Stand By Your Disco - Dance for Life

Stand By Your Disco - Dance for Life
"Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You" by Boys Town Gang - Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/IKF9l_ijct4
“Ecstasy” by Madleen Kane – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/FressS6gcyA
“This Side Of Midnight” by Gregg Diamond’s Star Cruiser – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/9XeAc01dmSE
“High Society” by Norma Jean – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/K5G6XbEiYHA
“Muse Medley” by Grace Jones – Disco Video Mix by Glenn Rivera - https://youtu.be/ZY4z07IlJsg

ReStructure Mix Update (11/21/16) “Love Kills” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Freddie Mercury

ReStructure Mix Update (11/21/16) “Love Kills” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Freddie Mercury

Freddie Mercury has a voice which brings emotion and power to each performance. Many of his recordings both solo and along with the rock band Queen have given a fulfilling legacy to music history. In 1984 Freddie released a solo album titled “Mr. Bad Guy” with a few tracks which celebrate the 80s dance edge. “Love Kills” is another powerful single which was produced by Mercury and Giorgio Moroder for a re-release of the 1926 Fritz Lang cinema-classic “Metropolis”. The new soundtrack from the film featured 80s vocalist recapturing the film with new synth-pop atmosphere. The song is another memorable vocal from Mercury that is powerful and haunting.

I have taken the soundtrack version of “Love Kills” and re-worked a ReStructured 'werk' with more of the percolating sequencer which play out the early Moroder-esque feel. More of the anthem-like parts of this bittersweet song are extended along with some classic-Queen drums to accent this new recovery issue.

ReStructure Mix Update (11/17/16) “Baby Love” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Regina

ReStructure Mix Update (11/17/16) “Baby Love” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Regina

Regina Richards is a singer whose 1986 single “Baby Love” that reached Billboards Top 10 and became her classic 80s dance number. The song was written by Regina and Stephen Bray and after Madonna passed on recording it she decided to record it herself. It is a sound that is close to Madonna’s of the period and even production and Regina’s vocals it is sharp resemblance. The song was big on my dance floor and was requested frequently. It is that pop-edge from the 80s that fits into the stage dominated by gals like Kylie Minoque and Debbie Gibson.

I have ReStructured “Baby Love” as a tribute to 80s dance tracks and used the domestic 12” vocal and instrumental to take apart and reassemble pieces of the darling song and give it a bit more energy. The sweetness is still intact with a few more of the ReStructure tags added.

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ReStructure Mix Update (11/16/16) “Hurricane” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Tapps

ReStructure Mix Update (11/16/16) “Hurricane” - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix – Tapps

Tapps is a high energy project with Candy Berthiaume, Allan Coelho and Tony DaCosta. One of the big 80s disco projects which helped to bring on the new layer of dance music history labeled “high energy”. An electronic production with the percussion and beats of disco along with the 80s synth-pop touch echoing throughout. “Hurricane” is from their 1987 album “Turn It On” – produced by Alan Coelho and John Forbes. This one is a powerful heartbreak number that was a big hit following their previous double hits “My Forbidden Lover” and “Runaway (With My Love)”. A big hit on my playlists and one which brought many nights of non-stop energy to a peak.

I have taken the original 12” vocal and instrumental of “Hurricane” and recreated a whole new storm in this ReStructure Mix. It uses more of the looping of the heavy duty synthesizer riffs and portions of the rock-edged portions. I have always found it difficult to get this one out of my head and now I realize that good high energy music is simple and contagious – a great inheritances from the disco era of the 70s.

http://www.glennrivera.com/multiply/tapps_hurricane_restructuremix.jpg

disco pieces - pull it together

 

disco pieces - pull it together
"Beyond The Clouds" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Quartz
- https://youtu.be/ljd7iqfL3S4
"I Got The Feelin'" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix
- Two Tons O' Fun - https://youtu.be/i4X4C-jeW1M
"Imagination" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Laura Branigan - https://youtu.be/LdRMGog-sew
"I Can't Dance" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - David Hentschel - https://youtu.be/NQmLsvGtICc
"Master Piece" - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gazebo - https://youtu.be/NzWG5ZhamPk

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.