ReStructure Mix Update (11/27/14) “Dancing In My Sleep” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Secret Ties

ReStructure Mix Update (11/27/14) “Dancing In My Sleep” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Secret Ties

Secret Ties is a 80s high energy project from Brian Soares (“Magic") and Gerry Caples and from their independent dance label Nightwave Records. This simple dance layout is a formulation of the disco sound – full of percussion and the sexy femme vocals. Provided here by Cheryl Ford and enhanced by a light Caribbean festival accent. This one was quite popular in many clubs during its release and also gave us the feeling that dance floors were still alive.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to create a new ReStructure Mix using samples from tracks by Blue Moderne and a rock classic by Brian Hyland. The percussion is the main flare in this fabulous track and reminds me of Roni Griffith’s “(Best Part of) Breakin’ Up” from 1982.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Dee Jacobs from Facebook and thanks for the request and for always being kind and supportive! Cha-cha-cha!

ReStructure Mix Update (11/18/14) “Loverboy” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Billy Ocean

ReStructure Mix Update (11/18/14) “Loverboy” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Billy Ocean

Billy Ocean (Leslie Sebastian Charles) is the voice of the 80s when funk and disco merged into pop dance. His 1984 album “Suddenly” is a gem for a time given to a longtime series of dance floor hits paid off – these tracks included “Stay The Night”, “American Hearts”, “Are You Ready” and “Nights (Feel Like Getting Down)”. “Loverboy” is one of his big singles following the big success of “Caribbean Queen” both produced by Keith Diamond.

I have taken the 12” vocal and dub version to lay out a whole new episode for this “Loverboy” – creating an underground arrangement with more drawn out instrumental parts and a dub like break sections scattered about. It is one of the big hits for me during 1984 and also a favorite to move to. This ReStructure Mix is another chance to get lost in the 80s dance energy and fun!

ReStructure Mix Update (11/14/14) “Stick Together” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Minnie Riperton

ReStructure Mix Update (11/14/14) “Stick Together” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Minnie Riperton

Minnie Riperton is a songwriter/singer who is best known for the 1974 ballad “Loving You” and continues to bring a light into many new worlds with her melodic child-like voice. Her 1977 album “Stay In Love” was produced by Freddie Perren and features the disco single “Stick Together” which gives Minnie a light big band drum beat to sing a love song encouraging a lasting love between two who share those special feelings. It works very well for Minnie and gives those of us who want to celebrate under the spinning mirror ball a beautiful opportunity.

The song was written by Minnie Riperton, Richard Rudolph (he husband) and Mr. Stevie Wonder

I have taken the 12” version of “Stick Together” and worked a new ReStructure Mix adding a new intro and some pieces from Minnie’s classic to give a new dance attitude to this lovely song. It brings the song to a couple of peaks and also makes the closing a bit more of the magic that lasts.

Dedicated to Nick & Lindsay and again, thanks for all of the love and dedication to this upbeat and glorious music. And thanks for requesting this one – it is a joy to bring it back!

ReStructure Mix Update (11/12/14) “Wanna Spend My Whole Life With You, Baby” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Street People

ReStructure Mix Update (11/12/14) “Wanna Spend My Whole Life With You, Baby” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Street People

Ray Dahrouge is a singer, producer, arranger and songwriter from New Jersey who brought us Street People in 1976 – this soul quintet consisted of Roy Daniels, Milton Daniels, Thomas “Toot” Williams, Joe Gardner and Rick Johnson. The self-titled album is one of my favorite projects from 1976 and a precursor to the disco sound emerging from soul music during the time. The sweet melodies capture the energy of the mid-70s and along with the help of Bert De Coteaux and Charlie Callello the recording is one which will stand out among pure disco.

I have taken the single “Wanna Spend My Whole Life With You, Baby” from the album and have created a ReStructure Mix to not only extend the original 3:34 version but also accentuate and spotlight more of the tracks funky moments. It is a lengthier mix and gives that head shaking chorus a run for its money.

This ReStructure Mix is lovingly dedicated to an incredible man, Mr. Ray Dahrouge who continues to spread his talent to the world and also shines in the work of his past as anyone “steppin’ out” from the 70s can appreciate. Thank you, Ray!

ReStructure Mix Update (11/6/14) “Sunset People” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Jessica Williams

ReStructure Mix Update (11/6/14) “Sunset People” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Jessica Williams

Ms. Jessica Williams scored high with me and my dance floor in 1992 with a cover of Donna Summer’s “Sunset People” on Passion Records and produced by Phil Da Costa and Mr. Rick Gianatos. A nice high energy jazz fused version that transforms Jessica into a story teller for a “hot” night out on the town. This was huge in my club and being a Jessica Williams fan for years was satisfied that this woman was still on top!

I have taken the 12” version – both vocal and “Sunset & Vine Dix Mix” to create a new ReStructure Mix to use some pieces of both Donna’s original and Jessica’s fabulous legacy to remind of how good disco music really is.

This ReStructure Mix is lovingly dedicated to a wonderful lady, Ms. Jessica Williams and her man, Mr. John B. Williams – two talents which make me stand back in awe and then dance my butt off! Thank you, John and Jessica – a big hug and lots of love your way.

“Cleopatra” by Kono – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Cleopatra” by Kono – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Kono is an Italo-disco band from producers Bob One, Eugenio Vincoguerra and Paolo Marioni. The electronic keyboard arrangement from 1986 follows the light mid-tempo dance sound with light pieces of percussion to create short breakdowns. It is one of records which worked well for me in an early evening set or for after hour mood sets. The song tells a romantic tale of desire and fantasy of the Queen of Egypt while injecting the ominous sounds of battle and doom.

I have taken scenes from the 1963 epic drama film, “Cleopatra” starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton to complete the air of the disco track. Using the beautiful photography and epic scenes along with Taylor’s majestic role as our queen. It is to history on of the most expensive films ever made for its time. The Disco Video Mix focuses on the drama and cinema stage here.

The film was directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz

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

“Satellites” by Ellie Warren – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Satellites” by Ellie Warren – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Ellie Warren is a pop-singer from the UK whose 1985 track “Satellites” became a classic among 80s dance circles and disc jockeys. Produced by Jean Claude Alves and Marvin Howell-Kashfi who also gave us tracks from Norma Lewis, Bianca Fernandez and Jackie Rawe, It was the mid-80s dance sound where a disco beat and a rock fused them could create a new stage for every dance floor. “Satellites” is one of my favorite after-hours pieces and helped to bring many dancers back down to earth during many mix programs of the time.

I have taken scenes from the 1997 science-fiction drama “Contact” starring Jodie Foster and Mathew Mc Conaughey. Its theme which is a woman’s search for life in the galaxy brings an experience in a new dimension. The disco track as an anthem works with the images painting a similar experience outside of the dance floor and lonely nights searching for love.

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to Mr. Marvin Howell - thank you, Marvin for the beautiful music!

The film was directed by Robert Zemeckis

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

ReStructure Mix Update (10/28/14) “Fascinated” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Company B

ReStructure Mix Update (10/28/14) “Fascinated” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Company B

Company B is Charlotte McKinnon, Lori Ledesma and Susan Johnson and produced and created by Ish Ledesma (Foxy, Blue Moderne, Apollonia, Promise Circle, and Laurie Miller). The Miami freestyle sound brought the pop-front lines during the late 80s with a new flair and edge. “Fascinated” is their 1986 release which brought this trio and Ish Ledesma success with both radio and club play. The signature keyboard arpeggio riff is one which any dancer could flow with and recognize during its peak power.

I have taken the 12” vocal and dub versions to create this 80s Edition ReStructure Mix to once again mark the path of dance music. This re-working is a dub and vocal using bits and pieces to bring more of the sensual and rhythmic elements to your ears and feet again.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Mr. Ish Ledesma and thanks for the wonderful stories of Foxy’s early club venue experiences!

ReStructure Mix Update (10/24/14) “The Two Of Us” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Claudja Barry & Ronnie Jones

ReStructure Mix Update (10/24/14) “The Two Of Us” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Claudja Barry & Ronnie Jones
Claudja Barry and Ronnie Jones are two disco stars who made the 70s a much more festive and uplifting place. The music from Lollipop Records – produced by Jurgen S. Korduletsch is one of the festive sounds of mature disco in the late 70s with electronics building to crescendos with swirling strings guiding it. “The Two Of Us” is a single released in 1981 and is the second duet for the pair. An anthem from the first note it weaves a loving bond of two lovers against the world. One of favorite styles for the mirror ball and dancers willing to free themselves.

I have taken the 12” version of “The Two Of Us” and created a ReStructure Mix with an alternate intro and end. It is built with more of the swirling designed with energy in mind and a closing to reaffirm the love and excitement of disco music!

Dedicated to Ms. Claudja Barry and Mr. Ronnie Jones for all of the love and energy they have delivered to us in the past years. A big hug to both!

“Herr Wunderbar” by Tanya Hyde – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Herr Wunderbar” by Tanya Hyde – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Tanya Hyde is a vocalist for a band called The Tormentors – from St. Albans in Hertfordshire. Their 1979 single “Herr Wunderbar” from 1979 was featured on the 1980 Disconet Program (Volume 3 Program 8) as the opening segue to Casey Jones’ Eurodance Medley – introducing a new energy for dance floors. It was a huge hit in my club and duo copies of the singles were required to create a lengthier dance segment. It is an obvious tribute to German actress Marlene Dietrich and her cinematic beauty in 1930’s films. The outward vocal works wonders in the sequencer fills and heavy drum rolling throughout this piece.

I have taken scenes from the 1934 film “The Scarlet Empress” starring Marlene Dietrich and used scenes as a video play for this stunning woman. It is a short but climatic feel thanks to the build of Tanya’s great 80s dance track.

The film was directed by Josef von Sternberg

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

“Starstruck Lover” by Boiling Point – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Starstruck Lover” by Boiling Point – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Boiling Point is vocalist Johanna Vanderkley (Harlow “Take Off) and producer Peter Frost. Their 1985 high energy track “Starstruck Lover” is one of my favorite of its kind during a period of electronic arrangements and heavy percussion breaks. I have taken the dance track into this Disco Video Mix to pay tribute to the 80s high energy sound from Canada and its producers. Supplying the visual are scenes from the 1954 classic, “A Star Is Born” starring Judy Garland and James Mason. I have replayed the musical/drama with the disco theme outlining the love between the tragic love story and the theatrical boom. It works with the songs fading into the chant sealing the doom of one star and giving a new sky for another.

The film was directed by George Cukor

Featuring scenes from “A Star Is Born” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

ReStructure Mix Update (10/20/14) “Last Night A D.J. Saved My Life” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Indeep

ReStructure Mix Update (10/20/14) “Last Night A D.J. Saved My Life” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Indeep

Indeep is Beckie Bell, Mike Cleveland, Réjane Magloire and Rose Marie Ramsey – one of the 80s memorable moments with their 1982 old school classic, “Last Night A D.J. Saved My Life”. This electronic funk/disco track is full of riffs and guitar grooves to hypnotize and charm a snake. One of the grooviest pieces of the early 80s with the elements of change which made 80s New York funk work well.

I have taken the 12” vocal and “D.J. Delight” tracks to create a ReStructure Mix that continues the story of this lonely girl whose estranged lover has left her a prisoner to the disc jockey and dancing her heartache away. It has many new spots for a hip-moving experience and a new twist for the end of our drama.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Jenny Moreno – thank you Jenny for your kind words and for listening. Keep on movin’ and groovin’!

ReStructure Mix Update (10/17/14) “The Wanderer” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Donna Summer

ReStructure Mix Update (10/17/14) “The Wanderer” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Donna Summer

“The Wanderer” is Donna Summer and Giorgio Moroder stripped away of the disco strings and full orchestrations and a return for Moroder to his 60s pop roots and Donna moving into the pop-nu wave 80s. Her vocal is a touch of rock-a-billy and Elvis over a full on electronic force created by Giorgio with a new edge. It was quite a surprise for many Summer fans and after a more intense understanding of the new path and project a hailed winner for the new artist in Donna.

I have taken the album version of “The Wanderer” on a ReStructure trip and extended the track with a new feel and a more dub-esque arrangement. Adding a sample from a familiar rock-n’ roll classic of the same theme. It was quite fun to bring a new life into this new style for Donna a challenge to make new things happen.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Mario Castro Arq and also the hardcore Donna Summer fans around the world who continue to bring justice to this incredible talent!

ReStructure Mix Update (10/15/14) “Bodycheck” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Three Degrees

ReStructure Mix Update (10/15/14) “Bodycheck” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Three Degrees

One of the disco eras greatest gift to dancers is a project titled “New Dimensions” by The Three Degrees and produced by Giorgio Moroder. It was a fusion of Moroder’s electronic disco pulses with the sultry voices of Philly’s trio. A magic moment and full of energy and stage appeal for these beautiful divas. The following disco project from 1980 titled “3D” featured the familiar ingredient moving these ladies into more of Moroder’s sound and production. “Bodycheck” is the closing track from the album and one which moves like a disco dance anthem with the ladies serenading us in a high energy feel.

I have taken the album version of “Bodycheck” and worked a new ReStructure Mix to build this one into a frenzy of electronic synths and rocked guitar twangs. It is a new arrangement and borrows a few riffs from past number by The Three Degrees!

“Ecstasy” by Madleen Kane – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Ecstasy” by Madleen Kane – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Madleen Kane is the Swedish disco star who set discotheques into a raging sensual flame during 1978 with her first album “Rough Diamond”. The model turned disco star was produced as the tall sleek beauty oozing with disco sex appeal. It worked. Her fifth album released in 1985 during the high energy period was produced by Ian Anthony Stephens and was co-written by disco singer, Paul Parker. The track “Ecstasy” is one of the sounds which Madleen works her sensual vocal just right. It is the potion which the disco beat works its wonder to.

The 1972 film “Last Tango In Paris” – directed by Bernardo Bertolucci provides the visual for this portrayal of a relationship between a young Parisian woman and an older widower who takes the sexual relationship to an extreme level. It works in a strange and erotic fashion as the disco track moves.

The film was directed by Bernardo Bertolucci

Featuring scenes from “Last Tango In Paris” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

ReStructure Mix Update (10/13/14) “You Should Hear How She Talks About You” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Melissa Manchester

ReStructure Mix Update (10/13/14) “You Should Hear How She Talks About You” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Melissa Manchester

Melissa Manchester (Melissa Toni Manchester) is a pop singer/songwriter who began recording solo in 1973. Her big pop ballad “Midnight Blue” from 1975 gave a standing in the crossover to a soulful delivery and instant recognition. The 80s brought about a new chapter for Melissa and a sound following the synth pop dance sound which was a continuum of the disco era. “You Should Hear How She Talks About You” is from her “Hey Ricky” project from 1982 produced by Arif Mardin. It was a club hit with remixes featured on both Disconet and Hot Tracks DJ subscription services. The track talks in third party about a love that is longing to be kept secret no longer.

I have taken the 12” version and created a new ReStructure Mix to beef up the 80s guitar riffs, slamming clap tracks and Melissa’s fabulous vocal. It is another favorite and plays out that early 80s transition to a new dance era!

Dedicated to Nick and Lindsay with love – if these “divas” could hear how you talk about them – they would love you to pieces!

ReStructure Mix Update (10/9/14) “Catch” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sun-La-Shan

ReStructure Mix Update (10/9/14) “Catch” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sun-La-Shan

Sun-La- Shan is Franco Scopinich and Venise. Their 1982 Italo-disco/Electro dance track “Catch” is one of the innovative pieces which continue to echo a mystic and underground sound. The track was written by Alessandro Novaga.  A great early morning piece for my programs during the mid-80s and one which captured the hypnotic feel of Italo-disco.

I have taken the 12” vocal and dub versions to create a ReStructure Mix giving the pulsating beat more rhythmic qualities – adding some new percussion effects and extending and rearranging the strange arrangement and lyrics, it has always been one of my favorite parts for a program with an experimental feel.

Dedicated to Franco Scopinich and thanks for his journey into an alternate sound!

“Let Them Dance” by D.C. LaRue – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera|

“Let Them Dance” by D.C. LaRue – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera|

D.C. LaRue is one of the iconic sounds and figures of disco music. His vision and sound are a true disco fantasy as seen in his projects “Ca-The-Drals”, “Confessions”, “Forces Of The Night” and “Star Baby” – each with a message and direction which enables the imagination to take the dance floor one step higher. “Let Them Dance” comes from the album “Confessions” and displays a stage for disco created by D.C. and producer/arranger, Bob Esty. One of my favorite disco stories of the love, heartbreak and the hypnotic pulse of the disco dance floor.

I have taken scenes from the 2011 Canadian film, “Funkytown” and created a montage of imagery which follows the rhythm and some of the somewhat sinister feel of the disco song.

The film was directed by Daniel Roby

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

“Snake In The Grass” by Midnight Star – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Snake In The Grass” by Midnight Star – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Midnight Star is funk/dance/R&B group featuring Belinda Lipscomb, Bill Simmons, Bo Watson, Bobby Lovelace, Jeff Cooper, Kenneth Gant, Melvin Gentry, Reggie Calloway and Vincent Calloway. Their 80s funk was essential in bridging the gap between the pop and street dance sound. Their dance single “Snake In The Grass” from 1988 is the focus of this Disco Video Mix and is also one which brought a groove to my dance floor with its hypnotic sound.
I have taken scenes from the 1955 horror film, “Cult Of The Cobra Woman” for obvious reasons. It plays out when American G.I.s trespass on a Hindu ceremony featuring a woman who transforms herself into a cobra. The storyline is reversed and amended here for the cheating lover here but the slinky dance is the portion which is better cast in this Disco Video Mix.
The film was directed by Francis D Lyon
Featuring scenes from “Cult of The Cobra Woman” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

“E.S.P. (Extra Sensual Persuasion)” by Hazell Dean – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“E.S.P. (Extra Sensual Persuasion)” by Hazell Dean – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Hazell Dean (Hazel Deborah Poole) became the dance-pop voice of the 80s following her big hit, “Searchin’” in 1983. It was a long run throughout the end of the 80s where each dance track was more and more desired. Her 1986 single “E.S.P. (Extra Sensual Persuasion)” produced by Hi-NRG master Ian Anthony Stevens where she caught the mystique of early morning sleaze with her sophisticated delivery. This one was always a favorite of mine and still stands as one of my favorite Hazell tracks.

I have created a Disco Video Mix using scenes from the 1970 Barbra Streisand romantic comedy “On A Clear Day You Can See Forever”. Using the iconic images of Barbra in her lure of voice and stance all together. It plays with the films fantasy on mind=reading and E.S.P. as Hazell’s sexy track does.

The film was directed by Vincente Minelli

Featuring scenes from “On A Clear Day You Can See Forever” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons