven rhythms. An early stage for the keyboard driven dance music of the 80s. Their single “Rhythm Of The Jungle” was featured on their album “One Light In A Blackout” and followed in the lower-tempo tracks of their success in 1981.

I have taken the 12” version of “Rhythm Of The Jungle” – mixed by Jay Mark and John Luongo to create a new laid out version – ReStructure Mix – with some breaks to space apart the jungle energy and vibe. It is a favorite piece of driving synth-pop and gives disco music that adventurous feel that it has always been known for!

ReStructure Mix Update (9/3/14) “Red Light” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Linda Clifford

ReStructure Mix Update (9/3/14) “Red Light” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Linda Clifford
Linda Clifford pulls off the disco track of the 80s with “Red Light” – which is also featured on the soundtrack of the film “Fame” of the same year - produced by Gil Askey and Michael Gore. This track is another iconic moment for Linda’s soulful vocal and definitive style. One of the big dance floor packers of that year and one which fans place among her list of hits.

I have taken the album version, being the long disco version and created a ReStructure Mix with an alternative arrangement and more of those bongo driven synthesizers that give Linda the boost her magic deserves. A new layout for a favorite talent of mine – Ms. Linda Clifford.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Ms. Clifford in thanks for her wonderful place in disco history and for always being a lady!

ReStructure Mix Update (9/2/14) “Close To Perfection” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Miquel Brown

ReStructure Mix Update (9/2/14) “Close To Perfection” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Miquel Brown

Miquel Brown is one of the disco/hi-NRG standards of the 80s – her 1983 dance floor smash, “So Many Men, So Little Time” brought a whole new sound and energy to starving dance floors. It was a follow up to her 1978 album “Symphony Of Love” – produced by Alan Hackshaw whom also produced Love-De-Luxe (“Here Comes That Sound Again” ). “Close To Perfection” is a track from the 1985 project produced by UK dance masters, Ian Levine and Fiachra Trench. This is one of those lilting and melodic tracks which brought an early evening – early morning to the hilt.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental (originally mixed by John Morales and Sergio Munzibai) and created a ReStructure Mix to give this beauty a new face. A new intro focusing on the bass synthesizer pounding out the symphony b ass-line introduces Miquel’s serenade in a new way. It is still one of those tracks that make disco music sound every bit as beautiful as the Philly days.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Nick and Lindsay – thanks for the love and kindness! You are both disco perfection!