1981 funky soulful gem “Summer Love” by Prince Billy Mahdi Wright & Mandisa reissued
The London-based reissue label Discs of Fun and Love is quickly making a strong name for themselves with some incredible and worthy seven-inch soul reissues. Their third and latest release features the obscure 1981 funky soulful gem “Summer Love,” written and produced by illustrious jazz musician Prince Billy Mahdi Wright, and sang by Maggie “Mandisa” Epting.
Originally recorded at Omega Studios in Chicago, instrumental versions of both “Summer Love”, and the swingin’ jazz vocal b-side track “Love Dream” were originally included on Wright’s rare soul-jazz album You Got Dat Wright (also highly recommended!). Shortly afterwards, the saxophonist and flautist wrote lyrics to the track, and re-recorded it with the help of Mandisa on vocals. Also featured on the session is The Plaxico brothers on Bass and Drums, Bruce Jones on keyboards and Gensia Williams on backing vocals.
Much like the last couple of releases from Discs of Fun and Love, this is another must-own reissue, a funky feel-good crossover essential that will certainly make it’s way into just about anyone’s warm summertime DJ set.
Mandisa — ‘Summer Love / Love Dream’
(Originally released: 1981 / El-Leo Records)
(Reissued: 2020 / Discs of Fun and Love)
A SIDE: “Summer Love”
B SIDE: “Love Dream”
