(September 29, 2023) The Sound of Philadelphia (T.S.O.P.), delivered via the iconic Philadelphia International Records, is one of the City of Brotherly Love’s lasting legacies. The label housed legendary acts from The O’Jays to Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes to Billy Paul and more. Yet there are many other gifted artists in the glorious musical mecca that reflect the T.S.O.P. spirit.
Shirley Lites came to the industry’s attention via the dance floor with the 1983 classic, “Heat You Up/Melt You Down.” Another dance track, “Fire,” produced by veteran House DJ/Remixer Lenny Fontana, registered well on the European clubs and charts. Though the veteran singer/songwriter has shared the stage with vocal powerhouses such as Melba Moore and Gladys Knight, a key moment lasting sixteen years in Lites’ journey was singing backup and as band leader for Paul until his passing in 2016.
(September 29, 2023) The Sound of Philadelphia (T.S.O.P.), delivered via the iconic Philadelphia International Records, is one of the City of Brotherly Love’s lasting legacies. The label housed legendary acts from The O’Jays to Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes to Billy Paul and more. Yet there are many other gifted artists in the glorious musical mecca that reflect the T.S.O.P. spirit.
Shirley Lites came to the industry’s attention via the dance floor with the 1983 classic, “Heat You Up/Melt You Down.” Another dance track, “Fire,” produced by veteran House DJ/Remixer Lenny Fontana, registered well on the European clubs and charts. Though the veteran singer/songwriter has shared the stage with vocal powerhouses such as Melba Moore and Gladys Knight, a key moment lasting sixteen years in Lites’ journey was singing backup and as band leader for Paul until his passing in 2016.
On Lites’ debut and our latest First Listen, the Philly native salutes Detroit and vocalist Syreeta. “Cause We Ended As Lovers,” composed by Stevie Wonder (Stevie Wonder Presents: Syreeta for Motown in 1974) was not released by Syreeta as a single. However, this song suited Syreeta’s pure tone and glistens on this remake through Lites’ silky lead voice and soprano background choir. Guided by producer/musician Butch Ingram, a bossa nova rhythm with fretless bass, feathery keys and subtle percussion strokes this hope of eternal friendship despite a broken relationship:
“Cause we've ended now as lovers,
Doesn't mean that we each other can't be friends,
Cause we've ended now as lovers,
Does our love for one another have to end.”
Check it out and welcome Shirley Lites to SoulTracks!
By Peggy Olivers
Shirley Lites
"Cause We End As Lovers"