70s Enigmas

The 70s had a strange effect on soul music in a few instances but produced some very enigmatic music. The offerings with this entry are a few which I think represent a nameless but unmistakable sound which the 70s carried away and have never been repeated. You have to remember that the decade was one where people kept an open mind especially where music was concerned and the influences melded into some powerful concoctions. Have a listen and I think you will understand where I am coming from…

The love I lost, was a sweet love.

The love I lost was complete love.

The love I lost…

I will never, no, no never love again.  [Chorus]

Oh! I can remember planning, building my whole world around you.

And I can remember hoping that you and I could make it on through.

But something went wrong.

We loved each other, we just couldn't get along.

Take a good look at me. I'm in misery, can't you see?

I can't remember nothing, no, no, no,

But the good times we used to share (my love)

I'm so sad and lonely without you my life is so dead.

I'm sorry to say- you go your way and I'll go my way.

It hurts deep inside since the day we said goodbye, but…

 [to Chorus and repeat until fade]

Once a person deciphers the song Strawberry Letter 23 it becomes clear that 23 is never said once. Even if you get all the words it becomes apparent that this song is more about letter 22 and not Strawberry Letter 23. All I can tell you is that this was originally invented by a 17 year old Shuggie Otis who wrote "Strawberry Letter 23" as way to describe his romantic feelings for his girlfriend. When asked, Otis explained that, "the song is about a love letter. The guy and the girl had written each other 22 love letters.” His 23rd letter became the song.

Hello my love, I heard a kiss from you
Red magic satin playing near, too
All through the morning rain I gaze, the sun doesn't shine
Rainbows and waterfalls run through my mind

In the garden, I see
West purple shower bells and tea
Orange birds and river cousins
Dressed in green

Pretty music, I hear
So happy and loud
Blue flowers echo
From a cherry cloud

Feel sunshine sparkle pink and blue
Playgrounds will laugh
If you try to ask
"Is it cool?"

If you arrive and don't see me
I'm going to be with my baby
I am free, flying in her arms
Over the sea

Stained window, yellow candy screen
See speakers of kite
With velvet roses diggin'
Freedom flight

  (ooh ooh ooh, etc.)

A present from you
Strawberry letter 22
The music plays
I sit in for a few

As you listen to this one ask yourself this… are the back-up singers saying I’ll Be Good To You or I’d be Delighted? You decide.

I just had to throw this in because I only heard it the other day and I think it should be put in the same genre as these three oldies but goodies. It’s called Malibu and done by Kim Petras, Paris Hilton’s best fiend. (That’s not a typo!) 

The rest of these are just wonderful 70s soul classics. Listen to them and tell me if you think they're special. To me they represent an era encased with rose colored glasses. The best way to remember music! Enjoy!