Slave Vinyl Records Lps For Sale
Check out these new and used Slave vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Slave vinyl collection with the essential albums Show Time, SLAVE – Self Titled and Visions Of The Lite. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from disco musicians.
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Slave: A Funk Odyssey
Origins and Formation
Slave, the iconic funk and R&B band, emerged from the vibrant musical landscape of Dayton, Ohio in the late 1970s. Originally formed in 1975 by veteran musician Steve Washington, the band quickly became synonymous with a distinct sound that seamlessly blended funk, soul, and R&B.
The Pioneers of Dayton Sound
Dayton, Ohio, often dubbed as the “Land of Funk,” was a hotbed for musical innovation during the 1970s and 1980s. Bands like Ohio Players, Lakeside, and Zapp contributed to what came to be known as the “Dayton Sound,” characterized by its infectious grooves, tight instrumentation, and a relentless commitment to rhythm. Slave, with its innovative approach to funk, was at the forefront of this musical revolution.
Members and Musical Prowess
Slave’s lineup showcased a remarkable assembly of talent. Steve Washington, the bassist and leader, played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s sonic identity. Mark Hicks, Mark Adams, and Tim Dozier formed the backbone of the rhythm section on guitar, drums, and keyboards, respectively. Lead vocalist Steve Arrington brought his soulful voice and dynamic stage presence to the forefront.
Breakthrough Album: “Slave” (1977)
The eponymous debut album, “Slave,” released in 1977, marked the band’s entrance into the funk scene. With tracks like “Slide,” “Screw Your Wig on Tite,” and “Separated,” the album showcased Slave’s ability to create infectious, danceable tunes while infusing elements of jazz and soul.
The standout track, “Slide,” became a funk anthem, featuring Steve Arrington’s smooth vocals layered over a pulsating bassline. The album’s success set the stage for Slave’s prominence in the funk genre and solidified their position as pioneers of the Dayton Sound.
Evolution of Sound: “The Concept” (1978)
Building on the success of their debut, Slave continued to evolve with their sophomore album, “The Concept,” released in 1978. This album marked a departure from traditional song structures, introducing longer tracks that allowed for extended instrumental breaks and improvisation.
The title track, “The Concept,” exemplified the band’s willingness to experiment. Clocking in at over eight minutes, the song seamlessly blended funk, jazz, and R&B elements, showcasing the band’s musical dexterity. “We’ve Come to Stay” and “Son of Slide” further demonstrated Slave’s ability to push the boundaries of funk music.
Commercial Success and Critical Acclaim: “Just a Touch of Love” (1979)
The late 1970s saw Slave reach new heights with the release of “Just a Touch of Love” in 1979. The album not only achieved commercial success but also garnered critical acclaim for its polished production and infectious grooves.
The title track, “Just a Touch of Love,” became a chart-topping hit, blending a catchy melody with Steve Arrington’s soulful vocals. Tracks like “Are You Ready for Love” and “The Happiest Days” showcased the band’s versatility, incorporating elements of disco and jazz into their signature funk sound.
Challenges and Resilience: “Stone Jam” (1980)
As the landscape of popular music continued to evolve, Slave faced the challenge of staying relevant while maintaining their unique sound. The album “Stone Jam,” released in 1980, demonstrated the band’s resilience and ability to adapt to changing musical trends.
The standout track, “Watching You,” became one of Slave’s biggest hits, fusing funk with a catchy, radio-friendly vibe. The album as a whole reflected a more refined and polished sound, showcasing Slave’s commitment to staying true to their roots while embracing contemporary influences.
Changing Dynamics: “Show Time” (1981)
“Show Time,” released in 1981, marked a significant shift in Slave’s lineup, with the departure of lead vocalist Steve Arrington. Despite this change, the album maintained the band’s commitment to delivering tight, infectious grooves.
The track “Snap Shot” showcased new vocalist Curt Jones, whose smooth and soulful delivery seamlessly integrated into Slave’s sonic tapestry. While “Show Time” didn’t replicate the commercial success of previous albums, it demonstrated the band’s ability to navigate changes and continue producing high-quality funk.
Later Releases and Legacy
Subsequent albums, such as “Visions of the Lite” (1982) and “Bad Enuf” (1983), continued to showcase Slave’s musical prowess. However, the changing musical landscape and internal dynamics led to a gradual decline in the band’s popularity during the mid-1980s.
Despite their commercial ups and downs, Slave’s influence on funk and R&B endured. The band’s tight arrangements, infectious grooves, and innovative approach to the genre left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Influence on Contemporary Artists
Slave’s impact on contemporary artists is unmistakable. Their fusion of funk, soul, and R&B laid the groundwork for subsequent generations of musicians. Artists such as Prince, Cameo, and Morris Day and The Time drew inspiration from Slave’s groundbreaking sound, incorporating similar elements into their own music.
Slave’s influence can also be heard in the work of hip-hop artists who sampled their tracks. Producers and DJs have frequently turned to Slave’s catalog, remixing and reimagining their classic tunes for new audiences.
Similar Bands: Exploring the Funk Universe
Understanding Slave’s place in the funk genre requires exploring the landscape of similar bands that contributed to the rich tapestry of funk music during the same era. Bands like Ohio Players, Parliament-Funkadelic, and Lakeside shared the stage with Slave in shaping the sound of funk.
- Ohio Players: Hailing from Dayton, Ohio, like Slave, Ohio Players contributed significantly to the development of the Dayton Sound. Tracks like “Love Rollercoaster” and “Fire” showcased their ability to craft infectious, groove-driven funk.
- Parliament-Funkadelic: Led by the visionary George Clinton, Parliament-Funkadelic took funk to new heights with their avant-garde approach. The integration of rock, soul, and funk elements defined their sound, influencing not only Slave but countless other artists.
- Lakeside: Another Dayton-based band, Lakeside, added their own flavor to the funk scene. Known for hits like “Fantastic Voyage” and “Outrageous,” Lakeside’s funky grooves complemented the broader landscape of funk during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Legacy and Continued Impact
Slave’s legacy extends beyond their chart-topping hits and albums. Their contributions to the funk genre continue to resonate with fans and musicians alike. The band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their roots reflects their enduring impact on the world of music.
In an era where funk was undergoing various transformations, Slave stood out as a beacon of innovation. Their fusion of tight rhythms, soulful vocals, and experimental elements left an indelible mark on the genre, influencing not only their contemporaries but also future generations of musicians.
As funk music continues to evolve, Slave’s legacy remains a testament to the enduring power of innovative sounds and the indomitable spirit of musical exploration. The funk odyssey initiated by Slave in the 1970s continues to captivate listeners, ensuring that the band’s influence will echo through the corridors of funk for years to come.
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