Mass Production Vinyl Records Lps For Sale

Check out these new and used Mass Production vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Mass Production vinyl collection with the essential albums Believe, In A City Groove and Turn Up The Music 1981. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from disco musicians.

Mass Production: Pioneers of Funk and Soul Fusion

Exploring the Roots of Mass Production

Mass Production, a trailblazing American funk and soul band, emerged during the vibrant musical landscape of the 1970s. Founded in Norfolk, Virginia, in 1971, the group quickly gained recognition for their innovative approach to blending various musical genres. Known for their energetic live performances and groundbreaking studio recordings, Mass Production became synonymous with the fusion of funk, soul, and disco, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.

Formation and Early Years

Mass Production’s journey began when a group of exceptionally talented musicians, including keyboardist and vocalist Dale Adams, percussionist and drummer Ricardo Williams, and bassist Kevin Douglas, came together with a shared passion for creating dynamic and danceable music. The lineup also featured Larry Marshall on drums, Tyrone Williams on trumpet, and Rodney Phelps on saxophone, among others.

In their early years, the band honed their skills by performing in local venues and gradually gained a devoted fan base. Drawing inspiration from the likes of James Brown, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Parliament-Funkadelic, Mass Production set out to carve their unique niche in the evolving world of funk and soul.

Album Spotlight: “Welcome to Our World” (1976)

Mass Production’s debut album, “Welcome to Our World,” released in 1976, marked the beginning of their illustrious discography. The album seamlessly blended funk, soul, and jazz elements, showcasing the band’s versatility and musical prowess. Tracks like “Welcome to Our World (Of Merry Music)” and “Groove Me” became instant classics, with infectious grooves that had listeners hitting the dance floor.

The success of “Welcome to Our World” not only established Mass Production as a formidable force in the funk scene but also showcased their ability to push musical boundaries. The album’s intricate arrangements and tight instrumentation set the stage for the band’s future exploration of different sonic landscapes.

Evolution of Sound: “In a City Groove” (1979)

As the 1970s progressed, Mass Production continued to evolve their sound. The 1979 release of “In a City Groove” marked a significant shift in their musical direction. The album embraced disco influences while maintaining the band’s signature funk foundation. Tracks like “Firecracker” and “Cosmic Lust” showcased a more polished and sophisticated sound, earning Mass Production acclaim from both funk enthusiasts and disco aficionados.

“In a City Groove” reflected the band’s ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape without compromising their core identity. The album’s success solidified Mass Production’s status as pioneers of the funk-disco fusion genre, influencing a new wave of artists exploring the intersection of dance and soulful rhythms.

Chart-Topping Success: “Victory ’83” (1983)

The early 1980s saw Mass Production achieve chart-topping success with their album “Victory ’83.” This release not only demonstrated their staying power but also highlighted their continued innovation within the funk and soul genre. Tracks like “Victory ’83” and “I Believe in Music” became anthems of the era, capturing the spirit of celebration and resilience.

“Victory ’83” showcased Mass Production’s ability to adapt their sound to the evolving tastes of the time, incorporating electronic elements and synthesizers. The album’s success on both the R&B and dance charts solidified their position as a dynamic force in the music industry.

Legacy and Influence

Mass Production’s impact extends beyond their chart success. The band’s innovative fusion of funk, soul, and disco left an indelible mark on subsequent generations of musicians. Their influence can be heard in the work of artists across various genres, from R&B to hip-hop and electronic dance music.

Similar Bands: Exploring the Funk Universe

Mass Production’s distinctive sound has often drawn comparisons to other funk and soul bands that thrived during the same era. While each group brought its unique flavor to the genre, the similarities in their rhythmic complexity, horn arrangements, and infectious grooves are undeniable.

1. Earth, Wind & Fire: Renowned for their elaborate live performances and genre-blending approach, Earth, Wind & Fire shares similarities with Mass Production in their ability to seamlessly fuse various musical elements. Both bands are celebrated for their horn sections, intricate arrangements, and charismatic stage presence.
2. Parliament–Funkadelic: Led by the legendary George Clinton, Parliament-Funkadelic’s psychedelic funk heavily influenced Mass Production’s experimental side. The use of unconventional instruments, cosmic themes, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of funk connect these two pioneering groups.
3. Brick: Hailing from Atlanta, Brick found success in the late 1970s and early 1980s with their unique brand of funk and disco. Similar to Mass Production, Brick’s music is characterized by infectious rhythms and danceable grooves, making them contemporaries in the funk-disco movement.
4. Cameo: With their innovative use of synthesizers and infectious dance beats, Cameo shares common ground with Mass Production. Both bands embraced the evolving sound of the 1980s, incorporating electronic elements while staying true to their funk roots.

Mass Production’s Impact on Contemporary Music

The influence of Mass Production extends into the contemporary music landscape, with artists across genres acknowledging their contribution to the evolution of funk and soul. Sampling of Mass Production’s tracks can be heard in hip-hop and electronic music, showcasing the enduring relevance of their sound.

1. Hip-Hop Sampling: Mass Production’s funk-infused tracks have been sampled by numerous hip-hop artists. The rhythmic beats and horn sections have provided a rich source of inspiration for producers looking to inject a dose of classic funk into their tracks.
2. Electronic Dance Music (EDM): The danceable and energetic nature of Mass Production’s music has found resonance in the world of electronic dance music. DJs and producers often draw from the band’s catalog to create remixes that bridge the gap between funk nostalgia and modern beats.

Discography Overview: Navigating Mass Production’s Musical Odyssey

1. Welcome to Our World (1976)

• “Welcome to Our World (Of Merry Music)”
• “Groove Me”
• “Just a Song”
• “I Like to Dance”
• “Wine-Flow Disco”

1. In a City Groove (1979)

• “Firecracker”
• “Turn Up the Music”
• “Our Thought (Purity)”
• “Sky High”
• “Cosmic Lust”

1. Victory ’83 (1983)

• “Victory ’83”
• “I Believe in Music”
• “Shante”
• “Sun Dancer”
• “Watch Me Do It”

Final Notes on Mass Production’s Timeless Groove

Mass Production’s enduring legacy lies in their ability to transcend musical boundaries, seamlessly blending genres and captivating audiences with their infectious grooves. From their early days in the 1970s to the chart-topping success of the 1980s, the band’s evolution reflects not only the changing landscape of funk and soul but also their unwavering commitment to musical innovation.

As we continue to appreciate the rich tapestry of funk and soul, Mass Production stands as a testament to the power of rhythm, melody, and the unifying force of music.