Thursday, April 28, 2011

“Orient Express” by Voyage – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Orient Express” by Voyage – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Voyage is a disco European disco band consisting of many musicians whom were involved in various disco projects during the late 70s as studio musicians. The production was under the direction of Roger Tokarz – who also worked with Voyage band member Pierre Alain Dahan with a project titled The Peppers.

“Orient Express” is a track from the first album from Voyage and is an instrumental track featuring sitars and wind instruments to create the atmospheric feel of the orient and its mystery.

I have taken the 1952 film “Road To Bali” starring Bing Crosby, Bob Hope and Dorothy Lamour into this Disco Video Mix to complete the adventurous sound. The scenes featuring exotic dancers are the hit on the Maluku Islands.

The film was directed by Hal Walker

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

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

“The Wizard Of Oz” by Meco – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“The Wizard Of Oz” by Meco – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Meco Monardo has been producing and arranging disco music since the early 70’s with artists like Don Downing, Gloria Gaynor and Carol Douglas. His first solo album was a very successful disco-pop version of “Star Wars” in 1977 which helped to bring the magic to disco music of the period. In his fourth project he covers the soundtrack to the classic “The Wizard Of Oz” – his disco version includes the extensive storyline tied into the various excerpts and songs from the 1939 film production.

I have taken scenes from the 1978 film “The Wiz” – an adaption of the 1974 Broadway play which gives the “The Wizard Of Oz” an African-American experience on the tale. The film stars Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Nipsey Russell and Ted Ross. The Meco version based on the original and the clips from “The Wiz” are worked in synch to create the adventure and magic all over again.

The film was directed by Sidney Lumet

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

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

“Masterpiece” by Gazebo – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Masterpiece” by Gazebo – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Gazebo is Paul Mazzolini – an Italian singer/producer marking the 80s with many dance tracks now Italo-disco classics. His 1982 release “Masterpiece” is his first solo single and one of his most memorable. It is one of the innovative productions to bring 80s dance floors into a new period.

The 1950 film “All About Eve” is the cinematic story behind this Disco Video Mix and although it is Broadway and not Hollywood – the story plays out the same. With images of Bette Davis it completes the “masterful” painting.

The film was directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz

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

Monday, April 25, 2011

“Soft Emotion” by Azoto – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Soft Emotion” by Azoto – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Azoto is a project created by Italian disco producer Celso Valli – his contributions also include Macho, Passengers, Tantra and Peter Jacques Band. His work is regarded as innovative arrangements which helped to shape the Italo-disco scene of the early 80s.

“Soft Emotion” is from the 1979 LP “Disco Fizz” – one of the most beautifully crafted pieces of disco from the time period.

This Disco Video Mix takes the 1995 film remake of “The Brady Bunch Movie” and places the images and retro-laughs in a segment centered on Jan’s in security of her older sister (“Marsha! Marsha! Marsha!). It also gives us another glimpse of that fabulous talent show performance!

The film was directed by Betty Thomas

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

Thursday, April 21, 2011

“Behind The Groove” by Teena Marie – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Behind The Groove” by Teena Marie – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Teena Marie (Mary Christine Brockert) is better known as Lady T – a R&B artists who brought a new style and edge to soul and disco music in the late 70s. Her music was poetic and a very powerful inspiration to the soul. Her second album in 1980 titled “Lady T” contained the dance single “Behind The Groove” which I have taken into the Disco Video Mix arena thanks to an ideal from Ken Emmons.

The 1980 musical “Xanadu” starring Olivia Newton John, Gene Kelly and Michael Beck is the visual in this project – the big dance segments lend some energy and mystique to the mythical land of Xanadu. The film is a campy piece of 80s dance that always makes the magic of disco and the era come alive again.

The film was directed by Robert Greenwald

Featuring scenes from “Xanadu” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons (based on his concept)

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

“Love Story” by Andy Williams – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Love Story” by Andy Williams – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Andy Williams takes the theme “Love Story” from the film along with disco producer extraordinaire, Bob Esty and creates a memorable and emotional dance experience. The 12” single was released in 1979 and became a club sensation for those who desired the symphonic and artistic power of disco.

I have taken the track and paired it with the original film from 1970 – “Love Story” starring Ryan O’ Neal and Ali MacGraw – a story of love, understanding and finale tragedy. It moves well with the dance version along with some help.

The film was directed by Arthur Hiller

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

Monday, April 18, 2011

"Shanghied" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - 'Lectric Funk

'Lectric Funk is the full-on disco synthesizer movement at it's peak during 1979. touch of mysterious and soulful male vocals over a campy theme and morphing keyboards. Big hit on many dance floors ready for the high energy phase. The track is listed as produced by John Ferrara of "Love Attack" fame.

I have ReStructured this track utilizing the familiar elements and adding a few new twists. A favorite among myself and I am sure many disco and high energy enthusiasts.

Sunday, April 17, 2011

“High Society” by Norma Jean – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Norma Jean hit the disco scene with top billing – as a member of the group Chic – along with Bernard Edwards and Nile Rodgers her first solo LP “Norma Jean” became a sensation – containing the big hit “Saturday”.

I have taken her follow-up single “High Society” and paired it up with the 1956 comedy-romantic film “High Society” starring Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly and Frank Sinatra. The story of a jazz musician who finds love and an education on “high society” .

The film was directed by Charles Walters

Featuring scenes from “High Society” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons
"Runaway (With My Love)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tapps

Tapps is a high energy disco ensemble from Allan Coelho who pulled the band together with Tony DaCosta and Paul Silva - along with the vocals of Cindy Berthiaume.

"Runaway (With My Love)" is the groups 1984 release and is one of the pieces from Tapps that utilizes their successful assets. Moving along with the rolling synthesizers and simple keyboard riffs the single has the 80s disco scene covered well.

I have ReStructured the 12" vocal to break the classic remix into longer segues to both verses and choruses. It was my job to make sure the track comes across as a new mix and experience.

Friday, April 15, 2011

"My Simple Heart" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carol Douglas

Carol Douglas is the First Lady of Disco when you look back in time at her start and continuance to give to the disco/dance community. Her recording career began in 1963 with the recording of her single "I Don't Mind (Being Your Fool)" - following a hiatus she returned in 1975 with the now disco classic "Doctor's Orders".

"My Simple Heart" brought Carol into the 80s following a long disco-ride in the 70s. The track was originally recorded by Three Degrees in 1978 - Carol delivers the song again in a funky 80s arrangement.

I have ReStructured the original 12" single and broke the song down into several breaks and re-looping back into the lovely verses and the powerful chorus. It is a great track to feel free with and also raise the power of love five pegs up!

Thursday, April 14, 2011

“Queen For A Day” by Donna Summer – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Donna Summer weaves a disco operetta of “Cinderella” in the double LP “Once Upon A Time” from 1977 – it still one of the fondest productions of the era. “Queen For A Day” is from the album and is one of Giorgio Moroder’s masterpiece combinations of his roaring and stately synthesizer and keyboard arrangements along with Bob Esty’s arrangements. It is a masterpiece all of its own.

I have taken the track and placed it along with the Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” production from 1957 starring Ginger Rodgers, Celeste Holm, Stuart Damon and Lesley Ann Warren as our princes, soon to be queen.

It is a magical and lyrical fantasy that evokes the entire mystic and joy that disco music brings.

The production was directed by Charles S. Dubin

Featuring scenes from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons
"Macho (A Real Real One)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Celi Bee

Celi Bee is the disco diva who took 1977 with a pure style of disco music along with producer Pepe Luis Soto and his studio band, The Buzzy Bunch. Their first released LP which featured the classic disco hit, "Superman" lead to the next album titled "Alternating Current"- containing "Macho (A Real Real One)".

I have taken the "macho" track, which seemed to hit the disco scenes when the Village People made "Macho Man" a 70s icon. The song has the funky bass guitars and sweeping string arrangement which helped to bridge the Philly sound to pop-disco. It is an alternative mix for those who feel apt to take disco back to the floor with it's funky live-band flavor.

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

“Someone That I Used To Love” by Norma Lewis – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Someone That I Used To Love” by Norma Lewis – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Norma Lewis gave dance floors many anthems to move with her well known cover of “Maybe This Time” and “Life Is The Reason” and “The Fight (For The Single Family)” – her touch has always brought a dramatic flair to disco music that is much needed.

Her 199 cover of “Someone That I Used To Love” is produced by John Williams and Paul Middleton – it is a wonderful dance tribute to a beautiful ballad. I have taken the 1973 romantic-film “The Way We Were” starring Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford to give a visual to the love, happiness and finally heartbreak to this Disco Video Mix.

The film was directed by Sydney Pollack

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

"Busting Out" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Material with Nona Hendryx

"Busting Out" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Material with Nona Hendryx

Material was an experimental punk/jazz/funk and noise electro band from the early 80's - appropriately given the title as "Mutant Disco". Their 1981 project featuring funk/soul artist Nona Hendryx is "Busting Out" - a track which created a big stir on dance floors during a shift in dance music. The track has a very powerful appeal and lasting power - thanks to Nona's fantastic vocal, also.

I have ReStructured the track and have broken down some key elements of the rhythm and synthesizer sequences. It is mere alternative version to a song that had me moving on to a new sound during the 80s - easily!

"Busting Out" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Material with Nona Hendryx

"Busting Out" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Material with Nona Hendryx

Material was an experimental punk/jazz/funk and noise electro band from the early 80's - appropriately given the title as "Mutant Disco". Their 1981 project featuring funk/soul artist Nona Hendryx is "Busting Out" - a track which created a big stir on dance floors during a shift in dance music. The track has a very powerful appeal and lasting power - thanks to Nona's fantastic vocal, also.

I have ReStructured the track and have broken down some key elements of the rhythm and synthesizer sequences. It is mere alternative version to a song that had me moving on to a new sound during the 80s - easily!

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

"Undercover Lover" by Debbie Jacobs - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

"Undercover Lover" by Debbie Jacobs - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Debbie Jacobs-Rock graced the disco era with some of the most unforgettable dance hits: "Don't You Want My Love", "Hot Hot (Give It All You Got)", "High On Your Love" and "Doctor Music". Her sweet yet soulful vocals brought out the power of the disco message in many unique ways. Along with producer, Paul Sabu an orchestral, yet funky-dance edged sound was created.

I have paired her big 1979 disco hit "Undercover Lover" with the 1976 comedy "The Ritz" -- with lots of crazy mayhem in a New York gay bathhouse. The film stars Jack Weston, Rita Moreno, Treat Williams, Jerry Stiller and Kaye Ballard. It fits the fast faced disco track using all of the zany pieces of the Richard Lester film.

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to Debbie Jacobs-Rock and Carnell Thomas

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

"Undercover Lover" by Debbie Jacobs - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

"Undercover Lover" by Debbie Jacobs - Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Debbie Jacobs-Rock graced the disco era with some of the most unforgettable dance hits: "Don't You Want My Love", "Hot Hot (Give It All You Got)", "High On Your Love" and "Doctor Music". Her sweet yet soulful vocals brought out the power of the disco message in many unique ways. Along with producer, Paul Sabu an orchestral, yet funky-dance edged sound was created.

I have paired her big 1979 disco hit "Undercover Lover" with the 1976 comedy "The Ritz" -- with lots of crazy mayhem in a New York gay bathhouse. The film stars Jack Weston, Rita Moreno, Treat Williams, Jerry Stiller and Kaye Ballard. It fits the fast faced disco track using all of the zany pieces of the Richard Lester film.

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to Debbie Jacobs-Rock and Carnell Thomas

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

"Once Upon A Time" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer

"Once Upon A Time" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer

Donna Summer's "Once Upon A Time" disco operetta is one of the monumental times for dance floors. The power of Giorgio Moroder, Pete Bellotte and the magic of Donna Summer are truly an event here. The album is referred by many discophiles as unsurpassed in creativity and execution.

I have taken the title track into a ReStructure Mix fantasy and enhanced the horns and strings with a few new beats and bass additions. The flow of the track is still pounding and dramatic - just extended and given a longer exit.

Dedicated to Donna Summer fans everywhere! Once upon a dream...it can happen again!

"Once Upon A Time" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer

"Once Upon A Time" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer

Donna Summer's "Once Upon A Time" disco operetta is one of the monumental times for dance floors. The power of Giorgio Moroder, Pete Bellotte and the magic of Donna Summer are truly an event here. The album is referred by many discophiles as unsurpassed in creativity and execution.

I have taken the title track into a ReStructure Mix fantasy and enhanced the horns and strings with a few new beats and bass additions. The flow of the track is still pounding and dramatic - just extended and given a longer exit.

Dedicated to Donna Summer fans everywhere! Once upon a dream...it can happen again!

Monday, April 11, 2011

“What Have I Got To Lose” by Astaire – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“What Have I Got To Lose” by Astaire – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Astaire is a high energy studio band from the UK featuring the beautiful vocals of Miss Tracy Ackerman – the 1986 single “What Have I Got To Lose” is anthem of love and strength and has always been one of the pieces of a set during the time. It was produced by Nigel Stock for Passion Records.

I have taken the single and blended it with the 1974 film, “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” starring Ellen Burstyn, Kris Kristofferson and good old Mel’s Diner (continued in the television spin-off “Alice”). The film is the story of a widowed woman determined to make it in a discouraging world. Somehow the two crossed paths in my mind and they became this Disco Video Mix.

The film was directed by Martin Scorsese

Featuring scenes from “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

“What Have I Got To Lose” by Astaire – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“What Have I Got To Lose” by Astaire – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Astaire is a high energy studio band from the UK featuring the beautiful vocals of Miss Tracy Ackerman – the 1986 single “What Have I Got To Lose” is anthem of love and strength and has always been one of the pieces of a set during the time. It was produced by Nigel Stock for Passion Records.

I have taken the single and blended it with the 1974 film, “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” starring Ellen Burstyn, Kris Kristofferson and good old Mel’s Diner (continued in the television spin-off “Alice”). The film is the story of a widowed woman determined to make it in a discouraging world. Somehow the two crossed paths in my mind and they became this Disco Video Mix.

The film was directed by Martin Scorsese

Featuring scenes from “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

"Dance With The Devil" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cozy Powell

"Dance With The Devil" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cozy Powell

Cozy Powell (Colin Flooks) was a British rock drummer (recently passed in 1998) who also played in bands Black Sabbath, Emerson, Lake and Powell, Jeff Beck Group and Whitesnake.

"Dance With The Devil" is his 1973 single which contains the a roller-coaster ride of drums that would bring a stadium to its feet. Quite an early 70s rock-dance anthem.

I have taken the rare 7" single and given it a few twists and turns here and there only to give the track a once over again. It would be well known among Boney M ans as the opening to the "Nightflight To Venus" LP from 1978 - where their chant is added to the mania!

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Jussi K. for his rarity in excursion!

"Dance With The Devil" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cozy Powell

"Dance With The Devil" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cozy Powell

Cozy Powell (Colin Flooks) was a British rock drummer (recently passed in 1998) who also played in bands Black Sabbath, Emerson, Lake and Powell, Jeff Beck Group and Whitesnake.

"Dance With The Devil" is his 1973 single which contains the a roller-coaster ride of drums that would bring a stadium to its feet. Quite an early 70s rock-dance anthem.

I have taken the rare 7" single and given it a few twists and turns here and there only to give the track a once over again. It would be well known among Boney M ans as the opening to the "Nightflight To Venus" LP from 1978 - where their chant is added to the mania!

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Jussi K. for his rarity in excursion!

Friday, April 1, 2011

“Spys” by Roni Griffith – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Spys” by Roni Griffith – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Roni Griffith was originally a vocalist from the ensemble in Kid Creole and The Coconuts – her solo venture left several disco classics from the early 80s including “Mondo Man”, “(The Best Part Of) Breaking Up”, “Desire” and “Spys”. Each project was produced by high energy veteran Bobby Orlando.

“Spys” was a single from her self-titled LP – I have taken the track and place it over the 1946 Alfred Hitchcock thriller/love story “Notorious” starring Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman. The winding synthesizers follow the drama and suspense carefully – while leaving a few areas for the romantic edge which Hitchcock controlled so well.

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

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to my favorite director of all-time – Sir Alfred Hitchcock

“Spys” by Roni Griffith – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Spys” by Roni Griffith – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Roni Griffith was originally a vocalist from the ensemble in Kid Creole and The Coconuts – her solo venture left several disco classics from the early 80s including “Mondo Man”, “(The Best Part Of) Breaking Up”, “Desire” and “Spys”. Each project was produced by high energy veteran Bobby Orlando.

“Spys” was a single from her self-titled LP – I have taken the track and place it over the 1946 Alfred Hitchcock thriller/love story “Notorious” starring Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman. The winding synthesizers follow the drama and suspense carefully – while leaving a few areas for the romantic edge which Hitchcock controlled so well.

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

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to my favorite director of all-time – Sir Alfred Hitchcock

"Jungle Drums" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Wild Fantasy

"Jungle Drums" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Wild Fantasy

Wild Fantasy is a studio concept band produced by Tony Hiller - the theme is a sensual drum fantasy with a touch of disco power. The big cuts from the LP are "Jungle Drums" and "Africa".

I have taken the cut "Jungle Drums" and have given it a ReStructure Mix make-over adding a surprise cameo appearance from the fabulous Abbe Lane - ringing in a tribal standard!

"Jungle Drums" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Wild Fantasy

"Jungle Drums" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Wild Fantasy

Wild Fantasy is a studio concept band produced by Tony Hiller - the theme is a sensual drum fantasy with a touch of disco power. The big cuts from the LP are "Jungle Drums" and "Africa".

I have taken the cut "Jungle Drums" and have given it a ReStructure Mix make-over adding a surprise cameo appearance from the fabulous Abbe Lane - ringing in a tribal standard!

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