ReStructure Mix Update (11/9//16) “Can't Be Love - Do It To Me Anyway” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Brown

ReStructure Mix Update (11/9//16) “Can't Be Love - Do It To Me Anyway” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Brown

Peter Brown is a talented artist and an innovative force during a strong focus on night life and a mew sound which was formulated and created on dance floors. Peter’s first album “Fantasy Love Affair” from 1977 is a classic among the blend of soul, funk and electronics which became the stamp of the underground sound of disco. “Can’t Be Love – Do It To Me Anyway” is a single which was released in 1979 as a B-side to a track from his project “Stargazer”. It was released again with a new remix in 1980. The song has a unique edge and interesting beat tracks that stomp out the message of genuine sparks in a new love affair. A big hit and one of Peter’s best dance tracks. It also gives a new example of his genius.

I have taken the 1980 12” long version and poured more of the bits and pieces that emerge from the light disco beat. It has the original intent with a touch more of that after hours mystique. This one was a huge hit in my club and still brings to mind a crowded dance floor and the need for a follow up song to keep the energy moving.

ReStructure Mix Update (11/8//16) “Sexy Thrills” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Extensive Care

ReStructure Mix Update (11/8//16) “Sexy Thrills” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Extensive Care

Extensive Care is a Canadian disco project from producer, arranger and innovator of the heavy drums of disco music in the late 70s – Mr. Peter Di Milo. His classic band Erotic Drum Band is one of the big events of the underground club scene and one of the hardcore disco projects which helped to move dance music in a new direction. “Sexy Thrills” is a 1980 track from the album by the same name which gave the dance floor another dose of a flavor which used his trademark percussion along with an ensemble which brings a funky edge. His use of horns in a classic riff which brings a big band stand calling out dancers is fabulous.

I have taken the 12” version of “Sexy Thrills” and took the elements that I can remember seeing my dance floor go into a dance frenzy over – in this ReStructure Mix. There is a new intro which introduces the attention in a new way. This remix salutes the man himself, Mr. Peter Di Milo and is dedicated to his mark left in disco history.

ReStructure Mix Update (10/21/16) “We Don't Have to Take Our Clothes Off” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jermaine Stewart

ReStructure Mix Update (10/21/16) “We Don't Have to Take Our Clothes Off” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jermaine Stewart

Jermaine Stewart is a singer from the mi-80s who appeared with a big dance floor hit titled “We Don’t Have To Take Our Clothes Off”. This was a fun-male romp piece that played out well with the pop-dance of the time. It was a bit campy but fun with enough beats and kicks to move shoulders and hips. One of the big tracks of my club at the time and probably the most requested.

I have taken the 12” version of “We Don’t Have To Take Our Clothes Off” and created a new ReStructure Mix with a longer arrangement and a bit of teasing from an admirer. The keyboards and riffs are intact – just taken apart and ReStructured.

ReStructure Mix Update (10/20/16) “I’m In Love” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Evelyn King

ReStructure Mix Update (10/20/16) “I’m In Love” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Evelyn King

Evelyn King (formerly “Champagne” King) is a voice in disco music that transcends the soulful edge of the dance floor in the late 70s. The direction of soul music and it’s influence on disco’s growth was attributed to this sound. “I’m In Love” is from Evelyn’s 1981 album by the same title – produced by Kashif. The early pop years of dance music was a search for a more funk driven sound and this is one of the leading moments. An electronic pulse of bass and funky keyboard accents along with a soulful vocal gave dance floors a whole new experience similar to what New York Disco was building on with labels like Prelude Records. It was a new journey for dance music.

I have taken the 12” version of Evelyn’s “I’m In Love” and created a ReStructure Mix and gave this mellow groove a few new moments for more of an energy mix. The beautiful piano arrangements give this funk track a jazz feel – and along with King’s fabulous voice this one is almost hypnotic. This new arrangement is more of a play on a breakdown and refresher for the dance floor.

ReStructure Mix Update (10/19/16) “Wood Beez (Pray Like Aretha Franklin)” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Scritti Politti

ReStructure Mix Update (10/19/16) “Wood Beez (Pray Like Aretha Franklin)” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Scritti Politti

Scritti Politti is a synth-pop ensemble formed in 1977 and giving the 80s a brighter and solid electronic groove. Lead singer, Green Garlside stands out with his whispery and somewhat teasing vocal in tracks like “Wood Beez” from the album “Cupid * Psyche 85” – produced by Arif Mardin. The group also feature Dave Gamson who released an electronic cover of The Archie’s “Sugar, Sugar” in the “funky town” beat box feel – released as Learners Permit. His keyboard play and execution in Scritti Polliti touches a bit of an alternative edge and is haunting.

“Wood Beez” caught my ear immediately with the elf like vocals popping in and out of the mysterious love song. I have taken the US 12” vocal and dub (titled ‘version’ ) and replayed this kick beat to a new arrangement where the drums are taken apart and reassembled. This ReStructure Mix is a stretch including a guest spot with Aretha Franklin herself.

ReStructure Mix Update (10/13/16) “Seclusion” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Shawn Benson

ReStructure Mix Update (10/13/16) “Seclusion” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Shawn Benson

 Shawn Benson is one of the artist of the mid 80s high energy scene with a hit dance track titled “Seclusion” – produced by Barry (Beam) Blum and Johnny Hedges. This one is a fast moving piece of soulful vocals and an electric arrangement that jumps out in every direction. It was one of my favorites and holds that place in high energy history that makes us all glad we were a part of it.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Seclusion” and reworked this ReStructure Mix to give this high energy winner another opportunity to win your heart with the great vocals and sliding rhythms. It always worked for me in many programs and was one of those numbers which always reminds me of a great disco party to start the night out.

SENTENCED TO THE FLOOR ... breakout!

SENTENCED TO THE FLOOR ... breakout!
"Keep On Jumpin'" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Musique - https://youtu.be/Jr6x_xu2pWk
"Up and Down" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Wonder - https://youtu.be/VDCZH0ESFBg
"Is There More To Life Than Dancing" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Noel - https://youtu.be/uTP9_hj15ZM
"Free Me From My Freedom" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bonnie Pointer - https://youtu.be/hjA6lym7EGk
"Breakaway" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Watson Beasley - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vrt8UV2JD50

ReStructure Mix Update (9/13/16) “Object Of My Desire” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Starpoint

ReStructure Mix Update (9/13/16) “Object Of My Desire” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Starpoint

Starpoint is a soul/funk/disco band from Annapolis, Maryland whose influence on the dance floor made the funk end of a dance program complete. Their big hit from 1985, “Object Of My Desire” produced by Keith Diamond and Lionel Job helped to place them upfront on radio and dance floor programs. One of the most irresistible vocals from Renee Diggs and kick beat productions which bring a hard edged and mean message to gentle words. It was a huge hit for my playlists and helped to breakdown the high energy and 80s alternative dance tracks into a funk arena quickly.

I have taken the 12” version – both vocal and instrumental to recreate a ReStructure Mix which would play out in a whole new direction – without taking the original intent away. With kick beats and keyboards playing out like a rock anthem this one is well deserved to be celebrated as a giant 80s influence. Anyone who has ever felt its groove knows just what it is all about.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/11/16) “The Heart Is A Lonely Hunter” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Bonnie Bianco

ReStructure Mix Update (9/11/16) “The Heart Is A Lonely Hunter” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Bonnie Bianco

Bonnie Bianco is a singer and actress whose recording career began in 1983 and lead to an anthem track tiled “The Heart Is A Lonely Hunter” in 1987. A number that was one of the top dance floor hits in my club at the time. Much like a production by Laura Branigan and a touch of the 80s rock heartbreak themes of the period. This one was produced by Christian De Walden and Steve Singer and packs quite a wallop with a power vocal and roaring electronic arrangement. One of my favorites among its class.

I have taken the German 12” version mixed by John Pace and applied the ReStructure Mix feel to this dramatic number. Adding more length and breakdowns as well as a few effects to bring more height to the message. It is one of the projects which I worked to create a new open effect with. A great song to begin with this is a new issue.

LIVING DISCO ON THE EDGE - Hold On To Your Feet

LIVING DISCO ON THE EDGE - Hold On To Your Feet

"I Don't Want To Talk About It" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pamala Stanley - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PdtKXqw96Y
"Disco Nights (Rock Freak)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - GQ - https://youtu.be/LyXPCiFS1Fs
"Touch and Go Lover" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carol Jiani - https://youtu.be/mJC6VoAHXdY
"Turn The Music Up" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Players Association - https://youtu.be/0Rm9E4l7ts8
"Disco Extravaganza" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The George Bussey Experience - https://youtu.be/5pyuZSGSKz8

ReStructure Mix Update (8/4/16) “Eye Contact” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Casanova

ReStructure Mix Update (8/4/16) “Eye Contact” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Casanova
Casanova is a disco project from 1983 from Sheila E. Washington (Amuka Kelly) and Stephen C. Washington. The electronic force behind this one forms well with the robotic voice that bellows out the eyes watching from the sidelines – catching the energy and excitement of a dance floor in full force. This one was always on my playlist during its release and creates a mechanical syndrum feel with fast moving keyboards, beats and the pulsating energy. A great blend of the 80s dance allure with high energy. The vocals which are featured though a vocoder are the club diva Amuka Kelly which plays out well with this theme as well as ticket to a completely new sound than their project Civil Attack, also on Salsoul Records.

I have taken the 12” versions Part 1 & 2 to create this ReStructure Mix which outlines the electronic sound with more of what makes it work. I have added a new surprise from a classic Moroder/Summer track to help brand a new edge. This one has always been a favorite and I am happy to keep it alive.

“Atomic Dog” by George Clinton – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Atomic Dog” by George Clinton – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

 George Clinton brought funk into the light in the early 70s without a warning. His mastermind created a sound that gave his bands Parliament and Funkadelic road that gave a new path to a new style of rock, funk and soul. Clinton’s 1982 album “Computer Games” is another electronic dazed project which features the big club hit, “Atomic Dog” – an imaginative dance track outlining an obvious video game with dogs doing what they do best – chasing cats for sport. This number has the form where keyboards play against the groove sliding from side to side. A real funk escapade with Clinton’s unique ensemble playing out man’s best friend’s best hour.

I have taken “Atomic Dog” and paired it with an unusual horror film from 1976 titled “Dogs” – which was shot in San Diego at Southwestern College. The film plays with the premise that the college science department using radiation is unleashed to canines and is spreading. Dogs begin packing together in the dark night and crave human flesh. A B-flick which is more of a candidate for the Mystery Science Theater 3000. It stars David McCallum and Linda Gray.

The film was directed by Burt Brinckerhoff

Featuring scenes from “Dogs” – RENT THE DVD!

Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Produced by Ken Emmons

ReStructure Mix Update (8/3/16) “Good To Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – THP

ReStructure Mix Update (8/3/16) “Good To Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – THP

THP is Ian Guenther and Willi Morrison – two producers and song writers who formed Three Hat Productions during the underground disco movement of the mid-70s. Their aim was as any producer who was aware that the nightlife was bringing a new genre of music that was gaining notoriety and sales. THP Orchestra released projects which were a blend of the soulful orchestrations set to a new pulsating beat and drums. THP is one of the classic disco groups formulated for the dance floor – by the dance floor. “Good To Me” is the title cut from the finale album from THP in 1979 and features vocalist Joyce Cobb on lead. This session is one of the most memorable for the band where each track is a disco hit with the growth of this ensemble reaching a new and exciting level.

I have taken the album version of “Good To Me” and created a ReStructure Mix to keep the track in the ears and minds of those of us who were fortunate enough to have felt this one pounding out over a crowded dance floor. Many of the riffs created by the fabulous vocal by Joyce Cobb are rearranged and set up for a new dub-like experience. I have added some phasing and filtering of parts of this gem to give this new version a few more peaks and enhanced energy.

ReStructure Mix Update (8/2/16) “Cupid” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Spinners

ReStructure Mix Update (8/2/16) “Cupid” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Spinners
Spinners joined the disco train in 1979 with the production from Michael Zager and his classic disco arrangement and use of their soulful vocals. This project titled “Love Trippin’” features a cover of the 1961 song “Cupid” written and recorded by Sam Cooke. The song has a touch of a Latin rhythm along with the r&b outline. Spinners take the track and sweeten it even more with their flowing harmonies and along with Zager’s disco groove this one hits the same mark as their previous disco hit, “Working My Way Back To You” from 1979, also produced by Michael Zager and Jerry Love.

I have taken the album version of “Cupid” and striped away the Medley piece “I’ve Loved You For A Long Time” to give this track the spotlight for a new ReStructure Mix. A few looping parts of the disco rhythms and some new drums to enhance the 50s Latin touch of this little gem. It plays out with more of “Cupid” using drop segments and effects to communicate true love.

ReStructure Mix Update (7/28/16) “Showdown” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Carol Lloyd

ReStructure Mix Update (7/28/16) “Showdown” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Carol Lloyd

Carol Lloyd is singer who recorded her first album titled “Score” with the studio screw who also gave us the disco project Ultimate (“Touch Me Baby”, “Ritmo de Brazil” ). The crew recreated the sound of Euro-disco with a touch of the Philly edge with Bruce Weeden producing along with Juliano Salerni. Carol’s album has the feel of that Philly production with the mature sound of disco that it reached in 1979. Each song here is a great one thanks to Carol’s tough vocals which bring on a new feel for the sweet disco arrangements. Backing this session is the trios who were Boris Midney’s ensemble on the first U.S.A. European Connection project (Leza Holmes, Renee Johnson and Sharon Williams) and earlier were Gentle Persuasion. “Showdown” is one of the energetic tracks from this session which play out like an Ann Margret number with the tough and sassy motivation and campy direction.

I have taken the album version of “Showdown” and recreated a new ReStructure Mix to display once again that classic disco is always alive with a full orchestra arrangement and the soulful Philly giving it rhythm. A full re-working of the track using all of the elements which make this one a fun listening experience.

Dedicated to Nick Bunning and Lindsay Smith – the boys who give me so much inspiration to keep this music alive.  And I can understand why they requested this one since it has one of the great voices that make disco music what it is.

ReStructure Mix Update (7/26/16) “You Came” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Kim Wilde

ReStructure Mix Update (7/26/16) “You Came” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Kim Wilde

Kim Wilde began her solo recording career in 1981 with her new wave pop hit, “Kids In America” – a project produced by her brother Ricky Wilde. A career which began with a rock n’ roll focus which later became one of the synth-pop dance artist to attract my attention with her 1985 dance track “Go For It”. It was a great pairing of Kim’s vocal which has a child-like feel along with blaring 80s keyboards. The following year her cover of The Supremes “You Keep Me Hanging On” made her a dance floor regular. “Close” is her 1988 super mover project with several big dance floor tracks including “You Came” which was a regular on radio programs and a big club hit.

I have taken the US 12” of “You Came” with the fabulous remix by Shep Pettibone and Steve Peck using the Shep Mix and the additional 2 dubs to create a ReStructure Mix which plays out with the same energy and a different approach. It is one of those love songs that somehow rocks with the smoothness and power of Kim’s performance. This remix is placed to give the original another boost or play for those who love the 80s and the synth-pop sweeteners which made dancing more of a memory.

ReStructure Mix Update (7/23/16) “In My House” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Mary Jane Girls

ReStructure Mix Update (7/23/16) “In My House” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Mary Jane Girls

Mary Jane Girls are Joanna McDuffie, Candice Ghant, Maxi (Kim Wuletich) and Corvette (Yvette Marine – also daughter of disco diva, Pattie Brooks).

A group was originally hired as back-up singers for Rick James and later was spun off as a new female funk quartet. Mary Jane Girls are most known in the 80s for their sexy and powerful productions by Rick James which included his punk fuck bass and guitar work. “In My House” is the big dance floor track from the second album titled, “Only Four You”. This one is a groove driven piece and very much owned by these ladies.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental to bring a ReStructure Mix into light and once again remind us of how fun and contagious the 80s dance scene was. A bit of new drums were added to bring another sexy layer to the sound and feel.

ReStructure Mix Update (7/21/16) “Only In My Dreams” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Debbie Gibson

ReStructure Mix Update (7/21/16) “Only In My Dreams” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Debbie Gibson

Debbie Gibson starred in a 80s dance arena that was formulated for youth – a new generation of club goers and music idol worship. Her first album “Out Of The Blue” is a production from Debbie and Fred Zarr who worked with many 80s dance artist and groups. This brand of dance music was a sweet and beat driven sound which formulated alongside the remixes and culture of the early 80s street scene. “Only In My Dreams” is a crossover genius like many of Debbie’s early dance numbers which also fell into the Adult Contemporary and love song categories. A bit of the 60s girl scene on an updated stage and new audience.

I have taken the 12” of “Only In My Dreams” using the vocal and beat mixes to recreate a new ReStructure Mix to place it in a whole new light. I have taken many of the infectious pieces to reboot the arrangement and feel without taking from the original energy. A new experience for the Debbie Gibson fans and those of us who spent allot of time dancing as songs flashed by.

ReStructure Mix Update (7/20/16) “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Elton John & Kiki Dee

ReStructure Mix Update (7/20/16) “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Elton John & Kiki Dee

Elton John and Bernie Taupin wrote the pop-disco hit, “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” from 1976 – the track was originally intended as a duet for Elton and Dusty Springfield. It was recorded with English singer Kiki Dee who’s 1974 hit “I’ve Got The Music In Me” made her a familiar name. The success of “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” made it #1 in the UK for six weeks. The track always reminded me of a fluffy disco number with the simple love notes and the orchestral strings soaring throughout the beats and rhythms. A great pop 70s song that I gave a moment with a ReStructure Mix to pay homage to its own.

I have taken the single version of “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” along with an anonymous karaoke version to tie this ReStructure Mix with some looping and new arrangements allowing more of the sweetness to linger on. One of my favorite radio hits and a definite disco emulation.

ReStructure Mix Update (7/14/16) “I Love You” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Yello

ReStructure Mix Update (7/14/16) “I Love You” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Yello

Yello is Boris Blank and Dieter Meier – an alternative electronic band formed in 1979. This new brand of music comes across as haunting and terrifying at moments where their blend of drums and keyboards play out hidden and mysterious messages. The bands heavy sequencers along with tribal drums beating out a disco rhythm to bizarre themes that at times seem like a ritual. Yello reached mainstream in 1985 with the success of their single “Oh Yeah” – featured in the 80s film, “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”. Also, their work with Dame Shirley Bassey provides an orchestral touch to their unique and alternative sound. “I Love You” is an extreme example of Yello’s energy. It is from the project, “You Gotta Say Yes To Another Excess” from 1983 and feels like a nightmarish love song. A great example of how Yello plays out.

I have taken the original 12” of “I Love You” and recreated another dreamlike ReStructure Mix which takes the elements of this pounding number and places in a new arena. The group has always been one of the desired edges for those moody early morning sets and it was easy to apply a remix to one of their roller coaster ride dance tracks.