Curtis
Curtis Mayfield · 1970
77 min · 17 tracks · funk · soul
Soulful grooves intertwine with socially conscious lyrics, reflecting the spirit of a transformative era.
Why this album works
'Curtis' is significant for its fusion of funk and social commentary, impacting the burgeoning Black Power movement. The track 'Move On Up' became an anthem for empowerment and has been widely covered, showcasing Mayfield's lasting influence.
- Best for
- wave-like emotional shifts soulful grooves for reflection socially conscious lyrical themes
- Context
- Released in September 1970, 'Curtis' marked Curtis Mayfield's solo debut after leaving The Impressions. This album established him as a pioneering voice in soul music, setting the stage for his influential career as a solo artist.
- Stylistic neighbors
- The Gap Band· Ready for the World· Tim Maia
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 (Don’t Worry) If There’s a Hell Below We’re All Going to Go Standout 7:51
- 2 The Other Side of Town 4:01
- 3 The Makings of You 3:43
- 4 We the People Who Are Darker Than Blue Standout 6:06
- 5 Move On Up Standout 8:54
- 6 Miss Black America 2:58
- 7 Wild and Free 3:16
- 8 Give It Up 3:49
- 9 Power to the People (demo) 2:47
- 10 Underground (demo) 3:11
- 11 Ghetto Child (demo) 5:10
- 12 Readings in Astrology (demo) 3:31
- 13 Suffer (demo) 2:31
- 14 Miss Black America (demo) 2:22
- 15 The Makings of You (backing tracks, take 32) 4:35
- 16 (Don’t Worry) If There’s a Hell Below We’re All Going to Go (backing tracks, takes 1 & 2) 9:34
- 17 (Don’t Worry) If There’s a Hell Below We’re All Going to Go (edited single version) 3:26
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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