ReStructure Mix Update (9/20/13) “Just Us” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Two Tons O’ Fun

ReStructure Mix Update (9/20/13) “Just Us” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Two Tons O’ Fun

Two Tons O’ Fun are Martha Wash and Izora Amstead – who are also The Weather Girls (“It’s Raining Men” ) and a back-up extravaganza for many recording sessions including Sylvester, Paradise Express, Rebbie Jackson, Stacy Q as well as many Megatone disco tracks. Their first solo album titled “Two Tons O’ Fun” from 1980 contained the club hit, “I Got The Feeling” and “Earth Can Be Just Like Heaven” – two of the most incredible dance experiences. The single “Just Us” was also a pick for many DJs who preferred the mid-tempo sweetness and positive energy.

I have taken the 12” version of “Just Us” and reworked it in a new ReStructure Mix adding a few elements from George Kranz’s cult-dance classic “Din Daa Daa (Trommeltanz) ” – the new version extended and re-loved!

This ReStructure Mix is lovingly dedicated to Ms. Lorna Warden who has been a wonderful light of love and care. Thank you, Lorna – you came at the right time. Life is magic!

ReStructure Mix Update (9/19/13) “Touch and Go Lover” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Carol Jiani

ReStructure Mix Update (9/19/13) “Touch and Go Lover” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Carol Jiani

Carol Jiani is one of my favorite dance divas thanks to her unique voice and feel of her delivery. From her 1981 dance floor smashes, “Mercy” and “Hit ‘n Run Lover” there was a spark that began a whole new sound and excitement for disco music. I can remember the floor moving once again to the beat whole-heartedly with her music.

I have taken the 12” vocal and instrumental of “Touch and Go Lover” (from Carol’s album “Dancing In The Rain” ) produced by Joe La Greca and Mr. Louis Toteda and created a whole new ReStructure Mix using the chop and blend concept to make the groove and fast action Carol delivers a new experience!

This ReStructure Mix is lovingly dedicated to Ms. Carol Jiani and Mr. Louis Toteda for their amazing and lasting talent in disco/dance history. Thanks to these wonderful messengers the thrill is just like new!

“Loose Lucy Is On The Loose” by Sabu – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Loose Lucy Is On The Loose” by Sabu – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Paul Sabu has played a major role in dance music history. From his productions of Debbie Jacobs, Sister Power, Gwen Jonae and our own Ann Margret’s disco stage he has brought an orchestration of sophisticated, yet funky disco. A favorite producer and artist of mine. His efforts include a single from 1974 titled “Out In The Country” – a glam-rock style single. In 1980 his album titled “Sabu” added a new flavor to a dance floor with its exploding syndrums over disco strings and throbbing synthesizers. A rock disco fantasy.

I have taken the track “Loose Lucy Is On The Loose” from the album and created a Disco Video Mix using pieces of the classic television icon “I Love Lucy”. Since several scenes give us a somewhat sexy-Lucy it was perfect.

Featuring scenes from “I Love Lucy” – RENT THE DVDs!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to Mr. Paul Sabu for creating a magic on the dance floor that will last as long as the mirror ball shines! Thank you, Paul!

ReStructure Mix Update – Special Eighties Edition (9/16/13) “Come Give Your Love To Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Janet Jackson

ReStructure Mix Update – Special Eighties Edition (9/16/13) “Come Give Your Love To Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Janet Jackson

Janet Jackson is another member of the Jackson family who stood out with talent and determination to be a messenger of music. Her early work is a pop-dance edge of electronic funk. Her debut album titled “Janet Jackson” from 1982 was the perfect addition for another sign of stardom. A track which stood out for me was “Come Give Your Love To Me” which was a club hit and also received radio play.

I have taken the 12” version and have worked a ReStructure Mix which strips away the funky-guitar riffs, which sound a bit like a Rick James punk-funk trip. The song is sexy and alluring – so I added a few samba-like elements to not only speed up segments of the song – but also give it more of that sensual feel.

"Knights In White Satin" by Giorgio -- Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

"Knights In White Satin" by Giorgio -- Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Giorgio's name is appropriate along with his innovative blend of synthesizers and in this 1976 project 'Knights In White Satin" (disco cover of the Moody Blues 1967 rock classic) is the touch which his wonderful and production shed a whole new light and groove upon.

I have taken the 1976 adventure film, "Camelot" starring Richard Harris, Vanessa Redgrave and Franco Nero -- and worked images of this story of King Arthur's marriage to Guinevere to this Disco Video Mix.

The film was directed by Joshua Logan

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

ReStructure Mix Update (9/15/13) “Love Starts After Dark” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gene Page

ReStructure Mix Update (9/15/13) “Love Starts After Dark” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Gene Page

Gene Page is a producer, arranger and musician whose career spanned the early 70s throughout the 90s – sadly he passed in 1998. He is known for his soundtrack the black-exploitation film, “Blacula” from 1972. His 1980 album “Love Starts After Dark” was a big addition to the tail end of true disco music- including the title track which is a definite favorite of mine.

I have taken the 12”/album version and have given it a touch of ReStructure Mix – adding a new arrangement and a few touches of “After Dark” which many should feel echoes of the disco era!

Dedicated to the man himself, Mr. Gene Page! This is the dark side of the moon, Mr. Page!

“You’re My Fantasy” by Charisma – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“You’re My Fantasy” by Charisma – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Charisma is a disco group from producer Simon Soussan (Shalamar, Arpeggio, French Kiss, Romance, Jessica Williams) from 1979. The project is very familiar to the style of Soussan’s disco obsession with heavy percussion and a sweet love theme. The production included the track “You’re My Fantasy” with lead vocals by Sydney Barnes and backing from J. Michael Reed, Mona Lisa and Terry Young.

I have taken the 1984 film “The Woman In Red” starring Gene Wilder and Kelly LeBrock and blended it with the simple idea of beauty and obsession. The tease and sensual segments with Kelly help make the “fantasy” complete and justifiable. It is a deep mode of mind play and desire.

The film was directed by Gene Wilder

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

“Nice ‘n’ Nasty” by The Salsoul Orchestra – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Nice ‘n’ Nasty” by The Salsoul Orchestra – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

The Salsoul Orchestra is one of disco music’s defining bands. Formed in 1974 using Philly soul with funk and Latin influences. Vincent Montana. Jr. is the production credited to many of The Salsoul Orchestra’s early releases. Their second album titled “Nice ‘n’ Nasty” from 1976 contained many of that year’s big disco breakouts and hits. The title track is one of the classics which bring to mind the energy and power of the orchestras appeal and creation.

I have taken “Nice ‘n’ Nasty” into a Disco Video Mix along with Mae West in her 1933 comedy-romance film starring Cary Grant – the story of Tira, a bold dancing beauty and lion tamer at a fair who shimmies and sings along a small plot of drama. It flows along the risqué yet sweet edge of The Salsoul Orchestra’s number which brings the two together.

The film was directed by Wesley Ruggles

Featuring scenes from “I’m No Angel” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

“Hitchcock Makes Me Happy” by Azul Y Negro – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Hitchcock Makes Me Happy” by Azul Y Negro – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Azul Y Negro is  Carlos García Vaso, Carlos Vaso and Joaquin Montoya – an 80s electronic dance group in the early 80s who released their fourth album in 1984 titled “Suspense”. A track titled “Hitchcock Makes Me Happy” is homage to the great master of suspense, Mr. Alfred Hitchcock. With a playful mind I have created a Disco Video Mix featuring scenes from homage – this time film – Mel Brooks’ “High Anxiety” from 1977 – starring Mel Brooks, Cloris Leachman, Harvey Korman and Madeline Kahn.

It is a little play with the spoof on Hitchcock throughout this hilarious comedy and is dedicated to Ms. Loulou Singerling from The Netherlands who is placed in this video via her own kindness – a book opening the video is one she send to me as a gift- knowing I am a Hitchcock fan also. Thank you, Loulou – enjoy!

The film was directed by Mel Brooks

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

ReStructure Mix Update (9/12/13) “Makes You Blind” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Glitter Band

ReStructure Mix Update (9/12/13) “Makes You Blind” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – The Glitter Band

The Glitter Band is  Gerry Shephard, Harvey Ellison, John Rossall, John Springate, Pete Phipps and Tony Leonard – the 70s edge on rock-pop with a touch of funk here and there. Their album “Makes You Blind” from 1975 – produced by Mike Leander contains the title track which was an underground club sensation. A rolling bass groove with some injections of funky disco desire. One of my favorite tracks from this genre.

This ReStructure Mix takes the short album version and extends it to nearly 10 minutes along with some help from a “funky” reminder and a phrase to lure the rhythm in completely. A little play here and there makes this one a bit more than just an edit.

Thanks to Richard Lewis for reminding me of this jam-track and it is dedicated to his request and his support for disco and dance music. Thanks, Richard!

ReStructure Mix Update (9/11/13) “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Michael Jackson

ReStructure Mix Update (9/11/13) “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson’s legacy is indeed one of the most powerful and unique. From his childhood recordings with The Jackson Five to his solo career in the early 70s onto the millennium where it appeared to be history in the bag. “Thriller” from 1982 is one of the most known albums in the world thanks to hits like “Billie Jean”, “Beat It”, “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing") and the title cut – “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’” is the peak of the dance floor in the 80s – Quincy and Michael style.

I have taken the 12” single – both the vocal and instrumental to create this alternative ReStructure Mix where I have added a few new elements and laid out that wonderful rhythm and keyboard play. It is an amazing track! In dissecting it for this remix I could find myself in allure once again over the sharp production.

ReStructure Mix Update (9/10/13) “Safe With Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Irma Thomas

ReStructure Mix Update (9/10/13) “Safe With Me” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Irma Thomas

Irma Thomas is a blues-soul and disco singer who began recording in the early 60s. A career where Irma has released a current album in 2013 titled “In Between Tears” which features funk and soul tracks. He 1979 album “Safe With Me” was a close shot with the title single and also her fabulous cover of “Sugar Pie Honey Bunch (Can’t Help Myself)”. The title single was released on a promo 12” with a bit lengthier version than the album.

I have taken the promo 12” version and have given it a ReStructure Mix to not only extend the wonderful and warm feeling – but also work on those great piano pieces. It is a bit different in the arrangement as I have given Irma more reason to comfort – but also added a new beat and rhythm tracks to pump it a bit more.

“’H’ Friend” by Black Devil – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“’H’ Friend” by Black Devil – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

WARNING: Some graphic scenes or gore and violence!

Black Devil is an electronic disco project that is a deep and moody recording created by Bernard Fevre and Jacky Giordano – where the recording was manually recorded using synths, tape loops and a drummer. No computers or midi equipment creating a unique haunting disco experience. A bit dark and for those who love the influence of alternative themes and Moroder-ish influences.

“’H’-Friend” is a spooky sounding piece that I appropriately paired here with the 1987 horror-thriller from Dario Argento, “Opera” – a terrifying and graphic tale of a young operetta whom is stalked by a deranged fan who is killing all of her close friends so that he may claim her for himself. It is genre of Argento’s colorful and violent style and so much along the lines of the ghostly sound of this disco track.

The film was directed by Dario Argento

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

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to Jussi K. – the deepest darkest corner of disco is the funkiest, Jussi!

“Pleasure Island” by Paul Jabara – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Pleasure Island” by Paul Jabara – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Paul Jabara worked with disco music to create a lighter and more colorful edge to give the dance floor a good feeling to move with. His compositions include the disco classic “Last Dance” from 1978. His album “Keeping Time” was the work of Paul and producer Bob Esty – where they took several pieces work and applied dance music’s classic sound with the 70s new excitement. “Pleasure Island” is a track written by both Bob and Paul and one of the most incredible songs and movements containing Paul’s playful touch and Bob’s masterful production and arrangement. It is an incredible movement.

I have taken “Pleasure Island” along with the 1933 film, “King Kong” starring Fay Wray and Bruce Cabot – pairing the adventure of the mysterious island and the ominous beast, King Kong in this tribute to the disco track. It is the outline that disco fantasy is all about.

The film was directed by Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. Shoedsack

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

ReStructure Mix Update (9/5/13) “Keep The Ball Rollin’”- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Cory Daye

ReStructure Mix Update (9/5/13) “Keep The Ball Rollin’”- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Cory Daye

Cory Daye is one of those voices from the 70s that you cannot help but love. It has the warmth and sound of a lady who has got message. From her big hit with Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band in 1976, “Cherchez La Femme” a romance began with dance floors and Cory. Her solo album from 1979 titled “Cory and Me” was a piece of heaven for those who wanted to revamp that sweet feeling again while swaying on the dance floor. The track “Keep The Ball Rollin’” is a clever song that is a favorite among Cory fans and of course one that needed a new version to bring the dance floors closer!

This ReStructure Mix takes the original album version and mixes it up with Shirley Ellis’ “The Clapping S0ong” for a little more fun – Cory’s track was always in the same fun and playful manner so the concept struck me and I went with it!

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Ms. Cory Daye – the lady who made the band work overtime. Love you Cory! And also Michael Harkins – thank you for your kind words and for keeping Cory out there for us to love!

ReStructure Mix Update (9/5/13) “Last Call For Love” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Tempest Trio

ReStructure Mix Update (9/5/13) “Last Call For Love” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Tempest Trio

Tempest Trio is a project from Mr. Mike Theodore and Mr. Dennis Coffey – two of disco music’s most talented performers and producers. This one saluted the pure disco sound with that touch of funk and soul. Deep bongo grooves and the electronic edge burning onto dance floors at the tail end of the 70s. The album contained a track titled “Last Call For Love” which is known by disco-philes as one of those hidden treasures with a chest.
The vocals alone are majestic in a soulful sense.

I have taken the album version and have given it a ReStructure Mix to excite those last moments right before the lights go up and added pieces of two big tracks that most likely were played during those minutes during two generations of club goers. It is a new feel and stage for the song.

This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to both Dennis Coffey (thank you for your kindness) and Mike Theodore! Last call!

“This Is My Life” by Shirley Bassey – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“This Is My Life” by Shirley Bassey – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Dame Shirley Bassey took her 1968 hit, “This Is My Life” (original produced by Dave Pell) into the discotheques in 1979 with a full disco arrangement – this time around produced by Nick Decaro. The 12” disco single featured a remix by Mr. Rick Gianatos. This version was the toast of the town for Bassey fans or any dancer looking for drama on the dance floor.

I have taken the song and paired it with the 1958 of a convicted murderer, Barbara Graham and later facing execution to bring the drama to curtain heights. The overly played heroine by Susan Hayward seems appropriate with this rousing disco- theatrical number.

The film was directed by Robert Wise

Featuring scenes from “I Want To Live!” – RENT THE DVD!
Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera
Produced by Ken Emmons

“Hip Hop Be Bop (Don’t Stop)” by Man Parrish – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“Hip Hop Be Bop (Don’t Stop)” by Man Parrish – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

Man Parrish (Manuel Joseph Parrish) brought an electronic sound to the early 80s which was much needed for a transition of disco-street beat and high energy. His big electro hip-hop piece, “Hip Hop Be Bop (Don’t Stop)” was another big dance floor sensation as Herbie Hancock’s “Rock It”. Man’s music was bit more underground and more street soul. The album titled “Man Parrish” from 1982 is one of DJs best friends from that period.

I have taken “Hip Hop Be Bop (Don’t Stop)” into a Disco Video Mix using the 1983 film, “Wild Style” – one of the first hip hop experiences on the screen. The docu-drama outlines the graffiti movement of the time and the connection of hip hop music as an art form and introducing its feel and meaning to new feet and minds.

This Disco Video Mix is dedicated to the incredible talent of Man Parrish – thank you, Man for making our “electro dreams” come true in more ways than one!

The film was directed by Charlie Ahearn

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

ReStructure Mix Update (9/4/13) “Looking For Love” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Candi Staton

ReStructure Mix Update (9/4/13) “Looking For Love” – Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Candi Staton

Cadi Staton (Canzetta Staton-Sussewell) is a disco artist with a history of prolonged love and attention. Starting with her 1976 classic “Young Hearts Run Free” which is one of the master-disco songs which paints the atmosphere for unity and freedom on any dance floor. Her following hits, “Victim” and “When You Wake Up Tomorrow” prove the mood for Candi to continue on as a spectacular disco diva.

Her 1980 album, “Candi Staton” was released during the disco cease from major labels so promotion for her material was minimal – and relied on dedicated disc jockeys. “Looking For Love” is the first track on the album and is the pick hit for me – it was a track I would play with an extended mix using two pieces – and it always worked. The guitars and rhythm is this wonderful song resemble a Chic-esque sound.

I have ReStructured the album version to not only extend it – but give it a new disco feel. It is Candi’s vocals that make this one work once again and she is greatly appreciated here.

Dedicated to Ms. Candi Staton for her continuing love and admiration for the dance community.

“I’m Mad As Hell” by El Coco – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

“I’m Mad As Hell” by El Coco – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera

El Coco is Laurin Rinder and W. Michael Lewis – a duo who during the mid-70s created a sound for disco music that was geared towards the club scene. Their approach was based on the funky and chic sound of where disco was headed. Their 1977 album “Cocomotion” contained a single titled “I’m Mad As Hell” which was inspired by the 1976 film, “Network”

I have paired the two together and added an clip from another Faye Dunaway classic, “Mommie Dearest” (an idea injected by Ken Emmons) and have made these pieces blend into a media message which today seems appropriate and also intriguing.

The film was directed by Sidney Lumet

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