Post by flameace on Apr 1, 2018 12:58:01 GMT -5
WOW! Fascinating article from MusicView.com, about a lost solo album called 'From Otis, With Love' that was recorded for Motown by Temptation singer Otis Williams but shelved and unreleased. Here are some excerpts from the article (by Jeff Mzsunky):
"Otis Williams, the least talented lead vocalist by his own admission of the group, nonetheless wanted to embark on a solo career in the early 70's. He wanted to show how much he had improved his range and overall ability by tackling hard edged soul, classic Temptations hits, and flat out rock 'n roll, including some original compositions."
"...when I spoke with him about the album, he said "Ain't no one coming to see me? I wanted to be the ONLY one folks want to see!" - which was an obvious shot at his critics. Working with Smokey Robinson, Norman Whitfield, Frank Wilson and Holland-Dozier-Holland, this all-star production team had to wait outside while Otis locked himself in the studio as he recorded all the vocals himself. They were then left to pick up the pieces- I mean 'enhance' the recordings."
"While the album, in Otis' view, was to be a platinum record, the record was shelved for unknown reasons, much like 'David' was for David Ruffin in 1971. Any mention of the album to former bandmates and label executives leads to bewilderment, denial and flat out anger. The only thing that has been revealed is the album cover and some of the track listing."
SO, this is incredible news. Wow. Would love to get my hands on a copy.
musicview.com/otis-williams-lost-album-revealed
"Otis Williams, the least talented lead vocalist by his own admission of the group, nonetheless wanted to embark on a solo career in the early 70's. He wanted to show how much he had improved his range and overall ability by tackling hard edged soul, classic Temptations hits, and flat out rock 'n roll, including some original compositions."
"...when I spoke with him about the album, he said "Ain't no one coming to see me? I wanted to be the ONLY one folks want to see!" - which was an obvious shot at his critics. Working with Smokey Robinson, Norman Whitfield, Frank Wilson and Holland-Dozier-Holland, this all-star production team had to wait outside while Otis locked himself in the studio as he recorded all the vocals himself. They were then left to pick up the pieces- I mean 'enhance' the recordings."
"While the album, in Otis' view, was to be a platinum record, the record was shelved for unknown reasons, much like 'David' was for David Ruffin in 1971. Any mention of the album to former bandmates and label executives leads to bewilderment, denial and flat out anger. The only thing that has been revealed is the album cover and some of the track listing."
SO, this is incredible news. Wow. Would love to get my hands on a copy.
musicview.com/otis-williams-lost-album-revealed