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Only You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Teddy Pendergrass
Teddy Pendergrass was originally known as the lead singer in Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes ("The Love I Lost") and in 1977 began his solo career. His 1978 LP "Life Is A Song Worth Singing" featured the song "Only You" - produced Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff.
I have ReStructured the track with a whole new intro and several new breaks and enhancements. This is the sound of Philadelphia disco, which maintains the soulful sound of the 70's and infuses the disco elements smoothly.
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Beat The Clock - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sparks
Ron and Russell Mael are Sparks - along with Giorgio Moroder during the big disco boom in 1979 created the "#1 In Heaven" project. Heavy on Sparks pounding drums to Moroder rolling synthesizers and phasing. "Beat The Clock" speaks the life of a small child who never seems to fit into life's "norm" and therefore makes an effort to conquer it's demands.
I have taken the domestic 12" mix and spread the drums and bass synths into an extended ReStructure Mix.
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Take That To The Bank - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shalamar
Dick Griffey and Simon Soussan created Shalamar in 1976 - the band and vocalists went on to great success throughout the late 70's and early 90's. Their first LP which spotlighted a medley of Motown classics gave the band their uplifting and sweet essence.
In 1978 their single "Take That To The Bank" brought a soulful and funky flavor to disco music. Along with the full production of strings. keyboards and percussion it was an instant win for the group.
I have taken "Take That To The Bank" and have given the song a new identity - extending Jody Watley's vocal bridge segment that builds like to hot sticks rubbing over lighter fluid! The song is an all-time favorite so remixing it was indeed a pleasure.
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Astro Disco - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Apollo
Apollo is Benny Medina, Cliff Liles, Kerry Gordy, Larry Robinson and Lenny Greene - the project was produced by Ray Singleton and assisted by Gene Page and Greg Phillinganes (Penny Ford's husband).
This was Motown Records claim to disco fame - the single "Astro Disco" is a hallmark recording close to the energy and momentum of The Trammps "Disco Inferno" - it is one heck of a track!
I have ReStructured the song and have given it a whole new funky-back beat mix with a new arrangement and sound to bring back this awesome disco number.
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I Feel Disco Good - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Ritchie Family
Ednah Holt, Theodosia "Dodie" Draher and Jacqui Smith-Lee were The Ritchie Family line-up in 1978 for "American Generation" project - produced by Jacques Morali who later created Village People.
This was the period where disco music was underground and evolving into it's innovative stage from years of dance floor participation. It was exciting and very uplifting as the music continued to take over radio and markets.
"I Feel Disco Good" is the segue from "American Generation" and has all of the excitement that The Ritchie Family was intended to deliver. It was a formula that captured the DJs attention and the dancers fascination.
This ReStructure Mix gives the track a new intro and chops and pastes lots of the disco pleasure into a whole new feel.
This mix is dedicated to Hans R. de Vries - thank you for keeping the artists alive with all respect intact!
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Baby Baba Boogie - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Gap Band
The Gap Band are brothers Charlie, Ronnie and Robert Wilson - their 1979 LP titled "Gap Band" contained a big disco floor track titled "Baby Baba Boogie" - a uplifting chant-like number with some great bass and keyboard work. Later, these talented guys became a household a few big follow up songs in the 80's including "Burn Rubber (Why You Wanna Hurt Me)", "Oops Up Side Your Head" and "You Dropped A Bomb On Me".
"Baby Baba Boogie" is the essence of funk and disco in a smart package - this ReStructure loops it's way into a whole new arrangement using the pieces that always made my dance floor jump in the air and get to know "Baby Baba" quite well!
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I Think We're Alone Now/Will You Love Me Tomorrow - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Scott Allan
Disco covers were always guaranteed hits on the dance floor in the late 70's - it was the recreation of an earlier time which brought dancers a burst of energy and vigor. It was the creativity of the production and concept which worked best for Scott Allan's cover and pairing of both "I Think We're Alone Now" by Tommy James and The Shondells from 1967 and "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" by The Shirelles from 1960.
The production is under the supervision of Danny Jordon who also produced Hot Butter's "Popcorn" - this is a potpourri of disco pieces assembled by Bobby Viteritti in a slam-dunk of a dance mix. Kudos! Kudos! Kudos!
This ReStructure Mix revisits the 12" long version with a new intro - a few new breaks and centers a bit more of the bongo breaks in a dub-like mix.
Dedicated to Mr. Bobby Viteritti for sharing his wonderful talent with dance floors everywhere.
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How Much, How Much I Love You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Love and Kisses
Alec R. Costandinos assembled the disco symphony and created a moment in disco history that will outline the sound that will never be recreated in all of time again. It was a period where the sounds of horns and strings serenaded dancers flowing along with the new founded funk and soul elements of orchestration.
Love and Kisses is an ensemble that Costandinos made a familiar edge on dance floors along with his pieces which included a disco treatment for "Romeo and Juliet" and "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" in the late 70's. His first project by Love and Kisses was "I Found Love (Now That I've Found You)" which made discotheques demand a follow up. The LP "How Much, How Much I Love You" was a similar formula that gave a new excitement to the 70's string sections and bass hungry dance floors.
This ReStructure Mix introduces the beautiful movement of music in a new way with a few new breakdowns and builds.
Dedicated to the master - Mr. Alec R. Costandinos.
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Contact - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Edwin Starr
Edwin Starr (Charles Edwin Hatcher) began recording in 1965 and continued his career throughout his passing in 2003.
His dedication to soul roots was always evident in his performances - perhaps one of the most powerful male voices and distinctive. His path into disco music in the late 70's began with a big disco hit titled "Contact". This track is one of the most exciting and extensive dance mixes of 1978. It is now one of the Top 10 disco classics.
This ReStructure Mix gives a bit more adventure to the original 12" inch version and is dedicated to Mr. Edwin Starr.
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Le Freak - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chic
The colossal disco hit from 1978 which started a dance sensation.
Bernard Edwards and Nile Rodgers were the "chic" end of disco music with their sweeping strings, funky guitars and bass tracks. It was the follow-up LP to their big 1977 hit, "Dance, Dance, Dance (Yowsah, Yowsah, Yowsah)" which created the real essence of disco music during the disco peak.
"Le Freak" is reworked in this ReStructure Mix with new drums and a whole new "freaky" arrangement. A project that pays homage to the disco classics.
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A Whiter Shade of Pale - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Munich Machine introducing Chris Bennett
Munich Machine is the studio concept LP from the mind and talent of Giorgio Moroder along with Pete Bellotte - whose sure intent was to gather a group of very talented and ready individuals to create masterful recordings for the disco fire being lit.
Chris Bennett joins the second LP and Giorgio for the second time around following their project "Giorgio & Chris" - this time she handles lead on four songs from the project. "A Whiter Shade Of Pale" being Moroder's fashion of taking a rock classic and recreating the aura for an electronic arena. Bennett adds a fanciful and effective sound to the recording giving the song a new feel.
I have taken the track and pulled out some of the keyboard melody and the bass synthesizer to pump a new mix for a listening experience to give the song another opportunity to prove just why disco music was so powerful at the end of the 70's.
Dedicated to Chris Bennett - whose talents remains intact and lovely personality makes any disco connoisseurs continue to follow.
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Bang A Gong - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Witch Queen
Gino Soccio and Peter Alves created studio band, Witch Queen in 1978 at The Muscle Shoals Sound Studio - along with Denis LaPage on synthesizers and his back-up vocal ensemble including Heather Gauthier, John Oriettas, Mario Cadotte and Paul Chacra.
The project included two disco covers of two rock classics: "All Right Now" by Free from 1970 and "Bang A Gong" by T. Rex from 1971. Soccio and Alves take the rock classic "Bang A Gong" into an electronic feel with a hard hitting and hand-smacking disco arrangement.
I have ReStructured the track and added a few beat percussion elements and effects to give the mix a bit more freedom. It is fare to the original with the ReStructure flavor of not falling too close!
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Don't Take Away The Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tavares
Tavares is Feliciano Tavares, Arthur Tavares, Perry Tavares, Antone Tavares and Ralph Tavares - they were originally a group founded in 1963 called Chubby and The Turnpikes. In 1973 they began recording as Tavares under Capitol Records.
Their 1976 LP "Sky High" had a few hits that mark the dance era of the time. "Heaven Must Be Missing An Angel" is a classic disco track that remains on many retro-disc jockey lists. Another big track from the LP "Don't Take Away The Music" was another big hit for the group. Under the production of Freddie Perren it was a sure light to brighten up dance floors.
This ReStructure Mix is intended to bring the song back with a few new tweaks and movements here and there. The song is an all-time favorite and makes the world of disco music seem a bit more complete.
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated lovingly to Larry Sanders - who has kept the sound of disco music true to his heart and the many dancer and fans who follow him. Thank you, Larry :)
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Sunshower - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band
Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band was formed in1974 consisting of Stony Browder, Jr., August Darnell, Cory Daye, Andy Hernandez and Mickey Sevilla. They are most remembered by their big hit in 1976, "Cherchez La Femme".
Their self titled LP was a sound that brought the 70's back into perspective on music. Orchestral arrangements and torch music once again became popular and in fashion. On the same LP "Sunshower" was a light and rumba-driven track that always caught my attention.
This ReStructure gives the song a new intro - funky and thumping beat and a few breakdown points to stage the song on a whole new platform. It was clear that I did not want to totally bury Cory Daye's lovely vocals under a complete beat - so I broke the mix up into several segments.
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I Don't Need No Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - TJM
Thomas Jerome Moulton (TJM) did for disco music in the 70's what Berry Gordy created for Motown in the 60's. There was a distinct sound that Moulton created - it was the essence of soul recaptured in a modern and innovative package. It was about many faucets: from arrangement, mix down and execution. It was the final phase for dance music in the early and mid 70's to begin the work o many influenced by it's power.
TJM is a project produced by Tom Moulton which I call the finale of real disco music. It has the feel of all that Moulton worked for in disco music from his projects as a "disco re-mixer", producer, and his ideals and concepts.
I have taken the track "I Don't Need No Music" and placed it in the ReStructure format - which is a dance mix for the moment and by the moment in the true essence of what I know as the disco mix.
Dedicated to Mr. Tom Moulton
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Dancin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Crown Heights Affair
Soul and disco combined well are the craft that Crown Heights Affair mastered well. Their 1976 LP "Do It Your Way" was an early sign that soul music was quite comfortable on the disco dance floor.
"Dancin'" is now an old school favorite with the 60's psychedelic keyboards and funky guitars. A killer track. I have ReStructured this piece with several new added parts and pieces. Bringing the song a new feel.
The album was produced and arranged by Britt Britton and Freida Nerangis
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He's The Greatest Dancer - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sister Sledge
The disco era was one of the most exciting in music history with contributions by groups like Sister Sledge. Their 1978 LP "We Are Family" contained the formula which disco music was waiting for - both pop-wise and collective for it's own style. With the help of producers Bernard Edwards and Nile Rogers who began working production wonders with their classic guitar work.
"He's The Greatest Dancer" with it's funky lead and bass guitars and lush strings and lyrics make the disco beat come alive. It is perhaps one of the smooth disco tracks ever recorded.
I have taken the song into an extended ReStructure and added a few new pieces: new beats and bongos to give it a new direction to move with.
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Erucu - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jermaine Jackson
Jermaine Jackson began his solo career away from The Jackson 5 in 1972 - since his guitar talents were on his side it was not long till this lead him to a solo instrumental hit. The soundtrack to Motown's production of "Mahogany" starring Diana Ross in 1975 was his opportunity.
The compilation included his close to 3 minute instrumental track "Erucu" which is used in a segment of the film where "success" becomes a bit overwhelming for our heroine. The track also made it's way into many clubs thanks to it's funky rhythm guitars and ominous percussion tracks. It was sheer Billy Preston dance heaven.
I have ReStructured the track by my own means of creating a longer mix with an easy mix-in and mix-out point and looping some of the memorable rhythm segments. I have also added a few voice samples from the film to give it more personality.
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In My Wildest Dreams - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Giorgio
Giorgio Moroder began a legendary scope of music with his search for a new and exact sound for pop-music - which became disco in the mid-70's. His studio concepts were always looking and forging ahead to create a futuristic edge in music.
His 1979 LP "E=Mc2" a follow up to his solo LP "From Here To Eternity" and picks up where the master left off. Working his imaginary robotic-like vocals over an electric canvas.
"In My Wildest Dreams" is like falling off of a digital cliff and making a slow motion head dive into a fantasy of electronic wizardry. It is one of the tracks from Moroder which grasps his feeling and sense of innovation.
This ReStructure mix is the finale chapter of my edits of this project. It is a deeper sense of mood and attitude - hopefully keeping the mystique alive.
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No, No, No - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Strange Affair
Giuliano Salerni produced one of Euro-disco's most memorable projects: Ultimate "Love Is The Ultimate - Touch Me Baby" in 1978. From South Philly Productions the project enhanced the sweetness of the Philadelphia disco sound made popular by groups like The Three Degrees - with a Euro touch. There was a similarity in this project to Boris Midney's first LP USA European Connection.
His LP Strange Affair was the follow-up project released in Italy on Targa Records - from the side one medley I have taken "No, No, No" and now give it the spotlight. The track always worked well for me - but there were segments which were a bit too cheesy. I have edited out these pieces and extended the funky guitars, Afro-Cuban percussion, hard hitting horns, bad-ass guitars and sassy female vocals into a frenetic ReStructure Mix.
Salerni also produced Bonnie Boyer's "Got To Give In To Love" single and Lp and also Hi-Gloss ("You'll Never Know")
Vocals for Strange Affair are provided by Carolyn Mitchell, Vaneese Thomas, Brenda Hill and Joy Lober (who also recorded African Suite)
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Too Tight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Con Funk Shun
Con Funk Shun was created by Louis A. McCall and Michael V. Cooper - a popular R&B and funk ensemble whose #1 Billboard hit "Ffun" is now an old school classic.
Their 1980 LP "Touch" contained the big dance single "Too Tight" that brought the funk back to many dance floors in the early 80's - this one followed their big hit from the same year, "Got To Be Enough".
I have ReStructured the track to give it a longer arrangement and bring out that beautiful keyboard break with the lovely string section - and also enhance on the tracks already funky style with a new electro-vibe layer.
Dedicated to the band - Con Funk Shun - let them "con-funk-shunize ya!"
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Silly Love Songs - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paul McCartney and Wings
The 70's were a period for many former 60's artists to renew their space in the pop world. Many of these artists used many elements of music of the period to enhance their sound. Paul McCartney (of The Beatles) was one who shared a great success.
"Silly Love Songs" from 1976 came from the LP "Wings At The Speed Of Sound" and to me emphasized the true essence of pop music and it's influence on many very talented artists.
I have ReStructured the track using a beat and clap format which gives the song a dance floor edge with that cheesy disco sound - yet with a track like this to begin with you can feel the power of pop-dance music all over again.
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Don't Hold Back - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chanson
Chanson was bass guitar player, James Jamerson Jr. and David Williams - both forming a soulful/disco duo and although Chanson is only a part of their career - they have also played on many other disco and soul projects.
"Don't Hold Back" was a big soul/disco radio hit in 1978 and helped to bridge the gap between both R&B and disco music. Later the group released an Lp and featured Linda Evans (not Dynasty star) as lead vocalist.
I have ReStructured their 12" single emphasizing on the bongo break and creating an extended and whole new vision for the song.
Thank you to Randy from Miami for requesting this ReStructure - it's for you, Randy!
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Stop Your Teasing - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Hydro featuring Lorna
Hydro is a Canadian disco band consisting of Joe La Greca, Peter Dowse, Fritz Walton, and Bill Hill - many of these musicians have been involved with many past disco projects from Canada including France Joli, Melody Stewart, Nightlife Unlimited, Carol Jiani, Montreal and Kat Mandu.
Hydro features vocalist Lorna Di Fiore covering the raw and sexy lead over the extreme disco production. One of the identifying traits of disco music from this studio crew - deep bass guitars, wild electrifying breaks, extended instrumental arrangements and pure dance satisfaction.
"Stop Your Teasing" was a big underground hit in many clubs thanks to the sound of pure disco music of the late 70's - in it's most extreme act. I have ReStructured the track and placed a few new parts and pieces in various areas to create once again that intense disco experience.
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Whisper - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carol Jiani
Ms. Carol Jiani recorded with Montreal in 1978 under Uchenna Ikejiani. Her vocal gave this Canadian disco production a wonderful freestyle and soulful edge. Later in 1981 with Denis LePage (Lime) and Joe LeGreca (Erotic Drum Band) and all-time classic was created - "Hit 'N Run Lover".
Her second LP titled "Ask Me" was also under the production of Joe La Greca along with George Cucuzella - who earlier developed Nightlife Unlimited. The project had several successes including a cover of Ecstasy, Passion and Pain's "Ask Me" - which Carol made her own with her unique vocal talent.
"Whisper" is another track from the LP which made my dance floor happy and move over-and-over. I have taken the song on to the ReStructure chopping block and have given it a few new areas to bring it back into the arena. It has Carol's dedication, as you can hear and a wonder melody and hook that will haunt your feet and mind.
Dedicated to Ms. Carol Jiani for her love and dedication!
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Show Me Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - D.D. Sound
Carmelo La Bionda created D.D. Sound along with Harry Thumann as engineer and many musicians from the Munich sessions including: Gary Uwin, Mats Bjorklund and Jurgen Koppers.
Their first single from the 1978 project was the title track "Cafe'" which is a lush and beautiful one sided disco salsa style number. The LP offered another track which I have always enjoyed playing: "Show Me Your Love" - the LP version opens quite abruptly and flows constantly. I have added a few breakdowns and extended intro on this ReStructure Mix. I also kept the funk y guitars in place and assisted them in a few areas to build on the rolling energy.
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Love Fever - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Munich Machine
Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellotte lead the disco train with their classic productions from 1977 by Munich Machine - which consisted of a group of musicians from Munich, Germany who also backed artists like Donna Summer and Roberta Kelly.
Their second LP from 1978 was "A Whiter Shade Of Pale" which contained a remake of the Procal Harum rock classic from 1967 done with Moroder's classic synthesizer and keyboard feel - a kind of robotic symphony.
"Love Fever" was track which also fared well for play during this time - and my earliest recollection was the use of the synth piece for commercials and televised sports events. It is quite a pumping track.
Vocals are performed by Chris Bennett (who is pictured in the cover ad) - Chris is still performing today and also accompanied Giorgio in an LP titled "Love's In You, Love's In Me" under the name Giorgio and Chris from 1978.
I have ReStructured the piece and extended the intro with a collection of elements from the vocals and strings - it also contains a new bass-synth break that keep the moog synthesizer pumping along.
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This Is A Test - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Companion
Boris Midney is one of the early pioneers of disco music and with his 1981 project Companion there is a completed journey in the fusion of his genius. Although many tracks from the LP outline a more satisfying listening experience, like most Midney creations there are hidden grooves.
"This Is A Test" has been ReStructured to capture the deep elements that make up a rhythmic and orchestral experience in the tradition that Midney created himself. On his project Festival ("Evita") a sticker stating "Art Disco" is one of the perfect labels for such creation.
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Boris Midney
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Pick Me Up, I'll Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Melba Moore
Melba Moore began her career in the late 60's - fortunately her success lead her into the disco realm in the late 70's. Her LP "Melba" from 1978 contained two big disco hits: "You Stepped Into My Life" (a cover of the Bee Gees track) and "Pick Me Up, I'll Dance" - both tracks were dance floor hits. Produced by Gene McFadden and John Whitehead.
I have ReStructured "Pick Me Up, I'll Dance" with a whole new arrangement and a few new percussion riffs added to spice up the mix a bit.
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Ms. Moore - thank you for your wonderful talent.
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What's On Your Mind - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jean Carn
One of the last of the true Philly disco tracks in the late 70's is Jean Carn's 12" single of "Was That All It Was"/"What's On Your Mind" - the essence of emotion, love and beauty with a dance beat.
"What's On Your Mind" is the flip side that was equally a classic as "Was That All It Was" continues to be. Due to the direct vocal and beat on the mix it was more difficult to mix into a set without dropping in. This ReStructure Mix gives a new option for play.
I have taken the sweeping strings and Jean';s fabulous vocal performance and created a new arrangement with a new breaks.
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Sergio F. of "Go Bang" - for keeping the beat in the club and also reminding me of this wonderful song.
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Love How You Feel - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sharon Redd
The fabulous Sharon Redd graces the dance floor again with "Love How Your Feel" in 1983 - another New York disco classic.Produced by Eric Matthew (Gary's Gang) and once again in sensual energy that Redd delivers so well.
Sharon's earlier hits "Can You Handle It", "Beat The Street" and "In The Name Of Love" are complete dance floor masterpieces and in this track you can hear a lose display of funk and disco unleashed for a sparing mix.
I have taken the track and extended some elements and embellished a few segments of the naughty lyrics. A play land for disco moves and pleasure.
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Alan H. - thank you for asking :)
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It Looks Like Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Goody Goody
From Vince and Denise Montana comes the LP "Goody Goody" in 1978. One of Montana's most loved productions - featuring the track "#1 Dee Jay".
I have taken "It Looks Like Love" onto the ReStructure Mix chopping block to give it a new arrangement and feeling. The bass line does resemble Chic's "Dance, Dance, Dance" but there are enough new and vibrant elements to carry the song well.
Dedicated to Denise and Vince Montana, Jr.
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The Greatest Show On Earth - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Metropolis featuring The Sweethearts of Sigma
Thorir Baldursson and Tom Moulton produced one of the most phenomenal disco LPs in 1978 - "The Greatest Show On Earth" by Metropolis. The project encompassed the sweetness of the Philly femme ensemble and the Euro-disco fusion of New York disco music.
Tracks from the LP included "I Love New York", "New York Is My Kind Of Town" and "The Greatest Show On Earth" - I have taken "Greatest Show", which has always been an emotional charged favorite and given it a new arrangement and feel.
The synthesizer elements of the track are the exciting pieces yet the symphonic build and orchestral arrangements make the song a gem - add the vocals of The Sweethearts of Sigma and you get an unforgettable song.
This ReStructure Mix is just another way of looking at the track and is dedicated to Mr. Thorir Baldursson and Mr. Tom Moulton - the to "Sir's" of the disco kingdom.
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Keep On Jumpin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Musique
The LP that shook dance floors everywhere in 1978 was "Keep On Jumpin'" by Musique! A Patrick Adams production that still brings goosebumps to disco connoisseurs. It is a gem of a recording.
"Keep On Jumpin'" is a track that I recall shortly after Chic's "Dance, Dance, Dance" exploded and I would mix them up - similar bass lines and energy. Although Musique's "Keep On Jumpin'" is more like a cheerleader meet with an energy drink involved.
I have ReStructured the hit with a whole new outline and some new beats, effects and strategies. It made me a little nervous to touch this one - but once I did it was exciting and once again I could not keep my butt still in my chair.
WHAT A TRACK!
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to the master, Mr. Patrick Adams - thank you Patrick, for so much!
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I Just Keep Thinking About You Baby - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tata Vega
Big disco songs have certain elements: a good rhythm track, catchy keyboard riffs, nice groove and memorable vocal - "I Just Keep Thinking About You Baby" is a monument in these tributes.
Tata Vega sings her heart out out in this Motown disco classic - and yes the Motown disco sound did exist. With tracks like this there is proof.
I have ReStructured the track in hopes of bringing the excitement not only of the song but of love once again - in it's caress and endearing thoughts which Tata sings here with more emotion and energy. Adding a few new breaks and resources to dress up the original 12" mix.
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Paul C. of New York - thanks Paul :)
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In New York - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Passion
Ray Martinez was perhaps the greatest conductors of the disco orchestra. His many productions included projects by Foxy, his own band Amant, Celi Bee and Sassy. Of course his most memorable being the now disco classic "If There's Love" recorded in 1978 under Amant.
His project Passion on Prelude Records from 1980 was a wonderful wrap of the disco era with his signature string sections, heavy percussion and funky guitars. "In New York" is a track that followed closely behind his storybook compositions that blended from break to break.
I have taken "In New York" and extracted the heavy guitar breaks and lead in chorus riffs leaving behind only the gorgeous string breaks and percussion accentuated by new beat tracks.
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Galaxy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - WAR
WAR is a Southern California band who moved tightly on during the "disco fever" with a now classic-old school track called "Galaxy". This one unleashes a percussion and bass combo that has always taken over dance floor.Staying close to their Latin rhythms and laid back groove this track is an example of how disco music was able to transform bands without them even knowing it.
I have ReStructured the song with a whole new feel and arrangement using elements from the 12" remix and the original album version. Keeping the focus on the groove and of course the great escape to "the galaxy"!
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Heaven Above Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Frankie Valli
A voice that is recognized from the first note - Mr. Frankie Valli. Taking his talent onto the disco floor once again with producer Bob Gaudio and the help of Mr. Bob Esty on "Heaven Above Me".
A hardcore dance piece with more of an early morning feel - very beautiful and lilting. My ReStructure Mix only extends the intro adding a few new drum tracks, effects and a dramatic crescendo - right at the opening.
A classic disco mood with the man himself.
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Pistolero - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bombers
From Pat DeSerio who also gave us Kebekelektrik and Rational Youth comes Bombers. The huge single "(Everybody) Get Dancin'" featuring more talents: Busta Jones (Mack L. Jones) on lead and bass guitars and Tamara Lorincz on lead vocals.
"Pistolero" is a track from the LP which outlines a disco extravaganza from outta-space. Leading title which can be mistaken for a pinball game. This one has all of the elements to mark a disco landmark. Funky guitars, killer bass, percussion and unforgettable riffs.
This ReStructure re-edits that track with some newly created portions to maintain the flow of this beauty. It is the "star was" and "close encounter" disco track that made disco seem more than real.
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This Is The House Where Love Died - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pattie Brooks
Pattie Brooks recorded "This Is The House Where Love Died" in 1978 under the production of Simon Soussan and mixed by Bob Stone on the LP. The track was released as a 12" with a remix by Bob Stone and Manny Slali. The song was always a favorite of mine. It has a great Spanish guitar accompaniment and a bongo track that brings your feet and hips together.
This track was originally recorded by First Choice in 1972 and was written by Norman Harris and Allan Felder.
I have ReStructured the song giving it a new pitched intro and re-looped the LP arrangement to create a new arrangement with new breaks and effects.
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Paradise - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Change
With production skills of Jacques Fred Petrus, Change helped to guide disco music into another phase in 1980 with their first LP "A Lover's Holiday" - it was soon after that a new feeling of disco music was inevitable.
"Paradise" comes from their second LP from 1981 titled "Miracles" - it was obvious that the band started as a studio session group. Many of the players and vocalists were replaced and added during various recordings. This time around the help of David Romani and Paolo Gianolio were expressed.
I have ReStructured the big hit "Paradise" with shyness - very few remixes or edits ever existed. The original production is flawless and timeless - this remix is only to present an alternate way to dance or listen to the track.
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You Set Me On Fire - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paradise Express
This is a timeless gift from Paradise Express - Herb Jimmerson and Vi Ann
The duo created 2 LPs as Paradise Express and gave dance floors the opportunity to escape to places far away while feeling free with the wonderful effect dance music creates.
"You Set Me On Fire" is from the LP "Let's Fly" and is ReStructured here using the fast and furious production with a new arrangement and intention. Vi Ann is one of the voices in disco music which is unforgettable, as you will hear.
With recent contact with Vi Ann and asked would she record again, she stated that the music stopped when Herb passed on - so this is a rare treat. It is meant "to last forever".
Dedicated to Vi Ann and her family.
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I'm Alive (Let's Move On) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - American Fade
Early 80's was a transition of disco to high energy opening a whole new arena for producers and artists. America Fade is a studio band produced by Willi Morrison and Ian Guenther - THP Productions ("Too Hot For Love") and Southern Exposure. Their knowledge of disco arrangements and electronics gave them the upper hand on dance floor know how.
"I'm Alive (Let's Move On)" is a tale of a girl who falls in love and finally realizes what she has been missing - an uplifting track with allot of effects and drums pounding throughout the dance mix. I have taken pieces of the original mix and re-edited a new outline and added a new drum intro. It is a bit extreme but intends to give the track a "tweaked" new feel.
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Come With Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
Donna Summer became the midnight sound of disco music with the sensual appeal done with the right essence of the time period.
"A Love Trilogy" is the follow up project to the sultry "Love To Love You Baby" hit single - is was definitely the defining of "The First Lady Of Love" for the time. It was as experimental for Giorgio Moroder as Donna. "Come To Me" is the closing track on the LP and has always made the needle regret it's place.
I have ReStructured the song and now give it a new intro and breaks as well as a few new elements that create a whole new energy for the dynamite single.
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To Sir With Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Vicki Sue Robinson
Ms. Vicki Sue Robinson brought the 70's a wonderful sound and energy. "Turn The Beat Around" is considered one of the foremost disco classics and continues to outline music history. With Vicki's vocals much of her music became the sound of soul, pop and disco united.
Her 1983 cover of Lulu's "To Sir With Love" was recorded along with her original producer, Mr. Warren Schatz - along with musician and producer, Eric Matthew (Gary's Gang, Sharon Redd). This wonderfully energetic cover was another gift to dance floors. Complete with lush and sweet strings and blaring horns.
This ReStructure Mix extends some of the break magic and the vocals by Ms. Robinson, as well as pay homage to the classic song itself.
This remix is dedicated to Vicki Sue Robinson who left us in 2000 - her music and energy will live on forever.
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Fill Me Up (Heart To Heart) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Andrea True Connection
Gregg Diamond and Andrea True create a sensual disco experience with all of the ammo that the beat can deliver. The LP "More, More, More" is one of the outlines for 70's disco music in the dosage that Diamond could deliver.
"Fill Me Up (Heart To Heart)" is a cut from the project that is a disco jam session with lush strings, funky guitars, psychedelic keyboards and plenty of erotic aura from Andrea. This one is surely one of the finest disco tracks from the period and stays complete always.
This ReStructure Mix moves the track into a hip-hop beat line and takes loops and pieces of the song to move it all over again.
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Dancing Is Dangerous - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Noel
From the talented minds of Ron Mael and Russel Mael (better known as Sparks) comes Noel. During a period where disco became pop music many artists and producers moved into the arena using justified elements and their own style. These boys worked with Giorgio Moroder on their "Beat The Clock"/Tryouts For The Human Race" success. It was obvious that the synthesizer revolution was undertaking a new edge.
Noel's "Dancing Is Dangerous" is the perfect disco record of it's time - you hear the layering of each synthesizer and keyboard swirling and finally uniting. This track created quite a stir for both the Mael brothers and new artist, Noel.
I have taken the track and ReStructured it using more of my favorite parts of the song and adding a few more breaks, breakdowns and verses. The track is one heck of a production when you begin to break it down.
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Can We Try Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Technique
Producer Mike Lewis and San Francisco disc jockey brought Technique to life. Their 1983 single "Can We Try Again" is a staple in most classic high energy programs.
The production was arranged by Horis Jack Tolson and the song written by Muff Murfin, who also wrote many disco tracks in the late 70's.
My ReStructure Mix is a new venture to bring the energy and excitement of this track alive again - it is an ABBA sound alike and given a new intro treatment and closing as well.
Dedicated to the memory of Mike Lewis who left us in 1988.
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Dancin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Grey and Hanks
Zane Grey and Len Ron Hanks released their LP "You Fooled Me" in 1978 - "Dancin'" is the first single from this project. The soulful and funky track added a new layer to disco music at the time. It was the extreme dance formula that became the pop end of radio and clubs.
I have ReStructured "Dancin'" to bring the song back in to the light with a new thumping intro and also adding a few more vocal elements out. It is a get boogie number and taking parts to reassemble into a new mix was fun.
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Michael R. of San Diego - being one of his favorite disco tunes and for being a friend
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Try My Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Denise La Salle
Denise LaSalle hit the mark in 1980 with her LP "I'm So Hot" - this was one of the diva LPs of that year.
"Try My Love" is a sensation! A true soul/disco production with a rousing vocal and incredible synth and guitar arrangement. It is well remembered by many dancers and soul worshipers.
I have ReStructured the track with more breakdowns and some new kick beats to enhance the already pounding edge of the track. Denise's vocals are also extended for a higher high!
Dedicated to DJ Leon Neon in San Francisco (Go Bang!) for helping me to sing this in Medium Rare Records in the city.
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I Wanna Go Home With You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jimmy 'Bo' Horne
Jimmy 'Bo' Horne along with the help of the "Miami Disco Machine", H.W. Casey (K.C. and The Sunshine Band) and Richard Finch helped to create the new pop sound of disco music in late 70's. Much of the transition was thanks to earlier hits by K.C. and his Sunshine Band.
"I Wanna Go Home With You" is the flip side to the 12" "Spank" on Sunshine Sound Disco Records and from the LP "Dance Across The Floor" - it was always a favorite track of mine and outlined the excitement of that Miami Disco sound - thanks to Henry Stone.
The cut was a mere 3 minute track - but here in this ReStructure it is extended and given the arrangement for peak hour. The guitars, horns and pianos are working like magic here, again!
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Spin It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sunbelt
Sunbelt is Rodney Eubanks on vocals and a production by Douglas Groover. Better known as a track on Prime Cuts 1-Double LP released on Importe 12 in 1981.
A one time studio session by all involved and quite an underground classic - the lasting effect has more to do with the simple electronic feel of the record and the falsetto vocals that track each groove out.
I have taken the track and presented a new mystique-style intro using the elements which percolate throughout the song - also chopping and rearranging a bit with more breakdowns and an easy exit.
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In The Evening - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sheryl Lee Ralph
From the original Broadway cast of "Dreamgirls" the very lovely and talented Sheryl Lee Ralph wondered into the disco arena in the mid-80's. Her anthem and stay-power piece "In The Evening" was one of the most exciting tracks of the time. A taste of Sheryl's wonderful vocals and a street-disco feel.
I have taken the track deeper in the streets of New York with a darker intro and working the percussion into a slight edge. This one makes Sheryl eel as though she means what she is singing about. A new break and arrangement can keep this classic where it belongs: "In The Evening"!
Dedicated to Donn J. - thanks for the request for Sheryl
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Sentimentally It's You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Theo Vaness
Theo Vaness is a Dutch vocalist also known for his work with band, The Shoes.
After his first LP "Back To Music" in 1978 his disco fame came easily and very welcomed. Produced by Michaele, Lana Sebastian and Paul Sebastian his disco work is well known by audiophiles and dancers.
"Sentimentally It's You" is a track from his "Bad, Bad Boy" LP from 1979 and remains a favorite among many who hold high energy and romantic themes close to heart. An excellent breath of disco magic.
I have taken the track in a ReStructure area and created a new intro, rearranged and looped some very memorable moments from this giant.
Dedicated to Theo and his niece, Loulou from The Netherlands
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Come And Get Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lime
Disco in the 80's was a breath of fresh air with bands like Lime.
A fusion of electronics and a light flavor of simple love and life are the key influence here. Their 1980 blockbuster track "Your Love" kept dance floors all over the world waiting for the Lime II project. It was a simple hit with tracks like "Babe, We're Gonna Love Tonight" and "Come And Get Your Love".
I have taken the pulsating track by Denis and Denyse and given it a new flavor and arrangement in my ReStructure style. This one makes the percussion dance and the wait for the opportunity to showcase it's own.
Dedicated to Dominique of Paris and Loulou of The Netherlands - enjoy!
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Ite Missa Est - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Martin Circus
Martin Circus was a rock band formed in France in 1969 and are noted as being one of the first to use the French language in rock.
Their progression into disco music became more evident in the mid and late 70's. Their LP titled "Disco Circus" released in 1979 contains 2 of of the most intense productions in French disco history. "Disco Circus" was a big part of the Paradise Garage movement and was remixed for the venue.
"Ite Missa Est" is Latin and means something like "Go, the Mass is ended" - here in their musical piece they express a high energy feel with swooping keyboards and hard hitting percussion. The track is known for it's beauty and energy.
I have ReStructured the piece using the elements in extreme loops and adding a few more parts of the original to express a deeper form.
This mix is dedicated to Rick of Seattle, WA - for his dedication to keeping the beat alive in the more intense manner
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Touch Me On My Hot Spot - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Saturday Night Band
Saturday Night Band was like candy to a dance floor - the funky and chic productions by Jesse Boyce and Moses Dillard are a sound which helped disco music to move into a new phase.
"Touch Me On My Hot Spot" is a track from their LP "Come On Dance, Dance" on Prelude Records - it is the sound of pure disco music complete with lush strings and drums pounding out rhythm. The theme of this track is quite sensual and a bit driving. It was the perfect moment for a disco lesson.
My ReStructure Mix take the drums and gives them more spotlight as well a well moments for those lovely string breakdowns.
Dedicated to Jesse Boyce and Anand or requesting this New York classic
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Love's Unkind - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
Donna Summer, Giorgio Moroder and Peter Bellote were creating disco noise with many of their conceptual projects - from "A Love Trilogy" to "Four Seasons Of Love". It was 1977 when the cat was let out of the bag - "I Feel Love" and the "I Remember Yesterday" medley from the same LP brought a new light to the dance floor and sanctified disco music forever.
"Love's Unkind" is a track that is well-known among Donna's worshipers and is guaranteed to bring a sound back which not only is the "bobby-socks" era but also the high point of feel-good disco music.
I have ReStructured the piece from the medley and also added a few samples from a girl group that we all know of and also broke down the beats for a funkier feel.
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Pushin' Too Hard - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paul Parker
Patrick Cowley and Paul Parker together in 1982 is a landmark in disco history. Cowley's trippy synthetic arrangements were a part of the late 70's with studio bands like Fever ("Beat Of The Night") and also many of Sylvester's hit dance tracks (ex. "Dance (Disco Heat)" and "Stars") - it was the blood flowing through the veins of early high energy disco.
Paul Parker has continued to bring his wonderful vocals throughout the early period of high energy from the San Francisco disco movement of the 80's to present. His accomplishments only outline his dedication to the craft and his own heart.
"Pushin' Too Hard" is a rock classic recorded by The Seeds in 1966 - Paul does a excellent job following the energy of Cowley's keyboard magic and emphasizes the desperation well.
I have ReStructured this special B-side from the original 12" (was not available on Paul's first LP) and added a familiar riff and also some percussion, breakdowns and took advantage of that wonderful percussion loop ala Cowley!
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I Am What I Am - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gloria Gaynor
Ms. Gloria Gaynor is well known as the Queen Of Disco from 1973 - present. From her original hit "Honeybee" from 1973 and onto "I Will Survive" in 1978 - Gloria has always serenaded disco in many forms and with no remorse.
Her return in the 80's was well worth the time along with multi-talented producer, Joel Diamond (Silver Blue Records) - it was a time where high energy had received it momentum and disco artists were free to express their roots once again. It was even more appropriate that Gloria cover the Broadway track, "I Am What I Am" from "La Cage Aux Folles" (the Broadway musical).
This ReStructure takes the track deeper and more playful with bass, break loops and Gloria's, always, fabulous vocals. Long drawn out for dance fever.
Dedicated to Mr. Joel Diamond - thanks to his wonderful music, talent and also for being so supportive to my projects in keeping disco music alive!
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You Made Me Believe In Magic - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bay City Rollers
70's boy band, Bay City Rollers is Alan Longmuir, Leslie Richard McKeown, Eric Faulkner, Derek Longmuir and Stuart 'Woody' Wood
Their big hit "Saturday Night" from 1975 made them a pop phenomena among young girls and the earliest signs of "boogie music" on AM radio. Their 1977 LP "It's A Game" contained the single "You Made Me Believe In Magic" - which has the essence of early morning disco music and much more.
The track is much like a David Cassidy love ballad - but with swirling strings and bongo driven verses that are all that early morning disco are made of.
I thank Franklin Fuentes from New York for turning me onto this missed little gem - it was produced by Harry Maslin.
My ReStructure Mix extends the original 2:41 single track to a near 8 minute dance cut - adding a new intro, percussion and some looping. It is a wonderful experience to hear those strings and pop-boy- vocals!
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St. Tropez - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Diva Gray and Oyster
Diva Gray began her career touring with Harry Belafonte. You may better know Diva as a session singer on the first Chic LP ("Dance, Dance, Dance"), Gregg Diamond's Starscruiser ("This Side Of Midnight", "Danger") and various Kenny Lehman projects including Lemon's "Freak On". Her voice is very distinctive and a great style.
Diva Gray was also one of The Harlettes (backup trio for Bette Midler). Her career lead her to a studio band produced by Luigi Ojival (C.K.B., Silver Shoes, Final Offspring) and is one of my favorite feel good disco projects. "Hotel Paradise" is the title track and the most uplifting for Diva's voice - a bit much like a child's nursery song.
"St. Tropez" is ReStructured here with a whole new feel and breakdown of the song - a funkier flavor and back beat. It being on of the most beautiful sounds of the big disco era - I wanted to keep the track alive.
Diva Gray also had a single produced by Jacques Morali (Village People, The Ritchie Family) in 1981 on Prelude Records - a cover of "Memories" from "Cats" - which is fabulous also.
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If You Weren't Afraid - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Giorgio
From the innovative project from Giorgio Moroder - "E=Mc2" in 1979. "If You Weren't Afraid" is from the side A medley and closes out the set. The eerie yet uplifting feel of the song has always been the lure for me.
It fit into many of his past productions with Donna Summer - "Working The Midnight Shift", "Now I Need You", "I Feel Love", etc to blend the electronic edge and experimentation with melody and disco beats.
This ReStructure mix takes the original track and adds a few new drums and percussion riffs - to create a dub-like extended mix. Those rolling drum effects from the original always reminded me of the Ennio Morricone western soundtracks - sundown and a showdown!
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Dance With Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chilly
Chilly is a German disco band whose 1978 LP "For Your Love" is a landmark of disco history. The project was produced by Bernt Mohrle who also produced Cherry Laine and Cosmic Gal.
The project was assisted by Kurt Hauenstein, who also created the band Supermax ("Lovemaker") - it is evident that his arrangements live in the recording "For Your Love".
I have taken the track "Dance With Me" from the LP version - that is an underground classic for hardcore disco addicts and ReStructured it adding some new elements and breaking the incredible feel of songs into bits and pieces.
Dedicated to Jussi K. - who continues to keep the obscure and relative sound of disco music alive!
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If You Believe In Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Montreal featuring Carol Jiani
Joe La Greca (Erotic Drum Band, MTL Express, Hydro, Melody Stewart, Chris Mills) was a leader in the Canadian disco explosion of the late 70's. A whole new concept utilizing the drums and bongo rhythms to move rhythmic bass lines.
Montreal is another studio concept which played out like a stage band jamming with a full dance floor at bay. Along with Carol Jiani (billed as Uchenna Ikejiani) on vocals this recording is an underground feel with the raw feel that disco music began with. Jiani warms up the tracks like a den diva making her presence as smooth as silk. This is one of Carol's moments ("Hit N' Run Lover", "Mercy") - even today she continues to "believe" is disco music - very few artists have this allegiance, notoriety and dedication.
This ReStructure Mix is kindly dedicated to this wonderful and talented lady.
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Stomp! - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Brothers Johnson
Their influence in the late 70's joined a funky taste to dance music with hits like "Get The Funk Out Of My Face" and "Strawberry Letter 23". Beautiful pieces of music.
It was their LP "Light Up The Night" where Quincy Jones gave them an arena of disco sound which exploded - "Stomp!" This track was a big hit when it hits dance floors and is now considered an old-school classic. Layers of production of savvy are sprinkled on this one.
I have taken "Stomp!" and given it a whole new meaning with a beat aligned intro along with segments of the original looped and layered. It was a great time and I am still shouting "stomp" in my own head!
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People Come Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ednah Holt and Star Luv
Ednah Holt was a part of The Ritchie Family ensemble and left to pursue her solo career in 1979 - her hit "People Come Dance" on the legendary West End Records was also co written by Ednah. The studio recording features Angela Bofill and Connie Harvy on back up vocals and later a 3 team back up ensemble created for promotion.
"People Come Dance" is one of those tracks that energizes the senses - it holds true to the disco theme motivation - dance! It has the energy of a cheerleader meet and the funkiness of mid-70's disco productions.
I have taken the track and extended it extensively as well as give the song more breakdowns, a new drum beat and some added effects.
A special thank to Hans from The Netherlands for requesting this great track and also for the information on Ms. Holt.
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Party - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Julius Brown
High energy in the 80's came alive with flair with tracks like "Party" by Julius Brown - a soulful vocal exuding with excitement relating to the dance floor. This electrifying song was one of the finale productions by Jacques Morali (Village People, The Ritchie Family) before his passing in 1991.
Julius Brown delivers a dynamite vocal that shakes up the bass synthesizers from their pulsating placement - it is quite the disco track.
I have ReStructured "Party" and added new drums and some stop-and-go moments to give you just a small break before catching the disco energy all over again!
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The Heart To Break The Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - France Joli
France Joli is the disco chanteuse - her disco hit, "Come To Me" is a big part of music history. Produced by Tony Green and also featured Canadian musicians Dennis Lepage, Peter Dowse and Gene Leone as studio engineer.
Her follow up LP titled "Tonight" featured the single "The Heart To Break The Heart" which also has the same ballad-like intro and then into a flowing high energy piece. And although the theme was more of heartbreak it fared quite well.
My ReStructure Mix takes the LP version (not the 12" single) and recreates an episode adding a new intro with a faint beat and also blending segments of the song together and in a new fashion.
Dedicated to France Joli - thanks for sharing her talents with the world.
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Bamalama - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Belle Epoque
Belle Epoque is Evekyn Verrecchia, Giusy Fortes and Marzia Thear - "Bamalama" is the mystical track with the bumping disco bass and the electric wizardry that makes Donna Summer's "I Feel Love" work double time.
"Bamalama" is a reference to cocaine - obviously some heavy stuff with the deep pounding sound of this number. The whole emphasize is that it "blows the mind"!
I have taken "Bamalama" and added a few pieces of beats and looping the intriguing mass of synthesizers and keyboards. I have intended to keep the deep rooted sound intact and add a few more layers of intensity.
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Body Rock - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Maria Vidal
Dance music in the mid-80's reached another explosion where it's influence was all over - and why not? The message has always been very positive and uplifting.
"Body Rock" by Maria Vidal is a track from a film soundtrack by the same name - it is one of the most invigorating dance numbers of the 80's - an outline of pure 80's disco. The lyrics are positive and alluring - making a dance floor come alive with the flick of a switch.
This ReStructure Mix takes the song into a deeper phase of loops and realigning the feel of this energy. It is truly my attempt at capturing the dance floor of the 80's and making it a part of disco music history.
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If You Could Read My Mind - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Viola Wills
Viola Wills was a definite staple in disco music - her many dance cover versions were more to dance history throughout the late 70's through the end of the 90's.
"If You Could Read My Mind" was released in 1980 to dance floors who were not quite done with disco styled dance tracks. Since then it has become one of the anthems for disco music and the scene. The best part is that it did not get burned out on the radio for disco aficionado's.
My ReStructure Mix is a stop-and-go mix with many new points to create more of a special dance experience as well as a reason to put those headphones on.
This mix is dedicated to the memory of Viola Mae Wilkerson - your beauty will always adorn dance floors and keep disco music alive!
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You'll Never Know - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Hi Gloss
Giuliano Salerni brought us Ultimate ("Touch Me Baby"), Strange Affair ("Love Is A Strange Affair") and Bonnie Boyer ("Got To Give In To Love") - this time around he has written arranged and produced his studio band, Hi-Gloss.
This LP was a part of the Prelude Records disco fame. Including "You'll Never Know" which features lead vocals by Bonita Taylor, who also lent her vocal talents to jazz ensemble, Pieces Of A Dream.
The outstanding arrangement and orchestration of this project is a bit like a disco fantasy or dream. It works very well with a soul/jazz end.
Backing vocals are provided by Ullanda McCullough, Phillip Ballou, Maeretha Stewart and the late, Luther Vandross
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Marvin Howell - who requested a re-visit to this gem.
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Keep On Holdin' On - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Margaret Reynolds
Margaret Reynolds would serenade the Trocadero Transfer in San Francisco with "Keep On Holdin' On" - reminding everyone that better times are always there.
Singing back up for artists such as Gwen McCrae and George McCrae, Margaret found herself along side KC in "Take Me To The Moon" in 1980. Her dance tracks with Moby Dick Records in 1982 were an important segment of the disco revival.
"Keep On Holdin' On" is a classic disco anthem - with the positive energy and excitement that disco music "is". I have ReStructured the song giving it a new intro and breaks and also taking advantage of several riffs that I wanted to showcase.
Dedicated to the Trocadero Transfer and the disco revival!
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Die Hard Lover - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Loverde
Loverde is Frank Loverde, Linda Imperial ("Get Here", "Fire), Peggy Gibbons and Don Miley. A San Francisco high energy disco troupe that created a label - "Die Hard Lover" with their 1982 dance floor hit.
The song outlined the non-stop appeal of a hot lover who obviously is compared to a never ending support system. It is a track that is label as "gay" disco for it's success in the early disco revival of San Francisco in the early 80's.
This ReStructure is dedicated to the "die hard" DJ's and Promoters who keep the disco energy alive - Sergio F. of Go Bang in particular - see you in February 2010!
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Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paradise Express
Herb Jimmerson and Vi Ann created a moment in disco music that will never be forgotten. Many recorded tracks are often looked at as classic disco recordings.
Their first LP contained "Dance" - a cover of Paul Jabara's signature track. This version moves the song into the electronic fusion of disco music and it's innovative feel. Jimmerson created music with a dreamy essence and hardcore rhythm and along with the fantastic vocals of Vi Ann the tracks still move and influence.
I have ReStructured "Dance" with a whole new intro and arrangement - it is my homage to a place in disco music that will remain intact.
Dedicated to Vi Ann and her family :)
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Feelin' Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Hott City
Hott City! is a studio concept produced and created by Jeffrey Parsons and Jeffrey Steinberg - "Feelin' Love" being the initial release from the LP. The track features Sherry Fox on vocals.
This is a dreamy track and very much as early trance-like feel in disco music. Syn drums and percolating keyboards run traces of disco ecstasy throughout this number.
I have ReStructured the song using a new intro with thumping beat track along with a new clap loop to accentuate the already frenetic pace of the song.
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On And On And On - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - ABBA
ABBA being Bjorn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, Agnetha Faltskog and Annie-Frid Lyngstad are in the first area of the disco museum. Their music has been some of the most important pieces in music history.
Their return to dance floors in the early 80's gave the world an opportunity to experience the creative end and vocal power. "Super Trooper" was one of the most awaited LPs of the time. With "Lay All Your Love On Me" it was the first explosion - following were the LPs magic including "On And On And On".
I have take "On And On And On" and placed it in the ReStructure feel - which is directly on the dance floor - with all of it's original power with a few more angles added.
This remix is dedicated to Edward from YouTube - thank you your very kind words Edward. Now bring ABBA home with you :)
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Night Dancin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Taka Boom
Chaka Khan's little sister has been quite an addition to dance floor both in the 70's and 80's - her vocal performance in "You + Me=Love" by Undisputed Truth and "Mr. DJ, You Know How To Make Me Dance" by Glass Family are bound to make your recognize the power and beauty behind this diva.
"Night Dancin'" comes from Taka's first solo project. A big disco hit at first release and lots of praise from DJ pools and critics. This one was produced by John Ryan.
I have taken "Night Dancin'" and have given it a chopped-up and drawn out mix with lots of use of that dynamite percussion!
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Your Love Still Brings Me To My Knees - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Marcia Hines
Marcia Hines starred in musicals "Hair" and "Jesus Christ Superstar" in the 70's - her disco fame came with "Your Love Still Brings Me To My Knees" in 1981. A beautiful love song set to a rock-disco tempo.
This track worked dance floors during a period where disco divas for some reason went into hiding. I have always thought this track was the "Never Knew Love This This" by Stephanie Mills with a strong dance beat.
My ReStructure pays homage to the song which worked many nights for me in my clubs and add a few breaks a loops of that fabulous and beautiful keyboard melody.
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Saturday Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - T-Connection
Funk and disco are the drive behind T-Connection - Theophilus Coakley, Kirkwood Coakley, David Mackey and Anthony Flowers.
Their 1976 track "Disco Magic" gave them a spot on the dance floor which brought together a soulful band approach with the lighter side of disco elegance. "Do What You Wanna Do" from 1977 is a classic embedded on mirror balls everywhere.
I have ReStructured their 1979 power track "Saturday Night" and planted a few pump beats here are there to break down the verse and chorus into a funky dance experience. The same LP titled "T-Connection" also contained the equally popular track "At Midnight".
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As Long As It's Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Theo Vaness
Theo Vaness is a Dutch singer with a great reputation on the dance floor - his initial solo project "Back To Music" in 1978 (produced by Michaele, Lana and Paul Sebastian) is one of the earliest successful medleys in the disco vein.
His follow up LP "Bad Bad Boy" in 1979 is still resonating from the contents: "Sentimentally It's You" and "No Romance/Keep on Dancing" - and this ReStructure take on the anthem, "As Long As It's Love".
The track has a great feel and purpose - exclaiming love and understanding. It is a classic in it's own right. This mix takes pieces and assembles the track into a new extended mix.
Dedicated to Loulou from The Netherlands and her uncle, Theo Vaness
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Back To You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Crystal In The Pink
80's high energy took a turn back to the lyrical feel of classic disco with sharp edged synthesizers and pumping bass lines - "Back To You" by Crystal In The Pink from 1987 is a Vincent Degiorgio masterpiece of such a record. Emotion and intense dancing are a big piece of this Canadian disco track from Power Records.
I have ReStructured "Back To You" using the 1987 Remix version and extending portions of the wailing guitars and Downtown bass!
Dedicated to Rick S. from Back To Disco (www.BackToDisco.com)
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That's The Meaning - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Beautiful Bend
An ominous track for Boris Midney from the project that joined the sweet vocals of Philadelphia, the soaring orchestral sound of the 70's and the technological genius of Midney's mind.
"That's The Meaning" is a celebratory track that gives goose bumps to any disco audiophile every time. It is sheer magic.
This ReStructure pieces the song into parts that I extracted and have given a mild work over to. It is intended to keep the song alive along with the wonderful legacy of Boris Midney.
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Coming Out Of Hiding - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pamala Stanley
Pamala Stanely burst upon the disco scene in 1979 with her big hit, "This Is Hot" - this one made dance floors simmer with Pamala's sweet vocals with the power of delivering an anthem. It came again in 1983. "Coming Out Of Hiding" was a track that made an impact in more ways than one.
The high energy scene was beginning to place dance music back in front and liven up discotheques again. Pulsating synthesizers and electric drums were brighter and more eminent.
I have taken Pamala's wonderful disco hit and diverted the energy into a maze of the synthesizers and some additional play with a few lines. This one is the powerhouse moment where the "song is the thing!"
Dedicated to Pamala Stanley and a special thanks for sharing her talents with the world.
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Jump Shout - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lisa
Big high energy track produced by the legendary, John Hedges and Barry Blum - this one is the big floor packer of 1982.
Lisa took discotheques and feet hostage with this powerhouse number released on San Francisco's Moby Dick Record's. I have taken the Remix Version by Bill Motley and Craig Morley and given it a ReStructure Mix uplift for a faster and higher jumpin' mix.
Dedicated to Mr. John Hedges - The Man!
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Inch By Inch - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Persia
Persia is a disco band produced by Kenny Nolan ("I Like Dreamin'") and Juergen Koppers (Giorgio Moroder, Munich Machine) - an ensemble featuring Zell Black on lead vocals. Zell had a single released in 1974 on Motown titled, "I Been Had By The Devil".
"Inch By Inch" is one of the most slick disco tracks during the end of 1979 and unfortunately the tail end of the disco boom. The LP was an incredible production and is a gem to this day.
"Inch By Inch" is one of my Top 10 Disco favorites so ReStructuring it was a pleasure - I have divided the song into new segments and added more shake and rattle to work a new audience and the faithful!
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Body Contact - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Loi
Loi is a studio band produced by Joe Richards (Barrington Levy, Janet Kay) and features vocals by Lois Ramdeen. The track was a Canadian single released in 1980 on G Clef Records, Inc. Soon after it was chosen as a track for a double LP set titled "Prime Cuts 1" on Importe 12 Records - which featured a compilation of the greatest dance tracks.
"Body Contact" is a sensual and keyboard driven track - and now given a ReStructure Mix to extended the play and feel of the track. New drum beats and percussion are added to accentuate the movement.
This ReStructure is dedicated to Cesar L. - thanks for requesting!
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Get Up (Rock Your Body) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Machine 202
The Machine 202 was produced by Billy Arnell and Steve Loeb - a duo which produced Jessica Bell's "Ode To Four" in 1977 and a heavy metal rock project by Riot titled "Narita" in 1979.
The pair may have dabbled this once in disco music using none-other than Jocelyn Brown on lead vocals. The 12' single was a huge success at the end of the disco era in late 1979 throughout 1980 for a track which emphasized and celebrated disco music to the form.
I have ReStructured the original 12" version and added the heavy claps along with some extracted percussion to give the flow of the new mix an extended energy. The song really cooks and make disco music the celebration it was intended for.
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One Night Only - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Scherrie Payne
Rick Gianatos' has been involved in many disco classics and helped to shape the sound into a mature and complete art form. His production of Scherrie Payne's "One Night Only" was a high energy blast of air in the early 80's. it helped to emphasize the connection between dance music and magic.
My ReStructure Mix takes only segments of the track and blends the flowing song over a tribal expose between several breakdowns. Fast and furious and daring.
Dedicated to Mr. Rick Gianatos
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Open Sesame - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kool and The Gang
From the 1976 LP by the same title - "Open Sesame" is a funk fantastic track!
This one was featured in the soundtrack for "Saturday Night Fever" the following year. it still strike a chord as one of the most infectious funk/soul/disco tracks of all time.
Produced by K.G. Productions, Claydes Smith and Ronald Bell
This ReStructure takes the track deeper into a mystical energy that enslaves any dancer to move to the genie as the run the floor with their feet!
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Too Hot To Handle - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Giorgio
Giorgio Moroder's classic electronic recording, "From Here To Eternity" is a project referred to by progressive techno and electronic dance composers and dancers alike. It is one of the most intriguing at a time where sequencers and computer recording at all levels of the artist - perhaps this is the perfection achieved by Mordoer in this recording.
"Too Hot To Handle" comes from the LP and has one of the meanest synthetic bass lines - which invoked a ReStructure Mix of this fascinating song. it is reworked with a few new elements and Moroder's phasing "re phased"!
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Maybe This Time - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Norma Lewis
Norma Lewis graced the dance floors with her disco-fied version of "Maybe This Time" from the musical, "Cabaret". Produced by Marvin Howell (ERC Records and Jackie Rawe's "I Believe In Dreams") and Tony Green.
This was a classic in the making - a pure disco arrangement and the placement of a song in the genre which worships it's kind. Norma Lewis delivers the track with pure disco ala torch magic that keep meaning and drama in place.
I have ReStructured the track for Marvin Howell who continues to keep disco music and it's magic alive with his troupe Keep The Playin' (www.keepthemusicplayin.com) - the original version - this is my breakdown of the magic in a new package.
For you Marvin - thank you for all you do - "I Believe In Dreams!"
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Manhattan Skyline - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - David Shire
David Lee Shire has composed soundtracks for films "2010", "The Taking of Pelham One Two Three", "Norma Rae", "Short Circuit" - his compositions for the soundtrack of "Saturday Night Fever' from 1977 are the focus here.
"Manhattan Skyline" is a track that is pure disco in completeness - from the rolling bass lines and swirling strings. A track that surely influenced touch dancers to dip and swing even further.
I have taken Shire's beautiful piece and added a few elements to give the track a whole new ReStructure sound. This one should remind many of the orchestrations which gave disco the contemporary edge of the mid 70's.
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Mr. Big Shot - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Simon Orchestra featuring Jessica Williams
Simon Soussan brought disco music into the pre-high energy period with many of his pulsating bass lines and frenetic syndrums. His projects with Pattie Brooks and Shalamar were the inception of soul oriented vocals over a disco arrangement. This brought him to the next tier with studio sessions like Romance, Arpeggio and artist Jessica Williams.
His 1979 project The Simon Orchestra was a treat for dance floors that were ready to move into the motion of high energy disco music. “Mr. Big Shot” being the title track and having every possible angle covered: percussion, heavy bass, rolling synthesizers and massive vocals.
I have taken the track which features the fabulous, Jessica Williams on lead vocal and given it a brand new ReStructure edge. Peeling away the synths and re-wrapping them amongst the powerful percussion tracks. It is a feast for 80’s disco lovers.
Dedicated to Jessica Williams whose talents are supreme. |
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Fire In My Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Madleen Kane
Madleen Kane graced disco music with a presence of beauty and style of dance music that is both sexy and infectious. The Swedish born star is referred to quite often among disco audiophiles.
Her 1981 LP "Don't Wanna Lose You" was a big success on dance floors - produced by Giorgio Moroder it was a match made for discotheques.
"Fire In My Heart" was one of the first singles released from the LP along with "You Can". It is one of those tracks that gives the floor an energy that won't go away simply by lifting a needle off of the record - this one haunts the mind.
My ReStructure mix give this track a spread out arrangement with a few surprises along the way.
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Give Me Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fun Fun
Fun Fun is the colorful sound of Italo-disco. In the early 80’s their music became the wonderful accent to dance floors all over the world.
Producers Alvaro Ugolini and Dario Raimondi created many now classic tracks by this studio ensemble that continue to bring a feeling of freedom and light hearted energy to mind. A beautiful combination for any disco number.
I have taken their 1984 hit, “Give Me Your Love” and ReStructured the song using the original Italian version - creating a more dub breaks and extending that wonderful chorus and keyboard elements.
This one is dedicated to Alex N. of Euroflash
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The Power Of Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Astaire
Astaire is an 80's studio band with a list of high energy tracks that would make any dance floor shake with excitement.
It was the re-birth of disco music in an electronic/industrial feel. Complete with flowing beauty and powerful divas.
"The Power Of Love" is ReStructured here with a whole new emphasis placed of the magic of the track itself. I have looped and chopped this track into an extended dessert for any dance floor.
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So Many Men, So Little Time - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Miquel Brown
"So Many Men, So Little Time" was the noticed arrival of high energy music in the early 80's - it signified the proof that people were not done dancing to disco music.
The track was one of the most popular of the time and lasting throughout time - even today. Miquel Brown had a mild disco hit with "Symphony Of Love" in 1978 - her return in 1983 with her LP "Manpower" guaranteed a lasting stance on dance floors.
This ReStructure Mix chops and rearranges every element from the "oh-so-familiar" mix and creates a whole new hedonism moment for all to dance and celebrate.
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Wastin' My Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sticky Fingers
Phyllis and Helen Duncan are the powerhouse vocals behind Sticky Fingers - they are also known as The Duncans, The Duncan Sisters and THP (THP #2). I have always favored their strong and sass-ful vocals that always end up resonating a beautiful edge.
"Wastin' My Love" is a track from the Prelude album simply titled "Sticky Fingers" and was produced by Ian Guenther and Willi Morrison (THP, The Duncan Sisters, American Fade, Skatt Bros., The Immortals, Shayne Jackson, Southern Exposure and The Grand Tour). Simply the top disco producers with a wide range of orchestrated dance music.
This LP was one of my favorite disco projects and continues to pull my heart and feet into it's excitement. I have taken "Wastin' My Love" and reshaped it like clay - trying hard not to take away from the original sound of it's layered production.
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Just Take My Body - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rudy
Jacques Fred Petrus is a name is disco music that will last throughout it's history. His 1979 production of Rudy Trevisi is one which features each element of electronic disco music.
"Just Take My Body" is from the project by the same name featuring Rudy Trevisi on vocals and arrangements by Paolo Gianolio. This one is the peak of the disco sound of the similar studio bands like Revanche and Macho.
This ReStructure Mix pulls only a few verses and choruses along with the peculating percussion and thumping bass from the original track. Dedicated to disco lovers all over.
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Got To Love Somebody - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sister Sledge
From their 1980 LP "Love Somebody Today" - this follow up project to "We Are Family" had a some winning tracks: "Reach Your Peak", "Let's Go On Vacation" and "Got To Love Somebody"
Another production by Bernard Edwards and Nile Rogers of Chic fame - this project had the elements which made disco music the pop sensation of the late 70's.
I have ReStructured "Got To Love Somebody" with a loop factor heavy involved here - a new beat and clap intro to create an easy mix-in. The song moves with a difficult timing for mixing - this intro will hopefully make it easier.
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Hell Dance With Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cappuccino
From the fantastic production by Danilo Vaona - Cappuccino blends a mystique in "Hell Dance With Me" - the sensual and lustful vocals fit an early morning dance mix well. The project was released in 1980 and features a wonderful disco-fied production including the underground hit, "Tomorrow".
I have taken the track and made a mere fantasy of a dark aura. Adding a few riffs from Ennio Morricone's "Magic and Ecstasy" theme from "The Exorcist II: The Heretic" soundtrack to fit the devious mood.
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Deliverance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - People Like Us
Paul Crossley and Terry Owen created People Like Us - a South African high energy band who featured Cindy Dickinson on a luscious dance track titled, "Deliverance".
This blasting dance number has always been a favorite and is fully ReStructured here with a new intro, breaks, image and feeling. This mix is dedicated to Ian S. - thank you for all of your kind words and support.
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Walk Right Now - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Jacksons
The sound that made The Jacksons the cherry on the sundae for dance floors!
"Walk Right Now" is the powerhouse track from their 1980 LP "Triumph" - and the fantastic 12" remix by John Luongo. I have taken the track and extended portions and also added more of an ambient trance feel to segments.
This is one of those songs that makes the feet meet the mind - lots of energy here. Dedicated to Jackson fans everywhere!
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Bourgie Bourgie- Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gladys Knight and The Pips
"Bourgie Bourgie" is an Ashford and Simpson composition which spans the disco era very well. It exemplifies the trends, music, feel and attitude of the chic disco era.
Gladys Knight and The Pips covered this wonderful track and added a sophistication of soul and the outline of 70's disco. It is quite a beautiful achievement.
I have added a new intro and looped portions of the string movements to extend the track for posing and extended attitude.
Also covered by John Davis Monster Orchestra in 1979 and Ashford and Simpson as a flip side to their single, "Love Don't Always Make It Right".
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Helpless - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jackie Moore
Jackie Moore made a disco hit out of "This Time Baby" in 1979 - this being one of the longest adored dance floor gems. Produced by Bobby Eli and remixed by John Luongo and Michael Barbiero.
"Helpless" came at the end of the disco craze in 1980 and was not as popular, but every bit as dramatic and powerful. The track was written by the Motown trio, E. Holland, L. Dozier and B. Holland. The 12" single was a bit difficult to get in and out of and then ended abruptly.
This ReStructure Mix extends Jackie's fabulous vocal and also the extreme determination of Jackie as she begs for another chance.
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Cissy Strut - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Meters
Known as The Funky Meters these musicians created a sound in the 60's which was considered the earliest funk around. It was one of the first 45 records that I would hear my sister, Lolly playing in her bedroom and teaching the "Cissy Strut" to friends. The guitars licks have always entranced me - a very wicked groove. The essence of funk!
This ReStructure is dedicated to "funk" - without it dance music would not be where it is today - and also my sister, Lolly and thanking her for playing so much music when we were younger and enticing me into its joy and pleasure.
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We All Need Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Troiano
Domenic Michele Antonio Troiano (passed May 2005) was a Canadian rock guitarist. His solo LP "Fret Fever" from 1979 contained a big dance floor hit - "We All Need Love". The track is a wonderful disco song with a great theme and meaning.
Released as a 12 Inch single on Capitol Records the song has become an underground disco classic - covered a few times by Karen J. Ann and Double You.
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Domenic for leaving a beautiful song and feeling on the dance floor for us to remember him by.
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Dim All The Lights - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
The Queen Of Disco and her hit, "Dim All The Lights" from 1979 gets a whole new uplift along with a new mood - more underground and outward.
The song comes from her "Bad Girls" double LP and is one of the finest productions by Moroder and a fascinating vocal by Summer. It remains a favorite among devout fans and is easy to understand when you hear the slick production and of course, Donna's intro note held into the beats.
Dedicated to Donna Summer fans everywhere!
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I Can't Turn You Loose - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Anthony White
Big disco track from Anthony White - the 1977 Salsoul hit, "I Can't Turn You Loose" is a standard classic for hardcore disco clubs.
White who recorded with Philadelphia International throughout mid 70's hits a big target with disco stomper. It was arranged by Ron Kersey and produced by Earl Young. The track is a cover of the Otis Redding 1967 hit - which later became the entrance music to the film, "The Blues Brothers".
This one is ReStructured to add an extended feel to the song as well as capture that high energy disco energy.
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Under Your Spell - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Phyllis Hyman
Phyllis Hyman was one of the most promising vocalists of the late 70's - with tracks like "Loving You, Losing You" and "You Know How To Love Me" it was obvious that this diva knew what she was doing. She may have been reached the top where she belonged but you would never know by hearing her recordings.
"Under Your Spell" was the second single from "You Know How To Love Me" and had the production magic of James Mtume and Reggie Lucas - who worked magic with Stephanie Mills.
I have taken "Under Your Spell" and extended the beautiful and lyrical outline along with a few new beat tracks and effects.
This mix goes out to "Cleopatra1985" from YouTube - thank you for your wonderful comments and also for requesting another remix from this "Goddess Of Love"!
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Are You Ready - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Center Stage
Christine Wiltshire became the disco diva of the Paradise Garage following her hit, "Weekend" with Patrick Adams' Phreek. This was not Wiltshire's first involvement with dance music - she began with studio groups like Musique, Poussez!, and Aural Exciters.
In 1980 she produced the 12" single "Are You Ready"/"Never" by Class Action - it was disco energy all over again - following the drop in demand in the US. The song was still a hit on dance floors and that was all that mattered.
This ReStructure is dedicated to my dear friend, Michael R. from San Diego - it is one of his favorites and also, mine!
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Over and Over - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvester
Producer Harvey Fuqua (New Birth - "Until It's Time For You To Go") worked with Sylvester to break open the doors of discotheques with a glorious style of disco and personality. This edge was accepted well in 1977 as disco music began to creep from underground to the top.
"Over and Over" captures the true essence of the underground feel of disco music and sets a classic in stone. Sylvester's powerful vocal never left a song to its own. This is displayed very well here.
I have listened to a dear friend, Dan B. of San Diego (Cindy P.) and made a small attempt to re-work a difficult track. Although I explain, it is more a concept and also the point to keep classic disco music alive. (Whew!)
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Dancing In My Feet - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Laura Taylor
Disco music was the sound that began to influence media and social venues - it was not long after the "fever" started to ignite that music began to reflect the mood and aura that nightlife offered.
"Dancing In My Feet" was Laura Taylor's 1978 release - which became the theme for a disco dance show called "Disco Magic". The song was everything that disco offered for the time. The heavy percussion, funky guitars and light chorus ensemble (with Laura in there somewhere).
I have taken this classic track and chopped and re-pasted it in a new fashion as well as create a few more breaks and segues into the verses.
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to my friend, Dan Joseph (from TK Records) with thanks for his stories and disco energy.
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The Best Disco In Town - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Ritchie Family
From Jacques Morali and Ritchie Rome comes the track that made dance floors believe in disco music.
"The Best Disco In Town" is now a standard that continues to bring the uplifting feel of dance music to a present time - complete with the strings and ensemble that made the 70's a happier place.
This ReStructure Mix take the track and breaks it down with a few surprise that made the dance floor such a unique place.
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Symphony Of Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Miquel Brown
Miquel Brown released her first disco project in 1978 with "Symphony Of Love" - the production was handled by Alan Hackshaw (Love De Luxe) who used many of the musicians from the Love and Kisses, Voyage and Cerrone recordings.
This LP did quite well during its time and "Symphony Of Love" is one of the track that is most memorable. Miquel went on in the early 80's to record with disco producer extraordinaire, Ian Levine and brought us classics like "So Many Men, So Little Time" and "Close To Perfection".
I have ReStructured "Symphony Of Love" with some new drums tracks and taking advantage of the lovely vocals, bass and lead guitars.
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One Nation Under A Groove - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Funkadelic
The funk...the whole funk and nothing but the funk.
Funkadelic is George Clinton, William Collins, Garry Shider and Bernie Worrell - the funk of the 70's was introduced once again with "One Nation Under A Groove" - from the LP by the same name. Too much and too funky!
This ReStructure gives the track a few new instances with some beats and laid back bass - a tribute to the 1978 track that keeps the nation moving to that funky groove!
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Automat - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Automat
Automat is a electro-disco and ambient production from 1978. It was programmed by Mario Maggi and produced and composed by Claudio Gizzi.
The track has elements of Kraftwerk and a bit of sequencer bits similar to Giorgio Moroder. It has always been more of an underground record which makes it more appealing.
I have ReStructured pieces of the "Automat" medley and added new beats, percussion and rhythm tracks to enhance the flow.
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Rene S. in Rotterdam - thanks Rene for all of your support and energy.
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Kung Fu Fighting - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carl Douglas
Jamaican born singer Carl Douglas began his career in the 60's with a group titled Carl Douglas and The Big Stampede - their hit "Crazy Feeling" was a chart entry.
"Kung Fu Fighting" was released in 1974 and became an instant hit on dance floors and radio everywhere. The LP "Kung Fu Fighter" was produced by Biddu and was the funkiest music around at the time.
This ReStructure takes the track back to the action-packed dance and adds a few more beat elements and loops some of the fantastic guitar and wah-wah effect riffs.
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The Main Event - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Barbara Streisand
Bob Esty produced Cher's "Take Me Home" and also several Paul Jabara projects - it was not long after that his disco magic created an atmosphere for singers like Andy Williams ("Love Story") and Barbara Streisand.
"The Main Event" is from the film of the same title and was a big dance floor hit in 1979. The track had the essence of the lighter edge of disco music and contained a well performed Barbara.
I have ReStructured the track to give it more of a club-dub flavor and also extended some of the wonderful string elements - everything that makes it disco!
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Disco Choo Choo - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nightlife Unlimited
The Canadian disco explosion was a during the mid and late 70's when a formula had been extracted from years of dance floor action - it was obvious that the break was no longer added - it was essential.
Bands like Nightlife Unlimited created dance floor pieces that were with every aspect of disco in mind. It was then that scattered percussion and synthesizers were in song and not just the mix itself.
"Disco Choo Choo" is from the LP "Nightlife Unlimited" from 1979 - produced by George Cucuzzella and Peter Dimilo of Erotic Drum Band success.
I have taken "Disco Choo Choo" and given it some news "tracks" to ride on - adding a couple of snippets from the fantastic soundtrack of the 1976 adventure film, "Silver Streak" by Henry Mancini. It is a disco flowing trip!
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Happiness - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pointer Sisters
A warm up period for The Pointer Sisters was the early and late 70's before their pop-diva stature took effect with tracks like "Jump" and"I'm So Excited". It was easily understandable with tracks like "Happiness" from 1978. It was obvious their vocals were a stamp on any track the touched.
"Happiness" was a huge hit in clubs and maintained the feel of disco-funk along with soulful vocals. It was not long after that this track was featured as a forerunner in gay dance clubs as an anthem.
I have re-worked the gals with a many new breaks and extended some of the riffs that make this song funk, yet very disco elegance!
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Love Injection - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Trussel
A big funk dance track from 1979, which is now considered one of the top disco songs of all time.
"Love Injection" comes from Trussel - a band whose talents and energy were to catapult them to fame. Unfortunately, their label did not take advantage of the promise.
Trussel consisted of Bill McGee, Ron Smith, Larry Tynes, Michael Gray, Herman Maclin, Hannon Lane, Lynwood Jones, Michael Spratley, Veronica Jones, Junius Dyson - we have much of their work to cement their talent and groove.
I have taken "Love Injection" and broken it up into parts and added some new rhythm tracks as well as constructed a few new breaks from original elements.
This ReStructure Mix dedicated to Paul from The Netherlands
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Fly Too High - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Janis Ian
Talented singer-songwriter, Janis Ian took a brief turn into disco along with the master himself - Giorgio Moroder in 1979 with "Fly Too High". The single is from her LP titled, "Night Rains" - the track was also featured on the soundtrack from the film, "Foxes" the same year.
The song's original laid back sound is challenged in this ReStructure Mix with a touch of a few new elements and a re-looping of the tracks magic. It is one of the most intriguing not only for the recording history but also the wonder of how Moroder's magic synthesizers and keyboards worked in many ways.
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I'll Be Yours - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lime
Denis and Denyse Lapage are Lime and took over dance floors in 1980 with their single "Your Love" - it was a return to a high energy dance arrangement with an innovative electronic twist (pardon the pun).
"I'll Be Yours" is from their LP released in 1981 - another big club hit which has every aspect of Lepage's style and efforts. Ominous bass and a dramatic string arrangement.
I have moved in on this song by piecing together the horns and strings with the percussion again, but in a new order and secession.
This ReStructure is dedicated to one of Lime's most dedicated fans, Dominique. Thank you, Dominique for keeping the essence of Lime fresh and alive!
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Walking On Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Jacques Band
1978 launches the attack on dance floors from producer Jacques Fred Petrus and Mauro Malavasi!
"Fire Night Dance" is a dynamite disco production featuring the turning point for both the sound of disco and dancers needs! Breaks were solidified and emphasized as energy and a creative flow.
I have taken "Walking On Music" and chopped and pasted the high points and created many breakdowns and additional production. This track moves that a hurricane and is one of my all-time favorites!
Dedicated to the die-hard disco fans - never let the uplifting beat stop!
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Mercy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carol Jiani
Carol Jiani's 1981 masterpiece of dance floor candy, "Mercy" is given the ReStructure treatment.
And deservingly so, Carol is still working her magic and giving very much to the disco/retro community. This is what disco divas are made of!
Thank you, Carol - this is dedicated lovingly to you.
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I Like You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Phyllis Nelson
Phyllis Nelson scored a disco hit with "Don't Stop The Train" in 1980 - this incredible driving dance floor track made her instantly recognizable. Following a few more singles came her 1985 blockbuster club hit, "I Like You".
The song was mixed by Shep Pettibone with an exacting break and outlined arrangement which made it big everywhere.
I have taken a request from Dean and Rick in Australia to make "I Like You" a ReStructure track. I have scraped the 12" and found the pieces of the song which keep the residue alive. The arrangement is now back and forth - but the song emphasizes the same mood and words.
Dedicated to Rick and Dean - with disco energy and care :)
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I Got My Mind Made Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Instant Funk
Bunny Sigler, Raymond Earl, Kim Miller, Scotty Miller and Dennis Richardson are Instant Funk - so funky!
"I Got My Mind Made Up" was the big surprise in 1978 for discotheques - a funk and percussion driven exchange of sensual excitement. This one started the "Say What" phrase all over the place. It was pure excitement. This one has the big prize for taking disco music of a whole new ride.
This ReStructure takes the track into a new realm with a looping that accentuates the driving percussion track and a few of the keyboard and horn elements.
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99 1/2 - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Alton McClain & Destiny
Alton McClain & Destiny's ("It Must Be Love") second project was released in 1980 - produced by Frank E. Wilson and John Footman - a soulful dance LP with some great tracks.
A cover of "Hang On In There Baby" featuring Johnny Bristol, "Love Waves" and "99 1/2" the big floor stomper. Although "99 1/2" was never remixed for the dance floor it still received some play in clubs. It was also recorded for the soundtrack of "Breakin" in 1984 by Carol Lynn Townes.
This ReStructure adds allot of percussion and claps and extends the bass guitars and dramatic vocals by the girls!
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Master Piece - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gazebo
Paul Mazzolini is Gazebo - a very talented Italian singer/musician.
His productions include one of my favorite Italo-disco tracks, "Give Me" by Range - but there are many projects he has touched with his genius. "Master Piece" being one of his most successful, as Gazebo.
"I Like Chopin", "Lunatic" and "Sun Goes Down On Milky Way" being several memorable songs from this production group.
I have take one of the earliest Italo-disco sensations and ReStructured it by piecing and looping areas that have touched me most. It is a great track - and a "masterpiece" on it's own.
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Tomorrow - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cappuccino
The beauty of pure disco music is explored here in Danilo Vaona's "Tomorrow" by Cappuccino - many hardcore jocks are familiar with the the deep disco track "He'll Dance With Me". This song is the lighter side of lyrical disco. It sounds much like The Supreme's material of the early 70's. It is a wonderful production from Spain.
The guitars and strings flow magically are are enhanced in this ReStructure Mix for an extended and enriched version. This request came from Agustin - and is dedicated to him.
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On Your Knees - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Grace Jones
From the 1979 LP "Muse" comes "On Your Knees" - the most sadistic of all Grace Jones' recordings - but the sweetest revenge.
Produced by Tom Moulton and arranged by Thor Baldursson - this one pulls every inch of Grace onto the dance floor with power and seduction. It was a hit in the discotheques for it's time and now ReStructured to teach us all a lesson about making it right the first time.
Backing vocals are provided by Barbara Ingram, Carl Helm, Carla Benson and Evette Benton.
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Touch My Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Madleen Kane
Swedish disco star, Madleen Kane started as a model - she was perfect for disco music with her luscious physique and sensual approach at emphasizing lyrics.
Her first LP titled "Rough Diamond" was released in 1978 - produced by Jean-Claude Friederich. The project was a disco rolled into a sexy package. Not only did "Rough Diamond" become a disco classic, there were a few more tracks destined for underground preference. "Touch My Heart" is a mid-tempo "love fest" that is as close to the alluring feel of disco music of the time.
The strings and bass in this song were the lure for myself to create an alternative ReStructure Mix and keep Madleen's image alive for others to experience.
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Turn The Music Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Players Association
In 1977 The Player's Association joined "disco fever" with their LP "Born To Dance" - produced by Danny Weiss - the band included some great musicians: Bob Berg, Bob Mover, Chris Hills, Danny Weiss, David Earle Johnson, David Sanborn, Herb Bushler, James Mtume, Joe Farrell, Jon Faddis, Karl Ratzer, Michael Brecker, Mike Mandel, Pat Rebillot, Ray Mantilla, Steve Khan, Tom Harrell, and Wilbur Bascomb.
"Turn The Music Up" is from the LP with te same title released in 1979 during the boom of dance music. Is was a jazz and soul filled track with dance floors in mind.
I have taken pieces of the song and created a stomping arrangement with some chopping to release the energy in the right places.
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Music, Harmony and Rhythm - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Brooklyn Dreams
Brooklyn Dreams is Bruce Sudano, Eddie Hokenson and Joe Esposito - the trio were the leading male ensemble to bring disco music to a wanting crowd in the late 70's.
"Music, Harmony and Rhythm" is from their self titled LP and is one of the most beautiful disco tracks very recorded. It emphasizes a celebration of this gift we call music. The production is perfection with it's thumping bass guitars and swirling strings. And with the boys serenading us you can't lose.
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Everybody Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chic
Chic is the Beethoven of disco music.
Productions such as "Dance, Dance, Dance", "Freak Out" and "Good Times" are pinnacle of the dance era and continue to create the overall emphasis of disco music.
"Everybody Dance" is from the 1977 LP "Chic" and has always been dynamite for the dance floor. Bass guitars and slick vocals keep this one moving from start to finish.
My ReStructure Mix works the track into a new arrangement and added accents to bring the wonder back to these talented musicians, as well as all of you fabulous dancers!
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TSOP (The Sound Of Philadelphia) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - MFSB featuring The Three Degrees
Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff assembled a group of musicians who have worked at taking 70's soul into a new direction. "Love Is The Message" released in 1973 played a big influential part of dance music and the polishing of grooves and rhythms for a new dance era.
"TSOP" is a track which was released as the "Theme from Soul Train" since it opened and closed the show. The track is a balance of studio sessions with some of the industries most talented players. Many who began working through the mid and late seventies on various projects in disco music.
This ReStructure takes the song into an extended arena where new beats and percussion trickle a little fairness to work behind the magic!
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Our Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
Our Love" is a track, which is a love song, set to the fabulous music of Giorgio Moroder along with the alluring vocals of Donna Summer.
It is truly one of the disco music's most innovative and lasting attempts on the dance floor. There is a very strong emotional piece left behind with both Moroder's music and Donna's vocals. A recognizable part of this song may be the beat tracks, which definitely were the inspiration for New Order's "Blue Monday".
This ReStructure Mix was executed with a minimal of new elements added and only original parts left intact and re-wired.
Dedicated to Bob T. of Centereach, NY.
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I Am What I Am - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Village People
(FILE NOT AVAILABLE - OWNER OF THIS SONG HAS REQUESTED THIS FILE BE REMOVED)
In 1977 Jacques Morali brought his concept to life - a chorus line of men dressed as stereo-types in the machismo world. Village People was born and has since been embedded in history.
Their second LP "Macho Man" from 1978 embraced the idea where a gay overtone was more than present. It was a period where disco music began to unify all stereotypes as fun and freedom. Quite an accomplishment for a genre of music.
"I Am What I Am" is a track that pulls the concept out and glorifies it as deep as it gets - I have always believed it myself. Victor Willis makes the message loud and clear as the boys (Randy Jones, David Hodo, Felipe Rose, Glenn Hughes and Alex Briley) make the shout out heard.
This ReStructure extends the original LP version and adds some new pounding beats into the arena. It is dedicated to Mr. Randy Jones - thank you for being who you are, Randy!
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A Fifth Of Beethoven - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Walter Murphy Band
In 1976, The Walter Murphy Band transformed Beethoven's Fifth Symphony into a pop-disco classic in a very creative outline. Moving the strings on board a funky keyboard foundation, Murphy created a lasting and classic feel for dance music and an innovative time.
This ReStructure was a thought in my mind to bring the well-known track back and extend it's sharp string sections over a new beat and arrangement. It will be trip back down to the dance floor that will have you feeling classical all over again.
Dedicated to Walter Murphy and his continued success with his "Family Guy" theme!
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Doin' The Best That I Can - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bettye LaVette
Disco classics have a sound all of their own - it is obvious that Bettye LaVette's "Doin' The Best That I Can" is one that stands alone. Not only are the lyrics the most emotional and thought provoking - they are timeless. For anyone who has ever been hopelessly in love this one is a powerhouse!
A favorite of mine since it first echoed through a discotheque at the age of 16, this one holds allot for heart for me. Bettye LaVette has been recording since 1962 and her return for the disco era is an event.
Produced by Cory Robbins and Eric Matthew who were also responsible for bringing Sharon Redd alive in Front Page's "Love Insurance" in 1979. Matthew as well with his productions and band, Gary's Gang have always been praised for his excellence.
This ReStructure utilizes the original Mark Sameth 12" mix and works a new percussion track weaving it with a whole new arrangement - respect and long lasting honor for the Walter Gibbons remix also (which is not used here).
For Cory Robbins, Eric Matthew and Ms. LaVette - who have created a classic for all to hold close to heart.
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(Looking For Someone To Love) Tonight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Technique
A salute to Michael J. Lewis - a very important disc jockey in the San Francisco area - responsible for bringing disco music back on top of the disc jockey forum in the early 80's. His production of Technique on Arial Records in 1983 was a burst of disco energy with the title track "Can We Try Again" - which was mistaken many time in clubs and the circuit as Abba.
"(Looking For Someone To Love) Tonight" is an early morning track with a pumping synthesizer giving life to a yearning piece of art. Written by Muff Murfin who also wrote "Life Is The Reason" by Norma Lewis. The song is a serenade of disco trance energy and would fulfill the heart of any fan dancer.
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Michael Lewis who passed sadly for us all in 1988 - his energy and dedication is felt all over this one.
Thank you, Mike!
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Pop Musik - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - M
At the end of the disco era there were many impressions left with this period of technology and dance being an area that seemed to effect everyone. Robin Scott under the name of M, took all of the trends and rolled it into one nu-wave/disco track - "Pop Musik".
It was ingenious!
This song leaves many with the memory of crossover from disco to a full electronic dance era. It is appropriate even today with technology moving very quickly and touching us all.
My ReStructure Mix adds some new flavor and a whole new emphasis on "Pop Muzik" - it was one of those tracks that pulled me into the realization of what disco music was becoming. A great time period.
Dedicated lovingly to my sister, Lolly - one of favorite songs and also one jam she would love to dance to. For you, Lolly - enjoy!
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(Everybody's) Dancing All Over The World - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Busta Jones
This beautiful track is "discorama"! It justifies the beat in it's completeness and style.
Gino Soccio co-produced this project along with bass guitarist, Busta Jones who has played along with Talking Heads and Brian Eno. His fabulous work can be heard on the Bombers 2 project - no mistaking his masterful bass lines from "Everybody Get Dancing" and "Pistolero"! Killer work!
Soccio's magic is sprinkled all over the gem - it is a masterpiece.
My ReStructure is for Michael R. of San Diego - who I recall dancing to this at WCPC here in San Diego back in "the day" - it is one of favorite tracks..."In gay Paree...where the people are funky and chic!" Oh yes!
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Got You Where I Want You Babe - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stereo Fun Inc.
Elton Farokh Ahi again pulls of a disco extravaganza with Stereo Fun Inc. - it is the closest to his Destination ("Move On Up") to perfection that time has captured.
"Got You Where I Want You Babe" is a magically flowing track with all of that which is disco: a pulsating percussion track, funky lead guitars, horns, swirling strings and a beautiful female lead vocal. This is where touch disco needs to be.
This track emerged in 1983 on Moby Dick Records in the US and saved dance floors by returning to the pure sound of disco/dance music. My ReStructure Mix is a tribute to Moby Dick Records and Bill Motley - the man behind Boystown Gang.
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Great Expectations - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - First Choice
First Choice may have fooled you. They are the longest running female ensembles - since 1973. But with each album they sound fresh and new.
"Hold Your Horses" was their LP released in 1979 - following the title single released a year earlier. The LP featured "Great Expectations" - produced by Mr. Tom Moulton and played by Munich's finest musicians. The strings in the track may sound a bit like Madleen Kane's "Rough Diamond" - many of the same players are involved - thank goodness.
"Great Expectations" is a promise of love and the outlook of a something wonderful to come - a fantastic song. My ReStructure is a tribute to the peculating synthesizer and jolting strings. It is a favorite of mine and I dedicate to Mr. Tom Moulton.
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Come On And Get It On - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Soccer
Tony Valor began producing and arranging dance music in 1975 - his productions were closest to the sound of New York disco with the sophistication of Philadelphia dance productions.
Soccer is a group that Valor put together keeping intact much of the sound he created with his Tony Valor Orchestra productions. There is a progression in Tony's style and attitude towards disco music that can be felt in his latter productions in Fantasy ("You're Too Late") and Soccer.
"Come On And Get It On" is a groovy disco number that has always been a favorite of mine - and has one of the most beautiful sweeping strings sections that I could not help accentuate in this ReStructure Mix.
Dedicated to Tony Valor and his never ending talent and dedication to disco music. Check out Tony at his current music site at: http://www.tvirecords.com
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Erotic Soul - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Larry Page Orch
Long before Erotic Drum Band and the fusion of jungle rhythms, jazz and disco music - there was Larry Page Orch. In 1977 his LP "Erotic Soul" was a whole new sound - the emphasis of rhythms, congas, strings and orchestral movements to a disco arrangement - along with funky keyboards and guitars.
"Erotic Soul" was a song I would hear back in 1978 at a teenage disco here in San Diego - and when those strings came in and echoed throughout the club I knew I was in love. It was one of the finest moments of hearing similar sounds of the symphonic elements of Alec R. Costandinos and Boris Midney set to percussive beats.
This ReStructure pays homage to the disco instrumental - the drum beats and fantastic breakdowns. It was more that excitement for me when I was introduced to this original concept - it was love.
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Love Will Always Find You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
From the height of disco - when nothing seemed to go wrong - the "Bad Girls" LP by Donna Summer was a complete disco package. With tracks like "Hot Stuff", "Sunset People", "Walk Away", ""Our Love" who could turn their ears away?
"Love Will Always Find You" is a track featured on side one and always had the ability to life a dance floor higher with Donna's rock edged vocal, Giorgio Moroder's magic moog synth and those Munich horns! It is a true classic on it's own.
I have taken "Love Will Always Find You" to another level with a ReStructure Mix that leads to a closing break with some mechanical madness.
This version is dedicated to "Summer" Gus - who reminded me that this track should not sit on the shelf gettin' dusty!
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Love It Up Tonight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peaches and Herb
Peaches and Herb had been around long before their disco hit, "Shake Your Groove Thing" in 1978 - they have been recording since 1967. It was their dance floor in discotheques that unleashed more promise for the pair.
The LP "2 Hot!" produced, written and arranged by Freddie Perren that exploded during the disco boom. "Love It Up Tonight" is a track from the LP which took back seat - but had more than enough juice to work an floor. This upbeat and magical number is taken into a new remix with more kick and trickle of percussion as well as more of that wonderful Perren production.
Dedicated by Saleem - who also has an affection for this track - ReStructured for him for a return to the sweet disco formula!
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Miami Heatwave - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Seventh Avenue
Seventh Avenue is an early project produced by Ian Levine - from the 1979 LP "Midnight In Manhattan" comes "Miami Heatwave". A disco track that has been covered by "Love Twins" in 1982 with a similar production by Levine along with music genius, Rick Gianatos.
Later, in the 80's Seventh Avenue was repackaged for pop-success which they actually made AM radio in the US with "The Love I Lost" - great accomplishment for a disco band in the 80's.
The track is a beautiful disco track and I am taken pieces of both the percussion tracks, verses and choruses to shape the song into a fast moving dance number. Many of the strong points are here - much of the strings, which I love were excluded for this mix.
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Action Satisfaction - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Melody Stewart
Joe La Greca and Joe Marandola whose production include projects by Hydro, MTL Express, Kat Mandu, Carol Jiani, Caroline Bernier are at their highest level of energy along with Melody Stewart.
"Action Satisfaction" is the energy of the late 80's and also a groove bringing on the high energy feel of the 80's - a wonderful track that never lets up. "Get Down, Get Down" is another single by Stewart and these kings that is disco history.
I have stripped pieces of the track and looped others to give a opportunity for this track to "let you feet feel the beat!"
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Nighttime Fantasy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Vicki Sue Robinson
Vicki Sue Robinson became an overnight sensation on the club scene during the mid-70's - following the release of "Turn The Beat Around" in 1976 it was no surprise. The song is still a dance floor classic.
Sadly, Vicki Sue left us in 2000. Her music continues to bring us face-to-face with the sound of disco's power and ominous effect.
"Nighttime Fantasy" is form the 1979 soundtrack of "Nocturna" - it is quite a track for Vicki Sue - her vocals are right at home. And along with a fantastic arrangement and production by Norman Bergen (Ralph Carter, Danny Bonaduce)and Reid Whitelaw (Moment Of Truth) this track is a wonderful piece of dance music.
I have ReStructured the track for a new intro and break - it was a please and was done for Edison of Mexico - I know this has a special meaning and I hope that it captures that wonderful moment again.
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Body Language - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Spinners
Spinners started entertaining in 1961 and recorded many hit – “It’s A Shame” in 1970, “Could It Be I’m Falling In Love” in 1972, “Then Came You” in 1974, “The Rubberband Man” in 1976- their LP “Dancin’ and Lovin” from 1979 was produced by Michael Zager and Jerry Love.
The LP had 2 big dance floor hits: “Working My Way Back To You” and “Body Language” – this is the spotlight for the follow-up hit, “Body Language” – Zager himself added his own personal touch with a segment from his earlier hit, “Let’s All Chant” (1977).
The track came as a request from Saleem S. from KY – it has been re-worked for him and dedicated to his support and love for disco music.
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Remember - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Vivian Vee
Vivian Vee is the disco diva from Trieste, Italy.
Disco producers Claudio Simonetti and Giancarlo Meo who have given us productions by Easy Going and Capricorn as well as solo projects have always moved the dance floor with innovative keyboards in the early 80’s - here they give the same treatment to Vee.
“Remember” is most know as the B-side to Vee’s “Give Me A Break” in 1980 – however the track was released in 1979 on a self-titled LP. The song is an operatic and haunting track with some excellent layers on keyboards and synthesizers.
I have re-edit pieces of the song and reshaped the intro and breaks. A bit hard to take this into a new phase since I loved the original so much – this is merely an attempt o keep it alive.
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Back Together Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Roberta Flack featuring Donny Hathaway
Roberta Flack gives the dance floor a funky dance track called "Back Together Again" from her LP with Donny Hathaway - this one is a contagious rhythm experience complete with exuberant horns and a slick rhythm guitar.
This one come requested by my sister, Lolly and Stella - the real dancers who love the music.
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Tangerine - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Salsoul Orchestra
In 1975, Vincent Montana, Jr. produced the LP that began a whole new sound for disco music - the orchestrated sound of Philly. This became a pivotal time for music - it was sophisticated and soulful.
"Tangerine" was written by Victor Schertzinger and lyrics written by Johnny Mercer in 1941 - the song was recorded by the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra and became a standard. The Salsoul Orchestra's recording brought the song to the Top 20 list during it's release.
I have taken the short 4:35 movement and looped a few pieces and back-beat mixed some of the beautiful parts to create a new and un-heard of remix. This hopefully will bring the song a new aura and new ears
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Let's Go Round Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Average White Band
One of the most powerful dance tracks in 1980. Average White Band better known for their jazz-infused tracks like "Pick Up The Pieces" and "Person To Person" this production was a disco-fied pop thanks to David Foster (Lisa Dal Bello, Daryl Hall & John Oates, Deniece Williams ("I've Got The Next Dance"), and Bill Champlin).
This is a soaring number that utilizes strings, horns and percussion in places where the dance floor needs it most.
My ReStructure is a homage to the end of the disco era of the 70's and in hope that someday we can "go round again..."
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Don't Stop Till You Get Enough - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Michael Jackson
Where you when you first heard Michael Jackson's "Don't Stop Till You Get Enough"? Most likely in amazement. This track has and always will be one of the most incredible disco tracks ever.
Produced by Quincy Jones this track has every element of perfection - it multiplies like water into the cracks of the dance floor.
This ReStructure revisits the classic in a few new ways - a beat driven intro and use of some of the points of the song which make it irresistible.
Dedicated in memory of "The King of Pop" - it all went to quickly. Thank goodness your talent will live on in our memory and hearts - thanks to your magic.
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Take Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cerrone
Disco composer and conductor, Cerrone has maintained his stance in disco and dance music for over 30 years. His music has always been presented in a classical form of both arrangement and style. It is no doubt that his music is now looked upon as masterful.
"Take Me" is from the 1977 LP "Cerrone's Paradise" - it is another one of Cerrone's tributes to the femme vocal in ecstasy. It is quite delicious. The album version is more of a lounge trip where my ReStructure breaks down the funkier elements for a deeper experience.
Feel it and never forget it!
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Wasted - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
Donna Summer's released her second project for Oasis/Casablanca in 1976 - produced by Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellotte. "Try Me, I Know We Can Make It" was another side long disco track which became one of Donna's most beautiful vocal performances of her introduction as "First Lady Of Love".
Along with her cover of Barry Manilow's "Could It Be Magic" on the "trilogy" side was "Wasted" - this track was another one of Moroder's fantastic influence of keyboards, bass moog and Donna's silky vocals. The track pulled together the drive of groovy 60's pop and disco music.
I have taken the opportunity to update "Wasted" and add some new percussion elements to pump up the already bouncy rhythm. Also keep alive Donna's original and to me, most satisfying role - "The First Lady Of Love".
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There But For The Grace Of God Go I - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Machine
Machine was a studio disco group formed by August Darnell, previously of Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band and, later in the 1980s, Kid Creole And The Coconuts. "There But For The Grace Of God Go I" is a track from the first LP.
A powerhouse track with innovative synthesizers and an interesting theme - a couple are the proud parents of a newborn and must find a safe place to raise the child. The song is well known and considered a disco classic.
I have taken elements of the track and looped and chopped pieces to create a new experience with this winner. It is quite different.
Dedication to Saleem from KY for requesting a new "working" on "There But For The Grace Of God Go I".
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The Party - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Destination
Elton Farokh Ahi produced and played many instruments on the project "From Beginning To End" by Destination (featuring Danny Lugo on lead vocal). It was truly a heart felt dream for Ahi to bring Destination to fruition.
From this LP came hits, "Move On Up" which brought disco music to it's peak in 1979 - a dance floor hit from the first beat. The entire project was segued with a dance methodology - the intro welcomes us to a trip where dancing is the end result. The closing is "The Party" where horns and percussion bring the dance floor to it's knees.
I have ReStructured the track with a new beat track and few elements brought out to create a whole new "party"!
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Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Night People
A disco lullaby!
"Again" by The Night People was released in 1980 - produced by Dave Crawford (Atlanta Disco Band, Candi Staton, Mighty Clouds of Joy, Judy Clay, Jackie Moore, and Vesta Williams ("Once Bitten, Twice Shy") and Earl Young (The Trammps) who is on lead male vocal.
The song has been released and re-released on several labels and is obviously a song that the dance floor itself keeps alive! The best kind.
ReStructuring this beauty was requested by Loulou from The Netherlands - it is for you, my dear! And a special thanks to DJ Joey L. from NY for supplying me with a great digital version to work with :)
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Half As Nice - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - THP Orchestra
Ian Guenther and Willi Morrison are Canadian producers who brought you disco ensembles Grand Tour, Southern Exposure, Sticky Fingers, The Duncan Sisters, and The Immortals - productions which helped to mature disco music in the mid and late 70's.
THP (Three Hat Productions) is one of their most know studio bands - with "Two Hot For Love" leading the disco explosion, it is no wonder. Their second LP under THP, "Tender Is The Night" featured Phyllis and Helen Duncan (The Duncan Sisters, The Duncans) in the seat of vocals. A match made in disco heaven.
"Half As Nice" is a track from the LP which is a disco song that has made my heart and mind apart of this sound since it's time. I have given the track a bit more of an arrangement with more guitar, bass and strings and a few of the vocal phrases - it is new concept and is outlined to keep this song among the romantic disco tracks of all time.
Dedicated to Rick and Dean of Australia for again, their power of beat and non-stop energy!
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Another Cha Cha - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Santa Esmeralda
Santa Esmeralda has always been the maker of fabulous disco music - "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood", "The House of The Rising Sun" and "Beauty" were disco suites with full orchestral arrangements which made them classics.
"Another Cha Cha" is their fourth release and again presented as a full sided suite - I have take the production by Nicolas Skorsky and Jean Mauel De Scarano and tidied up with a new presentation of those fantastic horns and piano tracks.
Vocals on this project were performed for Jimmy Goings
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Earth Can Be Just Like Heaven - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Two Tons O' Fun
Martha Wash and Izora Rhodes are Two Tons O' Fun - in 1979 producer Harvey Fuqua released their solo LP as they stepped away from Sylvester as backup. The success of the first single, "I Got The Feeling" brought high energy disco music back into their futures. "Earth Can Be Just Like Heaven" was their second track released as a 12" along with a remix by Robbie Leslie.
Later in the early 80's these worshipped divas became "The Weather Girls" after "It's Raining Men" became an instant success.
"Earth Can Be Just Like Heaven" has a strong gospel feel along with a bass line with enough power to light up the night. This ReStructure Mix was requested by Michael R. in San Diego and was a song that we would celebrate in our own hometown during the heyday of disco in 1979. It goes out, once again to Micheal.
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How Long - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lipps, Inc.
Steven Greenberg and Cynthia Johnson worked the late 70's and the 80's as Lipps, Inc. - who hasn't been to "Funkytown" more than once?
Their follow-up LP titled "Pucker Up" had a few surprises for the disco floor - a cover of Ace's "How Long" is another track that created quite a stir with a more ambient approach to energy. An instant hit on dance floors.
This ReStructure Mix takes on a new arrangement and pieces of the original song by Ace - just for a new concept.
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Rick and Dean from Australia - thanks for keeping me on my toes with the beat of disco throughout the millennium boys!
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Cisselin' Hot - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chuck Cissel
"Cisselin' Hot" is one of those tracks you can't help but place in it's own category - it is a smokin' song.
Produced by Skip Scarborough (Con-Funk-Shun) and David N. Crawford (Klique) - and Chuck Cissell being from the original cast of "A Chorus Line" this one has originality and classic scribbled all over the thumping bass and driving rhythm.
A ReStructure Mix brings it back to burn a hole in the dance floor!
Dedicated to my dear friend, Michael R. from San Diego and also Loulou from The Netherlands - "Oh, Loulou could this be from the soundtrack of, "Some Like It Sizzling"? :)
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The Other Side of Midnight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Marsha Hunt
Marsha Hunt was around long before she recorded the disco hit, "The Other Side of Midnight" along with producer Pete Bellotte (Donna Summer, Trax) . Thanks to a fantastic 12" mix by the legendary, Wally McDonald and Peter Frost the song is an early disco classic.
I have ReStructured the track and broke the original concept of a medley "The Other Side Of Midnight" / "Heartache" into a full on mix of "Midnight" with new drums beats and bass loop.
The song pulls the sound of pure disco in it's early phases thanks to a wonderful drum loop and bass line. It is one of Bellote's productions that are among his best.
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Hold On I'm Comin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Karen Silver
Gino Soccio brought many fantastic projects to the disco dance floor - many of them featuring his innovative style of keyboards and synthesizers. This 1979 project was co-produced by John Driscoll and featured one of Soccio's vocalists, Canadian singer, Karen Silver.
This electronic cover of Sam and Dave's 1966 hit, "Hold On I'm Comin'" was one of the disco tracks that featured a bouncy electro flavor with some of Soccio's magic sprinkled throughout.
I have taken the track and given it a new intro and breaks which to me are closer associated with Middle Eastern "belly dancing" - ??? Get out your bills.
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Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Jacksons
No big surprise was that The Jackson's could make dance floors move on automatic during the disco era. Their music was electric.
"Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground)" is a gymnastic approach to the "boogie" and still remains one of their most incredible tracks. Here a light and slightly revised ReStructure Mix pulls the track back on the dance floor to make you "shout" all over again.
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K-Jee - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - MFSB
The magic of Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff helped to create the Philly sound of the early 70's throughout the disco era of "Saturday Night Fever" - the abbreviations actually stand for "Mother - Father - Sister - Brother".
"K-Jee" is a swirling track with one hell of a keyboard riff - I have taken the riff and given it several breakdowns with a new drum base. It is more of a dub more than anything but those Don Renaldo horns and Salsoul-like strings are still in place.
This cut was featured on the "Saturday Night Fever" soundtrack.
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Do Ya Wanna Get Funky With Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Brown
Peter Brown was one of the earliest innovators of dance music - in 1977 he created for Henry Stone's label Drive Records a project titled "Do Ya Wanna Get Funky With Me' which brought dance floors to their feet.
"Dance With Me" and "You Should Do It" were only the start on this disco sensation - "Do Ya Wanna Get Funky With Me" is an old school classic and still remains one of the most unique dance tracks ever!
My ReStructure revisits the song with a new back beat and several loops and drag out moments that are guaranteed to make you remember...or never forget.
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Let Your Body Shine - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Munich Machine
Giorgio Moroder assembled Munich Machine in 1977 as a group of musicians that would accompany many of the vocalists and projects he was producing - with the success of the first 2 LPs "Get On The Funk Train" and "A Whiter Shade Of Pale" there was a bit more to explore.
The third LP released in 1979 was another Moroder production and featured several tracks in a more disco-acoustic style. "Let Your Body Shine" is the main cut from the LP titled, "Body Shine". This track fared well - yet at the end of the disco era never reached it full potential.
My ReStructure Mix pulls the track into an mild electro sound with added techno effects and an extended arrangement.
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Magic Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Michele
Michele is a 1977 disco artist from France - her LP "Magic Love" is a funky experience of the dance floor. Produced by Pierre Jaubert and Tom Moulton - this project has some of the grooviest tracks.
The title track "Magic Love" is ReStructured here with more of its bass lines and lead guitars staying in place - along with the backing vocals of The Sweethearts Of Sigma. This re-edit is more of an opportunity to feel a sound in disco that helped to define a movement in the genre itself.
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Life Is The Reason - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Norma Lewis
Norma Lewis began as Marsha Raven ("I Like Plastic", "Catch Me (I'm Falling In Love") and Charade ("Got To Get To You") then later began a continuous list of high energy classics in the 80's - including "I'm Into Your Love (Into Your Love)", "Maybe This Time", "For All We Know", "The Fight (For The Single Family)", "Surprise Me Tonight", "Victim Of Love" and recently a cover of "Someone That I Used To Love".
Quite an 80's diva!
This ReStructure of "Life Is The Reason" extends the pumping keyboards and thumping percussion and gives Norma's message a meaning that exceeds the dance floor. I have always felt the power of the chorus in the song and wish the same to all of those who look at life as sole purpose of our individuality. It is the beauty of the world and should never be suppressed. Love life!
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Gambling On Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jessica Williams
Jessica Williams is the powerhouse diva of discotheques. Her affiliation to the success of disco music has been proved time and time again with her vocals added. With groups such as Arpeggio ("Love and Desire"), Romance ("Dance My Way Into Your Heart"), The Simon Orchestra ("Mr Big Shot") and French Kiss ("We're The Right Combination"). Under the production of Simon Soussan, Jessica is to disco music what The Supremes were to the Motown era - dedication and a sound that is unique.
"Gambling On Your Love" is a track from the 1979 LP "Queen Of Fools" - a 4 track project which motivated dance floors to feel the completeness of the production. With a double force of percussion, drums and bass that played an inspiration to the UK high energy sound of the 80's.
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Jessica and her husband, John Williams - two of the talented individuals in the music scene.
WATCH JESSICA'S "MINGLE WITH THE NIGHT" VIDEO RELEASE AUGUST 2008
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I'm Free - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Celi Bee
Celi Bee best known for her disco hits "Superman", "Macho (A Real, Real One)" and "Fly Me On The Wings On Love" her formula was sweet and always enticing. In the early 80's Celi Bee returned with "I'm Free" produced by Ray Martinez(Amant, Passion). The track was originally featured on a Ray Martinez and Friends 12" EP called "Lady Of The Night" and was produced with a complete electronic feel.
This track was quite popular at a time where allot of high energy in the US was scarce. Along with Martinez's wonderful rippling synthesizers and Celi's tender vocal the song made quite a statement for disco music.
This ReStructure gives the track a few more breakdowns a an alternative arrangement.
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Pump It Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fever
One of the big surprises in 1979 was the release of Fever - produced by Dale Reed along with Marty Blechman (Megatone Records) and John Hedges. This production had pieces of everything happening on the dance floors and more.
Patrick Cowley supplied the classic synthesizers along with Tip Wirrick on guitars - this ensemble of the "know how of disco music" was evident and had the immediate support of DJs like, Bobby Vitteritti, Steve Fabus, Michael Garrett and many of the big dudes from B.A.D.D.A. (Bay Area Disco DJ Association).
With the release of the segued 2 sided power tracks this is now a disco gem still "pumping" along!
My ReStructure Mix of "Pumsp It Up" extends those fabulous vocals by the one time ensemble of Clydene Jackson, Julian Tillman Waters and Maxine Willard Waters.
Dedicated to the man himself, Mr. John Hedges - thanks for making the dance floor dependant on your work!
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The Visitors - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio
Gino Soccio has created an impact in music history - not only have his disco hits never strayed far from the minds of audiophiles, but the innovation of his music lives on. In 1979 "Outline" was Soccio's first solo release - not only are "Dancer" and "Dance To Dance" dance gems. "The Visitors" was a track on the LP which was taken and released with a 12" remix with both English and French vocal and a electronic show that still moves like magic.
In taking this cut and attempting to reshape it into a ReStructure Mix I looked carefully at the eerie feel this song has along with the masterful keyboards and sequencers. I believe the mix is more of a headphone and kick back experience - intended to take you where eyes look down on our planet and wonder when the right time is.
Dedicated to VJC, DJ Joey Luciano, Gary from Saint Paul and Rene S. - who keep the mystique of disco music alive.
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You + Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Undisputed Truth
Taka Boom (Chaka Khan's little sister) joined The Undisputed Truth in 1976 and with Norman Whitfield producing, arranging and engineering helped to make the LP "Method To The Madness" an incredible feat.
"You + Me" is the track that hit disco floors and made funk as danceable as ever. The track is now considered one classic among hardcore funk and disco addicts. Taka Boom's vocals are like an alarm clock after a long night of dancing.
I ReStructured the track to split the synthesizer riff into a new beat and mixed up a few of the movements to create a whole new piece of dance track. Enjoy!
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Do Or Die - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Grace Jones
Grace Jones! Grace Jones! Grace Jones!
She has made us all "slaves to the rhythm" - her first single in 1975, "I Need A Man" introduced to discotheque a style and sound that has since survived through 2 generations and continues on.
"Do Or Die" is a classic disco track that will surprise many on how wonderful the rhythm and arrangement still works. Produced by the master, Mr. Tom Moulton this track, as well as the LP are perfection.
Grace will be here to remind of us how "chic" and unique disco music really is.
This ReStructure Mix is a birthday present for Loulou of The Netherlands - HAPPY BIRTHDAY LOULOU! This "Grace" is for you.
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Let The Music Play - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Shannon
Brenda "Shannon" Greene along with producers, Chris Barbosa, Mark Liggett and Rod Hui created a sound for the early 80's that again created excitement on dance floors everywhere. The release of "Let The Music Play" in 1983 made the street beat of New York a sensation.
The track is now considered an old school classic - helping to bridge the gap between disco music and street beat dance.
This ReStructure is a loop fantasy of original beat sections and a barrage of new breaks and vocals breakdowns!
Let it play!
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The Ultimate Warlord - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Little Casper and The MX's
"The Ultimate Warlord" seems like a staple from the early 80's dance era. In 1981 it was recorded by The Immortals (Produced by Willi Morrison and Ian Guenther / THP Productions). The same year it was released on JDC Records and recorded by Little Casper and The MX's. Both versions were electronic tracks and bring to mind the keyboard wizardry that was created for disco by Giorgio Moroder in the mid and late 70's.
This ReStructure Mix of "The Ultimate Warlord" was requested by Rene S. in The Netherlands - he preferred the JDC release. This is an alternative mix with more of an outline on the imaginary implications of this creature.
Dedicated to Rene and a special thanks to all of his support.
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Bad Bad Boy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Theo Vaness
Theo Vaness became one of disco most distinctive male voices once he recorded "Back To Music" in 1977. Under the production and creativity of Michaele, Lana Sebastian and Paul Sebastian an innovative Euro-disco style was formulated.
"Bad Bad Boy" was his follow up LP in 1979 and featured dance floor classics, "Sentimentally It's You", "As Long As It's Love" and "No Romance/Keep On Dancin'" - a well noted project.
I have taken "Bad Bad Boy" and ReStructured it with looping the synthesizers and adding a new peculating electronic track to enhance it. This song is definite favorite of mine.
Dedicated to Joey L. of NYC and also Theo Vaness
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Lady America - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Voyage
Voyage represented a time when disco music was free and adventurous. Many who were fortunate enough to experience "From East To West" or "Souvenirs" on a dance floor recall the unity and energy it created. It was sheer magic.
"Lady America" is the close of the first LP titled "Voyage" - where we are taken from The Orient to Latin Vibes and then home. The album concept by Roger Tokarz along with Marc Chantereau, Pierre Alain Dahan and Slim Pezin were movements from various flavors of music from cultures and places.
This ReStructure was a touching one - "Lady America" - as a child I learned so much about America and how living here was privilege for me. Now in times where hope is needed, I dedicate this track to "America". I have faith that unity will bring this growing place of cultures together to succeed! It is not a dream - it can be reality - we are growing.
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Rumor Has It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
Donna Summer again is spotlighted in this ReStructure Mix and from "Once Upon A Time" comes the "Rumor Has It" - "Muh-muh-mah" blend.
Don't ask me what that means - this just popped into my head and had to do it.
Thanks to Lady Gaga for the "Muh-muh-mah"!
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Weekend - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Phreek
Patrick Adams is one of the great masterminds of disco music. His productions always enveloped the sound of dancers everywhere.
"Weekend" is from a project Adams produced in 1978 - it has become the club anthem started directly from Paradise Garage with deejays like Larry Levan. The track was sang by Christine Wiltshire and backup included Jocelyn Brown. It is a classic and will always remain a favorite among disco connoisseurs.
This ReStructure Mix takes the track a bit deeper with new beats and a few added effects. A mindful mix that I had allot of fun with!
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Fire Island - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Dante's Inferno
Harold Wheeler (Nina Simone, Consumer Rapport, Camouflage, Wing and A Prayer) and Ron Dante (The Archie's, Barry Manilow, Irene Cara) produced Dante's Inferno - a studio group in 1979. The LP featured a few cuts that became popular at the close of the disco era.
Dante being the vocalist for The Archie's ("Sugar, Sugar") and having many past products with successful artists gave him whirl at a disco album. His vocals in "Fire Island" are quite memorable and create a nice feel for the album.
I have taken "Fire Island" and extended the intro with more of a Latin flair injected. The song should bring back a memory or two with disco die-hards.
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Air Force - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Space
Space created the link between new age and synth disco. Their compositions and masterful keyboard created a wall of sound that gave dance music a whole new direction. Much of their music using the early sequencer and electronic technology of the time.
The LP "Deliverance" released in 1977 was produced by Jean-Philippe Iliesco - "Air Force" is a piece from the project which I always felt had the ominous sound that disco music and synthesizers worked well with.
I have ReStructure the composition and enhanced the keyboards and loops of the song which I felt create the best of Space.
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Dance Into My Life - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
In 1977 Donna Summer created a dance floor explosion with "Once Upon A Time" - most clubs would play 3 of the segued sides of the 4 disks completely. This was due to the flow each track would create from one to another.
"Dance Into My Life" was a moment in the Cinderella-themed disco operetta where the heroine is dancing in a trance at the Ball and finds herself madly in love - and dancing is all she wants for the night. The trance-like feel of the track is broken by a burst of congas and synthesizers - how "disco" is that?
One of the incredible elements of this track is Giorgio Moroder's ability to weave his keyboards and synthesizers so tightly around Summers excellent vocal play.
I have ReStructured the track and gave it an extended and more beat driven outline. Yet, the moments where the track rests are intact so that the energy can move you again into excitement.
Dedicated to Ms. Loulou from The Netherlands - a true Summer fan!
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Night Rider - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - C.O.D.
Giorgio Moroder fans will feel like they have stepped back into time - to the "Battlestar Galactica" LP by Moroder. This track is along the lines of the "Evolution" track.
It is driving and solemn in it's own way. The guitars may remind you of the Emir Deodato track, "Shazam" - even the energy is similar.
C.O.D. is a studio band that was released on Casablanca Record and Filmworks in 1979 - produced by Joe Falsia. This project featured "Night Rider" and "(Putting My) Heart On The Line" - 2 tracks that got momentous play in my club at the time.
I have ReStructured "Night Rider" and took the 5 minute track into a longer and more satisfying mix.
Dedicated to all of the Moroder fans who loved his innovative style and genius!
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Time Has Come Today - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bobby Davenport
Bobby Davenport had a disco hit in 1982 with "Gimme A Break" - his return in 1983 with a cover of The Chamber Brothers 1968 hit "Time Has Come Today" (11 minutes!) received a bit more recognition.
The track explored the clap and percussion of dance hall beats. It was also one of the most psychedelic disco-fied tracks of it's time. A great early morning energy.
I have taken the song and ReStructured it into a new stomper with effects and various beats to push it along.
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No Way - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Geraldine Hunt
Geraldine Hunt gave us "Can't Fake The Feeling" in 1980 and renewed our faith in disco music at the time. In 1978, Tony Green produced Hunt's first LP titled, "Sweet Honesty". This follow up single with the LP was disco magic all the way.
Produced by Mike Pabon Austin and featured some musicians familiar with disco including Giuliano Salerni, Peter Dowse, Mike Bonghi, The Don Renaldo's Strings & Horns and also The Sweethearts Of Sigma backing (Barbara Ingram, Carla Benson, and Yvette Benton).
"No Way" was the follow up single and had the energy and drive of disco and the drama of the disco diva.
This ReStructure Mix was requested from YouTube and I dedicate to that member (cannot remember his name - oops) - I have added a few elements that make this one memorable and fun! Enjoy!
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Boogie Talk - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Madleen Kane
Madleen Kane, a Swedish model turned disco singer became quite a sensation with her first release "Rough Diamond" - and one of the rare vocalists with a frail and sensual style of vocal delivery which became a sound in itself in disco music.
Her third LP in 1980 was titled "Sounds Of Love" and marked a time where pure disco was rare and very much welcomed by connoisseurs of the genre. It was a project bearing the trademark by her producer, Jean-Claude Friederich and composers, Paul And Lana Sebastian.
"Boogie Talk" was a big release from the LP besides the first single, "Cherchez Pas" - it became a short lived, but welcomed track for dance floors.
My ReStructure Mix chops the driving horns and bongos with a new down beat and bass line to spice up the dated mix - it brings to mind that horns and strings are not only a "disco thing" but complete a full sound in music.
Dedicated to the supporters of my mixes and may they see the light of day - after a long night and morning of dancing!
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My Forbidden Lover - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chic
From the band that made disco a funky yet elite sounding experience - CHIC!
"My Forbidden Lover" is a classic track from the 1979 LP "Risque'" which brought their follow-up to "Le Freak" - "Good Times". Bernard Edwards & Nile Rodgers are the masterminds who found themselves on top of the mirror ball after all of their hard work and talent.
My ReStructure Mix gives this track another chance to funky-fy your feet and move you into a "Chic" place! Go get it!
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Dancing The Night Away - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Voggue
Voggue was originally released on Celsius Records (Canada) and produced by Denis LePage and Denyse LePage - a track that was the sound of it's time. It had the buzzing synthesizers that dominated dance floors thanks to this pair with Lime, Carol Jiani, Peter Batah, etc.
Following the phenomenal success of the single (backed with "Roller Boogie") the group suddenly became Chantal and Angela as Voggue with original studio mixers, Francois L'Herbier and Michel Daigle taking over as production team - I guess the LePage's had their hands full many many projects of the time.
The LP spawned a few other tracks that were not as successful or containing the production that "Dancing The Night Away" consisted of. No ominous LePage drums or clever percussion. Most of the project was arranged by disco legend, Ritchie Rome. But this track still gives the group it's fame.
This ReStructure Mix of "Dancing The Night Away" gives the song a new bass line and some new breaks and arrangement. A tough song to improve on - this is merely an alternative mix!
Dance that night away!
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Fear - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Easy Going
Easy Going released their second LP in 1980 titled, "Fear" - this marked a period of innovation in the alternative electronic disco chamber. The title track was well known by the peculating effects that linger throughout the track and of course the ominous "blood curdling scream" direct from our Halloween sound effects album from our childhood.
The production was executed by Giancarlo Meo (Vivian Vee, Caludio Cecchetto, Capricorn, Queen Elle, David Zed) and assisted by Claudio Simonetti - the remaining tracks from this project are along the Euro-disco influence on Italo-disco. But, "Fear" remains one of the most incredible tracks and always stands alone on the dance floor.
This ReStructure Mix gives way to an alternative mix with more breaks and a whole new series of effects to pump the mystery from this die-hard.
Requested by Rene S. from The Netherlands and dedicated to his never ending support and love for the beat of disco music!
CHECK OUT THE DISCO VIDEO MIX OF FEAR - CLICK HERE
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Everybody Get Down - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mouzon's Electric Band
Alphonse Mouzon was recording jazz and soul from 1973 through the late 70's when he took his place in disco history. His notable projects include Poussez! - "Come On And Do It" and "Never Gonna Say Goodbye" being dance floor classics. Mouzon's disco flavor included a simple and hip keyboard arrangement and great percussion breaks. A favorite recipe for disco music.
In 1979 he released his project Mouzon's Electric Band which featured the single, "Everybody Get Down" - a powerhouse track with one of the most memorable vocal riffs and keyboard tracks. Moving from start to finish this classic is now edited into a whole new experience.
This ReStructure was requested by Michael R. from San Diego who has been a great musical and spiritual influence on my life - I look up to Michael, because good people are worthy. This mix is for you - keep feeling the groove!
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Dream Machine - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Androids
In 1980 A. Richard and A. Wagner brought "Disco Dream and The Androids" to this galaxy. The project was segmented to create a link between nu-age disco tracks and the wild 80's feel for keyboards and synthesizers. The effect was an outer space operetta of dance tracks.
I have taken "Dream Machine" which is track which creates the full effect of this journey. Editing bits and pieces of the keyboards, synthesizers and vocal tracks I created a dub dance ReStructureMix, which focuses more on the unearthly groove of this disco number.
This ReStructure Mix has been requested and is dedicated to Rene S. from the Netherlands - thank you, Rene for your believe in my work, your enthusiasm and your friendship. This trip is for you!
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Sharks Are Cool, Jets Are Hot - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Quick
Colin Campsie and George McFarlane (both associated with Girls Can't Help It, Haywoode, Endgames) worked successfully with a studio group titled, The Quick in 1979 on "Sharks Are Cool, Jets Are Hot" - a fantastic driving number with a touch of "West Side Story" meets The Club.
The track was highly successful and one of the great send off tracks of the disco era during the close of 1979. The track was followed by a few more hits by The Quick - "Young Men Drive Fast" and the electronic and funk tribal number, "Zulu". The team moved on to producing an 80's feel with a few bands and vocalists throughout the 80's.
I have taken "Sharks Are Cool, Jets Are Hot" and grabbed several pieces that stood out to me most and ReStructured them into a new dance piece that contains most of the excitement with a new twist.
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Are You Lovin' Somebody - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Debra Dejean
In 1981 dance music was looking for a direction to head into. A new trend of nu-wave and dance oriented rock began to filter onto many dance floors evening out the trend of disco market making high energy nearly extinct in the US. Many artists like, Debra Dejean were continuing to release tracks that had similarity to high energy with a new edge.
"Are You Lovin' Somebody" is a track with a rock edge and more early morning sleaze elements to make it well-known for dance floors using a lower BPM formula of the time. It was a time for more experimentation and return to disco's roots soon after.
Produced by Bo Bohannon and Carl Marsh this track outlines more of a stand up cruise bar more than anything. It has always been a favorite of mine in the sleaze end of dance music.
I have ReStructured this track with a friend of mine, Danny B. who has always loved this song and made it more of an option for remixing. We have been through the music carousel from the early 80's through the 90's and it was a great ride.
This one is for you Danny - it is great to hear from you again!
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I Like (What Your Doing To Me) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Young and Company
Dance floors were exploring the lower BPM and funkier style of music in the early 80's. Much of the music generating this trend were the small independent labels. Many of these tracks are now labeled "old school" - a definition that gives the dance music with lower BPM and a influence on soul and funk.
Young and Company were certainly not unknown to dance floors during this time. Their single "I Like (What Your Doing To Me)" was a hit from the moment it was placed on the turntable. It contained many elements that sleazy disco music was made of and a funk instrumentation. The vocal and music may be a bit cheesy, but sometimes this makes it work well.
Produced by Billy Young and Mike Young. Vocals by Jacqueline Thomas
I have taken the groove of "I Like (What Your Doing To Me)" and gave it more of an after hours feel with allot of ambient spaces - this is probably where the fog machines come in handy.
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Color My Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fun Fun
Fun Fun was the brainchild of Italian producers, Alavro Ugolini and Dario Raimondi - their first release a single titled, "Happy Station". The dance market had made its complete shift where high energy disco music was being produced and marketed in Europe. Much of the electronic and innovative songs were produced in these markets.
The studio ensemble given the name Fun Fun was a refreshing sound with a sweet vocal approach. The original cast included Italian artist, Ivana Spagna and much of the vocal style was approached with her sound.
"Color My Love" was released in 1984 and created another stamp for high energy disco music and it's sweet and uplifting appeal on dance floors. This track is a classic among disco jockeys and dancers.
This ReStructure Mix of "Color My Love" is a chopping block of the elements of the song that ring most memorable and then laced together to create an alternative mix.
Dedicated to Alex Nitikin of Euro Flash - Italian Disco Music in review!
http://www.euro-flash.net
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Hollywood - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Freddie James
Tony Green (France Joli, UN, Kebekelektrik, Carolyne Bernier, Monica Thornton, Cindy Valentine) produced Freddie James in 1979. "Get Up And Boogie" was the first release from this project. The impact of Green's high end disco production gave James instant appeal.
"Hollywood" began rotation in clubs soon after and took off as a dance floor favorite. The uplifting sound of these tracks created a celebratory atmospehere. Being the son of disco performer, Geraldine Hunt ("Can't Fake The Feeling") gave James the break he needed and as a young talent.
I let myself go wild in this ReStructure Mix and hoped to give the promise of excitement to the theme of the song.
Dedicated to Peter Godbold - Happy Birthday, Peter - you are loved deeply.
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I Wanna Rock You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Giorgio
Giorgio Moroder created "E=Mc2" in 1979 during the peak of disco nightlife. The project was one of Moroder's finest studio work along with his phrasing and lyrics.
"I Wanna Rock You" is a track from the LP which gave electronic synthesizers a stage for funkiness and groove. It is a memorable song from Giorgio's catalogue.
This ReStructure is has a few ambient touches to recreate the robotic track with a new sound.
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Go Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Billy Moore
Billy Moore's "Go Dance" saved dance floors with a wonderful execution of both synthesizers, disco beat and funky vocals. The track was a big surprise from Italy in 1979 at the end of the disco boom.
"Go Dance" was produced by G. Farnetti and Matteo Bonsanto (Kano, Dharma, Sphinx - the Italian electronic band, not associated with the Alec R. Costandinos group, Sabrina) and had enough electronic magic to move any dance floor. It remains a fun and uplifting track.
I have moved the song with an easier intro to get right into the mood and also many more breakdowns and surprises.
Dedicated to Rick and Dean in Australia for keeping me on my toes with the "best disco in town'! Thank you boys!
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Journey To The Centre Of Your Heart - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
From Donna Summer's phenomenal "Bad Girls" double LP released in1979 comes the original track, "Journey To The Centre Of Your Heart". The track is a throbbing disco mover which I always new had more potential then then a segue to the next track in Donna's musical medley.
I have taken "Journey To The Centre Of Your Heart" steps deeper with a new industrial intro and breaks to create a longer and more satisfying journey for dancers who want to be swept away on the dance floor again. This song is a fine example of Donna's hold on the dance floors throughout the late seventies.
I dedicate this track to Andy and Loulou on Multiply - for sharing their disco energy and believing that it never ends.
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Music Is My Way Of Life - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patti Labelle
Patti LaBelle is the voice of funk and soul.
Her presence in the 70's gave us a wide array of styles and music - from LaBelle's classic "Lady Marmalade" to her 80's return with "New Attitude" she has always returned with a great impact on music. In 1979 with the combination of producer Skip Scarborough and the disco elements brought in by John Luongo "Music Is My Way Of Life" was born. This track was an underground hit which reeks of the 70's nightclub scene - from lyrics, percussion and riffs.
I have taken a bit of concern in this ReStructure Mix that Patti does not get lost - it is her message of how music transforms her world into a place where survival is possible. I dedicate to mix to Michael R. from San Diego - whose life has been enlightening to me and his ever loving need for disco memories keeps me smiling.
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High On Your Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Debbie Jacobs
Debbie Jacobs burst on the disco scene in 1979 with open arms and dancing feet welcoming her. Her first LP "Undercover Lover" was an outline for the new sound of mature disco music.
Produced by Paul Sabu the second LP "High On Your Love" was an equally, if not more anticipated. Sabu's wonderful productions echoed a 60's feel with swirling strings accenting funky lead and bass guitar tracks. It was a disco concept full of fire.
Debbie's outstanding vocal range pulls these tracks further into a classic realm and helps to maintain a sophistication that enables these tracks to continue to bring fond memories of the disco era.
I have taken "High On Your Love" and given the track several breakdowns and "highs" along this extended and played out mix.
Dedicated to Ms. Debbie Jacobs-Rock - this one is for you Debbie. Thank you for being so patient with me. The outline of your wonderful and "giving" career in and outside of music are still coming!
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Don't Bring Back Memories - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Passion
Ray Martinez (Foxy, George McCrae, Amant, Celi Bee) produced some of disco music's most beautiful flowing Miami flavored tracks. With Amant he marked a trend of strings and horns pouring over percussion and rhythms.
His studio band, Passion (not the same Passion on the AVI label, produced by W. Michael Lewis) was comprised of Richard Noriega Jr. on lead vocals and his ensemble of talented musicians. Much of Martinez's style was based on the swirling strings used in much early disco music and European productions.
"Don't Bring Back Memories" is a Four Tops classic from 1969 which Passion brings to life again with a new flair. The track is yearning and very expressive.
This ReStructure was created as a post-birthday gift for Alan in Beverly Hills - he has been a long-time supporter of my work I appreciate him very much. Happy Birthday to you, Alan!
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Was That All It Was - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Jean Carn
During 1979 Jean Carn recorded “Was That All Is Was” - produced by Dexter Wansel. From her LP “When I Find You Love” and this being one of the last of the great Philadelphia disco records of the 70’s.
The track has been covered by Kym Mazelle and Hannah Jones - but the original concept is Jean Carn’s. The emotion and drama in this track is an early morning moment for disco’s wondrous stage.
I have ReStructured the track and gave mind to more of the percussion and horn elements adding trickles of Jean within the storyline. It is a great opportunity to hear the song again with a new arrangement.
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Rock It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lipps Inc.
From Steve Greenberg came Lipps Inc. - along with the vocals of Cynthia Johnson this duo made disco powerful force in 1979.
"Funkytown" which is now a household track became and instant hit with Greenberg's fantastic keyboard and guitar tracks. The LP "Mouth To Mouth" is probably one of the best know of it's time for being a complete disco production.
"Rock It" was the second release for Lipps Inc. and did not miss the target again with it slick strings and bass. Taking the track and ReStructuring it was a duty that enabled me to make the song driving with some new percussion and chopping the vocal tracks intro different segments.
"Rock It!"
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Keep It Comin' Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - K.C. and The Sunshine
Harry Wayne Casey along with Richard Finch dominated the boogie period of disco music. Not only was the sound of 1976 becoming a bit more pop oriented but it was also feeding the disco era in the making.
K.C. and The Sunshine band began a long road on the radio and club circuit instantly. The period welcomed many disco whom realized this was feel good music. The success of K.C. is still noted even today as phenomenal as it was.
This ReStructure Mix of "Keep It Comin' Love" provides a more fluent breakdown with added beats and percussion.
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Which Way Is Up - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stargard
Stargard were the "funky diva's from outer space. Long before En Vogue, TLC or Destiny's Child there was the real funk!
These ladies brought us "Which Way Is Up" - it was the theme from the 1977 Richard Pryor comedy by the same name. Under the production of Mark Davis this track took over dance floors and gave us a true groove. Just take a listen. You make the essence of Norman Whitfield here - with echos of "Car Wash" soundtrack.
I have take "Which Way Is Up" and added some rhythm and clap-favors to enhance it's funkiness. It is one of my all-time favorite funk track.
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Can't Stop Dancing - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvester
Disco music would never have been complete without Sylvester.
In 1977 during the release of his first LP the times were changing not only in the music world but also the boldness of Sylvester's persona - which today has only been imitated but never surpassed.
"Can't Stop Dancing" is a track that came in Sylvester's 3rd LP "Living Proof" and appropriately released at a time when the fate of disco music seemed unclear. This track can only be experienced when dance floor were moving to the beat of disco music in full force - there is no replacing it. The project was produced by Harvey Fuqua and Sylvester and the 12" disco single mixed by Marty Blecman and the fabulous, John Hedges.
I have ReStructured "Can't Stop Dancing" and added a few bumps and breaks along the outline of the original track. It truly is a kick-ass song!
Dedicated to Mr. John Hedges - when will the magic happen again John?
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Try It Out - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gino Soccio
Gino Soccio became the innovator of disco music in 1979 with the release of his first solo LP "Outline" which features "Dancer", "Dance To Dance" and "The Visitors".
It was not long after Moroder gave grace to the synthesizer that Soccio made the same on the keyboard and his unique style of disco music. It was the beginning of a new form of art for dance music.
His third LP "Closer" was a fusion of jazz, disco and soul - "Try It Out" leads the way with a simple funky bass line that jumps throughout horns and trumpets. This is a magic track.
I have taken some chances with this ReStructure and played it in many variations - as Soccio has done from the beginning. This one is a fusion of pounding tribal drums in various speeds along with some clips from the original song.
Dedicated to Peter Godbold, Loulou (from Netherlands) and Joey Luciano - thanks for keeping the real heart and soul of dance music alive!
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Shine On Silver Moon - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr.
Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. were apart of the mid-60's sensation vocal ensemble, The Fifth Dimension - winning best song in 1967 for "Up-Up And Away" - the band was founded by Davis.
In 1976 the duo recorded a big hit titled, "You Don't Have To Be A Star" and continued to bring them success. At the peak of the disco boom and formation of it's finale outline in 1978 a single titled, "Shine On Silver Moon" - the song was a beautiful love song with every element of touch disco dancing intact.
Produced by Billy Davis Jr. and Steve Cropper (The Blues Brothers, Booker T and The MGs) and co-written by Gary Knight who produced Sarah Dash's "Sinner Man" LP.
"Shine On Silver Moon" was beautifully mixed by John Luongo and the wonderful percussion tracks were performed by Jimmy Maelen. I have ReStructured the track to give the song an alternative mix and also bring forth more of that rippling percussion.
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Trouble Maker - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Roberta Kelly
Giorgio Moroder and his Munich Machine ensemble were quite busy in the mid-70's. From Donna Summer's "A Love Trilogy" to "Four Seasons Of Love", these musicians were pumping out the most discriminating disco material in history.
Roberta Kelly was a likely candidate for the disco spotlight with her 1976 LP "Trouble Maker" - following her initial single in 1974 produced by Moroder and Pete Bellotte, "Kung Fu's Bank Again".
"Trouble Maker" is a groovy number. Funky and bouncy - it is everything that disco music is attributed to. Catchy melody and dramatic bridge. The bass line is a mesmerizing one, as Moroder created with "Get On The Funk Train".
I have ReStructured "Trouble Maker" adding a new percussion layer and some hand claps to make a definite statement in areas of the song.
Dedicated to "DiscoRules2006" from Canada (YouTube)
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I Was Made For Loving You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kiss
Kiss was the biggest rock show in the late 70's! Using 4 fiercely dressed disciples of rock metal as the icons for worship. Their 1979 LP "Dynasty" was one of their big sellers and included the track, "I Was Made For Loving You" which was remixed on disco 12" single by Jim Burgess.
The track is now a part of disco history along with one of the most driving synthesizer sequencers pumping disco energy along with metal guitars cutting through the dance floor.
I have taken the track and ReStructured it using those bass synthesizers that emulate a rolling wave of thunder. This mix is a bit more spaced out for a more dub aura.
Be sure to watch "Inside The Casbah" to see the excitement that Kiss releases created in 1979. - CLICK HERE
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Love Is In You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Nightlife Unlimited
Nightlife Unlimited was a production by Peter DiMilo and George Cucuzzella - the boys who brought you MTL Express, Erotic Drum Band, Jump, Ann Joy and Extensive Care.
The ensemble includes the backing vocals of The Sweethearts of Sigma (Barbara Ingram, Carla Benson and Evette Benton) along with Peter Sciascia serenading us on this beautiful disco track.
The original LP mix is used for this ReStructure Mix to create an alternate mix and also keep this disco lullaby alive. it is quite a lovely feeling.
Dedicated to Dominique of France - and his love for Canadian disco and the concept of love and "the beat".
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Double Dutch Bus - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Frankie Smith
It was 1980 and dance floors were experiencing a shift in music and attitude. Much of dance became funky and electronic - many of the high energy tracks that were being generated were either from the disco renaissance or Imports from Europe. It took a funky track like "Double Dutch Bus" to give dance floors a fun and carefree angle on changes in style.
Frankie Smith moved into the dance market with a novelty style rap that is now a lighter side of hip hop with a colorful side. Produced by Bill Bloom and Frankie Smith this track has become both an old school classic and a wedding reception must!
This track is a safe remix again, from a project which outlined a more basic edit. I share it with all of you to remind you of the side of disco which became old school.
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Stayin' Alive - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bee Gees
Saturday Night Fever is the top of pop-disco! The soundtrack was the best selling for the run of disco mania and created quite a stir for your average disco dancer to move all night long.
This ReStructure of "Stayin' Alive" is again another basic mix that I created for a mix project - it uses the promotional long version to edit another alternative mix.
Keep dancing and believing!
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Fire - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ohio Players
Funk was the thang in 1974 when Ohio Players released their raging hit, "Fire" - following the success of their hit "Skin Tight" this track took over the ideal of dance of the time.
It was the scorching horns and sexuality on the tracks which brought about dance steps and the need to dance. This created a wonderful opportunity for both funk and disco to become a very strong force.
The ReStructure once again is a safe mix that created for a compilation, yet it still holds true to my style and essence for making a classic track come alive again.
Dedicated once again to Loulou from The Netherlands in thanks for all she does to set the disco music world on "fire"! Thank you, Loulou.
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Take Your Time (Do It Right) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The S.O.S. Band
1980 marked a tremendous hit by The S.O.S. Band (Sounds Of Success) with "Take Your Time (Do It Right)" - with the shift of dance music this track was a welcoming sight. Disco music was becoming a bit less energetic and evolving into a funkier sound once again, but this time with more of a synthesized edge.
This ReStructure was developed a year ago for another project exclusively but never used - so it is yours as a reminder of disco's power and ever lasting feel.
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Plato's Retreat - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Joe Thomas
Joe Thomas was a talented flute musician who played with Herbie Mann, Moe Kaufman and Jeremy Steig. His influence in music ranged from 1974 - 1983.
In 1977 he began working many engineers and musicians whose part in disco music were vital: Brad Baker, Tony Bongiovi, Lance Quinn, Jimmy Maelen and Alan Schwartzberg. His compositions were always working around an instrumental of beauty - similar to a Barry White influence.
His LP "Get In The Wind" in 1978 included his beautiful piece, "Plato's Retreat" which outlined an underground sex club in New York with the chic sound of disco. It was an instant success in clubs.
The vocal ensemble included Annie Sutton, Diva Gray, Gordon Grody, Gwen Guthrie and Jocelyn Brown.
This ReStructure is dedicated to this talented musician, Mr. Joe Thomas - and also Paul C. in New York. It is a varied mix with more breaks and freaking!
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Thank God For Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patrick Cowley
Patrick Cowley began to paint his colors on the disco canvas during the late 70's with his keyboard and synthesizers on many of Sylvester's great dance floor hits. His unique style is now a staple among disco collectors and is a sound that is imitated and influential, but never replicated.
Much of his success came at a time of a renaissance for disco in the early 80's - Cowley had the knowledge of the dance floor and the genius of his keyboards to create his work.
"Thank God For Music" is from his 1981 LP "Megatron Man" - the album fused his keyboards in a 50's like sci-fi film aura complete with a chorus style ensemble much like The Manhattan Transfer with a disco edge.
This song celebrates disco music and is my theme for another ReStructure mix with a bit of a funky edge to it.
To all of you clicking on this link and your love for disco music.
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I Only Wanna Get Up and Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Raes
Disco music was a theme for release and fantasy. During the late 70's following the prior 10 years of outlining the meaning and sound a few groups captured the pop-essence of disco. The Raes were a duo doing this with "I Only Wanna Get Up Dance".
The project was produced by Harry Hinde (Barbara Law, Holt 45, Louisa Florio) and featured some musicians familiar with the disco genre: Paul Sabu, Dino Fekaris, and John Luongo.
The groups first single "A Little Lovin' (Keeps The Doctor Away)" was the excitement which kept the duo in the spotlight. Following "I Only Wanna Get Up and Dance" was the single, "Don't Turn Around" - each one signifying a sound of disco music in it's pop stages.
This ReStructure takes the percussion and bass tracks into extended mode.
Dedicated to Erwin (E-Man) from Belgium who has recently passed - thank you for all you have giving us and love for disco music plays on! Disco music has always been celebratory and I celebrate your friendship.
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Now I Need You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
Donna Summer and Giorgio Moroder created some of the most ambient and trance-like disco tracks during the experimental period of disco music - along with the synthesizer revolution.
One of the most haunting tracks was "Now I Need You" from the "Once Upon A Time" project - this song was part of a medley which included, "Working The Midnight Shift". The pumping keyboards which echo through out this track create a open arena for Donna's vocal expertise. The outcome is a classic song that hardcore disco fans continue to pick and pull apart to understand the creative faucet in such.
I have waited to have the right energy to meet this song and recreate a scenario with its feel and energy. This ReStructure takes the snippets that are rare and few within the song and pull out more of that moody feeling the song creates.
Dedicated to Loulou from The Netherlands for making the music flow like clouds over a sunny day.
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Unexpected Lovers - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lime
Denis and Denyse LaPage are Lime.
Their gift to disco music has been a collection of danceable tracks beginning with many affiliations to disco projects throughout the late 70's. "Your Love" was a song that saved disco music by creating a high energy movement in the early 80's.
I have received many requests to take "Unexpected Lovers" to an alternate remix - this ReStructure creates an even-deeper percussion driven opportunity for the 80's high energy track.
For the great duo - The LePage's - thank you for sharing your talent with dance floors everywhere and DJ Deeds.
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Cerrone's Paradise - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cerrone
Cerrone released his follow up LP to "Love In 'C' Minor" in 1977- "Cerrone's Paradise". This project placed a perspective on Euro-disco. Dance floors everywhere had discovered the sensuality and excitement that this music created. It was an instant connection.
"Cerrone's Paradise" is a disco session of bass, horn, strings and an angelic-like chorus clamouring for the sounds of ecstasy. It is truly one of disco's finest moments.
I have taken the intro and placed it over a reworked intro. Chopped and spliced a brand new scene for the energy and ecstasy.
The man himself, Mr. Jean Marc Cerrone gets this one.
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Feed The Flame - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lorraine Johnson
Lorraine Johnson recorded "The More I Get, The More I Want" in 1977 - produced by Jesse Boyce and Moses Dillard. The LP displayed the early movement of soulful vocals along side the funky disco bass lines, horn and string arrangements. It was obvious that producers and artists were taking their creative energy directly from the dance floor.
"Feed The Flame" is from Lorraine's follow up LP "Learning To Dance All Over Again" - an LP which was disco music in full bloom. It began an outline for many similar productions by both producers and became the signature sound for it's label, Prelude Records.
I have always loved "Feed The Flame" and decided to execute a loose ReStructure Mix taking Lorraine's love song into a new direction.
Dedicated the Jesse Boyce, Moses Dillard and Ms. Lorraine Johnson
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Africanism/Gimme Some Lovin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kongas
Kongas was produced by Cerrone - this production unleashed a new breed of disco music which was may have been the counterpart to the "high energy" offspring to disco from the early 80's.
Every aspect of deep underground disco was unleashed here. The heavy percussion, horns and guitars were played to the hilt. Vocals were provided by Cerrone's ensemble, Kay Gardner, Sue Glover, J. Stone and L. Rich.
ReStructuring a fast moving and energetic track as this one has me focusing on bringing the elements out which worked in the first place. A new extended mix melting down into a trance like fade is done here.
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When You Touch Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Taana Gardner
West End was on a roll when Taana Gardner released "Work That Body" in 1979 - produced by Kenton Nix and remixed by Mr. Larry Levan. It was clear where the label was headed.
Taana's second dance single "When You Touch Me" is a sensual explosion of energy - this track may have Taana holding onto notes that go beyond her range, but it still emerges like a jam session filled ecstasy and delight.
I have taken the track made a definite beat out of the percussion tracks along with the Cuíca echoing as though it were riding along with an orgasm. This mix reverses the energy to melt down into a slower fade.
Dedicated to Mr. Larry Levan and The Garage.
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Cruisin' The Streets - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Boystown Gang
The 1981 sensation Boys Town Gang was not only a success thanks to its magnificent cover of Diana Ross' "Ain't No Mountain High Enough", but also its raw and bold track, "Cruisin' The Streets" - and although the track may not have been played completely through - it still was known.
Cynthia Manley graced this project with her vocals after being approached by producer, Bill Motley. The recording was done in out of the way places and mastered together by David Coe. This was the first release on the Moby Dick label and brought about the disco renewal in the early and mid 80's.
This ReStructure makes the track G rated and also adds a bit more pump and rhythm to parts of the track.
Thanks to Cynthia Manley for being such a sweetie and also one of the most beautiful human beings - thsi one is again for you, baby!
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I'll Cry For You - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kumano
A disco anthem - "I'll Cry For You" is a very powerful song of love and sadness. Another one of those 70's adult contemporary band (ala Steely Dan) tracks with a lot of heart and soul.
This one was produced by Randy Kumano and was released in 1980 - another great save for the high energy disco movement which was slowly dying off. This one brought back the feeling completely.
ReStructured with more breaks and the elements that made it a hit!
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One For You One For Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - La Bionda
La Bionda was a session group from Italy consisted of brothers, Carmelo & Michelangelo La Bionda who kept disco music alive with their light and uplifting sings. "One For You One For Me" is a track released in 1978 on their LP simply titled, "La Bionda". Also recording under the titled D.D. Sound.
The song has a celebratory feel with it's rolling piano outline and now with a ReStructure Mix the loop has a funky beat to bring it out onto the dance floors again.
Anyone familiar with Gazuzu's "Go Go Gorilla" will know that the bridge is absolutely borrowed from "One For You One For Me"
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Strut Your Funky Stuff - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Frantique
Frantique hit the disco scene at the last spinning of the mirrored ball as it graced the dance floor with reflections of an era of great dancing and music.
In 1979 Vivienne Savoie Robinson, James Bolden and Jack Robinson produced this high energy project dedicated to the supposed new trend to save disco music: roller booge-ing. The track "Strut Your Funky Stuff" was the lasting track from this project. It made disco seem cool again during a period when the fever was slowly dying off.
I have moved the song in to ReStructure and added a tribal stomping beat into the mix along with the looping of the most important pieces of the song. It is indeed a funky and cool song - move to it and work it.
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Do You Love What You Feel - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rufus and Chaka
Rufas and Chaka released "Masterjam" in 1979 - an project produced by Mr. Quincy Jones and mixed by Bruce Swedien. The formula here worked like a transitional gem from funk to disco.
"Do You Love What You Feel" was the first single that was released from this LP and took over dance floors with it funky dance floor beats and Chaka's incredible presence. This song stomped out some of the most powerful dance energy with the essence of pure funk.
I have taken the track and edged out more of the beats along with a bit more looping and beat chopping than any gourmet kitchen could spice up. It is a whole new arrangement and still holds true to the sound of the disco mix.
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In The Bush - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Musique
Patrick Adams is affiliated with some of the finest disco and dance music throughout the 70's and early 80's. His projects spanned from the early days of experimentation with a fusion of soul and funk - and then on to the days of the disco formula of the disco boom.
In 1978 his production of Musique was a lid blowing off of the boiling dance floor. This LP included the sexy innuendo hit, "In The Bush" along with the frenetic, "Keep On Jumpin'" - both tracks were club hits running side by side.
The vocals of Musique included Ms. Christine Wiltshire, Jocelyn Brown, Anegla Howell and Gina Tharps - these ladies turned this LP in to a sensational event with a funky and luscious sound.
The ReStructure Mix of "In The Bush" takes the incredible 12" remix by Mr. François Kevorkian and takes the snippets of the most memorable areas of the mix and recreates another dance experience.
Dedicated to Mr. Adams and his continued belief that disco was an art!
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Happy Radio - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Edwin Starr
Long after his classic soul recordings of the 60's, Edwin Starr made a complete home for himself in disco music beginning with his first big hit, "Contact".
"Happy Radio" was a non-stop boogie down hit in 1979 - produced by Mr. Starr himself - he worked this sucker to the roof. Enough percussion and energy to make dance floor welcome it any night of the week.
I have ReStructured "Happy Radio" with the same energy in mind - yet added a few more breakdowns and worked the percussion like a whirlwind on the dance floor.
Dedicated to Hank from Miami, FL - Happy Birthday Hank and thank you for all you do - you are special and a great inspiration.
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Never Gonna Be The Same - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ruth 'Silky' Waters
Ruth 'Silky' Waters released "Never Gonna Be The Same" in 1979 on Millennium Records - produced by John Davis.
This track was somewhat of an anthem and so appropriate for the tail end of the disco era. The music arrangement is definable as Mr. Davis' incredible orchestral and funky band-like flavor - and with Waters' incredible standard and blues style of vocal this one soars in it's own category.
I can remember this song pulling many to the dance floor with it's powerful energy. It will be a song that disco audiophiles will keep alive for years to come.
This ReStructure Mix takes the 12 Inch Remix of the song and splits into pieces and pulls it together with a simpler arrangement and a couple of new building segments.
Dedicated to Hans in The Netherlands - thanks for dropping the idea of a remix for this gem.
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(Dance it) Freestyle Rhythm - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Mantus
New York City-based band Mantus became a dance floor sensation with their 1979 LP "Midnight Energy" - their first single, "(Dance It) Freestyle Rhythm" was a percussion-driven track that moved more feet than a earthquake!
The 12" single was also one of the earliest mixed songs by John "Jellybean" Benitez, along with producer Will Crittendon.
The LP was a high energy excursion into a heavy conga and bongo level style of disco music along with great male end vocals. The band included John "Kaz" Kaczmarczyk, Frank Decrescenzo, Billy Amendola, Jimi Braffett and Jimmy Maer.
I have used the boys formula and added more breaks and drop outs to the wonderful cowbell loop. This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Will Crittendon and the boys of Mantus.
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Back In My Arms Again - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cynthia Manley
Following the 1981 iconic cover recording of "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" with Boystown Gang, Cynthia Manley soon moved on to a very power take on the Motown classic, "Back In My Arms Again".
The track was released in 1982 on Atlantic Records and proved again that Manley held a special talent within her beautiful frame. The cover was a big hit in my club and I recall many fellow disc jockeys speaking of it's success in their clubs as well. It was an effort that she would keep in her heart even now.
The track was produced by Michael Stewart and in ReStructured here with a high energy arrangement and play on Cynthia's fantastic vocal.
Dedicated to one of the most incredible and talented ladies I have ever had the pleasure of meeting - Ms. Cynthia Manley. Check out Cynthia at: www.cynthiamanley.com - she continues to entertain and share love with the world.
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Let The Music Play - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Arpeggio
Simon Soussan produced, arranged and conducted as well as created Arpeggio. With the fabulous, Jessica Williams along with Terri Young, Jason Reed, Kevin Bard and Fred Sawyers at the mic this disco dynamite sound was a big one.
"Love and Desire" was their first single and later from the LP came "Let The Music Play". The tune was a playful track with enough in the chorus to pull out any wall flower away from holding up the building.
I have ReStructured the song with a more underground feel although I have kept the original feel of the song intact.
Dedicated to Jessica Williams - for being the DIVA that she has been throughout disco history and maintaining her talent for all to enjoy! Thank you, Jessie!
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Do Ya Wanna Funk - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvester
The disco drought of the early 80's was saved by Patrick Cowley's extraordinary keyboard and sequencer hi-ball track, "Do Ya Wanna Funk" which featured a lead vocal by the fabulous, Sylvester.
The track was released on Megatone Records in 1982 - it was a blockbuster. Dance floors everywhere soaked up the energy and were in need of more - which Cowley delivered with a string of hits with artists like Sarah Dash, Paul Parker, Jo-Lo, and Loverde.
"Do Ya Wanna Funk" has been played for days - this ReStructure adds to the adventure and is dedicated to Sylvester and the magic man himself, Mr. Patrick Cowley.
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Happy Station - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fun Fun
The birth of Italo-disco may have been conceptualized during 1983 when Alvaro Ugolini and Dario Raimondi produced their studio group Fun Fun - "Happy Station". Although there were many artists and productions out of Italy, it seems as though not as many had the impact as this single.
Now a household name on dance floors everywhere, Fun Fun has released many high energy disco singles that classify them as the darlings of disco music.
I have taken the original club mix and ReStructured the track with a new intro beat and some effects to create a whole new stop for this dance favorite.
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Satellites - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ellie Warren
Ellie Warren is an artists who always displayed an ominous vocal ability. In the early 80's Ellie began granting up the opportunity to share her talent with tracks like, "Shattered Glass", "Primitive Love", "Lover's Theme", and "I Was Made For Loving You".
In 1985, Ellie recorded the track "Satellites" - produced by Nick Glennie Smith - a powerhouse track that utilized Ellie's vocals with a building chorus and wonderful story of love and desire. The track made it onto many high energy play lists with it's anthem-like feel.
I have taken the track in a ReStructure Mix zone with an extension of it's synthetic dance feel and added a few more elements to update it.
Dedicated to Ellie's manager, Darlene Baker and Roy Mahoney.
For more information on Ellie you may visit a site created by Neil Repton at: http://www.elliewarren.co.uk/
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Reach Your Peak - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sister Sledge
Sister Sledge became the most celebrated female groups of the disco era thanks to Bernard Edwards and Nile Rodgers. Their 1978 hit "We Are Family" and "He's The Greatest Dancer" they have become a permanent fixture on the disco wall of fame.
After several LPs with the Chic producer the gals took many detours with their music to keep the funky-disco sound of Edwards and Rodgers as a part of their identity.
In 1980 their project "Love Somebody Today" included a funky lo-bpm track titled, "Reach Your Peak" - the track received allot of radio play but did not fare as well in the clubs. It was always a favorite of mine and a ReStructure kept haunting me with the clever title chant - so here is a take on the laid back style of the Chic geniuses and the Sister Sledge.
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Menergy - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patrick Cowley
It was 1981 when Patrick Cowley released his ominous keyboards in "Menergy" - produced by Cowley and Marty Blecman.
Cowley had created a fusion of innovative disco productions at the end of the late 70's along with Sylvester ("Dance (Disco Heat)" and "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)") it was just a matter of time until he unleashed his magic and power on his solo projects.
During the early 80's when San Francisco was the spot for the re-birth of disco and dance music thanks to labels like Megatone and Moby Dick Records. This was Cowley's focus: to bring back the energy of disco music to the dance floor. With "Menergy" he hit the spot - it is a tour de force of electronic magic.
Dedicated to Dominique from France and his undying love for the disco sound and respect for it.
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Inside Out - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Odyssey
Since "Native New Yorker" was recorded by Odyssey in 1977, the band had a following waiting to hear the next attempt of disco with the fantastic vocal ensemble. Odyssey has always been a gift on our end.
In 1982 Odyssey recorded "Happy Together" produced by Jimmy Douglass. The LP contained a more funk-abstract assortment of songs. The leading track from this project was "Inside Out" - a somewhat moody and slick recording. It had remained an underground favorite with many disc jockeys and dancers.
Dedicated to Serg of "Go Bang" - if it's Odyssey you like, then it's Odyssey you will get! Thank you, Serge for keeping dance music alive for many more feet to experience.
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Let's Fly Away - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Voyage
The big album from the disco era! Voyage - who did not wait on the dance floor for their return? After their first LP simply titled, "Voyage" this Euro-disco troupe created a wonderful dance fantasy.
"Let's Fly Away" was the second release from the "Fly Away" LP and was a runaway hit, as "Souvenirs" was. The production by Marc Chantereau, Pierre-Alain Dahan, Slim Pezin and Roger Tokarz were the masterminds behind the lyrical feel of this adventure.
Dedicated to DJ Joey from NY - thanks for posting the video of "Let's Fly Away" which influenced this ReStructure Mix.
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Tonight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gloria Gaynor
Gloria Gaynor was recording disco music since 1974 keeping time with the motion of dance floors. Her 1978 hit "I Will Survive" has become more than a Top 10 Disco Hit - it is a world anthem.
In 1979 she released her follow up to "I Will Survive" - an LP titled "I Have A Right" produced by Dino Fekaris and Freddie Perren. The project included a cover of the "West Side Story" song, "Tonight" with music by Leonard Bernstein and the lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.
Gaynor does an excellent job at making this track a monument along with the swirling arrangement and continuous build.
I have taken the track in a ReStructure Mix with request of Hank from Miami. The song is given a new intro and breakdown with more definition.
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Right Back Where We Started From - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Maxine Nightingale
Maxine Nightingale's hit "Right Back Where We Started From" was produced in 1976 by Pierre Tubbs (Hombre, Marsha Raven's "I Like Plastic") and became a sensation in the clubs.
Now considered one of the pop disco hits of it's time the song lives on through compilations and retro shows. The LP version was never remixed or extended. I have taken the time to place the track on the ReStructure block and add a few elements to spice up the track.
However, it is Maxine's vocals that make this track stand out as well as the horn sections emulating the Motown feel. It has always been a winner.
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You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sylvester
1978 was the year that Sylvester’s “Step II” paved a path for disco success. His first LP released in 1977 was a production with a garage-like feel where his tracks “Dance (Disco Heat)” and “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” were enhanced with his innovative fusion of synthesizers and keyboards.
These tracks had the energy and feel that discotheques were clamoring for to open the door to the many who needed more definition.
“You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” is an incredible production that uses a gospel approach to give the song a frenetic and celebratory edge. I have taken parts of the original 12” single mix and chopped the rhythm and synthesizers to regroup the song. It was my intent to give the song a whole new purpose.
Dedicated to the artist and personality of “The Fabulous” Sylvester.
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Tattoo Man - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Denise McCann
Denise McCann entered the discotheques in 1976 with a great disco track titled, "Tattoo Man" produced by Guy Sobell.
The track was produced for dance floors and quite innovative for it's time. Peculating percussion along with heavy keyboards assisted by Denise's soft and alluring vocal. The song was a instant hit in underground clubs that welcomed a hardcore disco feel.
Denise later released her follow up LP "I Have A Destiny" in 1979, which again featured a great full-on disco production. Denise later married Randy Bachman of The Guess Who and Bachman Turner Overdrive and moved to Canada. Hopefully she continues to record and share her wonderful talent with the world.
I have ReStructured "Tattoo Man" with more of an underground groove in mind - taking the funky guitars deeper with added effects and beat tracks.
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Mellow Lovin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Judy Cheeks
Judy Cheeks released a sensational disco track titled, "Mellow Lovin'" in 1978 - produced by Anthony Monn (Amanda Lear, Fancy) and the second issue by Salsoul Records mixed by Mr. Tom Moulton.
The track gave disco another opportunity to create a flowing and orchestral feel along with the sensual and yearning sound of the disco diva. Judy takes "Mellow Lovin'" and makes it sound as innocent as it is intended.
I have ReStructured the song and played with some additional bass and beats to pound out more of what this stomp-er is - a hot dance experience with beauty.
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Love Power - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Roberta Kelly
Roberta Kelly was produced by Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellote - the producers had a success with Donna Summer and were working with Kelly to create a similar image in disco music.
The 1976 LP "Trouble Maker" was a success for Kelly in discotheques thanks to hip and upbeat number on the LP. "Love Power" is a track that was Moroder's sound with a funky appeal - his bass sequencers and keyboards adorn this track over and above.
I am celebrating the inauguration of our new President Barack Obama with this message in "Love Power" with hope for a new world where anyone, no matter what or who they are can hold their head up high in anywhere and give and take "love". We have many more obstacles to overcome, but it is possible.
This ReStructure is for all of you.
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I Like It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Silver Convention
Silver Convention is Linda G. Thompson, Ramona Wulf, Penny McLean, Rhonda Heath, Zenda Jacks (Known As Suzie McCloskey) – after a successful studio recording featuring Lucy Neale (not featured in stage troupe) the concept group took off in 1974. Produced by Michael Kunze.
“I Like It” is from the original LP titled “Silver Convention” and later titled “Save Me”. The track is a bright example of the strings, bass and percussion united to create a sound called “boogie music” – later to become disco.
I have taken elements from “I Like It” to create a dub-like track with plenty of the lovely vocals intact to move all senses including the feet.
Dedicated to Hans from The Netherlands – thank you for keeping the girls and their music alive!
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Activate - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sharon Redd
Sharon Redd was a talent in the dance arena that cannot be forgotten. She began as a apart of the backup ensemble for Bette Midler known as The Harlettes and went onto paving her own sound and style in disco music.
From "Love Insurance" with Front Page to "In The Name Of Love" form her "Redd Hot" LP Sharon proved many times that her presence and vocals were a gift to clubs and disco connoisseurs everywhere.
"Activate" is a track from her third LP "Love How You Feel" which was another example of Sharon's standing a a "diva de jour"! The track received allot of play during it's initial release in 1983. It is an underground favorite of Sharon and funk fans.
I have moved the song into a new ReStructure Mix and pulled out more for the floor to take on along with Sharon's hot vocal style.
Dedicated to Sharon's mom, Katie - you are a gem and proof that a "chip off the block" is proven when it comes to beautiful souls. I love you, Katie.
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You Stepped Into My Life - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Melba Moore
Gene McFadden and John Whitehead took Melba Moore and the Bee Gees original track "You Stepped Into My Life" in 1978 and made it a disco sensation.
Melba had been around since 1970 recording her essence of soul music and arrived to top the charts during the disco era. It was a new feel for Melba who looked at disco music in a lesser of her growth of musical experiences. But the success of these recordings speaks louder than ideas.
I have taken the track made an extreme ReStructure Mix - but once again keeping the feel of the original intact.
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Music Fever - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Michael Zager Band
The Michael Zager Band is well-known for their classic disco anthem "Let's All Chant" - from the same LP comes "Music Fever" which is supported by similar uplifting elements.
Vocals in The Michael Zager Band include Maeretha Stewart, Alvin Fields and Yollanda McCullough - fully supported by Zager's orchestral arrangements with a 70's disco outline.
The track was the second single from the project and is still a choice for many looking at Zager's influence in the disco music industry.
A simple reworking of the track is done here to bring this fantastic celebratory song back into mind.
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Chattanooga Choo Choo - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tuxedo Junction
W. Michael Lewis and Laurin Rinder (El Coco, La Pamplemouse, St. Tropez, Discognosis, In Search Of Orchestra) along with A.J. Cervantes created Tuxedo Junction.
This was a studio ensemble featuring vocals by Marilyn Jackson, Sue Allen and Marti McCall - covering tunes by Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington and sound of the Big Band Era. The disco-fied "Chattanooga Choo Choo" was that big breakout in 1977 which created the forefront for this concept.
I have take the wonderful production and created a ReStructure Mix which takes the train deeper into the disco realm.
Dedicated to Rinder and Lewis along with A.J. Cervantes for gioving the dance floor a great twist during the creative years of disco music.
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Ah-Do It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Beautiful Bend
Boris Midney!
Enough said – his 1978 masterpiece, Beautiful Bend is probably his most desired.
I have taken “Ah-Do It” from the side B medley and ReStructured the track with more “do-it’s” to help you make it through the morning!
Dedicated to the master, Boris Midney himself.
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Dream Disco - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Max Berlin
Max Berlin along with Cerrone gave us "Dream Disco" in 1978 which was another underground classic Euro-disco track.
This cut is a phenomenal piece of musical ecstasy - it outlines an adventurous horn section along with a fabulous guitar fantasy. I have taken most of the rhythm and arrangements and reworked them into a easier mix in and out. It was a fun piece to play with in this ReStructure.
I thank Jussi for recommending this one to me for a ReStructure - I have had it on the list for sometime and now it is a reality!
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I'm A Big Freak (R U 1 2) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patrick Adams presents Phreek
Patrick Adams has a name that is synonymous with disco music. From the start of this spotlight of dance sensation he has created some of the most intense dance classics from "Summer Love" by Musique to "I'm Caught Up (In A One Night Love Affair)".
His contract with Atlantic Records in 1978 brought his project, Phreek. This featured Jocelyn Brown, Leroy Burgess, James Calloway, Ken Morris, Gina Tharps (Musique) and Christine Wiltshire - who sang the hit "Weekend" by Phreek which became the anthem for Paradise Garage in the early 80's.
I have taken the track "I'm A Big Phreek (R U 1 2)" from the LP which always had a maddening and swirling dance sound as well as a catchy chorus hook and created a drop-in-and-out mix. The track is the side of Adams which is the lighter-no frills sound of disco music.
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Love In 'C' Minor - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cerrone
Euro-disco was born in 1976 when "Love In 'C' Minor" was composed by Alec R. Costandinos and Cerrone.
This masterpiece has all of disco music's most authentic pieces rolled into one movement. Funky bass lines, string emsembles and a sexy chorus featuring Joanne Williams, Stephanie De Skyes,Madeline Bell, Jackie Sullivan and Jean Hawker.
This is a ReStructure to pull the pieces apart and place them in a new order - a new percussion riff floats below the perfection in the original.
Dedicated to "The Man" himself - Jean Marc Cerrone
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Running Away - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Roy Ayers Ubiquity
In 1977 Roy Ayers created the "Lifeline" project. Using his talent to create along the lines of disco trends of the time he made his music apart of the scene without compromising his unique sound.
"Running Away" is considered today a classic of it's own sound. With vocals provided by Dee Dee Bridgewater, Edwin Birdsong and Sylvia Cox this track has the soulful edge of crossover dance music of the mid-70's. It truly emphasises music with an appeal for more than one audience.
I have taken "Running Away" and given it several areas where a beat pulls more from the main track. This is truly a gift from Mr. Ayers to the music world.
Dedicated to Mr. Ayers and his master talent.
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Tonight You and Me - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Phyllis Hyman
Phyllis Hyman was one of he most incredible voices of the late 70's and 80's and never quite reached the momentum that was possible for her.
In 1981 Norman Connors produced an project for Hyman which included "Tonight You and Me" - one my all-time favorite tracks by this outstanding artist. It is romantic and moving as Phyllis pulls us into a situation where love conquers all.
I have take the 12" single and added a few more areas of dance-ateria inserts and also embellished the song with more pizazz.
I dedicate this ReStructure to Ms. Hyman who left us in 1995, but left behind a legacy of wonderful music and her beautiful vocals.
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Take Me To The Bridge - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Vera
During the early 80's much of disco music with a high energy feel were being produced and released in Canada and Europe. The refined sound of disco music from the 70's was morphing again with many producers like Don Saunders and Louis Toteda.
Their production of Vera's "Take Me To The Bridge" introduced a whole new period of early morning music. Along with Vera's lush and soft vocal delivery these tracks were more like ballads set to disco music.
"Baby, Won't You Dance Withe Me", "Joey", "Don't You Want My Love", "Love Comes Easy" and "Kings Of Castles" were many more to follow with this edge.
I have taken 1980's "Take Me To The Bridge: out of retirement to create a new take on it's beautiful and moody aura. It has always been a favorite of mine and brings back a time where disco music was being introduced with a new edge.
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You Should Do It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peter Brown
From the mastermind of Peter Brown and his early influence on disco music during 1977 comes "You Should Do It".
The LP "A Fantasy Love Affair" featured "Do You Wanna Get Funky With Me?" and "Dance With Me" which were both instant dance floor hits - making this piece of vinyl a must for disc jockeys and club goers everywhere. "You Should Do It" is a 3:55 track from the project that I always appreciated. Taking it to a lengthier version with a few additions and effects.
Peter Brown created this entire LP in his apartment at the time which may have assisted in the grooves being so fresh and laid back for the time. This take on his talent is dedicated to the man himself.
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Holiday - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Moulin Rouge
Michael Zager produced, arranged and conducted music for dance floors which bring to mind a celebration. And which track rings true to this? "Holiday" by Moulin Rouge.
Released in 1979 on ABC Records this project consisted of covers of Bee Gees classic ballads set to the trendy disco beat of the time - complete with a full orchestra ala Zager. The album cover images are creative in several way - by emulating the hit Bee Gees LP "Spirits Having Flown" with 3 hot models who eventually break out into the Moulin Rouge fever.
The vocal ensemble on this session consisted of Alvin Fields, Stephanie Spruill, Julia Tillman and Lorna M. Willard.
I have ReStructured "Holiday" with the fabulous horn and string arranagements in mind and given the song a few more breakdown points.
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Let's Fly - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Paradise Express
Herb Jimmerson was the genius behind Paradise Express - his masterful keyboards along with an ear for progressive electronic music made his wife, Vi Ann a powerful voice in disco music.
Following their first LP in 1978 (which included a remake of the Paul Jabara dance classic "Dance") did "Let's Fly" emerge onto the dance. At the time, this project was a breath of fresh air. 2 tracks form the LP were in heavy rotation on many dance floors: "Let's Fly" and "You Set Me On Fire". With Vi Ann wonderful vocals and Jimmerson's sharp electronic arrangements these tracks were instant hits.
I have taken one of my all-time favorites, "Let's Fly" and ReStructured it with a new intro and spaced out more of the elements in the song.
Dedicated to Herb Jimmerson and Vi Ann for sharing their wonderful talents in disco music.
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Boogie Oogie Oogie - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - A Taste Of Honey
A Taste Of Honey was Janice Marie Johnson, Hazel Payne, Perry Kimble, and Donald Johnson - their 1978 hit "Boogie Oogio Oogie" is a dance floor must for any retro act.
The track emphasised an allegiance to the disco ball from it's first sound. It was disco magic and continues to bring the funk and bass of disco music together in a tight little package.
ReStructuring a well-known classic is a bit un-nerving. I did it with a bit of fantasy for lengthier breaks and a breakdown after each chorus. I dedicate this to my partner Ken, who came from heavy-metal but since has learned respect and the full meaning of disco music. With love!
Thank you, Ken :)
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Love's Coming/Baby Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - USA European Connection
A disco masterpiece!
When Boris Midney recorded "Come Into My Heart" using his studio name, USA European Connection in 1978, dance floors all over the world also felt something was happening to disco music.
This was one of the most experimental periods of musician meets studio. Very much what concept bands like Tangerine Dream were to rock.
"Love's Coming/Baby Love" is a favorite among any disco music connoisseur. It has all elements of the sound of Philly and also the European flair of symphonic disco - all wrapped together with a new studio edge of electronics and new age arrangements.
Mr. Midney is forever embedded in the "Disco Hall Of Fame" for this one.
This ReStructure breaks the song into segments - as my style of remixing is much influenced by Midney who takes a pulsating bongo track and drops into a dead beat.
This mix is dedicated to all of those who have supported my efforts in keeping disco music alive for the next generation to stand and dance in awe of it.
Thanks, guys :)
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Connecting Flight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Romanelli
Roland Romanelli worked with Jean-Philippe Iliesco on many projects by Space. The electronic fusion of dance music in the early 70's began as a new age influence with a symphonic touch.
Many of these projects became instant dance floor favorites ("Magic Fly", "Carry On, Turn Me On") thanks to the adventurous angle and focus on percussion and rhythm. Romanelli had a large part in the arrangement of many of Space's successes. His talent and ear for beauty helped bring his solo effort to success.
"Connecting Flight" has one of the most beautiful and resonant melodies and is ReStructured here to remind us that music touches our souls. It is the beat and effect of disco music along with it's endless boundaries that made it and will continue to keep it alive.
Thanks to Romanelli - this is an homage to this genius.
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Keep On Making Me High - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Unyque
Unyque was a disco project that was the heart and soul of disco music - a small band motivated by a production to create hardcore disco music. Produced, arranged and conducted by Freida Nerangis and Britt Britten, this is one of those record of the time that DJs would cherish.
Fantastic vocal on "Keep On Taking Me High" that is sensual and powerful. The track is the sound of a fast paced Charo disco number complete with Spanish guitars and castanets. It moves with a sleek and wonderful transition arrangement including several great elements including percussion, piano and a psychedelic keyboard.
I have added this track to the ReStructure list to bring it back to mind and also that a great underground sound can be as breath taking as a the hottest new formula.
Vocals are provided by Suzanne Slaughter-Wingate
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I Love You Dancer - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Voyage
Marc Chantereau, Pierre-Alain Dahan and Slim Pezin are Voyage - minus Sylvia Mason who performed on the first and second albums marking "Souvenirs" an International disco classic.
The trio takes Voyage a step further on this 1980 venture. Following the lessor demand of Euro-disco during the late 70's black lash these boys took the band into a funky and nu-wave groove. The experiment brought the same uplifting sound that their compositions and musical genius was accustomed to.
"I Love You Dancer" is a brighter star from this package - it is everything that Voyage brought in the first 2 LPs but more. I have taken the track and re-funked it up for a new time. My focus was leave the groove intact and add only a few more dance moves with it.
This ReStructure is dedicated to Franklin Fuentes - thank you for the kind words, support and keeping this wonderful music alive!
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What A Night - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Giorgio
Giorgio Moroder is the Father Of Electronic Disco Music.
Many of his projects are referred to as masterpieces of electronic wizardry and genius. His 1979 project on Casablanca Records titled “E=Mc2” is one of his finest recordings. From the side A medley comes, “What A Night” – a frenetic paced dance music that flows beautifully.
I have taken Moroder’s masterpiece and extended the track as well as give it more breaks and a lengthier movement. This ReStructure is dedicated to all Moroder fans everywhere – the magic continues to flow.
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Saturday Night, Sunday Morning - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Thelma Houston
Thelma Houston's "Saturday Night, Sunday Morning" is a big part of disco music's history. It was originally released in 1978 on her "Ready To Roll" LP and then again with a remix by Larry Rossiello on her "Ride To The Rainbow" LP.
The track is a fabulous outline of disco nightlife and the morning after. It is also one of Thelma's most memorable vocal performances. More of a early evening or after hours track this was is always pleasing.
I have ReStructured the song only to bring it back again and add a few new surprises with already evident keyboard riffs and bongo tracks.
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Queen For A Day - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Donna Summer
"Once Upon A Time" was a double LP set that catapulted Donna Summer to the top of any discotheques "great expectations".
This was one blockbuster production. A time when disco music was in its most creative stages. The Cinderella-like fairy tale set to a disco beat was perfection for Ms. Summer. It also proved her vocal ability and range as an wonderful accomplishment.
"Queen For A Day" is the pivotal point of our disco dance-floor story and no more perfect for a time when Donna makes her comeback in 2008 as "The Queen Returns" - and not just for a day.
This is also one of Giorgio Moroder most finest moment when blending with Bob Esty's magic orchestral movement in "Once Upon A Time".
I dedicate this ReStructure to "RAINmaker ReStructure Mix" who does not have to change the credits - "Music is all ours!" - good energy to you all...
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Spacer - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sheila and B. Devotion
1980 brought them team of Bernard Edwards and Nile Rogers together with disco group, Sheila and B. Devotion. Their 1978 venture, "Singing In The Rain" was produced by Claude Carrere.
This new production was indeed a mixture of two varied dance formulas - a European style vocal team (complete with French accent) and a funky New York disco sound. "Spacer" was the single which broke out from the LP and became an instant hit. The bass and lead guitars work their way through this track like a tight knit macrame sweater.
I have taken the guitars, keyboards and wonderful bass into a new treatment for "Spacer" again using the ReStructure formula. This one is "spacier" than usual.
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You Little Trustmaker - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Tymes
Arranged and conducted by Richie Rome (The Ritchie Family, African Suite) in 1974 this soulful gem was produced by Billy Jackson. It blend of soulful elements and disco rhythms.
This track was requested by Alan P. - he let me know how wonderful the song is and I have listed it queue until the right time.
The track timed in at 2:49 - I have extended with new drums and arrangement at 7:03.
Alan, this is for you and thank you for introducing me to such a fabulous track!
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Kiss In The Dark - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Pink Lady
Pink Lady is Mitsuyo Tsukuda (Mie) & Keiko Kuwaki (Kei) - a duo produced by Michael Lloyd ("Dirty Dancing" Soundtrack, Leif Garrett, Moses Tyson, Belinda Carlisle).
"Kiss In The Dark" was released in 1979 and was a Top 100 disco track during it's initial release. Pink Lady enjoyed international success during 1979 with a television show which lasted only a short while in 1980. Their disco track was more of a top 10 hit than a club hit.
I have ReStructured "Kiss In The Dark" and moved a few choruses around and added a few elements to spice up the 12" mix.
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Shake Your Groove Thing - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Peaches & Herb
Freddie Perren created a classic disco sound that was formulated along with a pop edge. Many of disco music's evolution was based on crossing over from clubs to radio. Perren took Peaches and Herb and used this formula to make history.
"Shake Your Groove Thing" is a staple in most classic disco catalogues. I have taken the track and placed a break beat throughout the track to pump the funk out of the track and re-edited it for a playful ReStructure.
This track was written by Dino Fekaris who produced Gloria Gaynor's "I Will Survive" along with Perren in 1978.
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Shake It Baby Love - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Ferrara
John Ferrara (Suave, 'Lectric Funk, Lysa Lynn) produced "Wuthering Heights" project which resembled a concept LP as "Romeo & Juliet" by Alec R. Costandinos where a disco symphony is based on a classic theme or story. In 1979, at the production of this project, Ferrara used more electronic elements introducing a more disco-fied feel along with the stands strings and arrangements.
The big hit from the LP was "Love Attack" which remains a classic among disco audiophiles. I have taken the B-side (which was actually the 12" single A-side) "Shake It Baby Love" and re grouped the track for a new mix. The keyboard and synthesizer work on this LP brought many new changes to way we listened to disco music at the end of it's pop presence. It gave disco a more underground feel and placed it right back where it should have been - an underground sound for this hardcore arena.
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Let's Lovedance Tonight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gary's Gang
Eric Matthew (Sharon Redd, Tracy Weber, Status IV, Betty LaVette, John Travolta's "A Girl Like You) and Gary R. Turnier (Vicky "D", Komiko) were Gary's Gang along with several band members.
Their initial hit, "Keep On Dancing" was produced with the formula that disco music matured into from the mid-70's to the late part of the "fever". The LP spawned another hit titled, "Let's Lovedance Tonight" - a sound alike of "Keep On Dancing" yet enough riffs and one of the most sampled rhythm tracks to make it stand out on it's own.
I have taken "Let's Lovedance Tonight" and given it a open mix full of the rhythm and percussion that made it stand out. The vocals are as sweet as the "gang" was known for, so this one is a real treat.
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Dynamite! - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Stacy Lattisaw
In 1979, Van McCoy produced Stacy Lattisaw's first LP titled "Young And In Love" - this was a young talent that displayed the crossover of pop to disco. Bunny Hull and Narada Michael Walden took over Lattisaw's talent in 1980 with the formula that began a new style of dance music.
Walden's production of Lattisaw's "Let Me Be Your Angel" was a formula he creatively used with Sister Sledge, Aretha Franklin, Amii Stewart and a few solo LPs. This became a staple of the dance floors in the early 80's.
"Dynamite!" was the first dance track from this project and as memorable as the second follow-up, "Jump To The Beat". It was a pop-dance hit that utilized Stacy's young vocal delivery.
My ReStructure of "Dynamite!" is more focused on the rhythm track and takes the elements into a deeper dance mix. It is a revival of a sound which helped to keep disco alive throughout the early 80's.
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Take Off - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Harlow
Disco music's transition to high-energy was a process that began in the early 80's. With projects like "Taking Off" by Harlow in 1980 - a Canadian studio group produced by Mike Alyanak and Alex Aleander a fusion of the smooth Euro-disco sound and the driving sound of the dance floor pulse. The LP was close to a latter-day Voyage or Cerrone effort.
"Take Off" became an instant dance floor track that was memorable and lasting from this period. It had the driving energy that dance floors were ready to turn their feet over and yet a beautiful arrangement and vocal track to last.
I was lucky enough to see Harlow perform at a club in Hollywood during the early 80's and experiencing this ensemble perform this song live was surprising - it was just as powerful.
My ReStructure is a homage to the track and dissects parts of the song into a whole me meaning.
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I Can't Stand The Rain - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Eruption
Eruption featuring Precious Wilson released in 1978 was a dance floor classic from day one! Produced by Frank Farian (Boney M, Gilla, Milli Vanilli) and conducted by Steve Hammer.
Precious Wilson was recording solo during this time to help promote the emerging dance sound and also her unique style of vocal. This track is one of her greatest achievements where it pours emotion over the synthetic riffs and horns. It is truly amazing.
I have ReStructured "I Can't Stand The Rain" with some new stomping beats and percussion along with the dedication to a "New America" where we were tired of Bush and GOP bringing us down - "I Can't Stand The Rain"! And it's over...thank goodness. Enjoy and keep dancing.
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Smack Dab In The Middle - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Janice McClain
“Smack Dab In The Middle” by Janice McClain is one of the most outstanding dance and vocal tracks ever.
What do you do when you are the daughter of Alton McClain (the lead of Alton McClain and Destiny)? You take to the studio at the age of 16 and record the most memorable standard in disco music. And with a fabulous mix by Mr. Larry Levan how can you lose – you hit it “right in the middle”!
Produced by Milt Tennant and Thom Page this powerhouse track always takes me to a higher level of disco worship. Janice’s works this song as if she were the Billy Holliday of disco music. Working the horns, strings and Levan’s use of pounding bass beats and arrangement this one is one that is hard to forget.
I was attempting to create a ReStructure that is a re-edit – the original just cannot be topped. And as all of my work – it is simply another version to groove to. More looping and placing some of the wonderful strings and horns all over the place. And also taking that line, “When your hot, your hot” as a disco chant.
Applause, Ms. McClain!
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Love Exciter - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - El Coco
Michael Lewis and Lauren Rinder were El Coco - and the name was a bit of an outline for the 80's disco scenes - plenty of "el coco" around!
The track "Love Exciter" was released in 1979 and was never featured on a album by El Coco. The single alone is considered somewhat of an underground hit. The synthesizers and keyboards are pumping and syncopated beautifully with the sensual vocals by Merria Ross.
This was another favorite of mine, so taking it onto the ReStructure table was excitable for me. I have outlined more of the keyboards and added a few surprises in between. Enjoy!
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This Side Of Midnight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gregg Diamond's StarCruiser
Gregg Diamond's StarCruiser was Marlin Record's 1978 Bionic Boogie. Diamond created a disco-fied symphony of strings and funky guitars on this project. "This Side Of Midnight" was the first single to hit dance floors. It featured vocals headed by Diva Grey and Gordon Grody. The track was an instant hit with it's innovative use of keyboards, bass synthesizers and Diamond's magic.
The LP contained several dance worthy tracks and even today looked at by disco audiophiles as flawless compositions.
I have taken "This Side Of Midnight" and blended pieces all over into a new mix with new bass syn-drums and beat tracks. Is has always been a track I have deeply loved and recreating the scenario was a labor of love.
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Chic Cheer - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chic
Nile Rogers and Bernard Edwards were the innovators of Chic. And along with Alfa Anderson, David Lasley, Diva Gray, Luther Vandross, Norma Jean and Robin Clark the first LP in 1977 simply titled “Chic” became a disco staple overnight.
In 1978 “Le Freak” became the theme for disco dance floors all over the country. The second LP titled “C’est Chic” introduced once again a new sound, which became the outline for the crossover between sophisticated funk and disco music.
“Chic Cheer” became a track that was more like the Overture to a Chic concert – it had the guitars of Rogers and Edwards and the sassy vocals and arrangement that crossover classics are made of.
I have take “Chic Cheer” and created a more “dub”-founded mix with many more beats to bounce along with those funky guitars to.
This one is dedicated to my partner, Ken – who insisted that this track be included as a ReStructure. It is his kind of “funk”!
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Love Disco Style - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Erotic Drum Band
Erotic Drum Band was one of the earliest Canadian disco bands to become apart of the finale stage of 70’s disco formulation. With Peter Di Milo, George Cucuzzella and Joe la Greca as producers and band arrangers this is a landmark of disco achievements.
The tracks were based on early keyboard and synthesizer movements over drum rhythms and percussion fills became and instant hot on dance floors ready for a new energy movement. In 1978 this was the beginning of the high-energy sound, which would take over in the early 80’s.
I have taken portions of “Love Disco Style” and applied a new pounding drum and bass track beneath the fast moving tempo and also applied a few drum fills within the vocal tracks.
Dedicated to the die-hard disco fans!
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Come On And Do It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Poussez!
Poussez! was released in 1979 and was a studio concept project from Alphonse Mouzon ("Everybody Get Down", "I'm Glad That You're Here") – a jazz musician and producer. His work was known throughout the early 70’s.
Christine Wilshire (noted on LP as Christine Shire) who had worked with Musique and Phreek was upfront on the vocal ensemble along with Holly Oas and Ruderial Blackwell. The choruses in “Come On And Do It” are more of a session of melodic ecstasy and are surely influenced by work like “Love Hangover” and “Love To Love You Baby”.
Mouzon did most of the production here on electronic instruments and is obvious this was a move to outline disco music for this time. It works well for what it stands for.
I have ReStructured “Come On And Do It” from the original LP version which was engineered by Mark Berry. Adding more of an electronic edge with new sequencer and track loops.
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(Everybody) Get Dancin' - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bombers
Bombers were a group of Canadian producers and musicians (Pat DeSerio and George Lagios along with bass player, Mack "BC" Jones (aka Busta Jones) and vocalist, Tamara Lorincz). Their initial project Kebekelektrik was assisted by Gino Soccio on keyboards.
The second LP titled “Bombers 2” was quite a disco excursion. It displayed a bit more of where disco music was headed in 1979. The smooth and beautiful keyboard arrangements complimented the space-age themes, which Bombers were reflecting through artwork and imagination.
I have taken the big 1979 hit, “(Everybody) Get Dancin’” and ReStructured it into the Milky Way! Taking advantage of the lush string effects and that funky bass line that could tie a shoe.
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Lust - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Rinder and Lewis
In 1977 disco music was quickly becoming known as an experimental period. Many producers began using the freedom of the dance floor to bring new and innovative flavor to their sound. Rinder and Lewis already dance floor experienced with their El Coco recordings began allowing imagination and musical expertise to take control.
"Seven Deadly Sins" was more of an underground LP from what I can remember - most of the tracks were movements that completed the theme. It was a creative process for Rinder and Lewis and probably one of the most sought after LPs of their recordings.
I have always been mesmerised by "Lust" - it is a track that gave disco instrumentals the ability to appear more as a jazz arrangement as each instrument (in this case keyboard and synthesizer) had it part and was an important part of the finished piece.
My ReStructure Mix of "Lust" is another version with a few beats and synthesizers introducing the mind altering sound of the original.
Dedicated the Rinder and Lewis in gratitude for their part of disco music.
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Inferno - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Fire and Ice
Butterfly Records was the pinnacle of sophisticated disco productions – from THP Orchestra to Tuxedo Junction. Many of the projects on this label always emphasized a structure of pure and well-assembled dance music.
Fire and Ice was released in 1979 and produced by motion picture composer, Lalo Schifrin with co-producing and mixing by Elton Farokh Ahi (Destination, Stereo Fun, Inc.). The tracks on “Fire and Ice” were well produced and arranged, displaying the connection and well balance of funky bass guitars and orchestra strings.
Percussion (played by Ahi) is outlined here as the main frame for each track – as “Inferno” was the biggest dance floor hit, it is the best from the project. The track was infectious in both instrumentation and vocals (noted as Meredith Manna and Leila Thipen).
I have taken the extended LP mix of “Inferno” and used the bass line as the hook again with some new beats and loops to make the song once again a hot experience.
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Shoot Me (With Your Love) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Tasha Thomas
From her 1978 debut, Tasha Thomas made a dent in dance floors with funky, sensual and bass driven track, “Shoot Me (With Your Love)”.
Produced by James R. Glaser and Peter Rugile her LP scored several more surprises with “Midnight Rendezvous”, “Hot Buttered Boogie” and “Street Fever”. Tasha’s soulful and sensual delivery made her a memorable experience during this time.
I have taken “Shoot Me (With Your Love)” and cracked the original into pieces and added a new drum track to beef up the already cookin’ track.
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Married Men - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bette Midler
From her 1979 disco fling LP "Thighs and Whispers" came Bette Midler's camp dance track, "Married Men" - although the lyrics claim different.
This production by Arif Mardin became a big hit in gay clubs and welcomed Bette into a whole new arena. The fantastic disco mix by Issy Sanchez in given the ReStructure treatment with a few extra added beats and claps - and scarce arrangement that takes some of the ominous vocal tracks out.
This one is probably one of Bette's greatest signature tracks from the source of her career when her road shows included bawdy and raunchy humor that many have known her for - long before Disney. Now you take Bette back on the floor in her real Broadway birthday suit.
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I'm Ready - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kano
Produced by Luciano Ninzatti, Matteo Bonsanto and Stefano Pulga – Kano became a very strong force in disco music in 1980. Armed with the appropriate keyboard and synthesizers and the funkiest beats, “I’m Ready” bombarded the dance floors with new energy during its initial release. It is now a classic dance floor piece.
The track emphasizes a voice, which state it is “ready” make a move after traveling through space to dance with you. It is as if the song could create a loyal following, ala Trekkies!
This ReStructure pieces a new beat with the elements that make this song unforgettable. It still moves with the sound that made it what it is today – but with a few new surprises.
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Perfect Love Affair - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Constellation Orchestra
Jesse Boyce and Moses Dillard produced disco projects Saturday Night Band ("Come On, Dance Dance") and Lorraine Johnson ("Feed The Flame") during a time when disco was becoming a fast moving sensation. Their arrangements and style became what is now known as New York style disco music. The forerunner to the funkier sound which was the tail end of Prelude Records success during early 80's.
Constellation Orchestra was another studio band which took on the energy of being a celestial influence of music which held disco music as a magic and exciting. The signature string section, which spiral into ecstasy are a satisfying for disco music lovers.
This ReStructure of "Perfect Love Affair" is an opportunity to hear these qualities once again with more of that infectious bass guitar.
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My Love Is Music - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Space
Space was Didier Marouani and Roland Romanelli - their second LP "Just Blue" was released in 1978.
It was a period of music when keyboards began to construct the sound and mood of music becoming a New Age sound. Space became disco's answer to a more futuristic and ambient feel which sometimes included a live band accompaniment with instruments embellishing their music's excitement.
"My Love Is Music" is the first dance hit off of the LP which featured Madeline Bell, again as lead vocal - creating a wall of energy with this track. It was later recorded by Gloria Gaynor in the early 80's and was a hit all over again.
This has always been one of my favorite tracks with a statement about disco music that an audiophile could identify with. I have used the pumping bass lines and piano tracks to create a more spacious mix and take advantage again of Madeline's fantastic vocal.
This ReStructure Mix is dedicated to Madleine Bell.
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Use It Up and Wear It Out - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Odyssey
In 1977 Charlie Calello and Sandy Linzer produced Odyssey’s “Native New Yorker” – the ensemble consisted of sisters, Lillian and Louise Lopez and Tony Reynolds. This release became an instant hit in discotheques all over the world as well as becoming a big part of the rejuvenation of New York’s travel campaign.
In 1980 Odyssey continued their statement to dance floors with “Use It Up and Wear It Out” – this project was produced by Sandy Linzer. It featured a percussive and simple melody that brought an instant energy for a time as disco music began to decline from the pop-charts. Otherwise, this would have surely been another favorite as tracks like “Shake Your Groove Thing”.
I have taken the track into a ReStructure realm and simply rearranged the verses and added a new back beat to bring a new life to an already dance floor favorite.
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More Than A Woman - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bee Gees
In 1977 disco music began a new phase of success – with the soundtrack to “Saturday Night Fever” released as a double LP and featuring music from the long-runners of pop, The Bee Gees.
One of the most beautiful disco tracks has since been “More Than A Woman” – which is also featured during the highlights of the film. The track has always run 3 minutes short on the soundtrack and has been covered from day one – featured on the original soundtrack by Tavares. But no one has been able to recreate the beauty that the Bee Gees mastered on their version.
I have taken the original track and extended it to a long running 10 minutes with lots of loops, phasing and keeping intact the beautiful vocals and flow of the original.
Dedicated to those mirror ball fans of the disco craze and then beauty of disco music, which lasts forever.
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Rhythm Of Life - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Afro-Cuban Band
Michael Zager worked with the disco concept as began to mature and take on a new form. His formula was close to an orchestration for the beat with an uplifting theme. His production of Afro-Cuban Band in 1978 brought on a light flair for dance floors and worked around the theme of Cuban style percussion.
“Rhythm Of Life” worked with Zager’s sound of his production of “Let’s All Chant” with his keyboards generating rippling and sequencer like patterns. The musicians on this project were some of his best. Including Francisco Centano on bass and a full horn section.
I have reworked “Rhythm Of Life” and infused a bit more of the breaks and fantastic horn sections throughout the song.
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Set Me Free - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Three Degrees
The Three Degrees were Philadelphia's golden sound.
In 1979, Giorgio Moroder produced "3D" following the success of the 1978 production of "New Dimensions". This powerhouse of talent created some of the most incredible disco music ever. "Set Me Free" was a hit off of the "3D" LP and remains one of the most beautiful synth driven tracks.
I have ReStructured the track to give some new breath and arrangements to this classic Moroder/3 Degrees number.
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From Here To Eternity - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Giorgio
In 1977 Giorgio Moroder recorded "From Here To Eternity" on his quest to use electronics to enhance, as well as create a whole new disco sound. This project is one of the most refined and respected studio recordings in disco music today. Although time has passed and many new elements of electronic music have surfaced, none have touched the compositions or recording savvy of this gem.
I have made "From Here To Eternity" a entity of it's own using the mood that it was originally meant to relay - in my mind. It percolates and flutters into a new adventure in this ReStructure Mix.
Dedicated to the die hard disco fans with an appetite for electronic fantasy.
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Night Time - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Sticky Fingers
From Three Hats Productions (THP) came some of the most exciting disco productions of the era. Ian Guenther & Willi Morrison produced Sticky Fingers in 1978 on Prelude Records – a studio project that featured Phyllis and Helen Duncan on vocals. Similar to the THP #2 production as well as the self titled LP “The Duncan Sisters” from 1979.
This ensemble featured musicians that obviously were tuned in to what disco music had become – pure excitement.
“Night Time” was a track that flowed simply with guitar licks and strings that emphasized the drama of the disco arrangement. It had always been one of the most exciting tracks to me. So taking the song into a whole new arrangement and adding some new elements was a pleasure. The LP featured 3 more powerhouse tracks: "Wastin' My Love", "Takin' A Chance On You" and a funky dance rendition, "Party Song".
Not much has been heard from The Duncan’s since the early 80’s but these vocal tracks can hold your attention when you are looking for a sheer disco vocal sound.
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I Love The Nightlife (Disco Round) - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Alicia Bridges
Alicia Bridges created the theme for discothèques all over the world in 1978 with her big hit, “I Love The Nightlife (Disco Round)” – the song went to #5 in the Billboard Top 100 that year.
The song has been heard over and over throughout time bringing back the energy and grace of the disco nightlife throughout time. I have recreated a ReStructure Mix using the original 12 Inch elements from Jim Burgess’ flawless mix and also created a few new rhythm outlines and breaks.
This mix goes out to Paul C. of New York who brought this request to me and asked that the “huh” be used throughout the mix – it’s all yours, Paul – thanks for being so supportive and helpful, always!
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One More Minute - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Saint Tropez
Michael Lewis and
Lauren Rinder gave us many memorable moments during the disco
years. Their projects always made an impact on dance floors
with thanks to their dedication to creating disco music influenced
by dance floors.
Saint Tropez being one of the most polished
of their projects and immense success with One More
Minute in 1978. The track became an instant hit and
outlined best the act. A great recording of disco in the height
of its success. The track to this day still has some of the
grooviest guitars and bass line to move along with the disco
beat.
I have taken One More Minute
and given it the ReStructure touch along with a few extra
breaks and a gentler mix out.
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Mischief - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - French Kiss
Simon Soussan produced
artist such as Jessica Williams, Pattie Brooks, Romance, Arpeggio,
Shalamar, Leroy Gomez, Charisma and French Kiss.
From his 1979 project "Panic!"
featuring, Jessica Williams, Lamar Stevens and Muffi Durham
came an intriguing instrumental piece titled, "Mischief".
This track was a hypnotic track with a pulsating synthesizer
outline and some great strings accenting it. It was one of
those tracks with much promise on the dance floor. This ReStructure
Mix extends the hook of the song and gives it an extended
arrangement.
Dedicated to Cole for bringing the song
back into my mind - it was always a favorite.
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Street Sense - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - The Salsoul
Orchestra
From 1979 the LP
that Tom Moulton produced and mixed with the help of disco
conductor Thor Baldursson.
This project fared well with it's conga
driven tracks with the magnificent sound of the orchestra's
strings and horns creating a sophistication that they are
so well known for.
"Street Sense" has always been
a track that contained much of the elements of Euro and New
York disco. My ReStructure is more of a dub-fest using the
percussion and the underlying energy and also parts of the
soaring choruses with that positive disco feeling.
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Disco Kicks - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Boystown Gang
Bill Motley brought
the resurgence of disco to life in 1981 when no one believed
it was possible. One of his first being "Ain't No Mountain
High Enough"/"Remember Me" Medley from the
Boystown Gang's first LP which featured Cynthia Manley on
lead vocals.
On his follow up project he broke down
the concept with more of a high energy feel - focusing on
a few covers from soul to classic easy listening songs to
"Disco Kicks" (which was originally recorded by
The Original Mass). This track pumped over and over and kept
dance floors jumping all over again. It was pure excitement.
I have taken Motley simple production and
broke it into many pieces and then placed it together in this
ReStructure Mix - it has a new flavor and arrangement.
This one is dedicated to all of the die-hard
high energy disco lovers who just can't get enough "kicks"!
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I'd Like To Get Closer - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - USA-European
Connection
Boris Midney: a
disco conductor
He created a style of Euro-disco that moved
dance floors into a new phase. It was not always easy for
Midney's first release, "Come Into My Heart" on
Marlin Records in 1978. Most dance floors had not yet grasped
his concept or style - it was the hardcore disco audiophiles
who were ready to move forward with his ideas and arrangements.
As his style became a major part of disco
music's growth and progression, it now that we consider Midney
to be a master in his own compositions and productions.
This second project titled USA-European
Connection is a blend of Midney's style once again moving
into a whole new area with some familiar aspects from past
productions. Many of his recording included Beautiful Bend,
Caress, Masquerade, Nannette Garcia, Black Russian, Companion
and Festival.
I have extracted "I'd Like To Get
Closer" from the side one portion of the medley and pieced
some of the beautiful segments of strings and percussion elements
to recreate a new track altogether.
Dedicated to the hardcore Boris Midney
fans who have believed in disco music from the beginning and
were not afraid to move with it's unique style.
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Midnight Love Affair - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Carol
Douglas
Carol Douglas released
"Midnight Love Affair" in 1976 - arranged and conducted
by John Davis and produced by Eddie O'Loughlin. This being
her second release following her big hit, "Doctor's Orders".
This was an example of the progression
of disco music following the mid-seventies. Layered strings
and soft melodies were the formula dance floors clamored for.
This ReStructure Mix is a breakdown of
the track with a few added drums and the extracting the male
vocal segments.
Dedicated to Ms. Carol Douglas for
her part in disco history.
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Risky Changes - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Bionic Boogie
Greg Diamond produced
projects by Andrea True Connection ("More, More, More"
"N.Y. You Got Me Dancing"), Gloria Gaynor and George
McCrae using his production and arrangement skills to create
a whole new sound of disco music.
In 1977 his production of Bionic Boogie
was one of the most exciting in disco history. Using top musicians
and a vocal ensemble consisting of Jocelyn Brown, Cissy Houston,
Luther Vandross and Gordon Grody this production is a powerhouse.
"Risky Changes" is being ReStructured
here using some bongo tracks to pull out more energy from
the killer bass line and piano piece looped till the cows
come home.
This one goes to to Mr. Diamond who left
us with some fantastic music to remember him by.
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Call Me Tonight - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Cerrone
The 1979 project
by Cerrone titled, Angelina is probably one of
his most profound of this great mans work. This being the
last of the disco era and being one of the most contained.
Call Me Tonight is close to perfection
and weaves the sensual and yearning cry of a lover who is
feeling what we all need.
This ReStructure introduces a new
phasing intro of phrases from the original, which create the
mystic of Cerrone. I dedicate this track to Philip from Nutley,
NJ for understanding that disco music is deeper than we know.
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The Boss - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Diana Ross
During the peak of disco one of the highlights
is "The Boss" by Diana Ross. The LP was a masterpiece
of tracks produced by Nickolas Ashford & Valerie Simpson
and featured Diana on top of the world.
"The Boss" is a track that stands
alone. The impact that it created for Ross as an artist is
enough to make this one last forever. It also outlines our
vulnerability to cleaver lyrics and the emphasis on love itself.
My ReStructure is a look at the track from
a percussion and string forte which are the dramatic areas
of the disco mix.
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Honey Bee - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Gloria Gaynor
Gloria Gaynor's
second LP was one of the first to feature a segued dance side
which was also has a few of the her notable tracks - "Honey
Bee", "Never Can Say Goodbye" and "Reach
Out, I'll Be There."
"Honey Bee' was produced by Paul Leka
while the remainder of the project was produced by Jay Ellis
(Al Downing, Chase, Camouflage), Meco Monardo ("Star
Wars" disco cover, Gentle Persuasion, Crown Heights Affair,
featured trombone player on Diana Ross' "Diana) LP) and
Tony Bongiovi. This track was a sweet flowing song which outlined
another sound which was being formulated by producers like
Freddie Perren.
I have ReStructured "Honey Bee"
with some deep pounding bass drums and use of the vibe riff
from the track - a mixture of a classic disco element and
new arrangement.
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Rock Solid - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Chi Chi Favelas
and The Black and White Band
This track was
released on an LP by the same name in 1978 - it is obviously
a group of musicians who were well educated on disco - probably
Euro-disco. It was recorded at Trident Studios which is where
Alec R. Costandinos worked allot of his disco magic.
Slim Pezin (Voyage, Kikrokos) is featured
on guitars and George Roddi (Voyage) on keyboards and synthesizers
as well as Sue Glover and Sunny Leslie on vocals - and these
girls were Cerrone's ensemble on early projects as well as
backing for a few Donna Summer LPs.
With the outline as such, you understand
why it is such a fantastic endeavor. Produced by Alain Wisniak
and is listed at "the tastiest disco sound around".
I agree. The use of a rock and roll influence and theme is
deeply successful.
I have ReStructured "Rock Solid"
re-using the fabulous guitar piece which "disco-rocks!"
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War Dance - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Kebekelektrik
During a heavy
experimental period of disco music in 1978 came a studio group
by the name of Kebekelektrik - this band consisted of Canadian
producer Pat Deserio and producer, artist Gino Soccio.
"War Dance" is a track which
immediately became a dance floor favorite with its fast paced
energy and use of trailing synthesizers pumping out a bottom
end for a wicked Indian style melody flowing as if it were
a orchestral experience. It is almost as if the keyboards
are speaking to you.
I have taken this track thanks to a request
by Dori who asked that this classic be ReStructured.
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Haven't You Heard - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Patrice
Rushen
Patrice Rushen
released 4 LPS from 1974 1978 and finally releasing
Pizzazz in 1979, which featured the powerhouse
dance track, Havent You Heard. Produced
by Reggie Andrews and featured a full ensemble of jazz and
pop musicians adding their experience and talent to the wonderful
tracks in this project.
Long before her classic old school number,
Forget Me Nots this big stomper made quite a hit
on disco charts and dance floors everywhere.
I have ReStructured Havent
You Heard with a touch of electronic bass lines and
looped vocal pieces to complete a whole new arrangement and
feel to the song.
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You Can Do It - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Al Hudson and
The Partners
This single was
released under 2 band names - Al Hudson and The Partners and
One Way featuring Al Hudson - I decided to use both as an
identifiable cross reference.
A great combination of funk and disco in
this track - and it gets more complicated. Alicia Meyers is
featured in a fantastic solo which brings this track to an
all time high. It was released in 1979 on MCA Records.
A new ReStructure Mix brings this song
some added percussion and creates a forward mix full of breaks
and crescendos!
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Freak On - Glenn Rivera ReStructure Mix - Lemon
Kenny Lehman (Rhetta
Hughes, Chic, Roundtree) created Lemon and the name
obviously came from his sir name, Lehman.
This production was one influenced by the
late 70s style of disco. The single Freak On
was originally released on Salsoul Records in 1978 then released
on the LP titled Lemon later 1978 on Prelude Records.
This track obviously worked off of the sensation created by
Chics Le Freak but also had its own
sound and funkiness.
I have taken Freak On and recreated
the scenario with more looping and self-contained percussion
and also added some new base tracks to enhance a new excitement.
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