Willie & the Mighty Magnificents

• Genres: Rhythm & Blues
• Representative Albums: "Play That Funky Beat", "Willie & West

Biography

Willie & the Mighty Magnificents were a New Jersey-based funk ensemble led by guitarist/vocalist Willie Feaster, who recorded for Joe and Sylvia Robinson's All Platinum label family. Initially completed by bassist/keyboardist Val Burke and drummer Arnold Ramsey, the group had a harder, deeper, more Southern-tinged sound than the smooth soul artists who tended to dominate the label's output. Willie & the Mighty Magnificents issued their first single, "Check It Baby," in 1968 and followed it the next year with the cult funk classic "Funky 8 Corners." Further single releases over 1969-1970 included "Play That Funky Beat" (originally titled "Concerto in F"), "Make Me Your Slave" b/w "Soulin'," and "Think Funky." Their first full-length album, On Scene '70, featured some of those previous singles. Saxophonist Tyrone Johnson became a member of the group, and Skip McPhee and Ronnie Pace also filled the drum chair at various points. A second LP, Very Soulful, was released in 1972. The group also issued records under the name Willie & West, including the single "Get Away From Me Girl"; there was also a Willie & West LP, At Their Best. ~ Steve Huey, All Music Guide

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