ReStructure Mix Update (7/30/15) “Stoned Love” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Sweet Brandy

ReStructure Mix Update (7/30/15) “Stoned Love” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Sweet Brandy

Sweet Brandy is a Canadian disco project from produced Jerry Cucuzzella – who also gave us Suzy Q, Quantum, Sandy Steele, Plastic Surprise, and Dorazio. The early 80s were filled with electronic high energy music following the demise of the big disco orchestration sessions. It was a simpler but not less effective. A new sound was filling club and the rolling sound of high energy began taking the stage. Sweet Brandy’s cover of The Supremes’ “Stoned Love” is an irresistible dance number and features the vocals of Patti Masi (better known as Vera). This ‘sweet’ arrangement on the J.C. Records 12” is arranged by Louis Toteda,

I have taken the original long version from the 12” single and worked on this ReStructure Mix to bring back this sound which many will remember saving that disco feeling during the early and mid-80s. I have extended the track and also chopped it into several movements with more breakdowns and chances to catch that wonderful melody – both in verses and choruses.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to the talented Mr. Louis Toteda – thanks for your friendship and incredible dance music you have left us with to move to over-and-over!

“Love Theme from The Godfather” by Hugo and Luigi Music Machine – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Love Theme from The Godfather” by Hugo and Luigi Music Machine – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Hugo and Luigi Music Machine is a disco project from Luigi Creator and Hugo Peretti – their single “Love Theme from The Godfather” from 1977 is the sound of disco music maturing. The formula of a popular theme or soundtrack reproduced in a disco package became quite popular during this time. The track was a bit more underground and fit the mold of the label H & L Records.

I have taken scenes from the 1972 film, “The Godfather” – where the soundtrack by Nino Rota originated in this Disco Video Mix. This project gives a short tribute to the Francis Ford Coppola film which created a stir and plenty of controversy for the time period.

The film was directed by Francis Ford Coppola

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

ReStructure Mix Update (7/27/15) “Forever Your Girl” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Paula Abdul

ReStructure Mix Update (7/27/15) “Forever Your Girl” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Paula Abdul

Paula Julie Abdul is a singer, songwriter, choreographer and dancer who released her first pop-dance sensation titled “Forever Your Girl” in 1988 – brightening the dance scene with a kickin’ format and sweet romantic side. Quite simple and to the point – much of her magic was in both the pairing of her dancing and vocals paired, as seen in many videos of her tracks. “Forever Your Girl” makes it in the Special 80s Edition of ReStructure Mixes since it is one which made my floor not only packed wall to wall – but also brings back some special memories of the mid-80s dance rejuvenation.

I have taken the original 12” version of “Forever Your Girl” and worked a new ReStructure Mix focusing on a full beat powered sound with more of the key-synths rumbling and rolling below the love song. It was great fun to take a radio track and focus on more of a hardcore floor transformation. Pop-dance of the 80s meets a new friend.

ReStructure Mix Update (7/26/15) “Flashdance…What A Feeling” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Irene Cara

ReStructure Mix Update (7/26/15) “Flashdance…What A Feeling” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Irene Cara

Irene Cara is an actress, singer and songwriter whose early career includes the original Dreamgirls inspiration – the 1976 film “Sparkle – which featured music from Curtis Mayfield. Irene burst back into the music scene in 1980 with the soundtrack to the film “Fame”. This put her back into a standing which gave dance music a promise of a whole new era. Her title track to the 1983 romantic-drama, “Flashdance” brought dance floors to the brink of a celebration and new respect for the dance/disco anthem. Produced by Giorgio Moroder and also bringing a new sound and audience for the time.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to create a whole new ReStructure Mix and exaggerating on the keyboard drama as well as this soul lift. Much of the arrangement is placed in a new grouping to give the so-familiar piece a new sound. It is one which I have always remained true to and brings memories of an ecstatic dance crowd!

ReStructure Mix Update (7/23/15) “You Got The Power” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – WAR

ReStructure Mix Update (7/23/15) “You Got The Power” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – WAR
WAR is a band who began recording in 1971 and throughout the late 80s. Their work in disco music hit a kind note in 1977 with their track “Galaxy” which featured a rolling bass line and funky edge. On the dance floor, the band worked a few more single including, “Good, Good Feelin’” from 1979 which made the excitement of the disco era come alive. “You Got The Power” is from the 1982 album “Outlaw” and is an uplifting anthem in a funk package.

I have taken the 12” version of “You Got The Power” to work a new ReStructure Mix with a few new pieces to compliment this modest yet positive theme. It is a mild touch of re-editing and also adding a new drum break to give way to a wind down break.

ReStructure Mix Update (7/21/15) “White Room” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Rudy

ReStructure Mix Update (7/21/15) “White Room” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Rudy
Rudy is a Jacques Fred Petrus disco project from 1979 with his classic electronic disco sound as captured in Peter Jacques Band,  Macho, Revanche and Midnight Gang. The innovative dance edge was an early sign of the New York progression to a sophisticated disco format. Horns and pulsating breaks are the elements which echo most here. “White Room” is from the “Just Take My Body” album and is a cover of the British-rock band, Cream’s 1968 psychedelic rock classic. A favorite of mine from this genre of disco music and a rousing dance tribute to the original.

I have taken the album version of “White Room” and created a dub-entry ReStructure Mix which gives an alternate intro with a touch of fierce samples from another rock classic from Arthur Brown. This new working plays with the arrangement to give a fresh perspective of the disco version.

“Muse Medley: Sinning, Suffer, Repentance, Saved” by Grace Jones – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Muse Medley: Sinning, Suffer, Repentance, Saved” by Grace Jones – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Grace Jones gave the disco experience a whole new realm of energy and unique style. She was truly one of the stars of disco music who not only fit the mold but also broke it in the early 80s. Her first 3 disco projects produced by the master, Mr. Tom Moulton gave us a story-line and range of feelings, themes and emotional reflections. Right on down to the cover art by Richard Bernstein these pieces are pure gold for Grace Jones fans.

I have taken the Muse album and side one – creating a Muse Medley of the four tracks staring from the partaking in sinful acts to forgiveness. My choice for the play here is quite obvious the 1980 action-comedy, “The Blues Brothers” starting John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd – the finale of Jones’ medley working properly with the famous and unforgettable church sequence being my motivation.

The film was directed by John Landis

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

ReStructure Mix Update (7/17/15) “My Girl” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – 1 Plus 1

ReStructure Mix Update (7/17/15) “My Girl” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – 1 Plus 1
1 Plus 1 is a Bobby Orlando project under a title which is best known as the high energy stamp of the 80s. A heavy wall of percussion and simple keyboard riffs make this blend of electronics and camp-like vocals. This cover of The Temptations Motown classic, “My Girl” is one which made my dance floor come alive during fast moving energy sets. It keeps the flow of the original moving to a rolling synthesizer arrangement and crashing percussion loops. It makes the 80s a fun place to venture onto once again and relive the simple movements of dance music.

I have taken the original 12” version on Bobcat Records and created a ReStructure Mix which takes the original Motown masterpiece into the disco lights and energy. It flows the same manner as the 12" arrangement – which I wanted to leave intact. It is sprinkled with some new dance floor glitter and pieces of the original riffs that make soul and disco feel right!

ReStructure Mix Update (7/16/15) “The Man From Colours” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Wanexa

ReStructure Mix Update (7/16/15) “The Man From Colours” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Wanexa

Wanexa is an Italo-disco project from Franco Rago, Gigi Farina and Xenia Monneret – the trio who brought us Expansives (“Life With You" ) , ‘Lectric Workers (“Robot Is Systematic”, “The Garden" ) and Message From The Future. This style of dance music began with the control of electronics being used in creative and artistic manner. It was a free range of sounds where street beats blended with the thumping of the disco outline. “The Man From Colours” was released in 1982 and was a moody piece with a haunting vocal by Lyana Galis. One of my weapons for an early morning set or tea dance.

I have taken the original 12” vocal and instrumental of “The Man From Colours” to build a new ReStructure Mix outlining more of the beat pulses and foundation of these innovative Italian productions. I have only used a piece of the vocals in one segment. They are haunting and work best when delivered in part. Homage to my love for Italo-disco and thanks for their delivery of a new style for the dance floor in the early 80s.

“Casanova” by Jessica Williams – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Casanova” by Jessica Williams – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Jessica Williams is one of disco music’s greatest treasures. Her vocals embedded in dance music history in projects by Arpeggio, The Simon Orchestra, Romance, French Kiss, and Boys Town Gang. A powerful delivery and energy is the full throttle every dance floor dreams of. “Casanova” is Jessica’s 1987 high energy single – produced and written by dance music pioneers Man Parrish and Paul Parker. One of the heavy bass dance floor cuts which pounds out the love god in an appropriate manner.

I have taken scenes from the 2005 romantic film, "Casanova” starring Heath Ledger and Sienna Miller – a loosely based story on the life of Giacomo Casanova. The 1973 time period gives the disco track a nice abstract feel while it heads in the direction of a new love affair with consequences. It is a favorite high energy piece and could never give my dance floor a rest during its release.

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to Jessica Williams – who is not only one of my favorite disco icons – but also a fantastic friend. How lucky and I? Thank you, Jessica.

The film was directed by Lasse Hallstrom

Featuring scenes from "Casanova" - RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

ReStructure Mix Update (7/14/15) “She Works Hard For The Money” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Donna Summer

ReStructure Mix Update (7/14/15) “She Works Hard For The Money” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Donna Summer

Donna Summer released her third 80s album, “She Works Hard For The Money” in 1983 with the title track becoming the anthem for not only those hard working women – but also dance floors everywhere. It was that 80s dance fusion creating another chance for Donna to deliver a message that would resonate for years. The album was produced by Michael Omartian and was another spot for Donna to prove that her vocals are the real essence to her talent and although the disco era made her a unique icon as The Queen – there was another throne to rest upon for years to come.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “She Works Hard For The Money” and reworked a ReStructure Mix which follows closely to my outline of reworking the track out of its familiar edge- so those looking for a slight edit may be surprised. It was one of the tracks I can remember extending to packed dance floors but now adding more pieces to the classic. Making a guest appearance in Varla Jean Merman (from “Girls Will Be Girls").

Dedicated to those hard working Donna Summer fans who keep the magic alive – in the air where it belongs! Thank you.

ReStructure Mix Update (7/12/15) “Hold Back” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Valerie Krystal

ReStructure Mix Update (7/12/15) “Hold Back” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Valerie Krystal

Valerie Krystal is a Canadian disco project from Gino D’Orazio and Tony Bentivegna – the duo which brought us Blue Lazer, Ladies Choice, Motion and Nightlife Unlimited. They were the pair which helped to save dance floors during the early 80s by creating a full electronic wall of sound to maintain our position on the dance floor. “Hold Back” is from the 1983 album “Piece Of My Heart” which displays the familiar synth and keyboard work from the D’Orazio and Bentivegna arrangement and recordings of the time. There is pleasant melodic feel to Valerie’s vocals and pulse of this track and has always been a floor packer for me. It is also one of my favorites from these Canadian wonder boys.

I have taken the original 12” version of “Hold Back” and created a lengthier and more break driven ReStructure Mix which keeps that bouncy continuity moving along. It was fun to play with this one and hoping that first time listeners will find they missed a sweet little dance number – but now theirs!

“Hungry For Love” by Bad Boys Blue – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Hungry For Love” by Bad Boys Blue – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Bad Boys Blue is a European pop-synth group who released many dance floor hits from 1985 to present. “Hungry For Love” from 1988 was a big hit on my dance floor and a given for this Disco Video Mix. The beautiful love song puts out an irresistible melody for a new love of desire and a promise of a lasting future. It has remained as one of my favorites of the group.

I have taken scenes from the 2001 fantasy-comedy, “Shallow Hal” starring Jack Black and Gwyneth Paltrow – a story of a man searching for a woman only with perfect embodiments and learns much about himself in the process of love and the beholder’s eyes. It plays out with the title of the Bad Boys Blue track yet I have only used the romantic messages and also added an additional classic: “Hungry For Love” by Paul Jabara to close – which was arranged by Mr. Bob Esty.

The film was directed by Peter and Bobby Farrelly

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

ReStructure Mix Update (7/5/15) “Everybody Needs Somebody Sometime” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ann Margret

ReStructure Mix Update (7/5/15) “Everybody Needs Somebody Sometime” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ann Margret

Ann Margret is an actress and singer who made a mark in cinema as the ‘sex kitten’. Disco was an open door for Ann since the aura of sexuality is one of the elements of its lure. Produced by Paul Sabu, who created a successful stage for Debbie Jacobs and his own band along with various studio works in dance music during the 80s. “Love Rush” was the first disco single to send waves throughout dance floors during its release and also made a tasty moment for a television showcase of dancing and teasing.

I have taken the original 12” and second edition – using the 3 versions to recreate a disco moment for Ann’s perfect sensual early evening/morning number. I have always loved Sabu’s original feel and arrangement and worked to give admirers a new spotlight to use for rekindling an underground funk and disco piece.

Mr. Paul Sabu is one of the men who used the sounds which made dance/disco music identifiable and now, classic. This ReStructure Mix and respect are dedicated to him. Thank you, Paul.