At their peak, the Stylistics were perhaps the most consistent hitmakers in Soul Music. They had the best producer in the business in Thom Bell, and some of the most infectious material of the early 70s.
Formed in the late 60s in Philadelphia, the Stylistics first achieved some regional attention in 1971 with the simplistic "You're A Big Girl Now," most notable for its contrast to the luscious work they would record a year later with Bell. Their Avco Records eponymous debut was a Philly Soul masterpiece, containing a treasure trove of marvelous compositions by Bell and co-writer Linda Creed that would become soul standards covered by other artists for the next 30 years. "You Are Everything," "Betcha By Golly Wow," "Stop Look Listen" and "People Make the World Go Round" all rocketed up the Pop and Soul charts, and immediately made the Stylistics the most sought after Soul balladeers. The group's seamless harmonies and Russell Thompkins Jr's silky falsetto blended magically with Bell's lush production.
Their next album, Round Two, was just as memorable, and included the instant classics "Break Up To Make Up," "Children of the Night" and "You'll Never Get to Heaven." But it was their third album, Rockin Roll Baby, that would give the group it's first number 1 crossover hit, the breathtaking ballad "You Make Me Feel Brand New."
Decades TV Network has recently issued a number of short videos, with classic rock and R&B artists telling the stories behind some of their biggest hits. And one these stories is from Stylistics founding member Airrion Love, who tells the backstory for the #1 hit "You Make Me Feel Brand New." We love the tale and the video, and think you will too. Check it out below and enjoy!
