“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!

ReStructure Mix Update (8/29/14) “When Love Takes Over You” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Donna Summer

ReStructure Mix Update (8/29/14) “When Love Takes Over You” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Donna Summer

Donna Summer returned to the dance floor in 1989 with producer Stock, Aitken and Waterman to bring dance and hi-NRG fans a box of disco chocolates. The project titled “Another Place And Time” exploded with the first single “This Time I Know It’s For Real” and continued on a non-stop hit single roll. “When Love Takes Over You” is one of the singles that was also released as a 12” remix and made the mind-tempo energy sets sparkle with Donna’s iconic voice and the rhyme and sweetness of the SAW sound.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to create a ReStructure Mix and return us to a “place in time” that not only gave hardcore Donna fans another lift into the clouds – it also brought the SAW sound a new shine. This mix focuses on the beautiful instrumental and the lyrical verses – breaking them in and out with some surprises along the way. A Donna classic is infused to remind us of “The Magic of Summer”!

ReStructure Mix Update (8/28/14) “Rhythm Of The Street” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Patti Austin

ReStructure Mix Update (8/28/14) “Rhythm Of The Street” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Patti Austin
Patti Austin is a jazz and pop vocalist who became a dance floor addition following her 80s tracks “Body Language”, “Do You Love Me” and “Rhythm Of The Streets” – this is definitely one of the definitive voices of dance music during the early 80s. With ballads like “Baby Come To Me” (with James Ingram) it was more than a treat have such a talent grace the disco beats.

I have taken on of my favorite singles from her album “Patti Austin” titled “Rhythm Of The Street” from 1984 and transformed the 12” single originally remixed by John ‘Jellybean’ Benitez and worked a ReStructure Mix for a more celebratory and break-out arrangement. Many of Patti’s phrases are accentuated and the rhythm forced to the surface. A winning dance track and one which brings an instant feeling of joy to those who love that dance floor!

ReStructure Mix Update (8/22/14) “Jungle” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Kongas

ReStructure Mix Update (8/22/14) “Jungle” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Kongas

Kongas is a band formed in France and featured disco leaders Cerrone and Don Ray. The group began recording in 1974 and lead them into their big 1977 disco classic album “Africanism” featuring a tribal feast version of “Gimme Some Lovin” – the 1966 hit from The Spencer Davis Group. Their third album titled “Anikana-O” from 1978 featured tracks along the similar vein – more of a late 60s rock-edged feel with plenty of percussion and the pounding disco beat. A fantastic group of dance cuts and one in particular which always created a stir for me was “Jungle”.

I have taken the album version of “Jungle” and created a ReStructure Mix giving an intro that lures dancers into the lush area of the jungle where a savage bass and killer bongos guarantee satisfaction. A longer edit here and plenty of the drop and kick elements that I hear in my mind and now in the “Jungle”!

“Disco Choo Choo” by Nightlife Unlimited – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Disco Choo Choo” by Nightlife Unlimited – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Nightlife Unlimited is a Canadian disco group produced by Peter Di Milo and George Cucuzzella – featuring vocals from The Sweethearts of Sigma and Louis Toteda. The 1979 self-titled album is one of the big surprises for dance floors with a disco ribbon. A couple of hardcore dance anthems with breaks throughout the cuts and also two love ballads set to the disco beat. A disco dancer’s paradise for the time. “Disco Choo Choo” is one of the stomping dance pieces that give an array of handclaps, percussion and sequencers layered to create a dance fantasy trip on the “disco choo choo”.

I have taken the 12” remix of “Disco Choo Choo” with an edit to create this Disco Video Mix along with the 1937 action-adventure film, “Paradise Express” – the title which was used for the disco group produced by Herb Jimmerson and his wife Vi Ann on vocals (“Let’s Fly”, “Dance”, “Poinciana&rdquo where Herb saw the film late one night and the title stuck. This Disco Video Mix takes pieces of the film and plays out the disco theme with chopping here and there – yet, keeping this train on the tracks! It is sheer fun!

The film was directed by Joseph Kane

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

“Spacer Woman” by Charlie – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Spacer Woman” by Charlie – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Charlie is an Italo-disco project from 1983 from Stu Kawowski, Giorgio Stefani and Maurice Cavalleri. This blend of electro-beats and mystifying vocals are one of the progressive and unique records of the time. It became an instant dance floor classic for my club and a hit for me as it worked in both early evening build up segments and also early morning sets. A bit haunting as well as being funky with the street edged beats.

I have taken this piece into a horrifying Disco Video Mix along with the 1995 sci-fi film, “Species” about a group of scientist who are tracking a killer alien seductress who is attempting to mate and eventually cause havoc to our planet. The eerie sound works well with the horrifying scenes which transform the disco track into a funk for thrills video.

The film was directed by Roger Donaldson

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

“Space Bass” by Slick – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Space Bass” by Slick – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Slick is a disco group consisting of musicians from the Fat Larry’s Band and also featured vocals from The Sweethearts of Sigma: Barbara Ingram, Carla Benson and Evette Benson. Their 1979 album featured a track titled “Space Bass” which became an instant disco classic with its funky-bass line which plays out like a soul-cha cha. It was an immensely popular track in my club and lasted throughout the mid-80s in dance palaces.

I have taken the disco track and blended it with the 1979 adventure-sci fi television series, “Battlestar Galactica” starring Richard Hatch, Dirk Benedict and Lorne Green. The concept feeds on the space discotheque scene which features disco star Pattie Brooks singing an out-site-outta space number, which is replaced with “Space Bass” It is a play on the “Star Wars” era.

The film was directed by Richard A. Colla and Alan J. Levin

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

“We Don’t Talk Anymore” by Dis-Cover – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“We Don’t Talk Anymore” by Dis-Cover – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Dis-Cover is a Euro-house dance project from 1992 which follows along the vein created by the big club hit, “What Is Love” by Haddaway. It brings to life once again the #1 UK single from August of 1979 “We Don’t Talk Anymore” by Cliff Richard. This bouncy house remake gives the song a rhythm to move to the troubled sign and seems to promise a bit more hope. It was produced by L. Money.

I have created a Disco Video Mix pairing the heartbreak to scenes from the 1982 comedy-drama “The World According to Garp” which stars Robin Williams and Glenn Close. The trouble between Robin’s character and his wife played by Mary Beth Hurt is the focus of the disco track and plays out a bit tearful and dramatic.

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to one of my favorite actors, Mr. Robin Williams

The film was directed by George Roy Hill

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

ReStructure Mix Update (8/14/14) “On A Journey (I Sing The Funk Electric)” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Elektrik Funk

ReStructure Mix Update (8/14/14) “On A Journey (I Sing The Funk Electric)” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Elektrik Funk

Elektrik Funk is an electronic-garage project from producers, Darryl Payne and Eric Matthew – the boys who also gave us Sharon Redd, Sinnamon, Eazy, Gary’s Gang, Miles Watson and many projects in the early and late 80s. This strange edged track introduced a soulful-garage vocal with an unusual theme aimed at traveling through a groove with the mind. A big hit for my club at the time since the instrumental provide a long mix alternative or longer intro to the funk-driven vocal.

I have created a ReStructure Mix here with a piece added from the “Fame” soundtrack which seems obvious why – yet I worked to take the keyboards and separate some of the punchiest segments out. It has the feel of a funk set – yet the underground sound of an early morning gem. This is a new journey – one I hope you can feel in your mind and feet!

ReStructure Mix Update (8/11/14) “Choir Practice” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lipps Inc.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/11/14) “Choir Practice” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Lipps Inc.

Lipps Inc. is a disco band from producer Steven Greenberg and arrived at an important time for disco music. The big 1979 classic “Funkytown” extended the disco era for a few more years proving that many club goers, music connoisseurs and dancers were still celebrating the uplifting beat of disco music. The third album from Lipps Inc. titled “4” is a transition from the matured sound of dance music from disco producers and artists to the 80s strip down to keyboards and high-school bee-bop for the new wave period. Although the tracks still followed hardcore clubs feel a new production and arrangement technique gave way to a simpler sound.

“Choir Practice” is one of the big singles from the project and is a favorite of mine as it replicates a warm-up exercise from church choirs and brings it rhythm and a touch of disco-funk. Another display of disco music’s being and uplifting message breathing fun into something old. I have given the album version a ReStructure Mix to break apart the chorus notes and harmony into a new disco break arrangement. Some samples from “The Blues Brothers” and a Grace Jones/Tom Moulton favorite add some of the themes fun a new delivery.

Dedicated to Curt Rudduck from Facebook – and thanks for requesting this high energy number for an overhaul. It’s for you, Curt – good energy to you.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/8/14) “Disco Dance” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Michele

ReStructure Mix Update (8/8/14) “Disco Dance” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Michele

Michele (alias Chantal Curtis) recorded the project “Magic Love” released in 1977 and produced by Pierre Jaubert and Tom Mouton. The album contained four tracks which were hits among various clubs and crowds. It reflected the New York disco sound of the time although the project was recorded in France and remixed by Mr. Moulton in Philly. The track “Disco Dance” I remember most since the title was an anthem for the burst of the club craze.

I have taken the album version of “Disco Dance” and created an alternate ReStructure Mix working the keyboards and some of the funky bests and guitars into a new arrangement and adding a synthesizer – ala Patrick Cowley since the master himself worked remix of the song using his own style in 1977 – one of his early works. It is a new trip and a new end to make this closing a bit more to the dancers imagination.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/4/14) “Liar On The Wire” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Sharon Redd

ReStructure Mix Update (8/4/14) “Liar On The Wire” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Sharon Redd

Sharon Redd is one of the disco-funk divas who make disco music history something to stand and take notice. Previously a back-up vocalist for Bette Midler and a member of group The Harlettes. Sharon appeared on the single release “Love Insurance” appearing as Front Page and the flame ignited hotter than hot! Her voice following this was a must for DJs, dancers and collectors. With hits like “Beat The Street”, “In The Name Of Love”, “Can You Handle It” and a slew of singles from her three solo album projects Sharon made dance floors shake and take note of a sophisticated woman taking the stage with funk appeal and a majestic anthem delivery to top that.

“Liar On The Wire” is from Sharon’s 1983 album “Love How You Feel” and one of the mini-heartbreak classics with her fabulous vocal that was always yearning for attention. I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental and created a ReStructure Mix adding an electronic kick beat from a familiar track and worked a whole new call to her estranged lover. It is every bit as emotional – yet kickin’ with a whole new groove.

Dedicated to Katie Perry and Pat Demps – thank you beautiful ladies for keeping Sharon’s memory alive for me and the love you give. I love you both very much.