3 x New Kent Repro 45s Out Today

Three new 'Repro' 45s from Kent are released today, featuring Little Ann, Ty Karmin, Melvin Davis, the details and Kent release notes follow below...

Little Ann - Who Are You Trying To Fool - Kent Repro 15

Little Ann’s ‘Who Are You Trying To Fool’ was unknown until the late 90s when Ace acquired Dave Hamilton’s tapes and this glorious soul dancer was discovered. It has since sold out two Kent 45 releases and due to demand we have resurrected it. This time it is on a TCB repro label, which is the imprint it would have been issued on, had Dave had the finances to cover it.

For its flip we have gone for the beautiful, midtempo ‘The Smile On Your Face’ - never before on a 45 and one that will please her devoted fans

Ty Karim - Wear Your Natural, Baby / If I Can't Stop You - Kent Repro 17

‘Wear Your Natural, Baby’ was a good seller when issued on Kent Harris’ Romark label in the late 60s – judging by the, at least, three pressings of it. Understandably so, as it is a captivating rhythm for a then very current political and fashionable message. Towana was in fact Ty Karim, singing under her young daughter’s name. 

On this flip, Ty recorded as herself on a cover of the CB Overton’s hit ‘If I Can’t Stop You’. However, Kent Harris decided to not go with this recording at the time and re-cut it with new lyrics as ‘Keep On Doin’ Whatcha’ Doin’’ as a duet with George Griffin issued in 1980 on Sheridan House.

That record has become a modern soul classic over time and this alternate solo version, with the different lyrics, by Ty is sure to excite lovers of that genre.

Melvin Davis - Wedding Bells / It's No News - Kent Repro 18

Melvin Davis’ ‘Wedding Bells’ 45 - first issued on the Ke Ke label out of Detroit in 1964, was an early Dave Hamilton project that he collaborated with Melvin for. Both sides are noteworthy, ‘It’s No News’ has particularly amusing lyrics over a dance-friendly rhythm.

Melvin is a legendary singer and sometime drummer who has suffered ill health in recent years; this release is our tribute to him. Known as Detroit’s soul ambassador, all those who have met him will testify as to how great a guy he is.

Note - Carolyn Crawford - Get Up And Move / Sugar Boy - Kent Select 094 was originally planned for release today but the release date has now been put back to 15 March 2024 

Availability

All now available via Ace Records website (tap), and of course various record stores including our very own Source Store - (tap)