By Phillysoulman (152.163.207.182 - 152.163.207.182) on Friday, February 22, 2002 - 09:07 pm:

I received an e-mail from Dennis, he was in Toronto, Canada. He wanted the Forum information, so he can popin. I told him everyone is waiting to have his musings added to the forum. So everyone be on the look out he may join us sometime this weekend.

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Friday, February 22, 2002 - 09:47 pm:

hi bobby

just been listening to some swan music tonight.

do you know anything about mickey lee lane?

his song 'hey sah loney' was big at the twisted wheel way back in 1970.

it used to take the place by storm.

By Erik (64.228.108.144 - 64.228.108.144) on Saturday, February 23, 2002 - 08:25 am:

Is Dennis Coffey living in Toronto? Huh, I wander if he ever bumps into Junie Morrison..? /Erik

By John Lester (213.122.204.212 - 213.122.204.212) on Saturday, February 23, 2002 - 08:51 am:

or maybe R Dean Taylor

By david, glasgow, scotland (62.252.128.5 - 62.252.128.5) on Saturday, February 23, 2002 - 02:36 pm:

i used to have a 45 by 'junie' was he on westbound erik?

funk, if i remember correctly

dennis still lives in the 'burbs just outside detroit.

By Soultwine (195.93.34.152 - 195.93.34.152) on Wednesday, February 27, 2002 - 03:34 pm:

Hi
There was a great 7 page interview (plus pics/label scans)in issue 8 of BIG DADDY magazine last year.
Really worth a read as Dennis talks about the 60's records and the funkier items in the 70's.Bob Babbitt gets mentioned in connection with the Volumes.
Phil

By ErikT.O. (64.228.108.45 - 64.228.108.45) on Thursday, February 28, 2002 - 08:28 am:

Hm, I mistakenly thought the opening post in this thread suggested Dennis C lived in Toronto... coincidentially, 'Sweet Taste Of Sin' (Westbound '77 lp) is on my turntable as I was playing it a bunch last night... as for Junie, he recorded for Westbound as both a solo artist and as an Ohio Player, he later joined the P-Funk Mob...

By Dennis Coffey (205.188.195.190 - 205.188.195.190) on Saturday, March 02, 2002 - 12:25 am:

Hi folks. I just got back from Toronto. I am still living in the Detroit area. I am currently finalizing a book deal with BeeCool Publishing in London to release my new book. If any of you have any questions that I can answer, I will do my best.

Dennis Coffey

By Ralph Terrana (209.240.222.130 - 209.240.222.130) on Saturday, March 02, 2002 - 12:27 am:

Dennis,
It's Ralph....good to see you here.It's been a few years pal.

By DeAnne (24.234.119.126 - 24.234.119.126) on Saturday, March 02, 2002 - 02:03 am:

Hi, Dennis..it's been a long time. Hope all is well with you. It's nice to touch base after all these years.

By Carl Dixon London (62.31.40.173 - 62.31.40.173) on Saturday, March 02, 2002 - 03:14 pm:

Dennis Coffey

great to have you on the forum! Only now am I realising how this jig-saw goes together and how you fit in it and what it means!! I think all the books, that you guys write, will sell, especially to people like us. I just received the 'Motown, The golden years', in the post and I am thrilled to bits with it.

Cheers

By Rich (205.188.200.39 - 205.188.200.39) on Saturday, March 02, 2002 - 06:26 pm:

Hey Dennis ... great to see you here!!!! Questions: are you a Scorpio? Just kidding, Actually, I was curious about the sessions you played on around '66-'69 for the early Parliaments singles for Golden World or Revilot, particularly the intro to Testify, I've heard it was you (along with Bob Babbitt on bass). Also I've also heard that you and Ray Monette played guitar on most of the tracks from the first Funkadelic album recorded at Terra Shirma. Any recollections?

By Dennis Coffey (64.12.105.151 - 64.12.105.151) on Saturday, March 02, 2002 - 07:27 pm:

Hi folks. It's good to be on line with everyone. Hi Ralph and DeAnne. Good to hear from you! I just got off of the phone with Theodore in Jersey and then BeeCool publishing in London. My book entitled Guitars, Bars, and Motown Super Stars will probably be out in London this fall. I did the guitar intro on "I Want to Testify" with Babbitt and also played on the first Funkedelic album at Tera Shirma. I also was given my first chance to produce a record by Tera Shirma engineer, Milan Bogdan, who is now in Nashville. Milan convinced me to try my hand at record production, which led into Theodore and me doing production at for Ralph at Tera Shirma.

Dennis Coffey

By Ralph Terrana (209.240.222.130 - 209.240.222.130) on Saturday, March 02, 2002 - 08:17 pm:

Dennis,
I had no idea Milan was the catalyst in all this. Things one learns after so many years.
Well it appears Milan was right on the money as far as you being a top notch producer.

By Dennis Coffey (64.12.105.171 - 64.12.105.171) on Sunday, March 03, 2002 - 06:50 pm:

Hi Ralph. Thanks for the compliment. Back in 85, I went down to Nashville. I was thinking of relocating. I met Milan down there and he offered me the use of some office space and telephones and said he would help me if I wanted to move there. I really appreciated that. In the end, I decided not to relocate and came back to Detroit.

Dennis Coffey

By Ian W (213.122.73.220 - 213.122.73.220) on Sunday, March 03, 2002 - 09:40 pm:

Hi Dennis

Many thanks on chatting to us in this forum! It's a treat for all of us.

I know you played on many more tracks then the labels gave you credit for! I read somewhere that you played the melody on Al Kent's 'You've Got To Pay The Price'. Could you give us the name of some other tracks you played on?

Ian

By Rich (205.188.195.156 - 205.188.195.156) on Sunday, March 03, 2002 - 11:25 pm:

Hey Dennis, thanks for the "Testify" answer. I'd also like to ditto Ian's request. It makes it more interesting for me to be able to go back and listen for the particular players. If I could go back to the early Parliaments sides (and first Funkadelic LP) one more time: With G Clinton not being a musician and unable to read or write music, how did you guys learn the songs. Did GC bring tapes with him or did he bring a musician in to teach the bass, guitar, drum & keyboard parts, or did you guys piece those things together yourselves?

By Dennis Coffey (152.163.201.214 - 152.163.201.214) on Monday, March 04, 2002 - 12:38 am:

Hi folks. I did play the melody on Got to Pay the Price. George had arrangers and chord charts on some things. On others we just listened to the tunes which other members of The Funkadelic already knew and then we jumped in and played. I have a discography of nine pages in my new book. Some of them are listed in the July 1994 issue of Discoveries Magazine. Some of the records I recorded or arranged are from Dearly Beloved by Jack Montgomery to Open the Door of your Heart - Darrel Banks, Day Tripper and Real Humdinger - J.J. Barnes, SOS and War - Edwin Starr, Cloud Nine, Ball of Confusion, I Can't Get Next to You, Psychedelic Shack etc.and Just my Imagination - Temptations, Stick Up, Want Ads - Honey Cone, Give me Just a Little More Time - Chairman of the Board, Don't Knock my Love - Wilson Pickett, In the Rain, What you See is What You Get - The Dramatics, Still Waters - Four Tops, Who's Making Love - Johnny Taylor, Competition Aint Nothin - Carl Carlton, Boogie Fever - The Sylvers, Good Night Vienna album - Ringo Starr, Body Heat album - Quincy Jones. The list goes on and on. I recorded in Detroit, LA, New York, Mussel Shoals, Miami and Nashville and enjoyed every minute of it. I did some sessions here last year and still enjoyed every minute of it. In fact, the late Rudy Robinson was on one and still had that fat piano sound. He will be missed.

Dennis Coffey

By acooolcat (211.72.121.66 - 211.72.121.66) on Monday, March 04, 2002 - 03:41 am:

Hi Dennis, great to see you posting here and sharing your vast knowledge with us.
I didn't know that you played on Johnny Taylor's Stax smash - Who's Making Love. Was it recorded in Detroit - or down in Memphis? Did you meet Johnny when you cut the track? It's a fantastic recording! But you already know that.
Best wishes as always, Graham

By recordboyusa (208.61.5.193 - 208.61.5.193) on Monday, March 04, 2002 - 03:44 am:

Hi Dennis,
Just wondering if you remember what you recorded in Miami. (That's where I live, so naturally I'm curious!)

Thanks,
Jeff Lemlich
http://www.limestonerecords.com

By Dennis Coffey (205.188.195.201 - 205.188.195.201) on Monday, March 04, 2002 - 11:20 pm:

Hi Folks. Who's Making Love was recorded with the band at Stax in Memphis. I overdubbed my guitar part up here for Don Davis at United Sound Studios. We recorded Jackie Moore in Miami for Atlantic (Producers were Dave Crawford and Brad Shapiro.) Jerry Wexler was also there. I brought Eddie Willis, Jack Ashford and Ray Monette with me. Dr.John played keyboards.

Dennis Coffey

By recordboyusa (208.61.5.193 - 208.61.5.193) on Monday, March 04, 2002 - 11:38 pm:

Dennis,
That's so cool! We can tie so many of these recording hubs together through Jackie Moore!

She was from Jacksonville, Florida, but recorded her early stuff in Philly with her cousin (Dave Crawford)... then went to Miami to record using Detroit musicians! I love it!

Brad Shapiro also lived and worked out of South Florida for many years. He came down here in the 50s with Steve Alaimo & The Redcoats, and he and Alaimo produced countless artists together. Alaimo then settled in with TK while Shapiro would go on to produce Millie Jackson, etc.

Jeff Lemlich
http://www.limestonerecords.com

By phillysoulman (64.12.102.154 - 64.12.102.154) on Monday, March 04, 2002 - 11:50 pm:

Hey Dennis,

It was great talking to you earlier today. So many great stories.A life so similar to mine that it scares me.

Jeff, regarding Jackie Moore, I produced one of her biggest records, the club anthem "This Time Baby" and two subsequent albums. I really hit it of with her in the studio. Also, Dave Crawford was one of my favorite people and he did tons of things with us in Philly, with and without Brad Shapiro. We did Pickett, BB King, The mighty clouds of joy, RB Greaves, Candi Staton, Charles Mann, tons of things. He is missed.

By ErikT.O. (64.228.108.54 - 64.228.108.54) on Tuesday, March 05, 2002 - 10:08 am:

Hiya Dennis, I was wandering if by the Dramatics' "What You See Is What You Get" you are refering to the lp or just that song... either way, that's a killer album, was it recorded in Detroit? I have it on Volt & until recently thought Stax did all their recording 'in house' in Memphis...? Any thoughts one might easily pry from you regarding these sessions? /Erik

By RalphTerrana (209.240.222.130 - 209.240.222.130) on Tuesday, March 05, 2002 - 02:55 pm:

Before the Dramatics hit with What You See, I had a song that was charting on Stoney and Meatloaf with the same title, although a completely different song. Well S&M's eventually disappeared and the Dramatics came right behind it with theirs which, as we all know, became a very big record.
I got a phone call from Don Davis one day. He said " Ralph, the next time you release a record, call me and give me the title".

By John Lester (213.1.135.157 - 213.1.135.157) on Tuesday, March 05, 2002 - 03:59 pm:

Ralph........I found that amusing...sorry to laugh!

Nevertheless, I still only bought the S&M record with "The Way You Do The Things You Do" ONLY on the flip side!

By Ralph Terrana (209.240.222.130 - 209.240.222.130) on Tuesday, March 05, 2002 - 04:07 pm:

That's OK John...I laughed too.

By phillysoulman (64.12.107.34 - 64.12.107.34) on Tuesday, March 05, 2002 - 04:11 pm:

I laughed without ever listening to anything. Must have been the weed.

By John Lester (213.122.204.254 - 213.122.204.254) on Tuesday, March 05, 2002 - 09:06 pm:

Bobby.....as I said on another thread...it is all about teamwork and that means......

PASS IT ROUND!!!

By Dennis Coffey (64.12.105.159 - 64.12.105.159) on Tuesday, March 05, 2002 - 11:11 pm:

Hi Erik. We recorded the album here in Detroit at United Sound Studios. I played on the entire album. Hey Bobby, What You See is What You Get had me doing the riff on the Condor unit. We also did the In the Rain album here. I used an echoplex unit to get that rain sound in the intro. I did a session a few years ago with Ron Banks of the Dramatics for Ghost Face Killer, a rap artist.

Dennis Coffey

By ErikT.O. (64.228.108.46 - 64.228.108.46) on Saturday, March 09, 2002 - 09:00 am:

Thanks for replying Dennis, hi everyone else... that's my favourite Dramatics lp, the live one's cool & A Dramatic Experience are cool but 'What You See...' just floors me, especially side 1.

By Dennis Coffey (205.188.200.192 - 205.188.200.192) on Monday, March 11, 2002 - 12:45 am:

Thanks Erik. I really enjoyed playing on that album. We recorded it at United Sound and I had the chance to use my Condor unit.

Dennis Coffey

By Rich (162.33.235.93 - 162.33.235.93) on Tuesday, March 12, 2002 - 02:36 pm:

Hey Dennis

I just did pick up a copy of the Edwin Starr's soundtrack album Hell Up in Harlem which features you on guitar. Fonce Mizzell & Freddie Perren seem to be the ones who're credited with putting the music together for that one. I was curious about the creation process in terms of how much freedom & input came from the musicians on the sessions or if demos were typically relied upon where the musicians were expected to re-play the demos more or less note for note but with better precision. I suppose certain producers more open to ideas than others. Looking forward to reading your book this fall.

By Dennis Coffey (206.47.172.178 - 206.47.172.178) on Wednesday, March 13, 2002 - 01:03 am:

Hi Rich. I have never been asked to play a part from a demo. We usually read music and improvised fills and solos or rhythm. In LA, I spent more time reading charts than improvising. I like to read music but do I like to add some of my own ideas to the song.

Dennis Coffey

By Rich (162.33.235.79 - 162.33.235.79) on Wednesday, March 13, 2002 - 01:14 pm:

Thanks for taking the time to answer Dennis, its such a privilege to be able to hear directly from you. Thanks also for Scorpio, Son of Scorpio, Gettin it On '75, Blackbelt Jones, Devil's Gun. Now, Deadeye Dick, that tune was just craaazeee. As much as anything in your book I'm looking forward to reading the pages of discography info. I've read you played on some of the early J5 songs and I'm curious to see which ones. "I'll Bet You" was a tune you may have played on from the first Funkadelic album, it was also on the J5's ABC album a year later in 1970. So I'm curious to see if any you were on both sessions. Peace.

By Carl Dixon London (62.31.40.173 - 62.31.40.173) on Wednesday, March 13, 2002 - 01:55 pm:

Bob Babbit/Dennis Coffey

Does that mean you possibly played on 'Ooh! Pretty Lady' by Al Kent? Sorry if you have answered this already, but I agree sometimes there is that much happening, I miss things and in addition I enjoy just reading the posts (plus my spelling is crap). I love this record - I tried to mimic it on a sequencer I bought in 1989. It is saved on a floppy, but yes, it is an old Yamaha sequencer and the disc drive is broken. I remember trying to do the backbeats. The guitar sounds on the module were not so good, but the 'patch' wire, no 88 did it fine, as long as the keys were hit swiftly. And that guitar pluck that disappears into the background, high up, I just love - if all that makes any sense at all! I did struggle with the keyboards and trying to work out what was being played - an organ or piano or something else maybe! I wish I could extract the file and let you hear how I ruined a great Ric Tic track!!!

By Dennis Coffey (64.12.105.188 - 64.12.105.188) on Thursday, March 14, 2002 - 01:06 am:

Hey Rich. The J5 came to Hitsville one day. We did some of their earlier tracks when Bobby Taylor was involved. They were just little guys at the time. They asked me about the effects pedals I was using. I showed them the pedals and sent them over to my buddy Joe Pedorsek at Capitol music and they bought a bunch of stuff from him. I asked Freddie Parren in LA about those tracks and he said they cut them there. They may have recut them there so I don't list them on my discography. I remember playing some of the written parts but maybe they did recut in LA. Hell, I have more than enough records in my discography so it doesn't matter to me. (At least that I remember, which is why I call it a selected discography :<)) I did play live with the J5 in LA. That story is in my book.

Dennis Coffey

By Dennis Coffey (64.12.105.188 - 64.12.105.188) on Thursday, March 14, 2002 - 01:20 am:

Hey Rich. I forgot to thank you for appreciating my music. Thanks

Dennis Coffey

By Bebopman (67.37.64.80 - 67.37.64.80) on Thursday, March 14, 2002 - 03:45 am:

Dennis:

Thanks for your posting. I have such admiration for you. You and Babbitt have some talent. I remember going to hear you at Bakers in the early days. Did you ever play with Leroy Emanuelle? He and I went to school togehter and while in high school we formed a band that did some local stuff. Did he do any recording with you. He later formed the "Counts", but I don't know too much about the band. ALSO, I still have your "Hair and Thangs" alblum. Still one hell of a sound!

Much love and respect for you man!

By Rich (162.33.235.76 - 162.33.235.76) on Thursday, March 14, 2002 - 01:38 pm:

BeBopMan, we're about to stray off the topic a bit but, I wanted to write a little about the Counts, a great and unheralded Detroit Band. Their album Whats Up Front That ... Counts is one of my all time favorites. Features a song called Motor City!! Anyhow, Mose Davis & Leroy appear to have been the creators behind most of their music. Seems to me that Leroy and another member of the group were long time members of Hamilton Bohannon's backing band during his peak. In the fall of '77 Eddie Hazel (of Funkadelic) went out on the road in support of his solo album on Warner Brothers, opening shows for Bootsy's Rubber Band in nice sized sports arenas, and I believe that Leroy (and possibly other ex-counts) was also a member of this live band dubbed Kingdom's Come. The (Fabulous) Counts had some classic stuff like Rhythm Changes, Thinking Single & Get Down People. They never had the one big hit to get them over the hump. They were signed to Moira & Westbound Labels but I don't know if they did session work for others ot not. But probably so.

By Guy Gillis (216.29.209.125 - 216.29.209.125) on Thursday, March 14, 2002 - 07:37 pm:

Dennis, I gave George your message and he said he will get on the forum and talk about the Royal Tones. George and I are looking forward to you stopping by the Clawson Steak House. See you soon.

By george katsakis (216.29.209.125 - 216.29.209.125) on Thursday, March 14, 2002 - 07:44 pm:

Dennis good to hear from you. I'm just curious
why you just don't call me. Looking forward to seeing you at the Clawson. We have a guitar player working with us so just bring your guitar
wear clean underwear and a smile.

By david, glasgow, scotland (213.107.27.25 - 213.107.27.25) on Thursday, March 14, 2002 - 09:23 pm:

welcome to the forum george.

By Ralph (209.240.222.130 - 209.240.222.130) on Thursday, March 14, 2002 - 09:36 pm:

George,
Ralph Terrana.....good to see you around.

By Dennis Coffey (152.163.201.56 - 152.163.201.56) on Thursday, March 14, 2002 - 10:12 pm:

Hey bebopman. Thanks for the compliment. I knew Emanual and the rest of the Counts. They also used to play at Morey Bakers. I also used to play with Bohannon. George and Guy, I'll come in one night.

Dennis Coffey

By DJDetroit (194.120.135.222 - 194.120.135.222) on Friday, March 15, 2002 - 12:53 pm:

Hi Dennis,
I'm following this Forum for quite a while and
I really enjoy all the stories - even if I don't
know many of the people mentioned!

When I was a boy I received some records from my
Dad (Gary Harvey, you may remember him) when
I visited him in Detroit (I live in Mannheim, Germany since the late 60s). That was your "Evolution" Album, the first Rare Earth Album "Dreams/Answers" and a very rare copy from
Mutzie Levenburg "Light of your shadow". Back than I couldn't appreciate the value I hold in my hands - but now it's so inspirering music for me
and a started collecting all vinyls I could!

I hope to get a grip on your book some day -
will it be published in Germany? I'm really looking forward for it!

Thanks for all!

Cheer Darin

By Dennis Coffey (152.163.194.204 - 152.163.194.204) on Friday, March 15, 2002 - 09:53 pm:

Hey Darin. I remember your dad well. We hung out together a few times. I don't know if my book will be released in Germany but I think it now may be released in London this June. I'm glad you like my music.

Dennis Coffey

By John Lester (213.122.195.28 - 213.122.195.28) on Friday, March 15, 2002 - 11:42 pm:

Dennis

It might be worth mentioning the title of the book...........

By Ritchie (62.254.0.6 - 62.254.0.6) on Saturday, March 16, 2002 - 12:13 am:

Detroit Stars and Bras - wasn't it?

By acooolcat (211.78.0.219 - 211.78.0.219) on Saturday, March 16, 2002 - 06:46 am:

I can't remember who asked - but The Frolic Show Bar was at 8521 John C Lodge, near Pengree. Dennis - do you remember Jackie Lowrey the hostess there? The photo I have doesn't have Lyman, but Clarence McCleod - you might know him as "Peekaboo" though. I'll scan and send it soon.
Blues Unlimited was at 11003 Kercheval, 2 blocks west of St. Jean. Earl Van Dyke and the crew played there quite a bit.
Cheers, Graham

By DeAnne (24.234.119.126 - 24.234.119.126) on Saturday, March 16, 2002 - 07:37 am:

George...is that you? Welcome to the forum...It's been a long long time.

By Keith Rylatt (195.92.194.13 - 195.92.194.13) on Saturday, March 16, 2002 - 11:29 am:

Does anyone have any info on The Firebirds 45 on Excello 2307, `Soul Sonata` / `I just don't believe you.` It was issued soon after the Roger Hatcher 45 (2297) This later 45 is well known (although I don't care for it too much) but the Firebirds seems totally under appreciated, in the UK anyway! Soul Sonata, is in my view Detroit magic. On the flip there seems to be Dennis Coffey playing riffs similar to stuff behind the Detroit Emeralds on Ric Tic. If anyone knows where the Rog Hatcher was recorded, it may throw light on the Firebirds. Incidentally, despite my unsuccessful attempts to promote the 45 in the 80's, it can still be bought in the UK for single figures. Keith. P.S. does anyone share my adoration for The Third Party's `Such A Soul Says` part 2. Soul Hawk 002.? This 45 is getting very near to what it's all about!

By Dennis Coffey (205.188.195.193 - 205.188.195.193) on Sunday, March 17, 2002 - 02:20 pm:

Hi Coolcat and John. I do remember Jackie at the Frolic. Hey Richie, Stars and Bras (What an interesting title. Are you volunteering to do the research?) I think we may be moving up the book release date to June. If so, I will be coming to London then. The correct title of my book is Guitars, Bars, and Motown Super Stars.

Dennis Coffey

By Ian W (213.122.30.85 - 213.122.30.85) on Sunday, March 17, 2002 - 02:35 pm:

Keith, that's a great recording! I like the Jerry-O 'Afro Twist Time' cover too. It's one of those where you hear people say 'I'd have loved to have been in the recording studio when that was made'.

Anyone know how the Jerry-O track came about?

By Carl Dixon London (195.153.219.170 - 195.153.219.170) on Sunday, March 17, 2002 - 02:40 pm:

Dennis Coffey

let us know your anticipated visit time and where the book will be launched! I am sure it would be central London, down Charing Cross Road, but I could be wrong. That would be great Dennis if it was. I could call and get my haircut for 6 quid down there, nip into Denmark Street and check out the music shops AND buy a few plectrums, and most importantly meet you, at the same time - all with a 'one day travel card'!!! I could bring a camera take a few photo's and post them on here for us all to see.

Cheers

By phillysoulman (64.12.102.161 - 64.12.102.161) on Sunday, March 17, 2002 - 04:46 pm:

Possibly at Foyles?? Just don't sell the photos for two quid each, as Syreeta did for an autograph surrounded by SIX bodyguards!!

By Carl Dixon London (195.153.219.170 - 195.153.219.170) on Sunday, March 17, 2002 - 05:17 pm:

Or even Waterstones, just across the road!

By phillysoulman (64.12.102.161 - 64.12.102.161) on Sunday, March 17, 2002 - 05:31 pm:

As long at it isn't one of the ones on GREEK STREET!!!

By John Lester (213.122.197.4 - 213.122.197.4) on Sunday, March 17, 2002 - 09:22 pm:

Bobby......

I last saw Mary Wells perform at the Town and contry Club. On the bill was Martha Reeves. It was the start of the Motorcity Tour in about 1987 and the 6 artists all came to the show to give support. Kim got on stage with Martha and virtually blew Martha away on God Bless The Child.


However, also in the audience but enjoying the music was Marv Johnson, Carolyn Crawford. Syreeta was at the back of the hall signing photographs whislt her husband was selling unsigned photographs and counting out change for £5 and £10 notes.

I guess she could no long afford the 6 bodyguards!!!

By Marilyn (67.217.183.59 - 67.217.183.59) on Sunday, March 17, 2002 - 09:32 pm:

Well,guys,I'm not real computer literate,so I don't know how to post my photos.If anyone can help me,I want to post 2 of George with his "guys". I also have lots more to share from the 50s,including a few that need to be ID.

By Dennis Coffey (205.188.195.191 - 205.188.195.191) on Monday, March 18, 2002 - 12:02 am:

Hey Carl. I've been to Germany twice but not to the UK. I'm looking forward to hanging out with all of the people I've been talking to online. I would also like to sit in and get funky with a band while I'm there.

Dennis Coffey

By phillysoulman (152.163.207.196 - 152.163.207.196) on Monday, March 18, 2002 - 06:36 am:

Dennis, I am thinking of returning this summer so maybe we can jam together. Just make sure that the book signing doesn't have a Greek street or lower Soho address!!!!! Charring Cross is fine.

By John Lester (213.122.193.5 - 213.122.193.5) on Monday, March 18, 2002 - 09:23 am:

Bobby!!!

You make me laugh!!

By Carl Dixon London (62.31.40.123 - 62.31.40.123) on Monday, March 18, 2002 - 01:03 pm:

Bobby/Dennis

Off Charing Cross Road, is Denmark Street, famous for its music shops and song writing from the sixties. I remember being asked what time it was by the guitarist out of Status Quo, who had just parked his Roller down there one day. I was just crossing the road at the time and was caught unawares! There are a few vintage guitar shops that may well be of interest with hefty price tags to boot. Talking of Greek Street, sometimes the tourists are unaware of where they are. Mamma Mia, the Abba theatre production is in that vicinity and I was in the queue for tickets a year or so back, behind two American girls. A third came running into the theatre all shocked and red in the face to tell them the news she had just bought a post card for her parents from a shop she really should not have been in. She had not realised, but she could have purchased a number of plastic and rubber items too. She only became aware when leaving the store and that the two guys who were behind the counter grinned throughout the whole purchase. I chatted and passed the time of day - it was funny to see it with my own eyes.

By phillysoulman (152.163.197.72 - 152.163.197.72) on Monday, March 18, 2002 - 03:27 pm:

I myself have made purchases in that vicinity for items of a clandestine nature albeit from a hetero perspective!!!
Also the first time I saw and heard a Yamaha dx 7 was on Denmark street at Rod Argent's.

By Marilyn (67.217.183.172 - 67.217.183.172) on Monday, March 18, 2002 - 07:27 pm:

George- (& Dennis too)-
I've been trying to find you (George) so I could give you these 2 photos of "your Guys". I can give you 8x10 glossies. Both of you need to get in touch with me,since I'm doing a book,which will be out this late summer with Arcadia Publishing. "Images of America:The Birth Of The Detroit Sound:1940-1964". Dennis,I need a photo of you also. My number is 517-536-0891.

By Dennis Coffey (136.1.1.154 - 136.1.1.154) on Monday, March 18, 2002 - 08:47 pm:

Hi Bobby, If you are in London when I'm there, we'll get together and jam. Marilyn, I'm in Toronto this week. I will try and get in touch with you.

Dennis Coffey

By Keith Rylatt (195.92.194.18 - 195.92.194.18) on Monday, March 18, 2002 - 10:34 pm:

Dennis I assume the Firebirds tracks were nothing to do with you? They just seemed to have your hallmark. Can you tell me anything about Wayne Bennett? Once again I assumed you might be involved ? Keith.

By DAVE KOVARIK (166.90.234.135 - 166.90.234.135) on Wednesday, March 20, 2002 - 12:29 am:

HI DENNIS GOOD TO HEAR YOUR AROUND AND DOING WELL.
THOSE WERE THE GOOD ALL DAYS, WE SURE HAD A LOT OF THEM. LOOKING FORWARD TO READING THE BOOK.
DAVID KOVARIK

By Dennis Coffey (206.47.172.178 - 206.47.172.178) on Wednesday, March 20, 2002 - 02:26 am:

Hi Keith, I don't remember the Firebirds or Wayne Bennett. I'd need more details. Hey Dave, good to hear from you. We sure did have a lot of fun in those days!

Dennis Coffey

By Keith Rylatt (195.92.168.171 - 195.92.168.171) on Wednesday, March 20, 2002 - 07:42 pm:

Dennis. Re the Wayne Bennett 45 I mentioned, I don't own it any longer but my file says A side-Casanova (guitar led Inst) B side Rocking (Funky Broadway) Giant 703 (issued '68) On the book front, all will be revealed soon Dennis by M & S and hope to meet you then, I'll show you The Firebird's 45. Why don't you make it a Theo-Coff Invasion and make it our Lucky Day! Keith

By Ian W (213.122.127.17 - 213.122.127.17) on Wednesday, March 20, 2002 - 10:18 pm:

Wayne Bennett's 'Casanova' is certainly an unusual record. It's the backing track to Ruby Andrews (on Zodiac) with a very prominent guitar solo. A very high quality recording anyhow!

I know it's Chicago and not Detroit but I have a Giant discography which missed GT-702 and 5. As chance would have it, while trawling round the net I came across a Fenton Robinson webpage which listed the two missing 45s and listed a new one with a different number to the usual numbering system of 701-710. It is:

Giant - GT-1122 - Fenton Robinson - Fen-Ton A Soul/There Goes My Baby

The record is dated 1969.

Did any discographer find a link between the Detroit Giant and Chicago Giant labels?

Also, does anyone know about a record I have in my database:

Giant - ???? - Shirley Wahls - Tell The Truth/?

Ian

By DeAnne (24.120.38.66 - 24.120.38.66) on Wednesday, March 20, 2002 - 11:16 pm:

Dave Kovarik...how are you??? How is Pam. Guess what, Eddie and I got remarried in January for our 5th, and your brother Dennis married us...How fun...I ran into Steve Gronis last night here in Vegas, and he said he heard you play recently. Is that true? Give my love to all.

By Wd Wolfrum (165.121.215.144 - 165.121.215.144) on Thursday, March 21, 2002 - 01:17 am:

Hello Dennis:

I have a few pictures which I'll give you for the book if you want. Some of you at United and at Theme.

Let Me Know.

Best,
Ed Wolfrum

By Dennis Coffey (206.47.172.178 - 206.47.172.178) on Thursday, March 21, 2002 - 02:32 am:

Hi Ed. I just sent my pictures over to London but I will send those also. Please send me an email. Thanks.

Dennis Coffey

By Dennis Coffey (206.47.172.178 - 206.47.172.178) on Thursday, March 21, 2002 - 02:36 am:

Hi Keith. I remember who Wayne is now. I also did my version of Cassanova on the gig at the Frolic Showbar with Lyman Woodard and Melvin Davis in the late sixties.

Dennis Coffey

By djdetroit (194.120.135.222 - 194.120.135.222) on Friday, March 22, 2002 - 11:51 am:

Hi Dennis!
Hope you don't mind answering some questions!
I found and downloaded your version "Hey Jude" as a mp3 on the net. But I guess it's not in full lenght, as it's fading out during a guitar solo.

On which of your albums did that song appear?
How did you get that great sawing and buzzing guitar sound?
And who played that great organ part?

Thanks and greetings from Germany!

Darin

By Dennis Coffey (205.188.200.27 - 205.188.200.27) on Saturday, March 23, 2002 - 12:01 am:

Hey Darin. That was from my Hair and Thangs album on Maverick/Venture. I used a Wah Wah pedal on the solo. Lyman Woodard was on the B3 Hammond organ, Bob Babbit on bass and Melvin Davis on drums. Your dad used to come and hear us at the Frolic in those days.

Dennis Coffey

By djdetroit (212.65.19.125 - 212.65.19.125) on Saturday, March 23, 2002 - 01:57 pm:

Hi Dennis!
Thanks for your reply!
And you won't believe that I found a online-record-store in Collogne offering that particular album as a collector item in perfect condition.
Have to order it the next second :-)
Just received my used-bought Crybaby-Wah today (I bought it because I was sick of the miserable auto-wah sound of my effect box). Hope to get used to it fast!
By the way, what kind of thing is that Condor unit you mentioned in some posting? Never heared
of it before!

Cheers

Darin Harvey

By Dennis Coffey (152.163.194.182 - 152.163.194.182) on Saturday, March 23, 2002 - 09:01 pm:

Hey Darin. I was in Collogne twice a few years ago. The condor unit allowed me to sound like a bassoon, harpsichord, organ, bass, oboe, etc. It was pretty interesting. I used it on What You See is What You Get by the Dramatics, Don't knock my Love by Wilson Pickett,and Smiling Faces by the Undisputed Truth.

Dennis Coffey

By Ian W (194.75.128.2 - 194.75.128.2) on Monday, March 25, 2002 - 07:51 am:

Ah! That condor moment!

Sorry, had to get that in before John, Ritchie and Carl

By djdetroit (194.120.135.222 - 194.120.135.222) on Monday, March 25, 2002 - 09:23 am:

Hi Dennis,
got to find me these songs!
Sounds like the precursor of some midi device!

Did I hit a secret story be mentioning the condor
??? :-))))

Darin

By Eli (64.12.107.39 - 64.12.107.39) on Monday, March 25, 2002 - 04:17 pm:

I had a Condor unit for a while also, but I ruined the guitar that I attached it to in applying the special pickup to the bridge.
It was a bulky device with a metal handle about the size of a small suitcase and the top flipped open to expose multi colored tab buttons.
I carried it down to Bermuda once for a Three Degrees gig. It looked impressive to the audience and to the girls, but it did nothing for me.

By Ralph (209.240.222.130 - 209.240.222.130) on Monday, March 25, 2002 - 05:08 pm:

Bobby,
Speaking of girls....the babes came into the studio last night and sang their cute little behinds off ( and I do mean cute ).
The damn Adats were pissy through the entire session and were taking forever to lock up. Drove me crazy. Did my infamous yelling thing last night out of pure frustration. Then after the session I find that fader #17 has a problem. GEEEZE!!!

By Eli (152.163.197.202 - 152.163.197.202) on Monday, March 25, 2002 - 08:06 pm:

AS PHIL ONCE SAID....BACK TO MONO...MO******R!!!!

Were they racked up?? Take any pics??
Tell 'em you are gonna make 'em stars??
Give us the scoop!!!

By John Lester (213.1.134.210 - 213.1.134.210) on Monday, March 25, 2002 - 09:28 pm:

Ian

Who ME!! Perish the thought......hee hee


Ralph

It came as no surprise to find you bringing up the subject of the girls! It must be your Italian side.....HA HA

By Ricardo Hardino (62.254.0.6 - 62.254.0.6) on Monday, March 25, 2002 - 09:35 pm:

Hey - who says you have to be Italian to appreciate the fairer sex?

It's a fringe benefit of being MALE... and the best one. Looking at it the other way round, we're the lucky ones. I mean, THEY have only US to look at!

By Breaka U Faisa. (64.12.102.179 - 64.12.102.179) on Monday, March 25, 2002 - 09:40 pm:

They don't call it genITALIA for nothing!!!

By Ralph (209.240.222.130 - 209.240.222.130) on Tuesday, March 26, 2002 - 12:48 am:

The babes.......Sarah McCardle...Elina Raskanya....Margaret McHugh

Magaret has been recording with me for years,and says at this stage of the game appreciates still being refered to as one of the babes.

Elina turns 18 in April and is under contract to Powerhouse Productions. We are currently developing her and I feel she has great potential.

Sarah is 24 and a recent find through an aquaintence of an artist friend of mine ( yes,yes...the artist, Sofanya, is georgeous and very talented ) in Big Sur. We are presently negotiating with her to sign with Powerhouse.

By Ralph (209.240.222.130 - 209.240.222.130) on Tuesday, March 26, 2002 - 12:53 am:

Bobby,
They are a sight to behold. Wait until you hear them on that track I'm sending you. Not ready to mix yet. I decided to re-do the bass.

By Dennis Coffey (206.47.172.178 - 206.47.172.178) on Tuesday, March 26, 2002 - 01:44 am:

Hey Darin. The Condor unit certainly altered the sound of the guitar. It was before MIDI and you played it in real time. At one point, Wah Wah Watson wanted to buy it from me but I was still using it so I said no. It sounded just a little tinny and not exactly like all of the different instruments but it was the leading edge at the time.

Dennis Coffey

By Keith Rylatt (195.92.194.17 - 195.92.194.17) on Sunday, March 31, 2002 - 02:47 pm:

Hi Dennis & everyone
Last week I went down to Bee Cool to deliver some stuff for my forth coming book about Detroit and had a sneak look at your manuscript while Stu was taking a P. It look FANTASTIC! It has to be the first & best thing out on Detroit. Up to now, other than a little Detroit Guide that Rod, Bob and I put out 20 years ago, all `proper` books are about Gordy's empire. As soon as this hits the book stores (in mid June) EVERYONE must buy it.
Bee Cool published another book by me & Phil Scott a couple of years ago and rest assured, they are really professional - especially on the presentation side of things. The cover will be stunning. Hope to meet up soon. Keith.
P.S. If you would like one of those Guides to Detroit I mentioned, I have about 3 left, I can send you one, just let me know.

By Dennis Coffey (152.163.194.181 - 152.163.194.181) on Sunday, March 31, 2002 - 11:11 pm:

Hi Keith. Thanks for the compliment! I felt it was time for a book written by a musician who lived it. However, I am really impressed by the support and musical knowledge of everyone on this forum and the folks I have met online. You bring back a lot of memories of great times making great music. I intend to bring my guitar to the UK and play some tunes when I come in June. I would like to see one of your guides.

Dennis Coffey

By Ian W (213.122.106.62 - 213.122.106.62) on Monday, April 01, 2002 - 09:22 am:

Keith

I just found a copy of 'Soul Sonata' at That Beating Rhythm. You're right, it's pretty good! Writing credits are J Hunter and W Hatcher. Perhaps it could be Joe Hunter who is playing the piano on the track - definitely a jazz influence.

Ian

By DKOVARIK (206.148.225.236 - 206.148.225.236) on Monday, April 08, 2002 - 05:44 am:

DEANNE MY LOVE,
GLAD TO HEAR YOU VISITED THE CHAPEL. LOOKING FORWARD TO CLAWSONS IN SEPTEMBER.
GOT LOTS OF THINGS TO TELL YOU. I AM BACK PLAYING AND STRUGGLING. STILL TRYING TO PLAY LIKE THE BIRD. CANT QUITE MAKE IT YET LOL.
STAY AS SWEET AS YOU ALWAYS WERE.
PAM SENDS YOU BIG HUGS AND KISSES.
SEE YOU SOON.

By DeAnne (24.120.38.66 - 24.120.38.66) on Tuesday, April 09, 2002 - 11:38 pm:

I'm not sure how we got on Dennis's link...I hope he doesn't mind. I am very anxious to see you Dave, and Pam and all in September. Thanks for the nice comments.

By Dennis Coffey (152.163.194.198 - 152.163.194.198) on Saturday, April 13, 2002 - 12:18 am:

Hi folks. I am planning to be in the UK for about a week begining the weekend of June 9th. I hope to see some of you there.

Dennis Coffey

By John Lester (213.1.135.249 - 213.1.135.249) on Saturday, April 13, 2002 - 07:37 am:

Oh dear Dennis.......I better tell you now....by hook or by crook, I shall be wanting to shake your hand!!!

By Dennis Coffey (152.163.194.187 - 152.163.194.187) on Saturday, April 13, 2002 - 10:11 pm:

Hi John. I look forward to meeting you.

Dennis Coffey

By Carl Dixon London (195.153.219.170 - 195.153.219.170) on Sunday, April 14, 2002 - 08:19 am:

Dennis - I would love to say hello too, if possible! I am working the night shift from the 7/6/2002 for five grouling nights. I will have to take leave, if it is that w/end. It would be a thrill.

By Soultwine (195.93.50.181 - 195.93.50.181) on Sunday, April 14, 2002 - 01:15 pm:

Dennis
I'll do my best to be there too.
More details please, nearer the time.
I was playing some old 45's the other day and one in particular struck me as having your touch all
over it or, at least the touch of a great guitarist.
Phil Flowers "Keep On Sockin' It Children" A&M Records from 1969.(Its an instrumental).
Now you are going to tell me it was nothing to do with you aren't you?!.
Phil

By Carl Dixon London (195.153.219.170 - 195.153.219.170) on Monday, April 15, 2002 - 09:06 am:

Dennis - would much appreciate some details too, soonest! I will provisionally take leave, as I need to (I get too many holidays and have not used them all up for this holiday year), from the 10/6. - I would hate to miss this opportunity - it is worth the risk!!

Cheers

By Dennis Coffey (206.47.172.178 - 206.47.172.178) on Tuesday, April 16, 2002 - 12:20 am:

Hey folks, as soon as I get more details, I will let you know. I am looking forward to meeting all of you in London. I will be there for about 10 days. I think I am leaving here Saturday, June 9th. I am also bringing my ax to play a few jams in the UK.

Dennis Coffey

By LTLFTC (12.245.225.79 - 12.245.225.79) on Friday, April 26, 2002 - 05:57 pm:

Dennis; on the CJ & CO. lp "DEVIL"S GUN" lp you produced (a nice hunk of work,by the way) I notice two drummers - Uriel Jones and Tiki (Fulwood I presume)- did they play on alternate tracks or did you use two drummers Motown Style? Also , do you have any idea what became of the vocalists on that project?
Thanks
Steve K.

By Dennis Coffey (152.163.201.72 - 152.163.201.72) on Friday, April 26, 2002 - 10:39 pm:

Hi folks. I don't remember the Phil Flowers record. There are a lot of tracks I don't recall. Sometimes when I hear them, I do remember. Some of the songs I played on had no artists or titles on the music. I think we may have used two drummers at the same time on Devil's Gun.

Dennis Coffey

By Carl Dixon London (62.31.32.130 - 62.31.32.130) on Monday, April 29, 2002 - 07:58 pm:

Dennis -

Finders Keepers on Ric Tic - I just love it and a 'B' side to. Are you the 'prominent' guitar on that and who is on bass, Bob or Jamerson? Who is doing the back beats?? I wonder if that will ever be on CD - I do hope so.

By Dennis Coffey (206.47.172.178 - 206.47.172.178) on Monday, April 29, 2002 - 11:06 pm:

Carl. It is probably Bob Babbit on bass and I think Eddie Willis on backbeat. I am on the record as well. I would have to listen to remember what I played for sure. I also played backbeat from time to time.

Dennis Coffey

By Rich (162.33.234.225 - 162.33.234.225) on Tuesday, April 30, 2002 - 12:33 pm:

Hey Dennis,

On another thread (Millie) you answered a question about King Errisson, which I don't remember asking but maybe I did because I have had a King Errisson question floating around my head for a while. The Ohio Players "Sleep Talk" (from one of their Westbound albums) was re-done for King's album (also released on Westbound) and it sounds to me like a similar rhythm arrangement as the Jackson 5ive's "I Am Love" from around '74. I've often wondered if it was the same musicians on both tracks (assuming you're familiar with "I Am Love") and if King's album had been done in Detroit or LA. I've always assumed that Westbound released were recorded in Detroit. Same with Devil's Gun as far as where it was done. King's track & the J5 track are both incredible hybrids of funk, soul & rock.

By Dennis Coffey (206.47.172.178 - 206.47.172.178) on Wednesday, May 01, 2002 - 01:33 am:

Hi Rich. We recorded King Errisson in LA. I would have to see who played on the J5 album to see if any of the musicians were the same. Devil's Gun was recorded in Detroit.

Dennis Coffey

By john lester (213.122.201.163 - 213.122.201.163) on Tuesday, May 14, 2002 - 03:06 pm:

Dennis Coffey will be signing copies of his autobiography
Guitars Bars and Motown Superstars
At HELTER SKELTER BOOKS
4 Denmark St. WC2
(Behind Centre Point Tottenham Court Rd. Tube)
On WEDNESDAY 12 JUNE @ 6.30pm.

For details contact
HELTER SKELTER
0207 836 1151
helter@skelter.demon.co.uk
BEE COOL ON 0208 543 4252
mikeritson@aol.com

Mike emailed me this message....and me and Carl booked our places in the queue straight away!!!!!!!! We want Dennis to realise just how much he and his fellow musicians are adored over here.

Dennis is also hopefully signing his book at Beating Rhythm in Manchester and also in Notts.

I think Carl is gonna to ask Dennis to strum a few bars to All I Want For Xmas Is Me 2 Front Teeth!!! HAHHAHA

By Carl Dixon London (195.153.219.170 - 195.153.219.170) on Tuesday, May 14, 2002 - 03:59 pm:

You bet John! I have booked vacation especially for this summer treat and cannot wait. All the musicians are greatly appreciated and especially when they wish to share their personal memories here on the forum or indeed via any publication we could purchase. Thanks for getting all the info John. If I am permitted I would like to take a few photographs or even a video with our new digital 8 camera. I could then post them on the net, if possible for us all to see - stills and streamed stuff too.

By David Flynn (213.122.204.216 - 213.122.204.216) on Tuesday, May 14, 2002 - 05:52 pm:

Book me a place in the line at Helter Skelter, gents...and at Cleethorpes too! :-)

There's some bits from Dennis' book on my site, if you haven't visited it yet - this'll take you directly there -

http://www.capitolsoulclub.homestead.com/DennisCoffey.html


Flynny

By Carl Dixon London (195.153.219.170 - 195.153.219.170) on Tuesday, May 14, 2002 - 06:22 pm:

Dennis, I am pleased to say I have read your article on your site and it was very informative.

By Ralph (209.240.222.130 - 209.240.222.130) on Tuesday, May 14, 2002 - 06:53 pm:

Time to close this thread down and move on to DENNIS COFFEY 2