Album Info Hide Show Artist: Curtis Mayfield Album: Curtis Released: US, 16 Jul 2021 Tracklist: A1 (Don’t Worry) If There’s A Hell Below We’re All Going To Go 7:46 A2 The Other Side Of Town 4:00 A3 The Makings Of You 3:40 A4 We The People Who Are Darker Than Blue 6:10 B1 Move On Up 8:50 B2 Miss Black America 2:55 B3 Wild And Free 3:12 B4 Give It Up 3:45 C1 Power To The People (Mono Demo) 2:47 Written-By – Curtis Mayfield, Donny Hathaway C2 Underground (Mono Demo) 3:11 C3 Ghetto Child (Demo) 5:10 C4 Readings In Astrology (Demo) 3:31 C5 Suffer 2:31 Written-By – Curtis Mayfield, Donny Hathaway D1 Miss Black America (Demo) 2:22 D2 The Makings Of You (Backing track – Take 32) 4:35 D3 (Don’t Worry) If There’s A Hell Below We’re All Going To Go (Backing track – Takes 1 & 2) 9:34 D4 (Don’t Worry) If There’s A Hell Below We’re All Going To Go (Mono Single Version) 3:26 Related Content: Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store We are a small independent record store located at 211 High St, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir) We buy and sell new and used vinyl records – if you have a collection you’d like to sell please click here . We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post. Free Shipping for orders $150 and over. You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout. We also ship internationally – prices vary depending on weight and location. We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records. In stock vinyl is usally shipped next business day, please check the availability field at the top of the product page to see whether the record is currently in stock or if it is available from the supplier as well as estimated shipping times. If you order an in stock item together with a pre order or back order (listed as available from supplier rather than in stock) then the order will be shipped together when all items arrive. If you would like the in stock items shipped first please place two separate orders or contact us to arrange shipping items separately. We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn’t arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record. If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store. You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at [email protected] Happy Listening! Description Hide Show Curtis Mayfield’s debut solo album, “Curtis,” released in September 1970, stands as a seminal work in the soul and funk genres, marking a significant departure from his earlier work with The Impressions. The album is notable for its socially conscious lyrics, innovative production, and Mayfield’s distinctive falsetto voice. “Curtis” opens with the powerful track “(Don’t Worry) If There’s a Hell Below, We’re All Going to Go,” which sets the tone for the album’s exploration of social and political themes. The song features a blend of funk and psychedelic soul, with a driving bassline, dynamic horn arrangements, and a spoken-word intro that addresses issues such as racial inequality and social unrest. This track, like much of the album, reflects the turbulent socio-political climate of the late 1960s and early 1970s. The second track, “The Other Side of Town,” continues the theme of social commentary, depicting the struggles of urban life and the disparity between different communities. Mayfield’s poignant lyrics and emotive delivery are complemented by lush string arrangements and a steady groove, showcasing his ability to blend message-driven content with musical sophistication. “We the People Who Are Darker Than Blue” is another standout track, addressing themes of racial pride and unity. The song’s orchestration, featuring strings and horns, adds a layer of depth to Mayfield’s introspective lyrics. The track’s structure, which shifts from a slow, contemplative beginning to a more upbeat, hopeful conclusion, mirrors the journey from despair to empowerment. “Move On Up,” perhaps the most famous track from the album, is an uplifting anthem that encourages perseverance and self-improvement. The song’s infectious rhythm, driven by a vibrant horn section and energetic percussion, has made it a timeless classic. Its positive message and danceable groove have ensured its enduring popularity, and it remains one of Mayfield’s most recognizable songs. The album also includes “Miss Black America,” a tribute to the beauty and strength of Black women, and “Wild and Free,” which advocates for personal and social liberation. Both tracks highlight Mayfield’s commitment to addressing issues of identity and empowerment through his music. “Give It Up” and “Power to the People” round out the album, reinforcing its themes of social justice and collective action. “Give It Up” features a more laid-back, soulful vibe, while “Power to the People” is a call to action, urging listeners to take control of their destinies and fight for their rights. “Curtis” was produced by Mayfield himself, and his innovative approach to production is evident throughout the album. He utilized a wide range of instruments and sounds, including strings, horns, and percussion, to create rich, textured arrangements that complemented his lyrical content. The album’s production quality and musical complexity set it apart from many other soul records of the time. Upon its release, “Curtis” received critical acclaim for its bold, socially conscious themes and its sophisticated musicality. It reached number 19 on the Billboard 200 chart and number 1 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, cementing Mayfield’s status as a solo artist. The album’s influence can be seen in the work of later artists who have drawn inspiration from its blend of social commentary and musical innovation. In conclusion, “Curtis” is a landmark album that showcases Curtis Mayfield’s talents as a songwriter, vocalist, and producer. Its exploration of social and political issues, combined with its innovative production and timeless melodies, make it a significant work in the history of soul and funk music. The album remains a powerful testament to Mayfield’s artistic vision and his commitment to using music as a tool for social change. Product Reviews Hide Show Write a Review