Check out these new and used First Choice vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your First Choice vinyl collection with the essential albums The Player, Love Having You Around and Doctor Love. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from disco musicians.

First Choice: Pioneers of Philadelphia Soul

The Origins and Formation

First Choice, an iconic American girl group, stands as a testament to the vitality and creativity of the Philadelphia Soul sound. Formed in 1971, the group consisted of Rochelle Fleming, Annette Guest, and Joyce Jones. Emerging during a transformative period in music, they became synonymous with the Philly soul movement, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.

Discography Overview

1. “Armed and Extremely Dangerous” (1973)

The debut album, “Armed and Extremely Dangerous,” catapulted First Choice into the limelight. Released in 1973 under the Philly Groove Records label, the album’s title track became an instant classic. The empowering anthem showcased the group’s vocal prowess and set the tone for their future success. Other notable tracks include “Smarty Pants” and “You’ve Been Doing Me Wrong.”

2. “Delusions” (1977)

“Delusions,” released in 1977, demonstrated First Choice’s versatility by blending disco elements with their soulful roots. The album featured the dancefloor hit “Doctor Love,” a track that solidified their presence in the disco scene. With infectious rhythms and captivating vocals, “Delusions” marked a significant evolution in the group’s musical journey.

3. “Hold Your Horses” (1979)

As the disco era reached its peak, First Choice embraced the trend with their album “Hold Your Horses.” The titular track and “Love Thang” became chart-topping hits, showcasing the group’s ability to adapt while maintaining their distinctive sound. The album’s success further established First Choice as a force to be reckoned with in the disco landscape.

4. “Breakaway” (1980)

“Breakaway,” released in 1980, marked a departure from the disco-dominated sound of the late ’70s. The album featured a more electronic and R&B-infused sound, expanding First Choice’s sonic palette. Despite facing challenges in a changing musical landscape, tracks like “Let No Man Put Asunder” and “Double Cross” displayed the group’s enduring relevance.

Influences and Musical Style

First Choice drew inspiration from the rich musical tapestry of Philadelphia, infusing their sound with elements of R&B, soul, and disco. The lush orchestration, intricate vocal harmonies, and infectious beats defined their signature style. The influence of legendary producers like Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, pioneers of the Philly soul sound, is evident in First Choice’s seamless blend of emotion and groove.

Similar Bands in the Philadelphia Soul Scene

1. The Three Degrees

Hailing from Philadelphia, The Three Degrees shared a similar trajectory with First Choice. Known for their soulful ballads and dynamic performances, The Three Degrees achieved international success with hits like “When Will I See You Again.” Their impact on the Philadelphia soul scene paralleled that of First Choice.

2. The O’Jays

Another powerhouse in the Philly soul movement, The O’Jays, brought a blend of socially conscious lyrics and soulful melodies. Hits like “Love Train” and “For the Love of Money” solidified their status as icons of the genre. First Choice drew inspiration from the O’Jays’ ability to fuse meaningful lyrics with catchy tunes.

Legacy and Influence

First Choice’s influence extends beyond their chart-topping hits. Their groundbreaking use of electronic elements in “Let No Man Put Asunder” paved the way for the development of electronic dance music (EDM). The remixes of their tracks, especially by influential DJs like Frankie Knuckles, contributed to the evolution of house music.

Impact on Contemporary Artists

1. Madonna

The Queen of Pop, Madonna, acknowledged First Choice’s impact on her music. In her early career, Madonna incorporated elements of disco and soul, drawing inspiration from the infectious grooves that defined First Choice’s sound. Tracks like “Holiday” and “Into the Groove” reflect this influence.

2. Beyoncé

Beyoncé, a powerhouse in contemporary R&B, has cited First Choice as an inspiration for her dynamic and soulful performances. The group’s influence on Beyoncé’s vocal stylings and stage presence is evident in her ability to seamlessly blend emotion with danceable beats.

Enduring Appeal and Rediscovery

Despite evolving musical landscapes, First Choice’s timeless classics continue to resonate with audiences. Their tracks have experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks to their inclusion in film soundtracks, commercials, and DJ remixes. The rediscovery of First Choice by new generations speaks to the enduring appeal of their soulful sound.

Final Thoughts

First Choice, with their powerful vocals and genre-defying approach, remain trailblazers in the Philadelphia soul and disco genres. From the empowering anthems of the ’70s to their experimentation with electronic elements in the ’80s, the group’s musical journey reflects the ever-changing dynamics of the music industry. As their legacy endures, First Choice stands as a testament to the timeless power of soulful and danceable music that transcends generations.