Soul Tracks

In the early 70's super producers Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff established Philadelphia International Records. The O'Jays' Backstabbers was one of the first albums released on the Philly based label providing a launching pad for the label and Philly Soul. After more than a decade of regional hits and traveling the 'chitlin curcuit', The O'Jays were on their way to soul stardom. The infectious 'Time To Get Down' and the uplifting anthem 'Back Stabbers' were heard on radios all across the country. 'Who Am I,' written by oft-forgotten composer, producer, and musician Bunny Sigler, was one of the soul ballads featured on the album. Masters of soul balladry, Eddie LeVert took lead vocals while William Powell and Walter Williams played the background to present a soft mood of introspection. The smooth yet haunting opening sounds gives way to a heartfelt vocal performance full of conviction creating soul music's saddest break up song.

Soul Fixin'

Sean Levert Died of Natural Causes
Yesterday, an Ohio coroner determined that Sean Levert died of natural causes. The Cuyahoga County coroner's reports indicates no foul play or trauma was involved in Levert's death. Coroner Frank Miller said Sean died from complications of sarcoidosis, an inflammatory lung disease that produces tiny lumps of cells in the body's organs. However, the Levert family contends that his death could have possibly been prevented had he been allowed to seek medical attention during his stay in jail. Levert suffered from heart disease, high blood sugar and withdrawal from alprazolam, commonly known as Xanax, a drug used to treat anxiety disorders and panic attacks according to coroner Frank Miller. Attorneys for the Levert family contend that "he was exhibiting classic signs of Xanax withdrawal. A doctor would have been able to recognize these problems. Had he been able to see one in that week's time things could have been different." It has been discovered that items belonging to Sean inventoried by the sheriff's department included a bottle of Xanax, which attorneys assert Sean asked for during his time in jail. Take a listen to 'Cassanova' and let your mind go back.