ReStructure Mix Update (8/31/15) “Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Eurythmics

ReStructure Mix Update (8/31/15) “Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Eurythmics

Eurythmics are Annie Lennox and Dace A. Stewart – a force of 80s synth-pop dance music which crafted a new form of style and execution fitting the scene with perfection. Their 1983 hit “Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This” is a haunting and pounding dance piece that explores the way of life with simplicity verses over indulgence. A futuristic like robotic movement which even today with it few verses begins a thought process which can last.

I have taken the original 12” version to recreate a lengthy ReStructure Mix adding more loops and edit rearranging to give this classic 80s number a new face lift. Complete with the energy and sound which made it a hit with a touch more of what I hear in my head during a peak hour and a mesmerized dance floor!

ReStructure Mix Update (8/30/15) “Change Your Wicked Ways” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Pennye Ford

ReStructure Mix Update (8/30/15) “Change Your Wicked Ways” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Pennye Ford

Pennye Ford is a soul/funk singer and songwriter who took the early 80s on a funk trip with her single “Change Your Wicked Ways” – from her album titled “Pennye” produced by Lonnie Simmons (The Gap Band). The single was a huge hit in my clubs of the time and also brought to mind the power of a great soulful vocal and how it adds movement to the existing beats. Pennye makes this work with a slick and sassy approach that brings to mind the classic approach of Chaka Khan. The track has the feel of a DJ record with the beat and groove spelled out in many ways.

I have taken the “DJ Mix” 12” single using both the “Extended Version” and “Dub Version” to recreate a thumping ReStructure Mix with a few new surprises – including a beat pattern from Pennye’s sister Sharon Redd’s classic “Beat The Street”. It is a tribute to the talent of a great soul vocalist and her own stage which could also be heard in projects by George Clinton, Snap! And Soul II Soul.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Ms. Penny Ford – thank you Penny and please keep giving us your soul – we can use the magic!

ReStructure Mix Update (8/27/15) “One More Time” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Bianca

ReStructure Mix Update (8/27/15) “One More Time” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Bianca
Bianca is a high energy singer from the mid-80s when disco music was fast furious and kicking some ass. It seems at this point all weapons were pointed at feet and they were responding. It was a great peak for dance music history. “One More Time” is a single released in 1987 and produced by Fonny De Wolf – who also gave us Rofo, New York City Band, Laser Dance, Samantha Gilles and Charity. This fast moving number moves like a rolling locomotive and gives us a nice hook and some fast moving percussion in the process. A big winner for me and my dance floor.

I have taken the original 12” version and worked this ReStructure Mix giving the arrangement a bit more breathing space and also adding some clip-and-chop edits here and there to give it some small peaks. One great number to play with and this version is a tribute to high energy music and its dancers!

ReStructure Mix Update (8/25/15) “Tonight’s The Night” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Harold Melvin And The Blue Notes featuring Sharon Paige

ReStructure Mix Update (8/25/15) “Tonight’s The Night” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Harold Melvin And The Blue Notes featuring Sharon Paige

Harold Melvin and The Blue Notes have been one foremost Philly soul acts of the early 70s and continued to bring soul to the surface of their recordings. “Tonight’s The Night” is their 1979 album “The Blue Album” produced by Harold Melvin. It is a light disco-funk number that gives guest vocalist, Sharon Paige an opportunity to give a sexy and enticing performance outlining the nightlife scene.

I have taken the original 12” version and worked this ReStructure Mix to give the track my love and thanks for making my dance floor from furious disco beats and make way for a groove that is reminiscent of the early 80s electro-funk sound – but with the sophistication of The Blue Notes joining Sharon for a night of fun and pleasure.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/23/15) “You Gotta Believe” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Pointer Sisters

ReStructure Mix Update (8/23/15) “You Gotta Believe” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Pointer Sisters
The Pointer Sister brought a ‘bit of light’ to the 1976 film “Car Wash” – which may have been the first soul/disco musical to hit the 70s scene. “You Gotta Believe” is one of the memorable moments in the motion picture and the song written by Henry Garner and Lequeint “Duke” Jobe of Rose Royce is one the most rhythmic pieces from the genius production by Norman Whitfield. One of the toppers of this great 70s musical epic.

I have taken the short (2:51) double album soundtrack version and created this ReStructure Mix adding a few new percussion and drum elements to kick up the bouncy rhythms and those soulful and groovy Pointer Sister vocals.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/21/15) “Living On Video” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Trans-X

ReStructure Mix Update (8/21/15) “Living On Video” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Trans-X

Trans-X is a disco/techno band which began as a single “Living On Video” from 1983. The recordings original vocalist is Laurie Gill and Pascal Languirand – who paint a message of alternative dance electronic music. The track was a huge dance floor hit and shared some success on alternative dance radio stations – it stands an icon for 80s disco and synth-pop dance music. A favorite of mine with lots of the gadgetry which makes the dance floor feel like a factory of wires and funk.

I have taken the original 12” version to recreate new ReStructure Mix looping parts to give a new feel and message to this awesome piece. A touch of 60s sci-fi is added from the classic show, “Lost In Space” to give a new computer generated edge. It is a fantastic adventure so take it again!

ReStructure Mix Update (8/19/15)”The Sound Of The City” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – David London

ReStructure Mix Update (8/19/15)”The Sound Of The City” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – David London

David London is a vocalist who was featured on the soundtrack to “Can’t Stop The Music” with the Jacques Morali production of “The Sound Of The City” – a rousing disco anthem about The Big Apple. It was quite a stage performance with the dramatic crescendos and lyrics paying detailed homage to the great city. It was always a favorite of mine and was happy to have placed this gem on the ReStructure block.

This ReStructure Mix takes the 12” version running at a little over 4 minutes and placing it in another frame of celebration. I have extended the intro to phase into the energy and pulled a little more out of the excitement.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Morgan Casner on Facebook – and thanks for the request!

ReStructure Mix Update (8/18/15) “Number One Lover” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – J.D. Hall

ReStructure Mix Update (8/18/15) “Number One Lover” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – J.D. Hall

J.D. Hall is a vocalist from California who covers rock, blues, r&b and high energy in his repertoire. A powerful which currently play out as a tribute to the great Barry White. “Number One Lover” is an electronic high energy single from 1985 and features a production from Sebastian Rayas who cleverly striped down the basics of high energy presenting it in his own package in the mid and late 80s. J.D.’s deep and breathy vocals add a mystique to Rayas’ eerie like keyboard arrangement. This is one of those mid-80’s high energy classics that still spell out the period.

I have taken the JDC 12” original and instrumental to create this ReStructure Mix and deliver another form of excitement which leads to the fast moving sound of high energy along with some of the elements which make up my touch on these classic pieces. This one was a floor packer and always brings a great feeling to mind when hearing it.

Long live HIGH ENERGY!

ReStructure Mix Update (8/14/15) “She Blinded Me With Science” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Thomas Dolby

ReStructure Mix Update (8/14/15) “She Blinded Me With Science” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Thomas Dolby

Thomas Dolby made a deep cut on dance floors in 1982 with his synth-pop dance single “She Blinded Me With Science”. A perfect addition to the shifting sound of dance music and the innovative use of keyboards and beats. This beat driven spoof of a mad scientist finding interest in a sexy lab assistant in the midst of this little number. It is one of the novelty dance tracks that fits well for the fun driven dance floor method and also gives his talent a go for the money.

I have taken the 12” version of “She Blinded Me With Science” and played out a new ReStructure Mix –focusing more on the beats and extracting some of the parts which stop the energy and slam back. This dance floor remix is more flowing rhythm solution and also plays with some of the crazy edits.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/13/15) “Danger” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gregg Diamond’s Star Cruiser

ReStructure Mix Update (8/13/15) “Danger” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gregg Diamond’s Star Cruiser

Gregg Diamond created a disco project in 1978 for Marlin Records as his Bionic Boogie for Polydor in 1977. The success of his full scale band-like and disco symphonic sound was evident early on with his work on Andrea True Connection (“More, More More” ). This left dance floor longing for his funky riffs and playful themes. “Danger” is a single released in 1979 under his studio band, Star Cruiser – which landed success with “This Side Of Midnight” and an album of additional dance hits. This number gave us those clever pieces segued into an arrangement of cascading rhythms and strings.

I have taken the 12” version of “Danger” and played out a new ReStructure Mix to chip at Diamond’s genius. This plays out more as a dub and loops and scores a whole new funky experience. Diamond’s work is my true love to disco music’s innovation of the late 70s and this favorite is keyed out as an homage to this sound.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/12/15) “Nobody Makes Me Crazy Like You Do” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Diana Ross

ReStructure Mix Update (8/12/15) “Nobody Makes Me Crazy Like You Do” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Diana Ross
Diana Ross released her sensational pop-dance project “Swept Away” in 1984 with an array of dance floor pieces – including the title track produced by Mr. Arthur Baker​. One of the abstract electronic numbers is “Nobody Makes Me Crazy Like You Do” which explores a thumping greeting card of love and desire. Cleverly produced with a techno-feel and Ross unleashing a sensual vocal that may be one the most sexy since “Love Hangover” – yet in a new 80s nu-wave arena.

I have taken the album version of “Nobody Makes Me Crazy Like You Do” and edited a ReStructure Mix – taking the fantasy a few levels deeper. It was one of the alternative pieces that I give Ms. Ross credit for exploring and done so well for the mood. I love the afterhour’s feel of this piece and celebrate it with the same motivation.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/11/15) “Material Girl” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Madonna

ReStructure Mix Update (8/11/15) “Material Girl” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Madonna

Madonna recorded her second album in 1984 with huge dance hit “Like A Virgin” leading the success again. This project being the pop-iconic style for the early 80s dance scene and becoming a part of music history. “Material Girl” is another single from this production from Nile Rodgers (of Chic) and also co-written by Peter Brown (“Dance With Me”, “Crank It Up” ). A huge album for Madonna and thanks to an adoring fan base and pop-movement this piece has become one the most memorable of the time period.

I have taken the 12” single (mixed by John “Jellybean” Benitez) and created a ReStructure Mix with more of the theme from the fabulous video with Madonna adorning the jewels and men as Marilyn Monroe. This play is more based on the inserts from Marilyn and homage to the 80s pop dance scene.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/10/15) “Sequencer” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Al Di Meola

ReStructure Mix Update (8/10/15) “Sequencer” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Al Di Meola

Al Di Meola is a guitarist who began recording solo in 1976 with “Land Of The Midnight Sun” – one of my favorite jazz fusion artists with a colorful talent to transform a landscape into energy. His 1983 album, “Scenario” contained the electronic single, “Sequencer” which played out as one of the infectious instrumentals of that year. Along with Jan Hammer on keyboards, sampler and drum machine a fabulous canvas for Di Meola’s beautiful finger work is allowed.

I have taken the 12” version along with the dub to have a little play with “Sequencer” and create this ReStructure Mix. It adds a sample from a well-known late 70s classic and is rearrangement in various segments to work a new experience for those familiar with it or a new outline for those discovering it.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/7/15) “I’m A Sucker For Your Love” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Teena Marie

ReStructure Mix Update (8/7/15) “I’m A Sucker For Your Love” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Teena Marie

Lady T (Teena Marie) brought the funk upfront with her talent during the late 70s with “Wild and Peaceful” – produced by Art Stewart and Rick James. The single “I’m A Sucker For Your Love” is one of the songs that ring a true Lady T sound – and along with Rick James adding his consoling love to Teena the track is an old school classic.

I have taken the original 12” vocal and instrumental to rework a ReStructure Mix – adding a few electro-effects to enhance some of the familiar intro and an added break. Re-assembling parts of both give this one a new direction and homage to The Ivory Queen of Soul!

ReStructure Mix Update (8/6/15) “Don’t Stop” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ross

ReStructure Mix Update (8/6/15) “Don’t Stop” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Ross

Ross (Emanuela Gubinelli) is an Italo-disco project from Giuliano Crivellente and Mauro Farina who formed Flea Records – an Italo dance label which featured a high energy sound in the mid and late 80s. Much of the music contained the rolling synthesizers which helped to give it the title “girl twirl” because of its sweet melodies and femme vocals. “Don’t Stop” is a single from 1987 which dominated my club floor for months after its release. A nice melodic ringing sound makes this one irresistible. It is one of my all-time favorites and always reminded me of the Fun Fun sound done with a higher peak of energy.

I have taken the original import using the “Full Power D.J. Mix Version” and “Casa Mix” to weave this ReStructure Mix. I focused more on a continuous flow and added a few new elements as well as rearranging the verses and choruses to maintain the energy.

This ReStructure Mix is for Jerry Forrester on Facebook – thanks for the note Jerry and also for remembering this great Italo-disco piece!

“Living In Japan” by Fun Fun – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Living In Japan” by Fun Fun – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Fun Fun is Spagna, Antonella Pepe, and Angela Parisio on vocals. An Italian disco project from Alvaro Ugolini and Dario Rainmondi and a non-stop dance floor hit machine from 1982 – 1987. “Living In Japan” is their single from the album “Have Fun!” – an electronic trip with romance in the land of the rising sun. One of the big hits for me during its release since the sound of Fun Fun is so recognizable and ‘fun’ to move with. This is also one of the sweetest of their vocal recordings and great kickin’ mid-tempo rhythms.

I have taken scenes from the 1961 Toho Studios fantasy film, “Mothra” – centering in on the “Shobijin” twins who entertain us in this mild and short tribute to Fun Fun and also segments of the ritual for their god, Mothra.

The film was directed by Ishiro Honda

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

ReStructure Mix Update (8/4/15) “Babe, We’re Gonna Love Tonight” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lime

ReStructure Mix Update (8/4/15) “Babe, We’re Gonna Love Tonight” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lime

Lime is Denis and Denyse LePage – a force of 80s dance music which was unstoppable from their first single, “Your Love” in 1980. It was the start of the high energy era of dance music a satisfying potion of electronic love songs that brought excitement and moved feet. “Babe, We’re Gonna Love Tonight” is from their second project from 1982 titled “Lime II” – another love song with similar qualities, yet a whole new sound and instant hit. Their unique vocal play as a duo is one of the main factors in Lime’s success. It helped to bring an edge and sweetness to the fabulous and energetic tracks.

I have taken the original 12” version of “Babe, We’re Gonna Love Tonight” and worked a new ReStructure Mix – talking chopped pieces of this cooker and reassembling to give it a new feel. The power still is present and more breaks added to give the chorus excitement all over again!

Dedicated to Denis and Denyse LePage – thanks for saving us with your talents – the 80s would never be as memorable without Lime!

ReStructure Mix Update (8/3/15) “I.O.U.” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Freeez

ReStructure Mix Update (8/3/15) “I.O.U.” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Freeez
Freeez is a British electronic funk group from the early 80s and along with Arthur Baker helped to create a street sound marking a new style and era of dance music. Heavy beats and drum fills create the foundation for a pop-dance formula which began with Baker’s true club experience and studio talent. “I.O.U.’ is from their 1983 album “Gonna Get You” and then repackaged as an album by the track title. This piece is an explosion of funk and electro dance which draw a line across the dance floor and then lure all feet to it. One of the great classic innovative and leaders of the time.

I have taken the vocal and dub from the Streetwise Records 12” single and re-edited this ReStructure Mix to play along with Baker and Freeez’ phenomenal street master pump. I have added a few new elements to differ the original and also give lovers of the sound and track a new experience.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to David BoomGaarden on YouTube (thanks for the request, David) and the master himself, Mr. Arthur Baker

“Raised By Snakes” by Telex – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Raised By Snakes” by Telex – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Telex is an electronic disco pop group formed in 1978 with Dan Lacksman, Marc Moulin and Michel Moers. Music from Telex has always been unique and a force of strange themes and satisfying synth notes. A favorite of mine since their first club hit, “Moskow Discow”. Their 1984 album “Wonderful World” featured the single “Raised By Snakes” which is a jittery and moody alternative 80s dance track. It is the focus of this Disco Video Mix and helps to describe the band for newcomers very well and remind long time followers of their creative edge.

I have taken the 1973 horror film “Ssssss” into the arena for this Disco Video Mix for obvious reasons – it plays out not only as a theme but the excitement of the lyrics and mood. 

The film was directed by Bernard L. Kowalski

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

ReStructure Mix Update (8/2/15) “Chaos” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Quartz

ReStructure Mix Update (8/2/15) “Chaos” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Quartz
Quartz is Didier Plus, Laurent Taieb and Patrick Langlade – a French disco project produced by Saint-Preux a composer of contemporary classical music. Their first self-titled album from 1978 featured an innovative use of keyboards, drums and pre-trance-like arrangements. “Beyond The Clouds” is one of the big singles best describing the sound of Quartz and reverberates now as a disco classic. Their use of jazz like keyboards in this piece makes the disco beat explode along the moog synthesizers. “Chaos” is a moody and 70s futuristic instrumental piece which contains a bass synth which moves with a deep groove. It has been one of my favorites of the dance tracks from the project and fits wonderfully as a pre-cursor to a blend of electro meets disco.

I have taken the album version of “Chaos” and blended some familiar street beat drum beats to parts. This ReStructure Mix is along the lines of a new episode for this hidden gem. I brought out the original concept with a few new changes to liven up the composition.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/1/15) “A Love Bizarre” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Sheila E.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/1/15) “A Love Bizarre” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Sheila E.

Sheila E. is one of the 80s dance music talents who took the dance floor on a funk-esque trip with the assistance of music icon, Prince. Her music made the arena of dance an energetic twist of heavy percussion and her light and sensual vocal edge. Her first hit, “The Glamorous Life” not only embedded her name into our brains but also created a following of a new generation of dancers and music fans. “A Love Bizarre” is from her 1985 project titled “In Romance 1600” – produced by Prince. It is one funk driven dance track which not only stamps Sheila’s sound but also the brand of synth-pop dance where the 80s took off following 70s disco.

I have taken the album version of “A Love Bizarre” and reworked it for this ReStructure Mix. I have focused on making a dance groove with more of the looping and chopping tracking which makes the 80s dance scene not only more of the disc jockey’s art – but also quite ‘bizarre’ at times.