Tuesday, November 29, 2011

"Don't Turn Your Back On Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eloise Whitaker

"Don't Turn Your Back On Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eloise Whitaker

Eloise Whitaker is an artist produced by Laurin Rinder and W. Michael Lewis in the early 80s - featured on the new dance label Destiny Records along with Butterfly exec A.J. Cervantes.
"Don't Turn Your Back On Love" is one of the powerhouse dance tracks on the time with the energy and soulful feeling of a diva-anthem! This ReStructure Mix gives the vital parts of the original 12" single a play once again - in high gear!
Dedicated to Lindsay and Nicholas! Go get it!

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

"Change" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Zulema

"Change" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Zulema

Zulema Cusseaux began with a trio called Five Crystals and then later worked with Van McCoy with Faith, Hope and Charity. She also became a studio group titled Zalmac in the early 80s.

Her 1978 LP "Z-licious" is the brand of 70s funk, soul and disco rolled into a nice package. "Change" is the single from the LP which gained a nice repetation for being the solo-sound of Zulema - a roaring track with question of judgement and damnation - neither of which I foster or believe in. But it is a great song and the fictitious theme makes great fun for a dance floor motion.

I have ReStructured the 12" single and added a few new curves and turns to make the song new and a bit more exciting.

Thanks to Lindsay A. Smith and Nicholas J. Bunning, once again for influencing this ReStructure Mix - it's for you and with lots of good nurturing energy! No damnation! :)

Monday, November 21, 2011

"Baby Come and Get It" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pointer Sisters

"Baby Come and Get It" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pointer Sisters

Pointer Sister became the breaking of pop-high energy and dance music in the early 80s. Their album "Break Out" produced by Richard Perry was just that for these soulful divas.

"Baby Come and Get It" was the third 12" release from the project and one the sexiest! It has some of the most intense drums and synth effects.

I have taken the 12" single and ReStructured the song into an extended dub-like mechanical mix which is meant for the late nights or early morning moments to deepen the effect of the sensual and rhythmic sound.

Sunday, November 20, 2011

“I Have A Destiny” by Denise Mc Cann – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“I Have A Destiny” by Denise Mc Cann – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Denise Mc Cann released her second album in 1979 titled “I Have A Destiny” which showcased the disco concept of the late seventies as well as Denise’s unique vocal. The project was produced by Guy Sobell.

I have taken the title track and mixed the visuals from the Moly Shannon character Mary Katherine Gallagher from SNL in “Superstar – Dare To Dream” – the story of an aspiring and nerdy Catholic schoolgirl who is constantly dreaming of stardom takes the disco track and gives it a face.

The film was directed by Bruce McCulloch

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

"Whatcha Gonna Do About It" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rozalin Woods

"Whatcha Gonna Do About It" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rozalin Woods

Rozalin Woods is a disco artist who released one album during the height of the disco era and then was never heard from again in the music industry. The album was "Flashback" and it was produced by Ed Martinez (Papa John Creach, N.E. Philly Band).

The album had three singles: "Flashback", "Go Shake Yourself" and "Whatcha Gonna Do About It" (written by Russ Ballard) - each with the full-potential and sound of the disco period. Rozalin's always reminded me of a sweet-Candi Staton-like feel.

I have taken the 12" version of "Whatcha Gonna Do About It" along with the instrumental and created a new arrangement with several new breakdowns. The song has a very strong emotion feeling to it and has always been one of the likable songs of the hardcore female disco diva followers.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

“Armed and Extremely Dangerous” by First Choice – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Armed and Extremely Dangerous” by First Choice – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

First Choice is Rochelle Fleming, Joyce Jones and Annette Guest – originally known as The Debonettes. Their first album in 1973 titled “Armed and Extremely Dangerous” contained the title cut that is now a disco classic. The project was produced by Norman Harris and Stan Watson.

I have taken the title track and matched it with the action and romance between our lead characters in “Bonnie& Clyde” from 1967 and stars Warren Beatty (who also produced) and Faye Dunaway. I have outlined the songs caution along with the notoriously violent life of the infamous couple.

The film was directed by Arthur Penn

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to Dan Butler of San Diego –who always brought this song to life for me

"Solitaire" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Laura Branigan

"Solitaire" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Laura Branigan

Laura Branigan is one of the voices of the 80s that is instantly recognizable. Her dance classic "Gloria" is one of the most powerful dance songs ever recorded. This gave Laura a career in music that moved throughout the 80s and early 90s with several big ballads and a many dance singles.

"Solitaire" is from her second LP titled "Branigan 2" which took dance floors to another phase of pop dance and influenced a whole new phase of high energy dance music as well as the powerful femme vocal. Produced by Jack White

I have taken the 12" version of the track and worked to enhance the performance by Laura by adding new extended bridges and effects to make the already dramatic phase even more climatic - and eventually a dreamy wind-down.

Dedicated to the wonderful energy of Ms. Branigan who sadly passed way too young in 2004

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

“My #1 Request” by Destination – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“My #1 Request” by Destination – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Destination is Danny Lugo, Kathleen Bradley and Lovechyle Theus – and Mr. Elton Farokh Ahi producing arranging and playing several instruments on this session. It is one of the most incredible disco arrangements of the 70s.

I have taken the “Departure – My #1 Request” segment which include “Put It Where You Want It” and “Fantasy From Mortisha to Gomez Adams” pieces and blended the suite with the 1991 black comedy “The Adams Family” starring Anjelica Houston, Raul Julia and Christina Ricci. The movie version of the television show which ran from 1964 – 1966 is a hilarious affair.

I have paired up a few surprises to keep the Destination track alive and give it a whole new meaning!

The film was directed by Barry Sonnerfeld

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

"You Really Touched My Heart" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Amii Stewart

"You Really Touched My Heart" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Amii Stewart

Amii Stewart is one of the visions that make the disco era exciting and as memorable as a the mirror ball itself. Her cover of "Knock On Wood" made dance floors jump with excitement. The project was produced by Barry Leng (Stephanie De Sykes, Simon May) who brought a tough-disco sound to life at a time when needed most.

"You Really Touched My Heart" is one of the tracks from this project I always loved and most of all the LP version. I have taken the album version and ReStructured it to save the fierce keyboard pieces intact and only extend them for a dub-like vocal version.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

“Capricorn” by Capricorn – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Capricorn” by Capricorn – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Capricorn are Italian disco producers Claudio Simonetti and Giancarlo Meo – who also brought us projects by Easy Going, Kasso, Vivian Vee and Walter Martino. Their influence on Italo-disco music in the early 80s was an important faucet for disco music history.

“Capricorn” is a single released in 1980 – a funky track disco track about a space traveler from the constellation of Capricorn who travels through the galaxy in search of a woman to bring back to his planet – where there are no other women.

I have taken a film from the same year, “Saturn 3” starring Farrah Fawcett, Kirk Douglas and Harvey Keitel a story similar to “Alien” where a cyborg runs amok and threatens the safety of Farrah. It was looked at as a cheesy sci-fi flick but works quite well with this disco over—haul.

The film was directed by Stanley Donen

Featuring scenes from “Saturn 3” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons (based on his idea)

Monday, November 14, 2011

"On The Run" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Colleen

Colleen Heather's LP "Heartbreaker" was one of the West
End Records releases in 1979 that marked the disco boom with dance sparklers and the production of disco in the making. Produced by Bob Motta - who also gave us
the New York Rubber Rock Band which also featured Colleen Heather on "Put Your Love In My Hands" single.
I have taken the 12" long version of "On The Run" from the album and have given it a touch of ReStructure Mix to keep this little masterpiece alive. It is a fast moving track - with a great vocal. The piano track can remind you a bit of an old silent movie with the villain approaching close by.
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Lindsay A. Smith and Nicholas J. Bunning - thank you for listening and for the very kind words!

“Tequila” by Bo Boss – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Tequila” by Bo Boss – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Bo Boss is Paolo Minioni, Massimilano Di Carlo and Roberto Masala – a trio of Italian writers and producers who created a few very progressive dance landmarks in Italo-disco history. Their studio project Bo Boss covers The Champs oldies-favorite “Tequila” in a robotic-like approach and gives the song a whole new essence.

I have taken the 1985 comedy-adventure film “Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure” starring Paul Reubens and singer, E.G. Daily and pasted the famous “tequila-dance” scenes along with the new beat of the classic. It gives Pee-Wee a whole new spin on the disco version and also an opportunity to see this uproarious movie once again.

The film was directed by Tim Burton

Fearturing scenes from “Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

Saturday, November 12, 2011

“Tattoo Man” by Denise McCann – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Tattoo Man” by Denise McCann – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Denise McCann is a disco artist who became one of the major disco label, Butterfly Records promising talents in the late 70s. Her vocals are recognizable with plenty of panache and rock-edged power.

Her 1978 LP “Tattoo Man” is a release from a prior label and title (originally “Midnight Madness” – but following the remix and reworking of “Tattoo Man” it became a club hit. The album was produced by Guy Sobell and featured Paulinho DaCosta on percussion.

I have taken the 12” version and blended it in this Disco Video Mix with the 1981 thriller “Tattoo” starring Bruce Dern and Maud Adams. The tale of a tattoo artist’s strange infatuation with a vulnerable fashion model. It blends in a bizarre twist and opens the mix for mystery,

The film was directed by Bob Brooks

Featuring scenes from “Tattoo” – RENT THE VHS
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

"Don't Stop Your Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Booker T.

"Don't Stop Your Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Booker T.

Booker T. is a musician, songwriter and arranger from Memphis Tennessee - he is also the founding member of Stax' band Booker T. & The MG's from the early 60s. His production in the early 80s were a memorable contribution to dance music. "Don't Stop Your Love" is from his LP "I Want You" and a huge soul/disco classic from the period.

I have taken the original 12" remix dance mix and given it a ReStructure treatment for a whole new arrangement - also extending the rhythm guitar movement along with the mesmerizing vocal - which many have initially mistaken for Issac Hayes.

I dedicate this ReStructure Mix to DJ Steve Fabus from San Francisco and his true heart to keep the beat and the meaning of disco music alive in his unique style and mix. Steve, you are a sweetheart and I honor you, my friend.

Friday, November 11, 2011

"My Heart Belongs To You" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pattie Brooks

"My Heart Belongs To You" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pattie Brooks

Pattie Brooks is one of the veteran disco images and influences in dance music history. Her big move with Casablanca Records was backing vocals for artists like Donna Summer - her lead to the fr stage was welcome site in 1977 with The Simon Orchestra.

Pattie's big #1 disco hit "After Dark" is still considered one of the finest disco records ever. Her 1979 LP "Party Girl" was produced by Bunny Sigler (with a single titled "Got Tu Go Disco" produced by Jurgen Koppers). The album arrived at the demise of disco record sales - but fans still made the project a big asset to Pattie's recording career.

"My Heart Belongs To You" I have taken from the LP and given it a new ReStructure Mix to bring out the haunting melody and Sigler's fabulous production. A slight techno edge in an attempt to create a new rhythm sound.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to DJ Bus Station John from San Francisco and his energy to keep the pure sound of disco alive for many more to live and enjoy. Thank you, John - I love you!

Thursday, November 10, 2011

"Quartz" by Quartz – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

"Quartz" by Quartz – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Quartz is Dider Plus, Laurent Taieb and Patrick Langlade – a French band and self-titled from 1978 remains one of the innovative new-age disco sounds to date. The project utilizes synthesizers and bass moogs in variation of disco themes which invoke mystery. “”Beyond The Clouds” is a classic among disco connoisseurs and even today has a unique rhythm quality and arrangement.

I have taken the title track “Quartz” – which sounds like it could be past or futuristic and paired it with the 1984 adventure film, “Conan The Destroyer” starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Grace Jones and Olivia d’Abo. The warrior fends his way through obstacles to rescue the Princess Jehnna and our disco chants help lead the way.

The film was directed by Richard Fleischer

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

"Going Through The Motions Of Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Danny Lugo and Destination

"Going Through The Motions Of Love" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Danny Lugo and Destination

Danny Lugo and Destination are a powerhouse group with a classic disco album produced by Elton Farokh Ahi (Fire and Ice, Stereo Fun, Inc.) - a disco moment in time with this LP "From Beginning To End" and a marker for label Butterfly Records.

"Move On Up" was a high energy disco cover of Curtis Mayfield's soul classic and done with all of the right moves and grooves. A follow-up for the group took three years and it was released on San Francisco label C&M Records (label of the late Craig Morley and Larry Cory - a San Diego DJ).

"Going Through The Motions" was written by Gerald Lee and Marti Sharron (sadly passed in 2007) who also wrote "Music Is My Way Of Life" for Patti LaBelle and "Jump" for The Pointer Sisters. It is a great track that sounds as if it may have been a track from a Michael Jackson project from the early 80s.

I have ReStructured the original 12" version with the instrumental to create a whole new mix experience and also mark the song as pone of the great dance songs of the 80s.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to the great Elton Farokh Ahi

Saturday, November 5, 2011

"Dance Wit Me" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rufas featuring Chaka Khan

"Dance Wit Me" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rufas featuring Chaka Khan

Rufas and Chaka Khan recorded their first LP "Rufusized" in 1974 with a fusion of soul and funk and also a road for a whole new sound. The music quickly became the aura of pop-soul music during the mid-70s. "Rufus featuring Chaka Khan" was released the following year and managed the two hits, "Sweet Thing" and "Dance Wit Me".

I have taken the 3:57 LP version of "Dance Wit Me" and managed to hold onto the funky-drum track and re edited and arranged the song to give it not only an extended version but a new groove. It is one of the killer funk tracks I can remember being driven by at a young age and now feel dedicated enough to pass it on.

Thursday, November 3, 2011

"Telefone (Long Distance Love Affair)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sheena Easton

"Telefone (Long Distance Love Affair)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sheena Easton

Sheena Easton took over the pop charts in 1981 with her pop hit "Morning Train (Nine To Five)" - it was a couple of years later that she moved intro the pop-dance arena with producer Greg Mathieson. The track was released with a powerhouse dance remix by Rusty Garner where every beat was emphasized and hit the mark.

I have taken the 12" vocal and given the song a new twist in this ReStructure Mix - adding a few pieces to it which seem to fall into place when you listen to layers of that fierce kick beat.

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