Author |
Message |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2098 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 4:31 pm: �� | ��� |
When you hear the name "CHIC", what's the first image that comes to mind?? For many, it's the scorching guitar work of Nile Rodgers & the thumping bass of the late Bernard Edwards. For many, it's the pounding drums of Tony Thompson & those lush string arangements & the keyboard work of Raymond Jones. Unfairly labeled a "Disco" group, Chic were much more diverse than that. From the Jazz flavored "Sao Paulo", to the Funk of "Good Times", Chic covered a wide spectrum of the musical pallette. A huge part of their sound were the Ladies Of Chic: Norma Jean Wright, Luci Martin & Alfa Anderson & contracted session singer, Diva Gray. Ms Norma Jean Wright & Luci Martin are back, as "The First Ladies Of Chic" & they sound great & are pleasing to the eye......VERY PLEASING TO THE EYE Norma Jean & Luci are the voices behind so many of those Chic classics. Who can forget songs such as: Dance, Dance, Dance, Everybody Dance, You Can Get By, Chic Cheer, Le Freak, I Want Your Love, Good Times, My Forbidden Lover, Rebels Are We, Stage Fright, Hey Fool or You Are Beautiful? Though their Dance cuts receive the lions' share of the attention, these ladies were deeper than that. Ms Wright & Ms Martin could simply sing the hell out of a ballad!!! Their ballads were romantic, sexy & always set the mood right. Ballads such as: Falling In Love With You, At Last I Am Free, A Warm Summer Night, Will You Cry, What About Me, I Loved You More & Take A Closer Look, were always in heavy rotation wherever I DJed. These ladies were simply marvelous. Also not to be overlooked, is Norma Jean's debut LP from 1978 on Bearsville Records, which was produced by Rodgers & Edwards was an excellent LP. It contained the dance hits, Saturday & Sorcerer & the ballads, So I Get Hurt Again, This Is The Love & I Believe In You. Unknown to many, Norma Jean first came to prominence when she accompanied The Spinners on a Tour & sang the lead on Then Came You. Also not known to many is that Norma Jean co-wrote the Keni Burke classic "Risin' To The Top" , that has been sampled continually. She co-wrote that with Keni Burke. This thread is to honor the ladies behind the voices of so many songs that we know & love. I found them to be as down to earth & lovely to talk with, as they are beautiful! There'll be more info about THE FIRST LADIES OF CHIC to come. For now, I'll leave you with a few pictures. Norma Jean Wright Luci Martin (Message edited by juicefree20 on August 30, 2004) (Message edited by juicefree20 on August 30, 2004) (Message edited by juicefree20 on August 30, 2004) |
SDF (handsome) 6-Zenith Username: handsome
Post Number: 495 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 170.118.158.14
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 5:04 pm: �� | ��� |
Juice, I'm confused. I thought the other woman with CHIC was Alfa Anderson with Norma Jean Wright and Luci came later. Maybe it's me... I used to love that cut by Norma Jean...I just can't wait until Saturday..I think it was called SATURDAY. Handsome |
Jimmy Mack (luke) 6-Zenith Username: luke
Post Number: 586 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 64.12.116.138
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 5:19 pm: �� | ��� |
Have Norma and Luci ever reunited with Niles who still tours as Chic? |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2101 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 5:30 pm: �� | ��� |
Hey Handsome, what's up partner? Yes, there was a little confusion about that. I'll either e-mail or try to call Ms Wright about that. If I remember correctly, Alfa & Luther were hired as background singers for the first LP. Bernard & Nile wanted another lady for the group & Norma Jean brought in Luci as a the SECOND lady Member of Chic. When Norma Jean signed for her solo LP, it was with the idea of her remaining a member of Chic. If I'm remembering this correctly, Norma signed a solo deal with Bearsville, which was a subsidiary label of Atlantic. Either way, she was not allowed to record with Chic anymore. I don't know what the problem was, as both acts still fell under the auspices of WEA, which controlled Atlantic Records. Maybe they didn't want Nile & Bernard stretching themselves too thin, I don't know what the problem was. Either way, that's how it went down. Upon Normas' departure, Alfa then became a permanent member of Chic. I hope that this explains it a bit. |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2102 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 5:31 pm: �� | ��� |
Hi Jimmy, No, The First Ladies Of Chic are doing their own thing, with original Chic member, keyboardist Raymond Jones. |
SDF (handsome) 6-Zenith Username: handsome
Post Number: 496 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 170.118.158.14
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 5:44 pm: �� | ��� |
Thanks Juice. Handsome |
Jimmy Mack (luke) 6-Zenith Username: luke
Post Number: 587 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 64.12.116.138
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 6:02 pm: �� | ��� |
I wonder if Niles has to give permission for them to use that name? |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2105 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 6:16 pm: �� | ��� |
Handsome: Anytime bro Jimmy: I don't know. I never heard of the girls having any beef with Nile. I guess that it wouldn't hurt to ask. When we talked, it never occurred to me to ask either of the ladies. I was just glad to hear them singing together again. |
Jimmy Mack (luke) 6-Zenith Username: luke
Post Number: 588 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 152.163.252.200
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 6:33 pm: �� | ��� |
Just curious per trademarks and all that. |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2106 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 6:38 pm: �� | ��� |
Jimmy: One way or another, I'll find out for you. |
Raymond Ennifer (benlynx) 2-Debutant Username: benlynx
Post Number: 12 Registered: 8-2004 Posted From: 195.92.168.178
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 6:48 pm: �� | ��� |
|
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2109 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 7:08 pm: �� | ��� |
Thank you for posting those pictures Raymond. Can you give any additional insight of these lovely ladies. Any info would be definitely appreciated. Later, I'll post some pics from the Aug 17 taping of the upcoming PBS Disco Special. Thanks again for the pics |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2116 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 9:25 pm: �� | ��� |
Jimmy: I just had the pleasure of speaking with Ms Wright. The situation is this: as long as the ladies are not billing themselves as "Chic", all is copasetic. They rightfully label themselves as "The First Ladies Of Chic". Norma Jean sang on the demo that got Chic their Atlantic recording contract. Another thing that Norma wants to clear up is the perception by many that she walked away from the group. The decision for her to leave Chic was made by the label power brokers. She was very upset that she couldn't continue to sing with Chic. However, we all know how the business goes. Either way, I would have loved to hear more of Norma with Chic. Hell, I would have loved to hear more of Norma period. Recently, Norma Jean was the manager of the now defunct R&B group, Imajin. She is currently co-manager of one of the current Divas of Dance, Reina. Reina is doin' quite well & you can hear her music on most of the Dance Music Radio stations. At present, Norma & Luci keep quite busy doing dates in Europe. As far as recording is concerned, it's a bit tough, as Luci lives in Florida & has a young son. We can continue to hope though. These ladies still have the chops, still have that confident stage presence & charisma. And DAMN!!! As you can see, they are still stunningly beautiful, with or without makeup. Luci, if you look in here, remember that I kept my promise to you...no rehearsal pictures. And thanks for fooling me in the Green room...no hat huh Again, I look forward to hearing so much more from these ladies. if there's any justice at all, one day they'll be able to reclaim their place as one of musics' recording stars. They have more talent in their pinky fingers, than most of todays' "Stars" have in their whole bodies. They don't use Autotune or Pitch Correctors either. They are the authentic item....always were.....ALWAYS will be!!! |
Eli (phillysoulman) 6-Zenith Username: phillysoulman
Post Number: 1478 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.236.25.141
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 9:31 pm: �� | ��� |
Not one person sang out of tune on that entire show, and that to me says something! |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2118 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 9:45 pm: �� | ��� |
Bobby, Just talked with Norma. We agree that you folks need to keep in contact. Can you imagine a session with The First Ladies Of Chic, sprinkled with a little Taste Of Honey, holding back the night with some Jimmy Ellis & The Trammps??? Man, y'all need to talk & get this party started right!! |
Gil (gil)
4-Laureate Username: gil
Post Number: 123 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 208.61.26.215
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 9:52 pm: �� | ��� |
Backing up Juice (like the Juice needs it!) From an interview with Norma: Q:I have conflicting sources on who worked with you on the early hits, some sources say that you and Alfa Anderson worked together first and that Luci Martin joined when you left, others have the opposite view? The record credits say Alfa, but I've known them to be inaccurate before. NJ: Yes Alfa worked on the Chic album before Luci. Alfa was hired along with Luther Vandross initially as a background singer not a principle member. We met her through Luther, and at that time she was a member in Luther's group. Eventually it was suggested by Nile & Nard that having another girl in the group would add even more sex appeal, plus we could do a lot more with 2 voices in our live show. With this in mind, I introduced them to Luci and she became the 5th member of the group. After I left a year or so later Alfa was hired as a principle member to replace me. Q:It has been said that you had a deal with Nile'n Nard, that as soon as they had hit it big they would produce a solo record with you, is that true? NJ: Yes, I had a deal with them, and once Chic's first album became successful, I was offered a solo deal with Bearsville/Warner Brothers. Everyone felt this was a good idea because Atlantic and Warner Brothers were both housed under the same umbrella, although they were different labels. The initial plan was that I would continue to be Chic's lead vocalist and also be allowed to do a solo deal, and that Nile & Bernard would produce my material. However it became legally complicated and I was not allowed to continue on with the group which was very disheartening to me. I have read several erroneous articles stating that it was my decision to leave Chic. For the record: it was "the powers that be", that made that choice for me. |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2121 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 10:08 pm: �� | ��� |
Hi Gil, Thank you for your confidence in me. Tell me, where did you find the interview with Norma Jean? It sounds exactly like what she said to me tonight, word for word. I'm telling you, she is a very forthcoming & friendly woman. I think I'm in love JUST KIDDING Seriously, I'd pay to hear her sing Falling In Love With You, Saturday or High Society. Man, I fell in love with her voice the first time I heard Falling In Love With You back in '77. We absolutely ran that song into the ground at the club that I played at. She seemed surprised that I remembered it. I sure hope that I get to hear her sing it live someday. If I ever hit Lotto, I'm gonna hire her to sing it for me. In fact, The First Ladies Of Chic would be performers at my celebratory party. Along with A Taste Of Honey, Carl Carlton, The Hues Corporation, Anita Ward & Carl Carlton. Hell, almost the entire PBS Disco Special lineup, minus one. |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2133 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 11:21 pm: �� | ��� |
AHHH!!! Here's a few shots of The First Ladies Of Chic from the August 17th PBS DISCO Special taping:
|
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2135 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 11:29 pm: �� | ��� |
Then we have these:
|
Charise (mistrivia1) 6-Zenith Username: mistrivia1
Post Number: 462 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 198.81.26.46
| Posted on Monday, August 30, 2004 - 11:56 pm: �� | ��� |
Hey Juice!!!!!! Again, just as I stated how good Taste Of Honey looks, The First Ladies Of Chic are working the agelessness!!!!! I always wondered what happened to Norma Jean as I was in the 7th grade when Saturday came out and you know what,I have not heard that record in as many years!!!! I remember her being a part of Chic and then she was gone, as I thought she was doing the solo album and Chic at the same time, as you stated. They really look good, WOW. I am glad that they are still doing their thing, you know! Yes, Chic to me, was more than just a Disco group. I could hardly wait for a new album to come out by them, because they were so innovative and they sang & PLAYED the instruments for REAL!!!! You could hear the bassline, the violins, guitar, drums, all of that!!! All the songs you mentioned were my favorites. A Warm Summer Nite was just too Smooth!!! You could hear all kinds of influences in their music, as they could play anything. If I remember right, I believe Nile & Bernard were once part of New York City (I'm Doing Fine Now) my parents had that 45. I saw a documentary with Nile where he talked about his beginings and being a part of the Black Panthers! Juice You have too much fun, man! Those are once in a lifetime experiences,which I can tell by the way you have posted, will stay with you forever! Go Norma & Luci!!! Thanks to you both for giving us the story on what happened to her and how the group came to be, upon her leaving. (Message edited by Mistrivia1 on August 31, 2004) |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2137 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Tuesday, August 31, 2004 - 12:58 am: �� | ��� |
Hi Re Re, I'll tell you this, even though I was a Dj back in the day, if anyone had told me that in the year 2004, I'd be on the phone with Norma Jean, I would have had them give me a urine sample or something. No, I didn't expect any of this & it was a pleasant experience. Tomorrow night, the adventure continues, as I'll finally get to meet our Jimmy Scott & the lovely Soul Sister. Even more amazing is that all of this has come about from us speaking to one another here in this forum & from me writing some funny posts. I never believed that any of this would have happened just from belonging to this forum. All that I wanted to do was talk a little music & learn things that I didn't know. I guess that you can say mission accomplished & then some. In the end, I have to thank Bobby Eli for thinking that I had something worthwhile to say here & never asking me to choose any sides. Then, I have to thank Vonnie & Soul Sister for their kindness to me. Last, but not least, I have to thank Lowell & David for this forum. I know of no other like it & even through disagreements of the past, we all love the comraderie found here. It really is like a family & everyone whom I've met from this forum, have been very cool people. Even though we haven't always been in agreement, I respect what David has built here. David & Lowell have to be proud of what they've accomplished here. After all, where else can you communicate with Bobby, Weldon, Spyder, Dennis, Lynn or Ralph, sometimes all in the same day??? And now, we have the opportunity to be introduced, or, in some cases introduced to artists such as The First Ladies Of Chic. If I can do anything to bring these ladies some well deserved attention, I'm happy to do so. Hey, maybe in my next lifetime, I'll be able to put this voice to some good use. I always looked kinda good in Shark Skin & Edwardian suits & I cut quite a dashing picture in those Disco shirts open to the navel |
Charise (mistrivia1) 6-Zenith Username: mistrivia1
Post Number: 464 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 198.81.26.46
| Posted on Tuesday, August 31, 2004 - 1:41 am: �� | ��� |
I was thinking the same thing, as I was posting! The fact that you being Mr. "DJ" back in the day, spinning all of these artists records at one time or another and never thinking you would ever meet one of them! That is how I feel. I would have never thought being a young child reading all those liner notes on the back of my father's records, that I would be conversing with someone such as Bobby Eli. If someone would have told me that I would have told them to "just say, No" LOL. It still amazes me how I can hardly wait to get on SDF, to read, post and learn about artists that I like or ones that I may not be familiar with and get the info from "Reliable Sources" The fact that you can come here and ask questions and get a wealth of info regarding music and have fun with it!!! For me, it is the next best thing to being there! I can't tell you how many times I have gone to the record store to look for certain artists and when I get home, many of the SDF are talking about or asking about that artist. Or I'll be at work listening to music on my headphones, and it will be related to the SDF. I have said it many times, if there are other sites like this, I don't know about them, as far as I'm concerned, it does not get any better than this one right here. In fact, I think Rodmann said the other day, that he is going broke because of SDF-LOL. I find myself writing notes to myself to look up certain artists or songs,so that I can purchase them-ADDICTED!!!!! I love it here!!!! There you go again, Juice, now you are about to meet another living LEGEND-Jimmy Scott and I'm sure you will post about this meeting. P.S. Everyone here has given me alot of info, I did not want to leave anyone out, whether you be famous or not. I would be very sad if this SDF ever went away!!!! |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2138 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Tuesday, August 31, 2004 - 1:58 am: �� | ��� |
Hi Re Re, I know how you feel. It's great to be able to get some thread of info, or to recall some long lost artist or song. Even the Errggghh thread triggers some memory or thought. There is something for everyone & what I enjoy is how one thread leads to another thread. In the process, something is either discovered, or, brought back to memory. You just never know where things will lead. I will post whatever pics I get to take of Jimmy. I will report on the evening & this will be the first time that I've seen him. Through the kindness of Soul Sister, I'll have a special date for the evening. I'll be bringing along my Mother, who remembers Jimmys' music from back in the day. It will be my honor & my pleasure to have my Mother with me. I can't think of a better date for the evening. Well....within reason that is I know that unlike the ladies I know, she'll have an affinity for Jimmys' music. I don't believe that SDF is going anywhere. There's no place else like it. And in keeping with the spirit of this thread, here are a couple more pictures of The First Ladies Of Chic: Here's Ms Luci Martin And, Norma Jean Seriously fellas, how can you resist these ladies?? I know that I can't |
Charise (mistrivia1) 6-Zenith Username: mistrivia1
Post Number: 468 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 198.81.26.46
| Posted on Tuesday, August 31, 2004 - 3:26 am: �� | ��� |
That's a nice surprise for your mom, Juice!!! "Life Is Like A Box Of Chocolates, You Never Know What You're Going To Get!" |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2145 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Tuesday, August 31, 2004 - 4:47 am: �� | ��� |
Re Re, Ain't that the truth. Somehow, I get the feeling that I'm meant to do something else with my life. Hell, I could be an activist, a politician...who knows. However, I know that there's something bigger & better that I should be doing. Figuring out exactly what it is, is the interesting part. Any suggestions??? |
SDF (handsome) 6-Zenith Username: handsome
Post Number: 498 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 170.118.158.14
| Posted on Tuesday, August 31, 2004 - 10:06 am: �� | ��� |
Thanks Gil. You have cleared up my confusion. Is that Luci singing lead on the song "Rebels Are We"? Handsome |
Gil (gil)
4-Laureate Username: gil
Post Number: 124 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 208.61.26.215
| Posted on Tuesday, August 31, 2004 - 10:26 am: �� | ��� |
Juice, The interview came from the Chic tribute site. Here's the link to the entire interview: http://www.chictribute.com/ark iv/artiklar/1101ctx.html The site itself is pretty cool. It has video clips of live performances through the years. Handsome, I would guess that Luci sings lead on "Rebels", not definite though. |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2146 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Tuesday, August 31, 2004 - 12:04 pm: �� | ��� |
Gil: Thanks much for the site info. The ladies also have their own website: www.ladiesofchic.com. Handsome: I'm not sure about the lead on Rebels. I can ask Ms Wright about it. I'll send her an e-mail to find out. |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2170 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Thursday, September 02, 2004 - 9:29 am: �� | ��� |
Good Morning, Handsome: Ms Norma Jean visited our site & saw your question. She confirmed that it was indeed Luci who sang lead on "Rebels Are We". She sends thanks to everyone here who wrote expressing their appreciation & support of their music through the years. She's a busy woman, but I hope that one day she'll be able to come aboard & thank everyone personally. Of course, I have just a few pictures of the Ladies. It's hard to choose from over 1500, I'll see what I can come up with. Here are the Ladies Of Chic one more time:
|
Kdubya (paladin) 5-Doyen Username: paladin
Post Number: 258 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23
| Posted on Thursday, September 02, 2004 - 10:38 am: �� | ��� |
Dam Juice, first Taste of Honey and now Ladies of Chic....you lucky son......let me just say that their beauty is breath taking.....keep up the good work.....you've made my entire week..... Kdubya |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2172 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 56.0.103.25
| Posted on Thursday, September 02, 2004 - 12:23 pm: �� | ��� |
Thanks Kdub, Meeting these ladies made my millennium! And in spite of what a certain Lady thinks, they're beautiful WITHOUT makeup as well!! With or without hats |
Wonder B (wonder_b) 6-Zenith Username: wonder_b
Post Number: 681 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 64.144.197.227
| Posted on Thursday, September 02, 2004 - 1:06 pm: �� | ��� |
Hey I don't know how I missed this thread... beautiful pics here.... I wish I could meet those ladies too. LOL Hey Juice you're talking about Norma Jen first LP but nobody mentioned what are IMHO her best songs which came out on a 12" single : Those are : High Society/Hold Me Lonely Boy Great great songs... I used to play High Society all the time when I was DJ'ing in my younger days... Wonder B |
Walt B (walt_b)
2-Debutant Username: walt_b
Post Number: 22 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 205.188.116.138
| Posted on Thursday, September 02, 2004 - 1:37 pm: �� | ��� |
My first concert as a promo man for Atlantic Records was a Chic concert. While the entire band was extremely nice, Norma in particular was one of the nicest persons that I have ever met throughout my seventeen years as a promotion man. I am very proud to call her one of my very best friends in or out of the industry. I am sure that anyone who has the pleasure of conversing with her on or offline can understand what I am staying. My being from Cleveland and her from Elyria, Ohio also lent a special connection to our relationship. Throughout all of her past endeavors as well as her and Luci's future endeavors I want them to know the have my total enthusiasm and support. Bigger success in the future couldn't happen to nicer people. ,,,And OH YES if you ever ever get the chance to hear Norma sing "Falling In Love Again" take a seat and enjoy for you are about to be blown away!!! |
Walt B (walt_b)
2-Debutant Username: walt_b
Post Number: 23 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 205.188.116.138
| Posted on Thursday, September 02, 2004 - 1:40 pm: �� | ��� |
Make that " Falling In Love With You" |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2176 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Thursday, September 02, 2004 - 5:37 pm: �� | ��� |
Hey Wonder!!! Yes my friend, I used to run High Society like Carl Lewis ran the 100. I always loved Saturday, but for my money, Norma Jean's best performance has to be Falling In Love With You. From the first time I heard that song in '77, it was all over for me. God, she sings that song. I'll tell you this, I'm not a rich man. However, if Norma sang that song for me, she could have all of my money. Ok, I know I only make $1.79 an hour, but it's all love. I might even sell all of my records for her. That's how I feel about that song Walt B: Brother you ain't lying at all. She still has that accent in her voice. She's very straight up & real. I know people who don't even have their foot in the door in the industry, who are tripping like they've done something. I just fell in love with her personality & I'm just glad to see that someone whose music I've always loved, didn't disappoint me. Not disappoint me musically, but didn't disappoint me as a human being! Too many of our stars are very disappointing once you meet them. Norma is simply a pleasant person to know. My brother, if Norma is your friend, you have been well blessed. Again, I say that I wish more of our stars comported themselves as Norma does. Maybe they would if they could get past their 10 bodyguards & over themselves. Fortunately, all of the stars that I met were pretty humble & certainly not on a star trip. Norma is in that stratosphere & it's refreshing! She's truly a nice person. I guess that you could say that I like Norma....just a little bit |
SDF (handsome) 6-Zenith Username: handsome
Post Number: 503 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 170.118.158.14
| Posted on Thursday, September 02, 2004 - 5:53 pm: �� | ��� |
Not taking anything from Norma or Luci ,Alfa Anderson has a pretty voice and I can't think of the one song she sang lead on. I have most of the CHIC material, so I'll get back to y'all on it. Juice, thanks for the info & starting this thread. Handsome |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2178 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Thursday, September 02, 2004 - 6:00 pm: �� | ��� |
Handsome: What's up partner!!! Trust me, the PBS threads have all been my pleasure! Especially this particular thread. I'm just glad to see that these ladies haven't gone anywhere & that their work is still loved & admired by many. I'd just love to see them shine some more. They still have a lot of good music to give & I hope that one day we'll be talking about a new CD by The First Ladies Of Chic. Wouldn't it be nice to hear some good music with some hope for a change??? |
soulseeker (soulseeker) 4-Laureate Username: soulseeker
Post Number: 98 Registered: 7-2004 Posted From: 192.94.3.10
| Posted on Thursday, September 02, 2004 - 6:03 pm: �� | ��� |
Those ladies are absolutely gorgeous!!! I wish them much success. I'm sorry I missed the PBS Special. Will it air again? Or has it not aired? I'm sort of confused on this. I'd love to hear them. |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2184 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Thursday, September 02, 2004 - 8:35 pm: �� | ��� |
Hi Soulseeker, You haven't missed it. I was at the rehearsal & taping of the special, with our Bobby E & Vonnie. What I'm doing here is letting everyone know what they're in store for. I guess that you can call it a preview & I'm basically spreading the word that these are artists worthy of our support. With all of the bad publicity that seems to follow entertainers around these days, I'm just happy to spread the word that there are SOME entertainers who appreciate their fans. The special is tentatively scheduled to air in October. Basically, you're getting a bit of a scoop here. I really can't tell you the order of the show, or who will make the finished version for TV. However, it's pretty safe to say that The First Ladies Of Chic will be there! And they're gonna make everyone happy to see them! |
soulseeker (soulseeker) 4-Laureate Username: soulseeker
Post Number: 100 Registered: 7-2004 Posted From: 68.66.110.78
| Posted on Thursday, September 02, 2004 - 9:47 pm: �� | ��� |
Thanks Juice. Was this show taped in L.A.? |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2189 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Thursday, September 02, 2004 - 10:09 pm: �� | ��� |
Hi Soulseeker, It was taped Tuesday, August 17th at The Asbury Park Convention Hall, in Asbury Park, New Jersey. The next few T.J. Lubinsky music shows will be taped in New Jersey. |
Gil (gil)
4-Laureate Username: gil
Post Number: 127 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 66.156.32.175
| Posted on Thursday, September 02, 2004 - 10:35 pm: �� | ��� |
Juice, you are definitely someone I'd like to hang with! I like the company you keep. |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2193 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Thursday, September 02, 2004 - 11:56 pm: �� | ��� |
Ahhh Gil, It was but just a day. A mere few brief moments in time. However, the memory will last a lifetime And on that note, here's one more shot of the Ladies How can you not love them???? |
zebop (zebop) 4-Laureate Username: zebop
Post Number: 126 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 64.12.116.138
| Posted on Friday, September 03, 2004 - 2:57 am: �� | ��� |
Big fan of Norma Jean Wright. I remember seeing them on Mike Douglas doing "Dance, Dance, Dance" it was so different than everything else out there, I knew they'd be big stars. "Falling In Love With You" is one of my favorite ballads--what a great song, poignant and sexy--tough to pull off... |
Patric Nilsson (pocat) 1-Arriviste Username: pocat
Post Number: 1 Registered: 9-2004 Posted From: 213.89.105.177
| Posted on Friday, September 03, 2004 - 9:37 am: �� | ��� |
Hi guys I just found this forum today and was very excited reading all your posts about CHIC and the First Ladies of that band. I'm the guy running the chictribute.com site. I'm not very good at html, flash and such stuff, but I hope you'll be able to enjoy the site anyway. Gil, thanks for mentioning my website. Juicefree20 those pix of the Ladies are really wonderful...and they look stunning. I was wondering if I can put any of these pix up on my site (giving you credit of course).. Please contact me about this at pocat@chictribute.com As I understand it Luci joined CHIC sometime during the winter/spring of 1978 and Norma Jean was replaced by Alfa in the summer/autumn of 1978. I deduced this because CHIC with Norma Jean was in Holland and performed Everybody Dance early in 1978 (januari? there's a videoclip on the site). In May '78 CHIC performed Dancex3 at American Bandstand with Norma & Luci. Then CHIC w. Luci and Alfa was on the Midnight Special on Dec. 1st 1978. My favorite Norma Jean tracks are 'I Like Love' & 'Hold Me Lonely Boy.' And my favorite Luci (on lead) track are CHIC's 'I Loved You More' is there a more perfect ballad? Luci is amazing in the bridge of that song.
|
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2196 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 56.0.103.24
| Posted on Friday, September 03, 2004 - 12:23 pm: �� | ��� |
Patric, You may feel free to use these pictures. I'm in the process of whittling 1700 pictures or so, down to about 600. If you need anymore, I'm more than happy to pass them along to you. By the way, I just checked your site & I must say good job. I'm glad that there are still a lot of us fans appreciating the fine work of these kind ladies. Thank you for your kind words Juice |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2202 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Friday, September 03, 2004 - 6:41 pm: �� | ��� |
In the Disco Divas In Florida thread, fellow forum member Glencro has informed us that The First Ladies Of Chic will be appearing in concert in Florida. They will be appearing along with, Sister Sledge, Anita Ward & France' Joli (all of whom, with the exception of Sister Sledge appeared on the PBS Disco special). I am concerned about all of the Ladies, considering the news of over 2 MILLION people being evacuated from Florida today. I don't know what's going to happen with tonights' show & I hope that all will be well with the ladies. From all of the news reports, I would doubt that there will be a show. As it stands, it's being reported that there are massive traffic jams & people are seeking shelter. My cousin & her son went to Florida to go on a cruise, which has been cancelled & they can't even get OUT of Florida. The airports are closed & it's a mess. They're saying that the storm mass is as large as the state of Texas. I sent Ms Wright an e-mail & hope to hear that all is well. From what they're saying, it looks like it will be a long, tense night. I hope that everthing turns out well for everyone!! |
Charise (mistrivia1) 6-Zenith Username: mistrivia1
Post Number: 500 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 198.81.26.46
| Posted on Friday, September 03, 2004 - 7:00 pm: �� | ��� |
Ditto on that, Juice. I would think that they are going to do what is safe for them! |
Charise (mistrivia1) 6-Zenith Username: mistrivia1
Post Number: 501 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 198.81.26.46
| Posted on Friday, September 03, 2004 - 7:03 pm: �� | ��� |
Hey Juice, when you get a chance, to talk to her again, or Taste Of Honey, ask them if they are coming to the Bay Area anytime soon |
Don (don) 6-Zenith Username: don
Post Number: 734 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.75.185.5
| Posted on Friday, September 03, 2004 - 7:08 pm: �� | ��� |
I heard so much about Chic that's already said. I think their 2nd and 3rd lp's we're extra special and has a pleasent feeling with me, with those 2 lp's I have left. Hey Juice, I have a single of "Soup For One". One thing I'd say about all the members of Chic that all their productions still stands out and sounds fresh as it did then and still does now. And we're ahead of their time. Don |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2203 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Friday, September 03, 2004 - 7:59 pm: �� | ��� |
Hi Re Re I sent Norma an e-mail to see if everything's cool. I imagine that under the circumstances, she's not checking e-mails at the moment. As for A Taste Of Honey, since Janice Maries' batteries were dead, I promised to take pictures for her. I'll be sending her & Hazel copies of the video & pictures. I'm editing them as I write this & will ask her when I send them to her. Perhaps I'll e-mail her instead. Don: I think that their first 3 LPs were great! They were very musical & I have the 12" of Soup For One. They were very musical people, very diverse & extremely talented. Their reign was far too short & I wonder if Nile & Bernards foray into producing was the death knell for the group. Their later efforts seemed as though they had stretched themselves just a little too thin. Not to mention that the rewards may be greater when you produce a lot of artists, as opposed to concentrating on just one group. Either way, I miss them as a unit. |
Charise (mistrivia1) 6-Zenith Username: mistrivia1
Post Number: 505 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 198.81.26.46
| Posted on Friday, September 03, 2004 - 8:28 pm: �� | ��� |
I know what you mean, I miss them too. As you know both groups have lost original members, so like I said I am trying now to see groups that I did not get to see back in the day, because you never know when God forbid, it will be the last, as it was when I saw Teena & Rick on Memorial Day. |
Charise (mistrivia1) 6-Zenith Username: mistrivia1
Post Number: 506 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 198.81.26.46
| Posted on Friday, September 03, 2004 - 8:34 pm: �� | ��� |
BTW, Juice I finally got The Great White Cane in the mail on Monday Rick was ahead of his time!! Now I really want to hear the Mynah Birds material!!!!!!!!!! |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2207 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Friday, September 03, 2004 - 8:43 pm: �� | ��� |
Re Re, I got my copy early last week & it's not in the greatest of condition at all. I haven't checked it out yet. Just too much editing to do, I'll get to it eventually though |
Gil (gil)
4-Laureate Username: gil
Post Number: 128 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 66.156.32.175
| Posted on Friday, September 03, 2004 - 9:12 pm: �� | ��� |
Patric, You have an excellent site, and it was my pleasure to bring to the SDF family! Keep up the good work. Juice, Thanks for the excellent pics...can't wait to see the show!! |
Patric Nilsson (pocat) 1-Arriviste Username: pocat
Post Number: 2 Registered: 9-2004 Posted From: 213.89.105.177
| Posted on Sunday, September 05, 2004 - 10:57 am: �� | ��� |
Thanks JuiceFree20 I'll tell you when I've added the pix. I saw CHIC last year playing in Stockholm/Sweden and they were incredibly good. The 6000 in the audience danced for about two hours.. Even though the great bass-God Bernard Edwards, and more recently drummer extraordinaire Tony Thompson, has left us (RIP), Jerry Barnes (bass) and Omar Hakim (drums) are excellent replacements. If you get the chance go and see CHIC live, you won't be dissappointed. I was also fortunate to be invited as CHIC layed down some rhythm tracks for their forthcoming album (probably going to be released this fall) in the Polar Studio (ABBA's old studio) in Stockholm...and what I heard was like the old magic coming back. I felt like I was high, and was smiling stupidly for hours... Rich Hilton (CHIC keyboards) had a fun time watching my goofy face expression. Can't wait for the album! About the disco divas reunion concert I read that it was cancelled due to the weather...Does anyone have info on when it will be rescheduled? |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2265 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Tuesday, September 07, 2004 - 6:23 pm: �� | ��� |
Good evening! I received a message from Norma Jean & yes, the concert was cancelled. With the unfortunate situation that's occurred in Florida, I don't know if they've addressed the issue of rescheduling the concert as of yet. There is still the matter of an new hurricane named Ivan, that may affect Florida next week. Fortunately, the girls & their loved ones are fine. I amagine than Norma will address this at a more appropriate time. As for now, there are more pressing issues for Floridians to be concerned with. I'm sure that the concert will be re-visited at a later date. As always, Norma & Luci thank all for their concern. (Message edited by juicefree20 on September 07, 2004) |
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20
Post Number: 2267 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162
| Posted on Tuesday, September 07, 2004 - 9:25 pm: �� | ��� |
Here's just ONE more of the ladies:
|
|