ReStructure/Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

"San Francisco Hustle" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Silver Convention

Silver Convention is the creation from German producers and songwriters Michael Kunze and Sylvester Levay - their first single in 1974 "Save Me" began a part of disco music history which remains one of the most memorable even today.

"San Francisco Hustle" is from the 1976 LP "Get Up and Boogie" - and is one of the swirling string and disco beat experiences of a lifetime. Even when the chant repeated over-and-over the infectious rhythm becomes also hypnotic. It is one of my favorites from the team and is the focus of this ReStructure Mix.

The new appeal centers on the bass rhythm and creates a new intro and fade for a dub-like trip.

"Oh, People" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patti LaBelle

Patti LaBelle needs no introduction - once the voice begins to emanate a stand is taken and a deeper soul is released. Her contribution to soul and disco music are the proof of talent and heart.

One memory that always haunts my mind is 6 AM at The Probe (in Hollywood, CA), 1986 - DJ Lance Wise is spinning his extended remix of Patti's "Oh, People" and a crowded dance flow is swaying to the mesmerizing song and some holding and embracing each other in love. This is the meaning of the dance floor when disco music is playing - not just partying and fun - but love and unity.

I have taken the 12" version of "Oh, People" and have given it a ReStructure Mix for this purpose - there is only so much time we each have - touching those we care and love is what it's all about.

Dedicated to Jurgen L. - thank you for requesting and bringing this one to life! and for your support.

Monday, September 19, 2011

"Standing In The Rain" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Don Ray

Don Ray is a musician during the mid and late 70s who has worked with Alec R. Costandinos, Crystal Grass, Santa Esmeralda and Cerrone. His solo project in 1978 is "The Garden Of Love" was an opportunity for Ray to compose and arrange along with Cerrone.

"Standing In The Rain" is a track from the album which became a favorite among disc jockeys and fans during the late 70s and continues to be a choice among Euro-disco fans. I have ReStructured the LP version giving it a new intro and pacing out the verses and bringing a storm into the arrangement.

Sunday, September 18, 2011

"Begin The Beguine" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Johnny Mathis

Johnny Mathis covers the Cole Porter masterpiece "Begin The Beguine" written in 1935 and introduced in a Broadway musical titled "Jubilee". The song is from his 1978 LP titled "The Best Days Of My Life" - produced by Jack Gold. The track was remixed in 1979 by Steve Thompson - with an arrangement from the legendary, Gene Page.

The sweeping strings, haunting melody and divine moments of the 12" single are ReStructured and given a breakdown in several areas to re-introduce or reacquaint a beautiful disco lullaby of musical class and excitement.

Dedicated to the wonderful disco producer, Marvin Howell and a thanks to his work to keep dance music alive!

Saturday, September 17, 2011

"Must Be The Music" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Secret Weapon

Secret Weapon is 'The' Roy Skip Snider, Djuana "DJ" Thomas, Jerome Prister, Kevin Walker, Michele Blackmon, Rickey Paige and Russell Thomas - New York funk/disco group produced during the shifting of disco music in the early 80s. The self titled LP fulfilled the single "Must Be The Music" and brought the lighter-side of rap and funk to a head.

This ReStructure Mix of "Must Be The Music" accentuates the groove and the hit hat to the extreme using a few samples from Pointer Sisters and Kraftwerk to make the mix complete.

Dedicated to the die-hard New York funk fans who make old-school possible!

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

"Dead On The Case" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Disconnection

Disconnection is Robert Lee Holmes Jr. - producer of the late jazz.funk artist Freddie Waters. Holmes worked to create a jazz/disco/funk project on Prelude Records in 1977 which became one of the most obscure projects for this top disco label. The track "Dead On The Case" was a short cut (3:27) from the LP which gained some attention but was much too short to use - it was also featured on a Rare Preludes Volume 6 in 1993.

I have ReStructured the fabulous instrumental using e thumping break as an intro and break for this remix - it outlines the wonderful jazz and free style feel of the piece. It has always been one that reminded me of a sort-of "Shaft"-es-que flavor and here is extended to make this magic episode work.

Monday, September 12, 2011

"Doctor Kiss-Kiss" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - 5000 Volts

5000 Volts is Kevin Wells, Linda Kelly (later replaced by Tina Charles), Martin Cohen, Martin Jay and Mike Nelson. Their self-titled LP from 1976 is one of the big disco memories of the disco era which points to one of the highest "disco-fevers" with "Doctor Kiss-Kiss", The single is one of several from the project which make this album a classic.

I have taken the LP version which times out at 3:10 and ReStructured the song to give it not only a longer play time, but also a sleaze factor which it is so worthy of. A great vocal, incredible guitars, keyboards and backing vocals make this track as infectious as Saturday night itself.

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

"Disco Connection" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Isaac Hayes Connection

Isaac Hayes Movement is Charles "Skip" Pitts, Gary Jones, Isaac Hayes, Lester Snell, Michael Toles, Mickey Gregory, Ronald Hudson, Sidney Kirk, Tommy Williams and Willie Hall. The ensemble began recording in the late 60s creating a path for soul music to reshape dance floors in the early 70s.

"Disco Connection" was the second project released in 1975 and featured the titled cut as the single that innovative DJs would create the disco environment with the energy and excitement of growing scene. It was one of the earliest tracks that caught my attention during the early years of club-going.

I have ReStructured the track giving it a new intro and some breakdowns that take advantage of the "cat-like" slaps - incorporating a sample from the film "Car Wash". It is one of the tracks that is reminiscent of Hayes genius track, "Shaft.

Monday, August 29, 2011

“J'ai Deux Amours (Two Loves Have I)” by Phylicia Allen – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“J'ai Deux Amours (Two Loves Have I)” by Phylicia Allen – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Phylicia Allen creates a disco-fied tribute to the great, Josephine Baker, an American singer-dancer who is noted for her wonderful contributions to the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. Allen works with disco producers Jacques Morali and Henry Belolo (Village People, The Ritchie Family) and gives two medleys outlining the climb and success of Ms. Baker.

Disco music of the late 70s began to work as themes for great films, events and times in history which gives it a lasting luster with its full band and sometimes orchestrated productions. This project is a wonderful example of that genre.

I have taken the 1991 television film “The Josephine Baker Story” and used several of the fabulous sequences starring Lynn Whitfield – who gives a command performance as Josephine Baker.

The film was directed by Brian Gibson

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

A special thanks to my partner, Ken Emmons for being such an incredible force and support system for my work and life

"Friends" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Amii Stewart

Amii Stewart (Amy Nicole Stewart) is one of disco's most regarded diva's since her big hit "Knock On Wood" struck dance floors in 1978. Her career has spanned a series of dance floor hits as well as work with some great composers including Ennio Morricone, Naratha Michael Walden, Giorgio Moroder and Bolland and Bolland.

Her 1984 LP "Try Love" is a lighter edge of disco/pop produced by the late Italian artist and producer, Mike Francis (passed in 2009). The single "Friends" is in Francis' wonderful 80s keyboard sound with a touch of adult contemporary flare. It is a sweet song that brings the lover out in two friends who find that more comes from caring and sharing.

I have ReStructured the song any have pulled more of a groove out of the mellow 12" mix - giving a new intro with some bumpin' beats pushing the beautiful keyboards outward.

This ReStructure mix is dedicated to Jurgen L. of UK - thank you for the support and for requesting this lovely number

Sunday, August 21, 2011

"Take It To The Zoo" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sunshine

Sunshine are Donna Summer's sisters. Dara Bernard and Mary Bernard - they began as back-up for Donna during her few projects prior to the release of the "Thank God It's Friday" soundtrack. The project was produced by Arthur G. Wright (Paul Jabara, Rare Gems Odyssey and also from the soundtrack "Leatherman's Theme" from Wright Brother Flying Machine).

The track is one of the memorable tracks not only the way it plays out "The Zoo" disco from the film - but also it's funk production and disco strings. The Bernard Sisters do a great job at giving a performance which is laid back, but also encompasses the energy of disco of late 70s.

Friday, August 19, 2011

"You and I" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rick James

Rick James changed the face of soul/funk and disco music during his rein from 1978 throughout the 80s. His productions enhanced the hardcore edge of a sound which began in the early 70s with experimental artists like George Clinton and Bootsy Collins. A hard hitting emphasis of rhythm guitars and rock-edged yet soulful vocals played a big part in the outline.

His initial album with The Stone City Band was titled "Come Get It!" and contained the hits, "Mary Jane" and "You and I" - the track "You and I" made a big debut in discotheques during a time when Euro-disco and pop-dance was on top - it was quite an impact!

I have ReStructured "You and I" and have given it a face-lift for the bottom line groove and the clever and sometimes naughty lines. It is a deeper mix which emphasizes the 70s era in its creative state and a current remodel for remembrance of a great dance era.

Dedicated to Mr. James and hit great sound and courage to live life on his own terms.

"(Your Love Has Got Me) Screamin'" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Blacksmoke

Blacksmoke's "(Your Love Has Got Me) Screamin'" is from their 1976 self-titled LP - the track was released as a 45 rpm single and also featured on a Casablanca dance EP compilation - in it's 3 minute version. It took 2 copies for me to extend it them/ This over-8 minute ReStructure Mix remedies that problem and pumps up the intro and breaks with some massive percussion.

Disco-funk junk! Work it!

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

"Substitute" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Liquid Gold

Liquid Gold is headed by vocalist Ellie Hope and produced by Adrian Baker (an artist in the early 70s). The bands first success came in 1979 with their smash disco hit "My Baby's Baby". The song solidified the sound of Liquid Gold and each following release reflected this winning formula. The same year their following release, "Dance Yourself Dizzy" created the same excitement.

"Substitute" is their 1980 release which also features the excitement of the swirling strings - funky guitars and Ellie's fantastic vocal. I have ReStructured the track and re-arranged and re-edited the funky-ass guitars into a new experience.

"You Are The Reason (I Feel Like Dancing)" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Fifth Dimension

The Fifth Dimension began recording in 1967 and is better known for their worldwide 60's hit "Up-Up And Away". The group was formed by Billy David Jr.and featured his wife Marilyn McCoo - they went on to recording a disco classic in 1978. The group had a mild success with their 1978 LP "Star Dancing" which featured the single "You Are The Reason (I Feel Like Dancing)" - which was also featured in the film "Thank God It's Friday" but not included in the soundtrack.

I have taken the 2:48 LP and extended it to a little over 9 minutes adding some new intro - breaks and a col ending. It is a soulful disco track which brings to mind the uplifting feel that disco music has given the world - a celebration that should never end.

"Gimme Some" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jimmy 'Bo' Horne

Jimmy 'Bo" Horne's 1978 album "Dance Across The Floor" brought The Miami Disco Sound to a new high. The production by Harry Wayne Casey and Richard Finch of K.C. and The Sunshine Band gave a new expression of their funky/soul/disco style.

"Gimme Some" is another track from the LP which also shared success in clubs as one of the uplifting disco tracks which also combined the sound which made K.C.'s hits like "Get Down Tonight" and "That's The Way" a sure win for dance floors.

I have ReStructured "Gimme Some" and devoted the mix to not only extending the track, but giving pieces of it a front on the stage. It is one of the catchiest riffs and also the "feel-good" sound of disco music.

"Fever" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvester

"Fever" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvester

Sylvester's fifth solo album is "Sell My Soul" - produced by Harvey Fuqua. The project contained several wonderful dance tracks: "I Need You", "I'll Dance To That", "Doin' It For The Real Thing" and a cover of the classic song "Fever".

I have taken the LP version of Sylvester's gospel-edged synth version and weaved a completely new arrangement and direction for the recording. It is one of my favorites of Sylvester's and one of the hard-hitting vocal tracks from this diva!

Dedicated to all of those who support disco/dance music today and also the feeling that is in the air whenever the music is played.

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

"Save Me" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Silver Convention

"Save Me" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Silver Convention

Silver Convention is the mid-70s answer to boogie music - slowly becoming the disco-pop of the era. Produced by Michael Kunze and Sylvester Levay - this powerhouse ensemble emphasizes the power of a few riffs and disco bass-lines.

"Save Me" is from their first album and is the formula that gives the group it's outline and everlasting energy. Even today it is every bit as effective and infectious. This ReStructure Mix takes the album version and pops on a new intro and a few breaks to give that chorus more power.

This ReStructure Mix was created and dedicated to Jurgen from London, UK - thank you for the support

Monday, August 1, 2011

"Music Is All You Need" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - THP

THP began in 1976 with their first LP "Early Riser" - produced by Willi Morrison and Ian Guenther. Their disco influence was based on a full orchestration of the Euro-disco sound with a funky band edge. It was big during their second release titled, "Two Hot For Love". The LP "Tender Is The Night" hit the discotheques during a period where a transition of the music was motivational.

"Music Is All You Need" is from the third LP (even though it is titled THP #2) and is one of the wall of disco sound from the group and also features vocals from Phyllis and Helen Duncan (Duncan Sisters) - it is a phenomenal statement and also a rousing piece of dance music. I have ReStructured the song using most of the parts which left a mark in my mind. It is segmented in edits and parts to create a whole new version.

"Look At You" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - George Mc Crae

George Mc Crae exploded on the early disco scene with his monster soul hit, "Rock Your Baby" in 1974 - the LP was Produced by K.C. and the Sunshine Band's Harry Wayne Casey and Richard Finch and under Henry Stone's classic label T.K. Records.

"Look At You" is a track from the album which has the classic Casey/Finch guitar and groove sound - quite dreamy and funky. The song has always been the second choice for deejays and audiophiles as another hit and dance floor mover. I have ReStructured the track and extended it for a not only a deeper sound but also to pull more out of the great feel of the song.

Dedicated to Wendelien from The Netherlands