Description
Black Jazz launched in 1971 with Gene Russells New Direction. Russell was the creative force behind the label, acting as producer, engineer and A&R and focussed on developing new solo artists. The most successful of these was Doug Carn, who released four albums featuring his wife, Jean Carn, as vocalist. She later changed her name to Jean Carne and became a successful soul singer signed to Gamble and Huffs Philadelphia International empire. Singer Kellee Patterson gained notice as the first black Miss Indiana in 1971, before recording Maiden Voyage, her debut album for the label. Keyboardist Chester Thompson would go on to join Tower of Power and later Santana. The Awakening featured top veteran musicians from Chicago the only Chicago group signed to the label. Drummer and percussionist Arlington Davis Jr, bassist Reggie Willis, flautist and tenor saxophonist Richard (Ari) Brown and trumpeter Frank Gordon were all members of the Association for The Advancement of Creative Musicians. Trombonist Steve Galloway and Ken Chaney were part of Philip Cohran and The Artistic Ensemble.
Track Listings
The Awakening – Mode For D.D.
Doug Carn – Higher Ground
Calvin Keys – Aunt Lovey
Roland Haynes – Eglise
The Awakening – Slinky
Walter Bishop Jr. – Coral Keys
Rudolph Johnson – Diswa
Henry Franklin – Blue Lights
Kellee Patterson – Maiden Voyage
Chester Thompson – Power House
The Awakening – March On
Walter Bishop Jr. – Soul Village
Rudolph Johnson – The Highest Pleasure
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