Curtis/Live! is Curtis Mayfield’s first live album, after leaving The
Impressions. Originally released in 1971 as a double LP on Mayfield’s Curtom
label, the album’s 16 tracks —
along with Mayfield’s interstitial raps on the politics of the day —
were recorded at Paul Colby’s 230 seater Bitter End nightclub in New York
City.
Mayfield and his band’s first set at aBitterEnd date in January
1971 comprised the bulk of the music presented here.
Mixed primarily with Eddie Kramer at Electric Lady Studios, the album features
Henry Gibson playing percussion, Craig McMullen on rhythm guitar, Joseph
“Lucky” Scott on bass, and Tyrone McCullen on drums. Many critics feel Live!
is a powerful demonstration of Mayfield’s pre-Superfly accomplishment, and
some even said it’s one of the greatest concert albums ever cut on a soul
artist, and one of the legendary live albums of all time.
SIDE A
- Mighty Mighty (Spade And Whitey)
- I Plan To Stay A Believer 3. We’re A Winner
SIDE C
1. Check Out Your Mind 2. Gypsy Woman 3. The Makings
Of You 4. We The People Who Are Darker Than Blue
SIDE B
- We’ve Only Just Begun 2. People Get Ready
- Stare And Stare
SIDE D
- (Don’t Worry) If There’s A Hell Below
- We’re All Going To Go 3. Stone Junkie
BONUS TRACKS
4. Superfly (1973)
5. Mighty Mighty (Spade And Whitey) (Single Version)